stock market for the very first time. This black

tie event was much like other balls – but

everyone was wearing Reeboks, and the first

Sneaker Ball was born.

The following year, Al Gross decided that this

was the kind of party that people really liked –

but instead of being limited to white Reeboks,

the idea would be for the guests to wear formal

gowns and tuxedos, with decorated tennis

shoes. The party was moved to Aspen, where

people know how to party – and thousands of

people from all over the world fly into Aspen to

attend.

One of the nicest things guests like about the

Sneaker Ball is that it is for a good cause. All

of the proceeds go to Grass Roots, which is a

program designed to help inner-city kids. These

kids are brought to Aspen to experience what

life outside the city is. Many of these kids don’t

even realize that places like Aspen really exist.

Tickets cost $125 per person, which isn’t too

bad considering that the money is for a good

cause.

People from diverse backgrounds attend the

Sneaker Ball each year. Famous people are

there, infamous people, and people who are

neither famous nor infamous attend – and

every one has a fantastic time. The party gets

started at about 9:30pm and ends around

1:30am – followed by many ‘after parties’ in

various locations throughout Aspen.

If you’ve ever wanted to attend one of those

glitzy ‘Hollywood type’ parties, here is your

chance! You will rub elbows with the famous,

show off your custom designed sneakers

along with your formal wear, and dance the

night away – and all for a very good cause.

This is an event that sells out fast. Contact the

Chamber of Commerce in Aspen to find out

when the Sneaker Ball is scheduled, and

purchase your tickets right away. Also check

with the various hotels and lodges to inquire

about package deals and get your

reservations set before everything is sold out!