
Confections in Chocolate Gala for Hope
A 38-Year-Old Tradition!
EFNENY’s Confections in Chocolate Gala for Hope is a tradition that is now over 38 years in the making!
An annual night of fun, community, and of course, chocolate(!) it is a spectacular night each and every year that not only helps to ensure that the foundation reaches its annual fundraising goals, but it is a night that shows the NENY community stands in solidarity with those in our community who continue to be affected by epilepsy.

Save the date: 38th Annual Confections in Chocolate Gala for Hope
Saturday, March 21st, 2026
Franklin Plaza, Troy
2026 Winning Kids:

Ada Yesupriya

Penelope Zareski
2026 Flame of Hope Award Presented to:

2026 Master of Ceremonies:
Chris Onorato
Anchor, WNYT, NewsChannel 13



Frequently Asked Questions
We gathered the answers to some popular questions below.
If you can’t find your question below feel free to connect with our events team by calling (518)456-7501.
Can I Sponsor this Event?
Yes!
Sponsorship materials are available upon request. Please contact our special events team today.
How can I Register?
Registration for the 38th Confections in Chocolate Gala for Hope is now OPEN! Register by visiting the link below.
Do you accept donations?
Yes! We are currently accepting donations for our Silent Auction and Chocolate Dessert Hour portions of the evening. If you are a local individual or business who would like to contribute, please connect with our team today!
What is the Raffle for Hope?
Raffle For Hope Prizes:
The Raffle for Hope is a drawing held annually at our Confections in Chocolate Gala for Hope. Tickets to enter the Raffle for Hope are $100 each and are entered into a random drawing for a chance to win big!
First-prize winner will receive $4,000
Two Second-prize winners will receive $500 each
We will be drawing the winning tickets for our Raffle For Hope during our 2026 Gala on March 21st. The winner does not have to be present to win.
Get your 2026 Raffle For Hope tickets before they are gone! *Only 100 tickets will be sold*
Can I Volunteer for this Event?
Yes! Volunteers are crucial to pulling off this annual event! We are currently in need of all levels of volunteers. Connect with our events team today!
Where Can I Stay Overnight in Troy After the Event?
Troy and the greater Capital Region offer a wide range of great hotel choices for anyone looking to stay overnight after the event.
We’ve secured a special discounted room rate at the Best Western Plus Franklin Square Inn, conveniently located right across from the venue.
Please note: The discounted block rate expires 30 days prior, on February 21st. Anyone booking after February 21st will be charged the hotel’s standard rate at that time (currently $175 plus tax).
Rooms include your choice of one king bed or two queens, plus complimentary breakfast.
To learn more and book your stay, please visit the link below.
If you have any questions, feel free to connect with our team
What is the dress code for this Event?
This event is black tie optional. Feel free to dress up in a way that feels comfortable and celebratory. We invite guests to add a touch of purple, the color of epilepsy awareness, to help turn the ballroom purple!
Is there Parking Available?
Yes! Free parking is available in the lot directly across from the front entrance of Franklin Plaza.
If needed, additional street parking can be found along Fourth Street, Grand Street, and the surrounding downtown Troy area; however, there is plenty of parking available in the lot!
Thank you to our 2026 Top Sponsors:















Confections in Chocolate Gala for Hope Throughout The Years:
2025 Photos:

Did You Know?
St. Valentine is the patron saint of Epilepsy and the first EFNENY gala was held in February. Hence, the theme – Chocolate!
















