As far as Oscars parties go, Elton John’s annual viewing party remains one of the most glamorous—and one of the most impactful. A tradition now in its third decade, the event raises millions for the Elton John AIDS Foundation, dedicated to HIV prevention, education, and services. This year, however, there was an extra layer of buzz. Whispers of a certain mega pop star performance had the industry buzzing (sorry, Vanity Fair! This one had the exclusivity factor).
Held, as always, at the historic West Hollywood Park, the guest list included a mix of Hollywood heavyweights, music royalty, and longtime friends of Sir Elton. Megan Thee Stallion, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Camila Cabello, Walton Goggins, and Lana Condor all arrived in their best mid-afternoon cocktail attire—because, yes, this party technically begins before the Oscars even start and stretches well past the final award.
Inside, guests found plenty to keep them entertained before the red carpet coverage began. There was a dedicated caviar station (because, of course), a Veuve Clicquot Champagne bar, and a vanity station courtesy of E.L.F. Cosmetics. Meanwhile, self-driving carts roamed the venue, handing out cocktails served in mini Don Julio 1942 bottles—because what’s better than a bartender? A bartender on wheels.
For those feeling competitive, the Oscars ballot contest offered an enticing prize: a winner and a runner-up would take home luxurious watches from Chopard—more than enough motivation for guests to make some very serious predictions about the night’s big winners.
Then came the food: an indulgent cocktail-hour menu featuring filet mignon, tuna atop cucumber, and artichoke bites set the tone before guests sat down to a dinner of either short rib or sea bass, followed by an elegant dessert selection.
The night’s annual fundraising auction was, as expected, a spectacle in itself. Among the coveted prizes? A pair of diamond earrings and the opportunity to have a private dinner with Elton John himself. (What does one even wear to that?)
But the real moment everyone had been waiting for? The performance. After much speculation, Chappell Roan—undeniably one of pop music’s biggest rising stars—took the stage, delivering a near concert-length set that had the entire crowd enraptured. At one point, she was even joined by Elton John for a duet, a pinch-me moment for both the audience and, by her own admission, Roan herself. Between powerhouse vocals and towering platform boots (which she hilariously blamed for her nerves), Roan proved why she’s music’s next big thing.
And just like that, the night transitioned into its final act: the after-party. By then, the Oscars themselves were a distant memory, and the real celebration had just begun.
