The Cattle Baron’s Ball, a signature Dallas event in the fight against cancer, has become synonymous with charitable giving, community spirit and high-profile entertainment. This annual gala supports the American Cancer Society (ACS) and raises essential funds for cancer research, prevention and patient services. With roots in cowboy culture and philanthropy, the Cattle Baron’s Ball exemplifies the resilience and generosity of North Texas communities.
The goal of the ACS is straightforward: to save lives, celebrate lives and lead the fight for a world without cancer. Playing a crucial role in this mission, the Cattle Baron’s Ball directs funds toward groundbreaking research, advocacy and education. Attendees come not only for entertainment but also to contribute to a cause that deeply affects many lives.
Headed by Cattle Baron’s Ball Co-Chairs Lora Farris and Marjon Henderson, who both plan events for a living, the 2024 edition marked the 51st year of this inspiring event—and with the iconic Carrie Underwood headlining, it promised to be exceptional. "We spent a lot of time wanting to find the right entertainer for this year," Farris and Henderson noted. "It was important to us to have a female performer in honor of the women who work tirelessly on CBB. It was such an honor that she accepted, and we couldn't be more happy with her performance."
The Ball’s committee is composed of over 100 prestigious women and business leaders in the Dallas community. Inspired by the collaborative efforts of this hard-working group of women, the 2024 co-chairs express how special this committee is: “It’s a group of female volunteers from all areas of life. Many work, many have children, many volunteer for other organizations, and together, this group throws the largest fundraiser for American Cancer Society in the country—that's magical!”
Along with the committee’s dedication, local businesses, sponsors and volunteers are vital to creating a memorable experience. The evening's festivities typically include live auctions, delicious food and remarkable performances, all designed to inspire generosity among attendees. “Cattle Baron’s is such an incredible night because not only does it raise money for ACS, but it is a night for gathering with friends and family, networking with community leaders and having a lot of fun while you do it,” Farris and Henderson say. “All of this is thanks to the businesses and sponsors who make the night possible.”
In addition to supporting the fight against cancer, the Cattle Baron’s Ball is also a celebration of the American West, where guests often don their finest cowboy-chic attire. This year’s theme, New Horizons, inspired thoughtfully curated decorations reflecting both the co-chairs’ styles and the event's heritage. “We wanted the look and feel of the night to be authentic to our personal style, which I think we achieved,” Henderson says.
As the night progresses, powerful stories from cancer survivors and advocates remind attendees of the event's impact. One moment Farris and Henderson note they’ll never forget was the honoring of friend and fellow committee member Claire Phillips and her family. “For the live auction room to be quiet, all guests listening to Claire’s story, and then coming together to double our goal to name a grant in honor of the Phillips family, was absolutely inspiring,” Farris shares.
These personal narratives underscore the ACS’s vital role in providing resources and support. From funding innovative research to offering emotional assistance, the work of the ACS is transformative, and the Cattle Baron’s Ball is crucial in sustaining these initiatives. "This year we will break the $100 million mark for cancer research over the past 50 years of CBB," the 2024 co-chairs proudly declared, emphasizing the lasting impact of the event. As attendees leave, they carry with them not just memories of a remarkable night but also the assurance that their participation brings us closer to a cancer-free world.