The first time we held our annual Best of Big D party at the Bomb Factory, Leon Bridges serenaded Salt-N-Pepa DJ Spinderella on her birthday, and then he wandered out into Deep Ellum to busk with some street musicians. We can’t promise that’ll happen again this year, but we can promise surprises—and a sampling of the city’s best food and drinks. Join us on August 23. Same place, same time.

The editorial team is hard at work getting the September issue to the printer. In it, you’ll find the ultimate compendium to the city’s finest offerings in the year past—146 items spanning food and drink and nightlife and professional services and culture. Our goal in this party is to bring as many as we can under one roof, so you can experience what makes them so special. The big draw, of course, is the food.

In years past, we’ve had Top Knot, Pecan Lodge, Uchi, and CBD Provisions. We’re upping the stakes this year. Uchi and Pecan Lodge are back, but so are Lovers Seafood & Market, Bolsa, Sprezza, Flora Street Café, and Tei An. We’re not announcing dozens of others until closer to the event. You’ll just have to trust our track record. Spinderella is DJ’ing again, and you’ll get to hear R.C. & the Gritz—led by Erykah Badu’s bandleader, the world famous R.C. Williams—as you wander the floor, juggling plates. And, by the way, there’s an open bar.

Look, I’m biased. I work here. But even if I didn’t, it’s well worth the $55 price tag. Have you seen what a night out at Flora Street would cost you? Plus, you never know who might make a guest appearance. Don’t miss it. Buy your ticket right here.