The 11th Annual Symphony Ball, Saturday in the Kalakaua Ballroom of the Hawaii Convention Center, will be held in the tradition of the grand society balls of Europe and the Americas.

"Ports of Call" celebrates the critically-acclaimed Honolulu Symphony Orchestra and the cultures of illustrious ports around the world.

The Symphony Ball is chaired by Symphony supporters Collin M. (Marty) Fritz and Susyn Fritz.

The black-tie, evening gown and formal ethnic attire gala kicks off at 5:30 p.m. Saturday with a "Marketplaces of the World" silent auction, followed by a gourmet dinner and dancing to the orchestra's music. Marketplaces feature fantasy travel packages and keepsakes including jewelry, rare books, wine & spirits, gastronomy, fashion, china & crystal, fine art and music. Distinctive "Toast the Symphony" cocktails and wines are featured in each port of call.

Honolulu Symphony Principal Pops Conductor Maestro Matt Catingub will "strike the right note" with the Honolulu Symphony Orchestra for the evening's entertainment. Music suitable for ballroom dancing will be on the bill.

The Symphony Ball welcomes more than 700 Symphony supporters and community leaders each year. Since 1998, this fundraiser for the Symphony's music education and community outreach initiatives has raised more than $3.5 million for programs such as educational concerts for children and teenagers, performances in classrooms, and the Hawaii Youth Concerto Competition.

"Ports of Call" individual reservations begin at $300 per person. A portion of the ticket price is tax-deductible. Tables of 10 are available starting at $3,000. "Ports of Call" attendees will enjoy free valet parking.

For more information or to make a donation to the auction, please contact the Honolulu Symphony, 524-0815 ext. 244, or symphonyball@honolulusymphony.com.