Tickets are still available to the Hilo Orchid Show Gala Preview Party, a “fun”-raiser that kicks off the 66th anniversary Orchid Show and Sale in Hilo and raises funds for peace and lava evacuees.

The evening gala, from 6-9 p.m. July 12 at the Edith Kanaka’ole Multi-Purpose Stadium, features drinks, food, music and orchid pre-sales. The event is zero waste, with eco-friendly eating utensils.

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“Drink, eat, socialize, and get a sneak preview of the lush displays and the first chance to shop for beautiful, unique and rare orchid plants,” said Ku‘ikahi Mediation Center Executive Director Julie Mitchell.

Each partygoer receives a souvenir wine or beer glass to enjoy an array of fine wines, plus beers on tap from Kona Brewing Co. and Mehana Brewing & Hawaii Nui Brewing. Gourmet fruit juices and coffee from Hilo Coffee Mill also will be served. Pupu, dinner and dessert buffets are compliments of AJ & Sons Catering and friends. Vegetarian and vegan fare is included.

On the menu are Moroccan chicken tagine with local citrus, dry aged beef steaks on a griddle, Turkish braised eggplant with garbanzo beans, quinoa pilaf, savory and sweet won tons, specialty poke and mini Hawaiian shrimp plates.

Also served are fresh local greens with lilikoi or gorgonzola dressing, Greek couscous salad and Thai green papaya salad. Pupu include a variety of cheeses, charcuterie platters, house-made pastrami, fresh-baked baguettes, garbanzo hummus, olive tapenade and baba ganoush. And for dessert are fresh fruit platters, chocolate dipped macaroons and assorted brownies.

Tickets are $75 (of which $25 is tax-deductible) and can be purchased in advance from The Most Irresistible Shop, Hilo Coffee Mill, Day-Lum Rentals and Ku‘ikahi Mediation Center. Tickets are also available at the door.

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Reserved tables for five or 10 people are available at platinum, gold, silver or bronze sponsorship levels. To purchase tickets or tables/sponsorships with a credit card, visit www.hawaiimediation.org/events.html or contact Erika at 935-7844, ext. 1, or erika@hawaiimediation.org.

All ticket proceeds benefit the nonprofit Ku’ikahi Mediation Center and the cause of “Finding Solutions, Growing Peace.” All silent auction proceeds benefit Hilo Orchid Society’s lava relief fund.