Gingerbread & Jazz Gala
Events
Get ready for a magical night at the 29th Annual Gingerbread & Jazz Gala.
Ticket Options
$250 VIP Legacy Dinner
Guests will enjoy early access to the Ranch, followed by a plated dinner and premier front-row seating. Each ticket includes a $165 tax-deductible contribution.
$125 Gala Ticket
Includes sweet and savory food stations, signature cocktails, musical performances, dancing, live auction, and Gingerbread Showcase (includes a tax-deductible donation of $60 per ticket).
$1,250 Gala Party Table
Includes ten (10) Gala tickets plus a reserved table for your group (includes a tax-deductible donation of $600 per table).
Location
The Saddle Ballroom at Flying W Ranch
We’re returning to the majestic Saddle Ballroom at Flying W Ranch for our Gingerbread & Jazz Gala—one of the most naturally beautiful venues in Colorado. On November 7th, Early Connections will once again transform this stunning indoor space for an unforgettable evening filled with delightful bites, joyful music, laughter, and purpose. Together, we’ll raise critical funds to ensure children in Colorado Springs have access to the highest quality early education and care.
Event Details
Saturday, November 7
Special Note: VIP ticket holders enjoy early access to the Gala
The evening includes musical performances, a Gingerbread showcase, heavy appetizers, signature cocktails, and Live Auction featuring exclusive items and experiences.
Cocktail Attire or formal western welcomed.
Directions & Parking
Complimentary parking is available, with ample space for all guests. Walking distance from your car to venue is approximately 50 yards. We will have golf cart transportation for those with walking limitations.
3330 Chuckwagon Rd, Colorado Springs, CO 80919
Auction Items
Firepit Tickets at Ford Amphitheater
Pick any available show in 2027 to enjoy Suite 19, Section 203 – right in the center – at the new Ford Amphitheater.
Enjoy the warmth of the firepit while you order food and drinks from the suite’s personal server (good for four).
A Gift from the Sea Necklace
Like a piece of the sea captured in stone, this stunning aquamarine shimmers with the serene blue-green hues that inspired its name—Latin for “water of the sea.”
Suspended from a delicate white gold chain, the gemstone evokes the beauty and tranquility of clear coastal waters.
Wine Dinner - Viva La France
Prepare yourself for a special evening of highly rated wines from the Champagne, Chablis, Rhone and Bordeaux regions of France. You’ll sample wine varieties of Chardonnay, Marsanne, Syrah, and Bordeaux blends.
This special tasting for eight people will be held at the home of Mike and Diane Bell with wines from their cellar. The wines will be served with a five-course dinner specifically prepared to enhance the wines.
The Whiskey House
This package includes an unforgettable and exclusive experience at The Whiskey House in Nashville, TN.
During your visit, you’ll enjoy a private tasting tailored to your preferences, as well as a guided tour of their museum, which showcases over 800 historical decanters and 4,000 open bottles.
A Night in the Historic Day Nursery
Host a private gathering in one of Colorado Springs’ most unique historic spaces.
Enjoy an evening at Early Connections’ beautiful Day Nursery in the heart of downtown, perfect for a dinner, celebration, or intimate gathering. Includes: Private use of designated event spaces for up 50 guests for one mutually agreed-upon evening.
Date and event details are subject to Early Connections’ availability and approval. Event must occur by September 2027. Use is limited to designated spaces and does not include full facility.
Colorado Fly Fishing Adventure through Angler's Covey
Grab two friends and experience some of Colorado’s legendary waters with a half-day guided fly- fishing adventure for three from Angler’s Covey. Spend four hours on the water with one of Angler’s Covey’s experienced, Orvis-endorsed guides, who will customize the experience for your group—whether you’re picking up a fly rod for the first time or you’re a seasoned angler looking to refine your skills.
FAQ
Can you tell me more about the venue and attire?
The Gingerbread & Jazz Gala promises to be an elegant evening where class meets charm. While cocktail attire is encouraged, guests are welcome to embrace the spirit of the venue with formal western. The Saddle Ballroom will be beautifully decorated to create a sophisticated atmosphere, perfect for a night of fine dining and jazz.
Will I be warm at this venue?
The Gingerbread & Jazz Gala at the Flying W Ranch will be a cozy and warm event, perfect for a November evening. Hosted indoors in the elegant Saddle Ballroom, guests can expect a comfortable atmosphere, regardless of the chilly weather outside. The main ballroom is well-heated, with additional ancillary spaces featuring heated floors, ensuring warmth throughout the venue. The Flying W Ranch is well-equipped to handle the November elements, providing a welcoming and pleasant environment for all attendees to enjoy the evening to the fullest.
Parking Accomodations
Free parking is provided, and although valet service isn’t available, staff will be on hand to direct you to a parking spot.
Tax Benefits
The Colorado Child Care Contribution Tax Credit (CCTC) is a state tax incentive designed to encourage donations to promote child care in Colorado. Individuals, businesses, and organizations that donate to qualifying child care programs or organizations in the state can receive a tax credit worth 50% of the total contribution amount. Donors can claim a tax credit equal to 50% of their total contribution. For example, a $1,000 donation could yield a $500 tax credit on the donor’s Colorado state income tax return.
What do all the funds go to?
Our annual Gala fundraiser is a cornerstone event for our non-profit, serving as a crucial source of funding that sustains our programs throughout the year. The financial contributions raised during this event have the power to profoundly shape the futures of the children we serve. Your generous donations provide the essential resources, materials, and opportunities that our children need to thrive. Whether it’s funding educational tools or creating enriching experiences, your support acts as a catalyst for positive change, ensuring that every dollar you give goes directly toward nurturing young minds and fostering a lifelong love of learning.
Questions or Concerns?
Why we host this event
All funds raised from the Gingerbread and Jazz Gala go directly to Early Connections Learning Centers, supporting our vital early education programs
Our annual Gala is essential to sustaining our work year-round—your support fuels life-changing programs, empowering children with the tools, resources, and opportunities they need to grow, learn, and thrive.
Sponsors
Be front and center at Gingerbread & Jazz by becoming a sponsor!
Our sponsorship levels are flexible and deliver meaningful benefits to our partners. Contact our Development Director, to realize your vision of support: [email protected] | (719) 381-4803
Platinum
Gold
Mike & Diane Bell
Silver
Bronze
Soapbox Marketing
Raymond James
Olson Plumbing
Eye Love Care Inc
N.E.S. Inc
Common Spirit
Gallagher