Each year, the Peace Arch Hospital Foundation hosts one of the most anticipated charitable events in the Lower Mainland — its annual hospital gala. In 2026, the event returns with a new theme, “Illume — Where Light Meets Purpose,” a powerful evening dedicated to advancing health care for the White Rock and South Surrey community. …
Each year, the Peace Arch Hospital Foundation hosts one of the most anticipated charitable events in the Lower Mainland — its annual hospital gala. In 2026, the event returns with a new theme, “Illume — Where Light Meets Purpose,” a powerful evening dedicated to advancing health care for the White Rock and South Surrey community.
More than a glamorous night out, Illume represents something deeper: a shared commitment by residents, businesses, physicians, and volunteers to ensure that Peace Arch Hospital continues to provide exceptional care close to home.
A Celebration with a Purpose
The Illume Gala takes place May 2, 2026 at Centennial Arena in White Rock, transforming the venue into an immersive environment of light, technology, and creativity. Guests will enjoy a full evening experience that includes a cocktail reception, silent auction, gourmet dinner, live auction, entertainment, and dancing.
But while the atmosphere is festive, the mission is serious.
Funds raised through the gala will support the advancement of intensive care services at Peace Arch Hospital, including the development of a state-of-the-art ICU and telemetry unit. This new technology will allow medical teams to monitor patients more precisely, respond faster to changes in health conditions, and improve outcomes for those experiencing cardiac or critical illness.
For patients and families in the region, these upgrades mean greater access to life-saving care without needing to travel to larger hospitals farther away.
Supporting a Vital Community Hospital
Located in White Rock, Peace Arch Hospital has served the region since 1954 and now operates as a 146-bed acute care facility within the Fraser Health network, providing emergency services, surgical care, diagnostics, maternity services, and specialized programs for thousands of residents each year.
As the population of South Surrey and White Rock continues to grow, so does the demand for modern medical infrastructure and advanced equipment. That’s where the Peace Arch Hospital Foundation plays a crucial role.
Since its establishment in 1988, the foundation has raised more than $250 million to fund capital projects, purchase medical equipment, and support programs that enhance patient care throughout the hospital campus.
Events like Illume are essential to this mission, bringing the community together to invest directly in the health and wellbeing of their local hospital.
A Tradition of Community Generosity
The Peace Arch Hospital Gala has built a reputation as one of the premier fundraising events in the Lower Mainland, known for its creativity, immersive themes, and strong philanthropic support. Previous galas have consistently raised significant funds for hospital initiatives, often surpassing $1 million in a single evening for critical projects.
Beyond the dollars raised, the gala reflects the spirit of the community itself. Business leaders, healthcare professionals, volunteers, and residents come together with a shared goal: ensuring that Peace Arch Hospital continues to provide the highest standard of care for future generations.
The Power of Community in Health Care
Health care is often thought of as something that happens within hospital walls, but Illume highlights a broader truth — strong health systems are built by strong communities.
Every sponsorship, volunteer shift, auction bid, and ticket purchase contributes directly to better medical tools, improved facilities, and stronger support for doctors and nurses serving the region.
For residents of White Rock and South Surrey, Illume is more than a gala. It is a reminder that community generosity can shape the future of local health care, ensuring that when families need help most, the best possible care is available right here at home.
