The longstanding fundraising event, Flutter at the Fountain, is expanding to a three-day event, according to a press release.

The 2024 event will take place April 12-14 in a half-acre fenced campus within Fountain Park.

In addition to the traditional butterfly art, this year’s celebration showcases several new features and signature events like the Donor and Sponsor Luncheon Friday, April 12, which honors “hometown heroes” --  those who keep Fountain Hills nonprofit organizations running smoothly; Family Discovery Day on Saturday, April 13, that includes activities for families and kids of all ages including sports, clubs and academic opportunities available in the Fountain Hills community; and the Heroes Ball Gala held Saturday, April 13.

Emceed by actor and businessman Patrick Russo, artist and musician Rich Leonard will open the Gala festivities by playing the Star-Spangled Banner on the “Les Paul,” the guitar he created for Flutter ’24. Guests are treated to dinner courtesy of local chefs and restaurants competing in the inaugural Fountain Foodie Fest, where they can vote for their favorites in several categories.

Other events include the FHCCA 2024 annual meeting Friday, April 12, which the public is invited to attend. The $50 ticket includes dinner by Batchelor’s Pad BBQ and entertainment by Lisa Thee Oracle Hightower. Wine and soft drinks will be provided.

The Stargazing and Star Stories with Vicky Derksen is also set for Friday, April 12, where the community can revel in a stargazing experience.

Lastly, the Human History of Four Peaks is also scheduled for Friday, April 12, when Encore for More presents speaker John Mack who will examine the differing meanings that waves of settlers have attached to the Peaks, according to a press release.

An event brochure is available for download at fountainhillsgives.com/flutter-at-the-fountain.

To purchase event tickets, view the butterflies and roadrunner sculptures and bid on the silent auction items, visit the event website at Flutter24.GiveSmart.com or text Flutter24 to 76278.

Flutter at the Fountain is the signature fundraiser for the Fountain Hills Community Foundation (FHCF) featuring one-of-a-kind steel-crafted butterflies decorated by area artists.

Since its inception in 2020, Flutter has raised more than $150,000, which the FHCF grants to local nonprofit organizations serving youth, families and seniors, according to the release.

The FHCF provides additional funding for educational, cultural and humanitarian nonprofit organizations operating within Fountain Hills and the surrounding community, the release added.

The organization, originally known as the Sunridge Foundation, was formed in 1995. To date, it has provided more than $1.5 million in financial support for local nonprofits, according to the release.

For more information about the FHCF and Flutter at the Fountain, visit fountainhillsgives.com.