Royal Dames Of Cancer Research To Kick Off 2026 Tiara Ball Season - Annual Luncheon Will Bring Together Fashion, Friendship And Philanthropy In Support Of Cancer Research

The Fall Luncheon will kick off the organization’s “Dancing Queens”-themed Tiara Ball season, which will culminate with the 56th Annual Tiara Ball on Saturday, November 14th, 2026 at the Fort Lauderdale Marriott Harbor Beach Resort & Spa. The Tiara Ball, chaired by Bonnie Mitten, is Royal Dames’ primary annual fundraiser in support of its mission to fund Cancer Research.

The luncheon and fashion show will celebrate fashion, friendship and philanthropy while supporting the Royal Dames’ mission of funding Cancer Research. Professional models will take to the runway for a true fashion show experience, showcasing high-end couture and elegant fashions from renowned luxury designers, presented by The Colonnade Outlets.

“The Fall Luncheon is a wonderful opportunity to bring our community together as we begin another Tiara Ball season and continue the important work at the heart of the Royal Dames,” said Sophia Mylona, President of Royal Dames of Cancer Research.

Guests will also have opportunities to support the mission through raffles and live and silent auctions featuring an array of experiences and packages. Highlights include a three-hour private yacht cruise for up to 10 guests aboard My Amore 59, complete with champagne, fine wine and gourmet hors d’oeuvres, as well as a full event-planning package for up to 50 guests in South Florida, including event design, budget planning, vendor coordination, floor plan design, itinerary creation and day-of-event management, and more.

Royal Dames of Cancer Research traces its history to Dr. Joel Warren’s request for $250,000 to support Cancer Research. Warren approached Fort Lauderdale resident Theresa Castro, who was inspired to create an organization dedicated to funding Cancer Research. One hundred of Castro’s friends each pledged $2,500, leading to the creation of Royal Dames of Cancer Research, Inc. in 1969. Since its founding, Royal Dames has contributed more than $7.68 Million in support of Cancer Research at Nova Southeastern University (NSU). The organization continues to support Cancer Research in pursuit of a cure.

The Royal Dames of Cancer Research Fall Luncheon & Fashion Show will take place Thursday, October 1st, 2026 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Lauderdale Yacht Club, 1725 Southeast 12th Street, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33316.

Tickets, tables and sponsorship opportunities are available at: https://rdfall26.givesmart.com. For more information about Royal Dames of Cancer Research, visit: https://royaldames.org. Or call: (954) 546-0868.

Editors’ note: To access high-resolution photos from last year’s luncheon, visit: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/u6zo44ijee9e6qhy9jqlr/AD7Frvm7kxwkgEPQSjF_J78?rlkey=sjy2nrfgegp8bl2g1srommevv&dl=0

Photo Credit: Al Evans, Downtown Photo Fort Lauderdale

About Royal Dames of Cancer Research, Inc.

Founded in 1969, Royal Dames of Cancer Research, Inc. is dedicated to funding research to find a cure for Cancer. The organization has raised millions of dollars in direct support of Cancer Research at Nova Southeastern University (NSU). A community of volunteers, Royal Dames advances its mission through fundraising, philanthropy and community engagement. For more information, visit: https://royaldames.org