Thank you to everyone who joined us on April Fool’s Day for a sold‑out 13th Annual Fools’ Night Out at Mémoire at Encore Boston Harbor. With the room full and the laughs nonstop, the night delivered exactly what was promised: comedy, cocktails, and classic Matt Light mischief, all in support of the Light Foundation.
While the comedy was front and center, the purpose behind Fools’ Night Out runs deeper. As we continue executing a strategic plan focused on sustainable growth, events like this play a critical role in helping us expand our reach and strengthen our impact across New England. A major milestone in that growth is the official launch of the Light Foundation of New Hampshire, allowing us to deepen our presence and deliver programming to even more youth in the region.
Bringing a night like this to life takes the efforts of many, and we are grateful to the team at Mémoire Boston for once again providing the setting for the evening, and to Mike Clarke of Giggles Comedy Club, whose longstanding support makes this event possible year after year. Along with an incredible lineup of local Boston comedians, Mike and the entire Giggles Comedy Club team generously donate their time and talent, and this night truly would not happen without that collective commitment.
Guests also put their luck to the test during the Mystery Briefcase Drawing, a crowd favorite that added a little friendly competition to the night. Using custom roulette‑style chips designed as keepsakes, attendees took their chances on a briefcase valued at more than $6,500, featuring high‑end experiences, including a Las Vegas getaway, along with other highly sought‑after prizes.
In keeping with the spirit of the evening, the audience was treated to a video featuring Matt Light and Rob Gronkowski letting loose at a Super Bowl afterparty — dancing, celebrating, and fully embracing the chaos. Pulled straight from Matt’s vault of behind‑the‑scenes Patriots moments, it was a reminder that some of the best stories come from what happens off the field, and that sometimes, being a fool is part of the fun. After all, few people understand Patriots greatness (and mischief) quite like those two.
This year’s Fools’ Night Out was supported by the largest number of sponsors in the event’s history, and we are deeply thankful for the generosity that made the night possible. We extend our sincere thanks to our Tomfoolery Sponsors, Subaru of New England and J. Derenzo Charitable Foundation, for their leadership‑level support.
We are also grateful to our Wisecracker Sponsors, Cross Insurance and GraVoc, along with Eastern Propane and MacFarlane Energy, who joined Fools’ Night Out as new sponsors at this level this year. Thank you as well to our Prankster Sponsors, Koopman Lumber and Tom Niedermeyer, and our Mischief‑Maker Sponsors: DiAntonio Family Foundation, Pension & Wealth Management Advisors, Berardi Irrigation, and Coastal Marine Construction LLC.
Our In‑Kind Sponsors played a major role in enhancing the guest experience through food, beverage, entertainment, media support, and auction contributions. Thank you to Harpoon Brewery, Wachusett Brewing Company, and Crane Lake Cellars; to Johnny Pizzi, who entertained guests throughout the evening with his magic and comedy; to Cardi’s Furniture & Mattresses, Outfront Media, and Russ Mezikofsky Photography for helping amplify the event’s reach; and to eMaxx Assurance Group of Companies, Big Night Entertainment, Wynn Las Vegas, and Naults Powersports & Marine for donating standout items.
We also thank our Corporate Partners — Rockport Mortgage Corporation, Twelve Points Wealth Management, Haynes Group Inc., and Navigant Credit Union — for their continued support of the Light Foundation and our mission.
A special thank you to our volunteers, especially Stephanie Ryan, who assisted with event preparation and oversaw the Mystery Briefcase Drawing, and Liz Hall, who prepared and organized our silent auction. Thank you as well to Frank & Nick’s for donating pizza and keeping our volunteer crew well‑fed throughout the night.
As we close another memorable Fools’ Night Out, we’re grateful for a night that not only delivered plenty of laughs, but also helps us continue growing and reaching more young people through our work. We hope you’ll join us for the 22nd Annual Matt Light Celebrity Shoot‑Out on September 15 at Addieville East Farm in Rhode Island, and we look forward to seeing you back next April Fool’s Day for another night of laughs, mischief, and controlled chaos.
