FAQs
You've got questions. We've got answers!
What is a Celebrity Waiter event? What should I expect while I am there?
You should expect FUN! As an attendee, you'll be joining other attendees, business leaders, and community champions who are competing for their waiter to WIN the the Waiters Tip Trophy (all tips go to Meals on Wheels, of course). Your waiter may do things like ask you to tip for silverware or refills, or sell you special items hand-made by them. You can also turn the tables (pun intended) and maybe you'll decide to challenge your waiter to dance-off or maybe challenge two waiters to a push up contest - the possibilities for raising tips is endless!
This is a FUNdraising event, so please be prepared to tip your waiter to help them WIN! Waiters will bring their A-game and you should bring your checkbook and generous spirit!
When and where is the event?
Saturday, April 26th 2025
Sandia Resort and Casino
30 Rainbow Rd, Albuquerque, NM 87113
Doors open at 5:30 PM
What should I wear to the event? Is there a dress code?
This is not your typical gala - no need for formal attire! We encourage guests to embrace their imagination and creativity with their attire. This year's theme is Fictional Characters. Please check with your Waiter to see what specific table theme they have selected for your table and get ready to bring the your favorite stories to life!
Besides the dinner, what other activities will take place?
- The Chicken Run Race will be held with each race winner earning the chance to win a car (yes, a real one!). Entry fee required. Click here to register for The Chicken Run.
- A silent auction with the theme of "Wheels and Meals" will be available for bidding. Expect food, travel, and car-related items to bid on. Click here to see the silent auction items.
What is the Chicken Run and how can I participate?
The Chicken Run is the zaniest, most feather-ruffling event of the year!
Picture this: a crowd of eager racers, each strapping on their trusty rubber chicken footwear, ready to cluck their way to victory. As the whistle blows, the chaos ensues! Participants waddle, shuffle, and flap their way along the course, their rubber chickens clucking in protest with each step. Spectators cheer on their favorite feathered contenders, laughing and clucking along with the action.
But it's not just about the glory of crossing the finish line first. Oh no, it's about the thrill of the prize! With each heat, winners will draw a key, each one a potential ticket to a shiny new car. It's a race against both feathered friends and fate itself. So, whether you're a seasoned racer or just looking for a clucking good time, join us for The Chicken Run. Who knows, you might just walk away with more than just rubber chickens strapped to your feet!
Entry is $50 per race. Entries for the Chicken Run can be purchased on the GiveSmart website/app under the items page (item #100). Click here to enter.
Is there parking available at the venue?
Yes. Self parking or valet parking is available. If valet parking, please proceed to the east side of the casino.
How are funds raised during the event used?
All tips, bids, donations, etc. go to support Meals on Wheels New Mexico and our mission of delivering healthy meals and friendship - neighbor to neighbor. To learn more visit our website at www.mow-nm.org.
Can I bring children to the event? Is there a minimum age requirement?
This is a 21 and over event. No one under 21 will be allowed to attend without special permission from event organizers.
How is this event being managed? Will I be expected to use my credit card or phone to participate?
The event is organized on the internet and uses an app/website called GiveSmart. Guests will be asked to register in advance with a credit card so they can tip their waiter, bid on auction items, enter The Chicken Run, donate in the Paddle Raise, or vote for their favorite table theme. Email instructions for registration will be sent to each guest in advance (if you do not receive your registration email, please contact your Waiter). For those who do NOT want to pre-register using a credit card, but would still like to participate, on-site assistance will be available during the event.
Besides a monetary sponsorship or buying a table, are there any opportunities for donations?
Yes! For those not attending the event, we have TWO opportunities to help support Meals on Wheels.
- We are looking for silent auction items. Our theme for the silent auction this year is "Wheels and Meals." All donors to our silent auction will receive a tax-deduction letter as well as recognition on our event website and at the event. Please contact us at CW2025@mow-nm.org if you are interested in donating an item.
- Each waiter has a Community Champions page where they are accepting additional "tips" before the event even starts! Contact your favorite waiter to get their Champion Page link.
How can I get involved as a volunteer?
We are always looking for volunteers to help us make this event memorable and special! Volunteer positions include set up, clean up, check-in/out, attendee assistance, paddle raise spotters, silent auction helpers, or committee assistance. All volunteers will receive training, dinner, and a commemorative volunteer t-shirt. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact us at CW2025@mow-nm.org.
I'd like to attend. Where can I buy a ticket?
Individual tickets are not available for sale. In order to attend, you must sponsor, purchase a table, or be invited by a sponsor or waiter.
Anything else I should know?
Here's what you won't see at the event... long, sad, boring speeches, a rubber chicken dinner (though there may be some actual rubber chickens), and lots of sitting around.