The mega-fundraiser for schools in Petaluma is this weekend.

The Bash is the biggee for the Petaluma Education Foundation and will be held Saturday at South McDowell Landing. 

Approximately 500 people have purchased the $150 ticket, but organizers say they can handle about 600 guests to their semi-formal event. Ticket price includes cocktails, three-course dinner, a live and silent auction, a performance by live band Moonalice and dancing to a DJ into the evening.

Organizers hope to raise $250,000 from the event.

Almost all of PEF’s grant program funding comes from direct contributions from businesses and individuals. About half of that money comes from The Bash.

In addition to its annual grant distributions, PEF also manages a $3.5 million endowment.

PEF receives no public funding. The foundation raises funds from individuals, corporations and foundations and manages a benefit thrift store, Alphabet Soup, in downtown Petaluma.

PEF’s programs target all students at Petaluma’s public and non-for-profit private schools from kindergarten through high school – 12,500 students from 33 schools.

The semi-formal event will feature live and silent auctions. Contact PEF at 778-4632 or look for updates at www.pefinfo.com.