Big Top gala 'Cirque du Soiree' supports Petaluma schools

A big top will soon go up in Petaluma for 'Cirque du Soiree,' a night of dancing, dining and auction bidding under the big top.

The Sept. 12 event benefits the Petaluma Education Foundation, which supports 38 public and non-profit charter schools in the Petaluma area.

The night under the big top begins with a cocktail reception and continues with silent and live auctions going on while an elegant sit-down dinner is served.

The auction lots feature once-in-a-lifetime experiences and culinary and excursion.

For those who can't make the gala but want to support the cause, there are online bidding opportunities at biddingforgood.com/pefinfo/bash2015.

Since it was founded in 1983 the Petaluma Education Foundation has awarded $2.7 million in grants to local schools.

The event takes place in a big tent that will be erected next to the 360 Church of Petaluma at 901 Lindberg Lane.

Tickets are $175 and available by calling 778-5063 or visiting petaluma.ejoinme.org/bash15.

You can reach Staff Writer Meg McConahey at meg.mcconahey@pressdemocrat.com or 521-5204. On Twitter @megmcconahey.