For the 20th year, The Abbey Food & Bar swapped out rainbow lights for snowflakes, transforming into a frosted fantasyland for its annual Christmas in September toy drive. The star-studded tradition, co-hosted by Tristan Schukraft and Kathy Hilton, once again rallied the community to support Children’s Hospital Los Angeles.
A Winter Wonderland in September
Even in West Hollywood’s balmy September weather, the night felt like the holidays had arrived early. Guests walked a red carpet dusted in “snow,” greeted by Sexy Santa and toy-collecting elves who turned philanthropy into a spectacle. It’s the kind of playful camp only The Abbey could pull off, where giving back also feels like a party.
This year’s toy haul was impressive, with thousands of donations stacked high in a train of gifts. As someone who has covered plenty of WeHo events, I’ll say this: few parties balance glamour and generosity quite like this one.
Celebrities, Performances, and a Kathy Hilton Quip
The guest list blended reality TV royalty with nightlife icons. Heather Dubrow, Terry Dubrow, Jennifer Tilly, B. Scott, Jai Rodriguez, and drag favorite Mayhem Miller were spotted mingling in the holiday chaos.
On stage, singer Ashlee Keating brought holiday cheer with “In the Air” and “Santa Claus Is Coming to Town.” But the night’s most buzzed-about moment came courtesy of “Mariah Carrie Carey,” a Mariah Carey impersonator who lip-synced “All I Want for Christmas.” Kathy Hilton leaned into the bit, joking, “My eyesight isn’t always that good, but I thought you were Mariah.”
That one-liner perfectly captured the night, equal parts campy, cheeky, and heartfelt
Giving Back in Style
Beyond the sparkle and spectacle, the evening raised $19,000 through a live auction. Kathy Hilton even auctioned off handmade wreaths and her custom Labubus creations, with proceeds going directly to Children’s Hospital Los Angeles.
This event isn’t just about a photo op, it fills a crucial gap. By replenishing CHLA’s toy inventory in the fall, Christmas in September ensures children of all ages, from infants to teens, receive gifts before the actual holiday season arrives. That’s a detail worth noting: the joy isn’t delayed, it starts now.
Two Decades of Impact
For two decades, Christmas in September has proven that West Hollywood knows how to mix philanthropy with festivity. The Abbey’s consistency in hosting a fundraiser that feels like a celebration is no small feat. And yes, it helps that Kathy Hilton knows how to work a room (and a microphone).
If you’ve ever wondered what happens when West Hollywood throws a holiday party three months early, the answer is simple: it snows, people dance, celebrities mingle, and children in need benefit. That’s a tradition worth keeping.
Donation guidelines and CHLA’s toy registry are available online for those unsure what to give. The hospital especially welcomes items for infants and teenagers, age groups often overlooked in toy drives. Even though the party is over, you can still help make a child’s holiday brighter.
