Savvy Houstonians are well aware that society season is upon us. From the chic soirees, luncheons with a mission, and black-tie balls, we’ve roundup up a quick list of must-attend October events to plug into your calendar. Alert your tailor, stylist, and, if needed, your babysitter (always a good call) and lock down these dynamic dates.

Elijah Rising Luncheon
October 3
The non-profit organization Elijah Rising, which aims to end sex trafficking and sexual exploitation through prayer, awareness, intervention, and restoration, will host a luncheon to benefit Kendleton Farms. The organization’s farm is located on 84 acres in Kendleton, Texas, and provides for women and, eventually their children, who have survived sex trafficking or sexual exploitation. Deborah Duncan will serve as emcee for the event. Kathy McGibbon, an author, playwright, and sex trafficking survivor, will serve as keynote speaker.

Museum of Fine Arts, Houston presents “The Courtly Ball”
October 5
Celebrating the new and popular Tudors to Windsors: British Royal Portraits from Holbein to Warhol exhibit, this annual event finds Houston society’s social queens decked out in stunning gowns. The event, chaired by Franci Neely, is black tie and promises to be one of season’s hottest tickets (which start at $1,250).

Memorial Hermann Razzle Dazzle Goes Royal
October 11
High fashion and high society merge as Memorial Hermann and Uptown luxury fashion retailer, Elizabeth Anthony, present Jenny Packham — the international fashion designer to Hollywood stars and The Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Middleton. A celebrated name in the world of social dressing, Packham will showcase her designs and share anecdotes from her life and career, and how she has grown her UK brand into a global force. Fans and attendants of this luncheon, chaired by Bobbie Nau and hosted by who’s-who committee, can meet Packham later at Elizabeth Anthony. The event benefits early detection and outreach programs at the Bobetta C. Lindig Breast Care Center at Memorial Hermann Memorial City.

Out for Good: LGBTQ Houston’s Premier Annual Dinner
October 11
This year’s event honors District Attorney Kim K. Ogg with the LGBTQ Community Vision Award. Look for a large crowd at The Ballroom at Bayou Place as community leaders and friends of the organization gather for dinner, drinks, and testimonials. The after party celebrates National Coming Out Day as well as the Montrose Center’s 40th anniversary. In honor of the center’s ruby anniversary, guests are encouraged to don their best ruby red or black attire.

Houston Zoo’s Wildlife Conservation Gala
October 11
The annual feel-good gala this year shines a spotlight on the species and habitats of Texas. The gala recognizes H-E-B for its support of the zoo and of the community after Hurricane Harvey. Guest speaker Carter Smith, executive director of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, will share stories from his years as a leader in Texas conservation. Expect cocktails, a seated dinner, a silent auction, and the Zoo’s ambassador animals. Bonus: This year features an after party with a live musical performance by Lone Star crooner star Pat Green.

CultureMap’s Pink Party
October 18
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and CultureMap is throwing a party raise funds for Real Men Wear Pink and The American Cancer Society. Show up in your best “pretty in pink” attire (not mandatory, but fun!), sip cocktails from Wheatley Vodka, and nosh on bites from some of the best restaurants in town. The hoppin’ party at Shops at Arrive (formerly West Avenue) will feature music, games, and more. Tickets are complimentary, but a suggested donation of $10-20 to benefit Real Men Wear Pink/The American Cancer Society is appreciated. Space is limited for this buzzy bash, so RSVP soon.

The 2018 Illumine Gala
October 19
Benefiting the Association for the Advancement of Mexican Americans, the evening will recognize dearly departed friend and AAMA board member, Raul Dominguez. The black-tie event chaired by Philamena and Arthur Baird will be held at the Hilton Houston Post Oak and will include dinner, an auction, and entertainment featuring band Grupo KaChe.

Power of Literacy Luncheon
October 23
The third annual Power of Literacy Luncheon is hosted by the Ladies for Literacy Guild of the Barbara Bush Houston Literacy Foundation. Former First Lady Laura Bush will serve as the keynote speaker in a conversation-style format moderated by her nephew, Pierce Bush. Proceeds from the event at The Post Oak advance the legacy of former first lady Barbara Bush by supporting literacy initiatives in Houston. In a fitting tribute to the beloved former first lady, a double strand of pearls will be available for raffle to the public and attendees.

Orange Show Center for Visionary Art Gala 37th Annual Gala
October 27
The artsy annual soiree raises funds for the iconic fork art sites The Orange Show and the Beer Can House, as well as the development of Smither Park (Houston’s first artistic green space) and the production of the Art Car Parade. This year’s bash at the Crowne Plaza NRG promises a highly anticipated (and funky) performance by Celebrity Allstars Legacy Reunion, featuring members from Earth, Wind & Fire.

Boo Ball Gala
October 27
Come to this Halloween-inspired gala dressed in your favorite costume or black tie attire. The last Boo Ball raised over $1.37 million for the children and families of Ronald McDonald House Houston; event organizers hope to surpass that goal this year. KHOU’s Chita Craft will serve as emcee for the ball Stephanie and Anthony Milam are chairs; are honorary chairs Christine and David Underwood. The gala honors the Houston Junior Woman’s Club and should be a scary stylish scene.