The air pulses with laughter and music. String lights drape from tree to tree throughout the Bier Garten. Hypnotizing smells waft from a continuous line of food vendors. This is the Global Home Office (GHO) once it’s been transformed for The Challenge, A&F Co.’s annual festival and fundraiser.
“The culmination of the music, vibes and constant smiles just amps the energy to a new level,” says associate Ed Lundberg. “The Challenge represents engaging with peers, new and old, through music, food and drinks while raising money for an important cause. Who doesn’t love that combination!”
This week ushers in the launch of the 2023 Challenge season with the much-anticipated release of the music lineup: headliners Kygo, AJR and Meet Me @ The Altar, with supporting performances from DJ AXCESS, Ramblewood, The Dead Revival Band and Lily Bloom.
Tickets are now on sale, which grant access to all live performances, unlimited food/drink and an event tee. You can also get an elevated experience with VIP tickets, which offer exclusive stage access, additional merchandise and more.
A truly memorable night of entertainment for A&F Co. associates and the public alike, The Challenge serves an important purpose—to celebrate the ongoing, collective impact of our key non-profit partners.
“The Challenge has grown so much since launching in 2001,” says Anna Ankenbauer of the Global Giving and Associate Engagement team. “What started as a company BBQ has evolved into a community festival meets fundraiser. It’s a true embodiment of who we have become as an organization.”
Since our first Challenge event in 2001, A&F Co. has raised over $37 million to benefit our partners. This year, funds will go to six non-profit organizations who we are honored to partner with year-round: The Academy Group, GLSEN, Hollister Confidence Project, SeriousFun Children’s Network, The Steve Fund and The Trevor Project.
Ankenbauer says her favorite part of planning the Challenge is that it’s a team up effort across the organization. “There are so many associates who are involved in planning the experience, fundraising, welcoming guests to campus and more. I love how much care everyone puts in to making the Challenge what it has become.”
The Challenge will be held on Friday, 9/22, 2023, at the GHO in New Albany, Ohio. The event will take place from 5-11pm.
For more details and to purchase tickets, visit ANFChallenge.org.
Follow @anfchallenge and @lifeatanf for updates and photos throughout this Challenge season.
