Issue link: http://www.wacmagazine.com/i/1044521
38 WAC Magazine | wac.net very year, Jubilee o!ers a chance to celebrate the holidays in style. But this black-tie gala isn't just about the season. It's also about toasting the WAC's anniversary. "is year's event marks the start of the Club's 89th year. Join the festivities on Friday, November 30, as a glittery elegance takes over the Clubhouse and 800 of your closest friends drink, dine, dance, gamble, and otherwise carouse at Seat- tle's "it" party of the year. "It's all about getting decked out in your best dress, making memories, and just letting the night take you wherever it might," says Mary Ellen Jilek, a WAC senior event manager and Jubilee's party planner. "is year's event will take on a wintry hue with ice-themed decor and a twinkling style that will carry from room to room. "It wouldn't be a party without some amazing decorations," Mary Ellen says. ""is year, the glow and luster of winter will be in full e!ect." For many members, Jubilee is the one party they can't miss. Member Laura Laun attended her #rst Jubilee 10 years ago as a guest and was stunned by the evening's glitz and glamour. She joined the WAC a few years later and, along with husband Duane, has become a Jubilee regular. "We always invite our close friends and family to enjoy the magic of the evening with us," she says. "We love to start the night with a toast in the lobby while we keep our #ngers crossed and hope we win the grand prize." THE GRAND PRIZE "is year, one lucky winner will take home a brand- new Jaguar as the Club continues the Jubilee tradi- tion of ra$ing o! a new ride. You'll want to be there as the winner's name is read and champagne glasses clink in celebration. "It's crazy to see how excited the winners get," Mary Ellen says. "You don't have to be there to win, but it sure makes for one heck of a night if you are." Member Chelsey Nelson quickly became a Jubilee regular a%er joining the WAC a few years back. She and a group of friends leave work early on Friday to get their hair and makeup done and check into the Inn at the WAC. "It's so fun to just ride the elevator down once we're ready," she says. "We mingle in the lobby and make sure to take our annual photo next to the Christmas tree." Little traditions like this imbue Jubilee with a sense of anticipation. For many members, the start of the evening is the only absolute. "Jubilee is so full of surprises it's impossible to know what's next," Mary Ellen says. A%er the anniversary toast and grand prize an- nouncement, it's really up to you—and the whims of the evening. "is year, you might begin by exploring street food from around the world in the Johnson Lobby Lounge. Fragrant tacos al pastor, herbaceous banh mi, and &avorful jerk chicken are just a few of the delicious dishes you'll #nd. 38 WAC Magazine | wac.net