Founded in 2001, The A&F Challenge is Abercrombie & Fitch Co.’s largest annual fundraiser. Featuring headlining bands, local food and drink and activities for every age. With over 4,000 attendees annually, The A&F Challenge has raised more than $19 million to date. This year, all proceeds benefit SeriousFun Children’s Network.
Okay, now let’s break this down! This past week, I was lucky enough to head over to the Abercrombie campus and get a sneak peek of what’s to come on September 6th. Woah. I was blown away. From just the little bit that I saw, I already know this event is going to be the EVENT of the year!
What is it?
The A & F Challenge at it’s core is a fundraiser by way of music festival. The Abercrombie campus (which is already gorgeous) transforms into the summer camp you wish your parents would have sent you to.
Who/What are we fundraising for?
The A&F Challenge benefits Seriousfun Children’s Network. SeriousFun is a global community of camps and programs serving kids with serious illnesses and their families at no cost to them.
Founded by actor and philanthropist Paul Newman, Seriousfun Children’s Network is a global community of camps and programs for kids with serious illnesses and their families. Specially-designed facilities and programs allow every child, no matterthe medical condition, the opportunity to experience the magic of camp—always free of charge. For a week at a time, being sick takes a back seat to being a kid. The network consists of 30 camps and programs worldwide.
What is there to do at the festival?
The question really shouldn’t be what is there to do? It should be – what aren’t you able to do? Starting at 5pm, camp comes alive with live music from bands such as Galantis, Misterwives, Arizona and Greyson Chance. {Ever go to a concert and don’t know any of the songs? If that’s the case, make sure you check out the A&F playlist on spotify before going!} You’ll probably get hungry from all your shimming & shaking to the music — don’t worry! Included in your ticket is UNLIMITED food {and drinks, just in case you need a bit more courage to get to dancing). Plus, with Abercrombie as the host – you know there is bound to be some AMAZING {and exclusive} merchandise. I mean, check out my hand painted jacket I got at the preview party.
Is it family friendly?
YES – this event is going be DECKED out with all types of things for the kids. Camp Fitch is jam-packed with family-friendly camp fun. The kiddos can take a ride on a zip line, practice their archery skills or make a memento at the arts and crafts area. If they get hungry before their rock climbing adventure, there will be popsicles, corn dogs, s’mores and more! They’re even going to have a nursery area for the little babes.
Wait, did you say UNLIMITED food and drinks?
I sure did! If you’re shocked, just know I was, too. Last year, in a giveaway post, people entering had to convince me (the giveaway host) that food & drinks were included. It just seemed to good to be true and after I just got a preview of the food, woah — still can’t believe it is all included! The food is along the lines of festival-friendly eats, from chicken in a waffle cone to sliders to mozzarella sticks to the best waffle sweet potato fries you’ve ever had to street corn and more. DELICIOUS. Camp Fitch will have kid-approved snacks, too. Plus, they’ll have late-night food trucks towards the end of the night.
Music Festival? What’s the line-up look like?
Don’t forget about the “mix-tape” aka Spotify Playlist they’ve created!
Can I upgrade to VIP?
Of course! VIPs get treated to an exclusive pre-party on Thursday, Sept. 5, from 6 to 9 p.m. The pre-party includes swag, live music and plenty of food and drink. Plus, you’ll have your own VIP-designated areas at The A&F Challenge, including places to lounge, private bathrooms and elevated eats. Snag those tickets here. If you’re on the fence ($$$), remember it goes to charity. YOUR VIP STATUS HELPS to support SeriousFun Children’s Network!
Okay, I’m sold! Now when and where is it?
The A&F Challenge will be held on Friday, Sept. 6, 2019, at the A&F Home Office in New Albany, Ohio.
I am really sad, but I can’t make it. Can I still donate?
You can make a donation to this event through check, credit card or wire transfer. For all specific donation questions, please reach out to anfchallenge@groundworkgroup.org. You can also make a personal donation through the website or a participant profile.
Wait, last question? How much does it cost?
General – $75 = Access to the party, concert, activities, unlimited food, beer & wine.Tee included!
Kids Pass – $25 = Ages 3 – 16. Access to the party, archery, rock climbing, camp-inspired food & fun (kids 2 & under are FREE). Tee included!
VIP – $250 = Exclusive access to the VIP pre-party & an upgraded experience at The Challenge including open bar, VIP parking & premium stage viewing. Swag included!
Virtual – $25 = Participate virtually from around the world & receive Challenge swag!
You can purchase tickets here.
One more thing, can I see more pictures from the preview event?
Of course! 😉
This event is going to be such an incredible night and even bigger than the memories you’re going to create with your loved ones, the impact you’re going to make on someone else’s life is priceless.
You can find out more about the event, as well as Seriousfun by clicking here.
