Attending one of our national or local events is a great way to learn more about Best Buddies programs and to experience our mission in action. For more information about our special events, please contact Scott Tracy, Vice President, Special Events, Development & Sponsor Relations at 305-374-2233 ext. 217 or by e-mail: ScottTracy@bestbuddies.org. If you are interested in volunteering at one of our national events, please complete our event volunteer request form.
National Events
Best Buddies Leadership Conference
July 2022
Best Buddies Leadership Conference (BBLC) unites Best Buddies leaders, volunteers, and community advocates from around the globe to imagine, create, lead and empower the future of the disability rights and inclusion movement. Over the past 30 years, BBLC has inspired thousands of leaders to be Best Buddies advocates and to bring about social change in their communities.
In 2022, BBLC will be held as an in-person experience in each state and will bring together leaders in their local communities to learn about the Best Buddies movement. We encourage all Best Buddies leaders in our schools and communities to join us in July!
Best Buddies Friendship Walk
Spring 2023 | Nationwide
You’re invited to walk with us! Join 40,000 walkers across the country to support the Best Buddies programs in your schools, workplaces and communities. You’ll be making the world more welcoming to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities – one friendship, one job, and one life-changing connection at a time.
Best Buddies Challenge: Hyannis Port
June 3, 2023 | Boston to Hyannis Port, MA
Join us and choose to ride 100, 55, or 20 miles with cyclists of all abilities including celebrities, pro-athletes, and others. Each route takes riders along scenic, country roads to the beach in Hyannis Port. All rides are fully supported, with rest stops every 25 miles and support vehicles on the road.
Breakaway Camp: Malibu
June 11-15, 2023 | Malibu, CA
Our Malibu camp offers a select group of cyclists a world-class, five-day riding experience through the scenic canyon roads and rock-studded hillsides of the Santa Monica Mountains overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
Best Buddies Challenge: California
October 14, 2023 | Marin, CA
Join us for an amazing 5-star 70-mile cycling experience! Our route starts and ends at Summit Skywalker Ranch in Marin. Enjoy breathtaking views of Tomales Bay, Point Reyes National Seashore and the beautiful Marin countryside. The ride finishes with a luncheon featuring gourmet food, fine wines, and live entertainment.
Best Buddies Champion of the Year
Fall 2023 | Nationwide
Champion of the Year unites and recognizes the community’s most active leaders in the name of inclusion.
By devoting their passion, talents, and networks to Best Buddies through a philanthropic competition, our Champions lay for the foundation for transformative change in their communities.
Best Buddies Challenge: Miami
November 17, 2023 | Miami, Florida
Our Miami Challenge event is a world-class cycling event limited to just 50 riders. This 75-mile ride features a Tour de France-style police escorted peloton with road and intersection closures, support vehicles, and three fully-stocked rest stops. After the ride, participants will celebrate at Miami Gala that evening.
25th Annual Best Buddies Miami Gala
November 17, 2023 | Miami, Florida
The 25th Annual Best Buddies Miami Gala is a spectacular event. Each year, prominent local and international guests — including business leaders, political dignitaries, sports figures and celebrities — celebrate Best Buddies’ mission. Guests will feast on a gourmet dinner, partake in a top-notch auction and witness dazzling entertainment. Proceeds from the Gala will go towards supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) who are routinely misjudged and ignored.
Breakaway Camp: Malibu
Nov. 29 - Dec. 3, 2023 | Malibu, CA
Our Malibu camp offers a select group of cyclists a world-class, five-day riding experience through the scenic canyon roads and rock-studded hillsides of the Santa Monica Mountains overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
State Events
Use the drop-down menu below to find local events in your state.
14th Annual Best Buddies Dallas Gala
November 13, 2020 | Dallas, Texas
The Dallas Gala is an incredible event, featuring a gourmet dinner, live and silent auctions, and a private concert, with Jan and Jeff Rich serving as Honorary Chairs to help support Best Buddies endeavors in Texas.
Best Buddies Mother's Day Celebration
Mother’s Day is a celebration honoring motherhood and the influence of mothers in society.
More details coming soon.
White Mass
November 20, 2021 | Miami Beach, Florida
The White Mass is a special Mass honoring the gifts of persons with special needs.
When: Saturday, November 20 at 5:00 p.m.
Where: Saint Patrick Catholic Church • 3716 Garden Avenue, Miami Beach
Best Buddies Month
March 2020 | Worldwide
What started as a one-day event has evolved into a month-long celebration commemorating Best Buddies’ mission. Best Buddies Month, which takes place each year in March, is a time for Best Buddies participants to reflect on the importance of friendship, jobs, and the development of future leaders. More importantly, it is a time to show the world the significance of these essentials in every individual’s life. In March, Best Buddies’ chapters and individual volunteers will showcase their passion for Best Buddies by participating in community carnivals, regional dances, and school-wide assemblies.