Tips For Partying At Friday’s Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge Celebration Gala

The plans are in place for the Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge Celebration to take place on the MHHB Friday. As Event Chair Lynn McBee put it this morning, “We are rolling and all is going to be superb!”

But this is not going to be like events at the Hilton Anatole or Brook Hollow. Translation: What makes it special and a little challenging is that it’s never been done before, so we thought you might like some tips on how to enjoy the experience.

First of all, let’s get this out of the way for the naysayers. The funds raised by this $200-a-head event with Lyle Lovett on stage are going to help pay for the free weekend of activities open to the public on the MHHB.

TENTATIVE TIME LINE:

• 6:00 p.m. — Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge gets lit. No, the bridge is not going to get tipsy. The lights will be turned on. Really!
• 7:00 p.m. — Official start time
• 7:45 p.m. — Brief remarks by dignitaries and members of the Margaret Hunt Hill family
• 9:00 p.m. — Lyle Lovett and his Large Band will perform on stage
• 10:00 p.m. — Fireworks and a final number by Lovett and his band

DIRECTIONS AND PARKING:

Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge Celebration map for Friday night

There will be complimentary valet parking on the west side of the Trinity River. To get to the parking, you are advised to use the Continental Bridge or Singleton. If you’re on Continental, get in the left lane. Be patient. You just know there’s likely to be a lineup for parking.

TICKETS: There are none, but don’t get any ideas of crashing the party. The organizers have a mammoth list with the names of all the guests. If your name ain’t on the list, you ain’t getting on the bridge. Check-in will be just behind the valet parking area.

ATTIRE: Leave the silks, satins and pearls at home. Wear comfortable shoes or boots because you’ll want to stroll the bridge. Also, a jacket would be a good idea. At Monday’s press conference, the temperature seemed cooler on the bridge thanks to the winds. Layered dressing has always been a lifesaver in Texas.

SEATING: There will be seats throughout the venue, especially in the VIP area, but this event is not a sit-down-dinner affair. It’s a walk around to explore the bridge and the booths which “contain interactive displays from non-profit organizations involved in the Trinity River Corridor development (Trinity River Audubon Center, Trinity Waters, Groundwork Dallas and The Trinity Trust Foundation).”

FOOD: Lots of it from Trinity Groves celebrity chefs and specialty drinks, .

ENTERTAINMENT: In addition to the Lyle Lovett concert, Lucy Wrubel will be DJ-ing, Street Corner Symphony will perform, Dallas Pedicabs will be there, and more.

RESTROOMS: Portable lavatories will be in place.

RECOMMENDED MUST-ACCESSORY: Cameras. On the other hand, sunglasses won’t be necessary. That is unless you’re having eye problems or want folks to think you’re special.

WEATHER: Let’s be honest. Nobody can guarantee the weather conditions, so check with MySweetCharity. If there are any POA changes, they will be posted here immediately.

SMOKING: Yes and no. Signs will be posted around the tents designating “No Smoking” areas. Otherwise, light up. UPDATE: We’re oh-so flattered! Seems that someone in charge of fire dug into the situation and decided “No Smoking” anywhere on the bridge. No, it’s not because of some city ordinance. Well, not exactly. Seems that due to the fuels on the bridge for cooking, etc., they’re fearful that one loose spark might give birth to an unwanted fire grill. . . uh, drill. So, if you want a smoke, you’re going to have to march down to the Trinity basin and light up there.

FINAL SUGGESTIONS: This will be the one-and-only-time that a gala will ever be held on the Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge, so you’ll be a part of history. So be patient, be safe and have fun.