More than 800 people danced the night away at the sold-out 2025 Dewey Winter Gala, sponsored by the Dewey Business Partnership, Jan. 25 at the Hyatt Place. It was the DBP’s 10th year sponsoring the annual gala.

Sparkling, sequined and satin gowns dazzled under the purplish-blue light, contrasting against the cityscape backdrops. Cardboard cutouts, tributes to “Seinfeld,” “Sex and the City” and “Breakfast at Tiffany’s,” became popular photo props.

“This year’s Dewey Gala was another spectacular example of the town coming together to celebrate everything we love about Dewey Beach: the people, the fun and a fantastic community,” said Dewey residents Claudia and Richard Rodgers. 

According to DBP Executive Director Kelly Ranieri, the gala featured cocktails and food inspired by the Big Apple, including New York cheesecake, soft pretzels, hot dogs and pizza, along with decorations and backdrops of the Statue of Liberty, Coney Island, Central Park, taxis, subways and even unique Dewey-themed subway signs.

Guests enjoyed musical performances by the Blue Cat Blues Band and The New Romance, and DJ Manny Mann provided tunes the rest of the night, Ranieri said.

“[It was a] fabulous and magical event,” said Ocean View residents Kerry Roth and Kevin Shaver. “The hard work and time put into this event by all involved truly shined through.”

“The gala is an amazing opportunity for business owners, friends and [families] of multiple generations to celebrate our beach culture, and keep our energy and momentum elevated as we count down to another awesome summer season,” said Jen Hinton, who lives in Dewey. “It’s one of the best events of the year.”

All of the event’s proceeds go directly to the DBP, which supports town initiatives and organizes year-round family events.

“It was a great time,” Dewey Town Manager Bill Zolper said. “Kelly and her team did a great job.”