Wheels of Dreams returns for its sixth year with a new venue, more extraordinary experiences, and the same commitment to Colorado families
By Heather Shoning
FOR FIVE YEARS, the Wheels of Dreams Charity Experience has brought together exotic cars, exceptional food, live entertainment, and a generous community—all in support of Colorado kids and families. This September, the signature AvidLifestyle and Colorado AvidGolfer event—joined by Title Sponsor Central Bank and Presenting Sponsors Howard Lorton Furniture & Design and Closet Factory—returns for its sixth year in a new setting designed to give the evening even more room to shine.
On Thursday, September 17, Wheels of Dreams moves to The Franciscan Event Center in Centennial, where expansive gardens, elegant indoor spaces, and a location near the DenverTech Center create a fresh backdrop for one of the metro area’s most anticipated charity events.
“We’ve loved watching Wheels of Dreams grow into something people genuinely look forward to every year,” says event director Lori Perry. “The Franciscan allows us to create a different kind of experience—one where guests can move between beautiful indoor and outdoor spaces and discover something new throughout the evening.”
ROOM TO DREAM BIGGER
Family-owned for more than four decades, The Franciscan Event Center combines the polish of a traditional event venue with the appeal of landscaped outdoor spaces. Its light-filled Ballroom accommodates up to 225 guests, while the Aspen Room opens the experience toward the gardens through floor-to-ceiling windows. Outside, seasonal landscaping, a cascading waterfall, a marble gazebo, and a covered patio create a natural setting for mingling as the evening unfolds.
The combination feels particularly suited to Wheels of Dreams, an event built around exploration rather than a traditional sit-down gala. Guests can wander among extraordinary vehicles, stop for a cocktail or bite, meet local chefs and artists, settle into an elegant lounge, and move from one experience to another throughout the night.
“That sense of discovery has always been part of Wheels of Dreams,” Perry says. “We don’t want guests sitting at a table all night waiting for the next thing to happen. We want the entire evening to feel alive.”
And this year, there will be plenty to discover. More than 36 exotic, classic, and luxury vehicles from private collections and elite dealers will be displayed throughout the event, giving automotive enthusiasts—and anyone who simply appreciates beautiful design—a chance to see remarkable machines up close.
The evening’s “Indulge in the Extraordinary” theme continues through 12 gourmet restaurant-sponsored stations featuring globally inspired flavors, accompanied by wine, beer, and handcrafted cocktails—all included with admission. Beautifully appointed lounges from Howard Lorton Furniture & Design and Lehrer Fireplace & Patio offer places to gather and relax between experiences.
Live entertainment expands this year as well. One of the most popular ’80s tribute bands in America, Denver’s own That Eighties Band will bring its high-energy sound to the evening, while The Breeze, an adult contemporary duo, provides outdoor entertainment. Live artistry from local artists adds another creative dimension, and guests can bid on silent and live auction offerings or try their luck in the popular Champagne Diamond Giveaway for a 2-carat natural diamond tennis bracelet from Shane Co.
At just $100 per person, admission includes gourmet food, handcrafted cocktails, wine and beer, live music, extraordinary cars, and an evening of entertainment. It’s an elevated date night or night out with friends—with the added reward of knowing that proceeds benefit FullCircle and support Colorado kids and families.
THE PURPOSE BEHIND THE PARTY
For all the polish and spectacle, Wheels of Dreams has always been built around a decidedly local mission. In its first five years, the event generated more than $494,000 for local children’s charities, with all the money remaining in our local communities.
This year, proceeds once again benefit FullCircle, a nonprofit supporting young people struggling with mental health and addiction issues, as well as their families. With five Colorado locations, FullCircle provides a community centered on connection, recovery, and rebuilding lives.
That local impact was central to Perry’s vision when Wheels of Dreams began—and remains at the heart of the event six years later.
“You can come because you love the cars, the food, the music, or simply a great night out,” Perry says. “But underneath all of it is the knowledge that this community is coming together to help families right here in Colorado. That’s what makes the night mean something.”
The new venue may give Wheels of Dreams a different look in 2026, but the heart of the event remains unchanged: Gather people together, give them an extraordinary evening, and turn all that celebration into something that lasts long after the final song.
Event Details
WHAT:
6th Annual Wheels of Dreams Charity Experience
WHEN:
Thursday, September 17, 2026, 5:00–9:30 p.m.
WHERE:
The Franciscan Event Center, 6553 S. Revere Parkway, Centennial
BENEFITING:
FullCircle
PRESENTED BY:
AvidLifestyle + Colorado AvidGolfer
TICKETS + INFORMATION:
wheelofdreams.bolder.bid
