‘On the Boardwalk’ is theme for Helen Woodward Animal Center’s gala in Rancho Santa Fe

The Helen Woodward Animal Center’s 27th annual elegant Spring Fling Gala, presented by Edco, is set to usher in the summer event season with style.

With the theme of “On the Boardwalk,” the center’s fundraiser takes place from 5:30 p.m. to midnight June 6 at Fairbanks Village Plaza in Rancho Santa Fe.

The Gala Committee, headed by Committee Chair Mia S. Park, will host a black-tie evening designed to transport guests to the glamour and romance of seaside celebrations gone by. Emcees are Jack FM’s Shelly Dunn and KUSI’s Mark Mathis.

The Spring Fling Gala is known for its five-star dining experience, which highlights tastings from San Diego’s top restaurants and features celebrity judges to determine the Best Hors D’ Oeuvre, Best Entree and Best Dessert. Spring Fling Restaurant Chair Ann Dizney has secured an impressive restaurant lineup, including Searsucker Del Mar, The Fish Market, Davanti Enoteca, The Melting Pot La Jolla, Truluck’s Seafood, Steaks & Crab House, and Carnitas Snack Shack, to name a few.

After dinner, guests will enjoy live entertainment and a rousing live auction including such items as a 2-hour private lunch for six with film icon and animal welfare advocate Diane Keaton; a New York City vacation in a sky-high penthouse boasting an impressive art collection and amazing views of Central Park; and a “Need for Speed NASCAR Package” for two with a once-in-a-lifetime trip to the Auto Club 400 Speedway in Fontana, including passes to experience the race from the pit and a meet-and-greet with driver Ryan Newman.

Tickets to the 27th annual Spring Fling Gala can be purchased in Silver, Gold and Platinum levels (ranging from $250-$500 a ticket) with various special amenities included at each level. Platinum level seating includes a true VIP experience from private dining and bar servers, two bottles of fine wine, an artisan cheeseboard per table, a chocolate and port pairing digestif, priority check-in/out, valet service, a Boardwalk souvenir and an exclusive VIP gift for each guest.

Sponsorship and auction opportunities are still available. All profits raised support the pets and programs at Helen Woodward Animal Center. Contact Kelly Rumsey at 858-756-4117, ext. 350, or KellyR@animalcenter.org.