NYC SECOND CHANCE RESCUE’S CONCERT FOR A CAUSE 
Aug. 7 at 900 Lumber Lane, Bridgehampton

Benefiting: NYC Second Chance Rescue, focusing on large dog breeds and animals in need ofcritical care
The big deal: This is a party for guests who like their glamour with a lifesaving mission. The rescue takes on cases shelters can’t, saving more than 17,000 animals since 2009. This gathering brings together the animal-rights world, celebrity supporters and a well-dressed summer crowd that knows how to rally for a cause. 
Haute tip: There’s always a surprise musical performance and celebrity guests, but stay for the emotional tales of once-forgotten animals finding homes — they’ll bring tears to your eyes.
Star power: Past performers at the annual event include Robin Thicke (above center) and Fat Joe, while Dylan Lauren and Candace Bushnell (above left) have attended. Supporters of the organization include Ralph Macchio (above right) and Georgina Bloomberg.

HOPE FOR DEPRESSION’S RACE OF HOPE 
Aug. 2 at the Southampton Cultural Center, 25 Pond Lane, Southampton

Benefiting: The Hope for Depression Research Foundation
The big deal: The village looks like a movie set during this 5K race, with streets closed down and blanketed in yellow flags. Hundreds of chic supporters turn out to cheer on participants — also dressed in yellow — who receive an Olympic-size medal.
Haute tip: Strollers and dogs are welcome, as is your shopping list — local stores offer discounts to attendees, donating a portion of proceeds to the charity. Come hungry: Breakfast will be served in a food tent. 
Star power: Katie Couric (above left) and Alexa Ray Joel (above right) have served as celebrity grand marshals of the event, while Brooke Shields (above center) made her way to the finish line. 

SOUTHAMPTON ARTS CENTER’S SUMMERFEST
Aug. 22 at Southampton Arts Center, 25 Jobs Lane, Southampton

Benefiting: Arts education in the Hamptons
The big deal: A major draw for the East End’s social set, this annual gathering is co-chaired by the philanthropic crème de la crème, including Simone and David Levinson, Jamee and Peter Gregory, Christine and Richard Mack, and Audrey and Martin D. Gruss. This year’s honoree is Wall Street legend John Paulson, while Judy Glickman Lauder’s impressive photography collection will be on display.
Haute tip: Paulson has just given $3.4 million to transform the center’s gardens, so arrive early to enjoy them, along with a glass of Aphrodise sparkling rosé and bites from local restaurants the Golden Pear and Shippy’s. 
Star power: Past attendees include Tony winner Adrienne Warren, Ivy Getty,  the Arts Center’s chairman Simone Levinson (above left) and philanthropist Christine Mack (above right). 

SOFO’S SUMMER GALA 
July 11 at the South Fork Natural History Museum, 377 Bridgehampton/Sag Harbor Turnpike, Bridgehampton

Benefiting: The South Fork Natural History Museum’s 250 programs, including environmental education, museum programming and conservation work
The big deal: The evening includes dinner and dancing, but the cocktail reception also features bites from some of the area’s top restaurants, including East Hampton Grill, the Palm, Bell & Anchor, Lobster Roll, Sen and LDV at the Maidstone.
Haute tip: Leave time for wildlife encounters. At SOFO, the most interesting guests — birds, turtles, reptiles and aquatic wildlife (along with their handlers) — are available for interaction. Stay for the live auction: You might win a trip to Madagascar or the Galápagos Islands.
Star power: Liev Schreiber (above right) has hosted for the last two years, and past SOFO galas have drawn Susan and David Rockefeller Jr., Ronald Lauder and Alex Guarnaschelli (above left). 

PROJECT ZERO CELEBRATION FOR CORAL 
Aug. 22 at Maison Close, 281 County Road 39A, Southampton

Benefiting: Project Zero, which protects and restores ocean ecosystems
The big deal: Coral reef protection and ocean health is a natural fit for the Hamptons. The event also offers a chance to experience Soho hot spot Maison Close’s first eastern outpost. 
Haute tip: Project Zero kicks off its season on June 7 with a beach cleanup in Sagaponack, followed by a guided meditation and blessing of the ocean.
Star power: Our cover star, Sailor Brinkley Cook, and DJ Alexandra Richards (daughter of Keith, center left) are co-hosting this year’s fund-raiser, which has drawn Christie Brinkley (above right) and Brandi Cyrus in the past. Suki Waterhouse, Slash, Rita Ora, Sienna Miller and Cara Delevingne are all Project Zero ambassadors.

 HAMPTONS SUMMER SONGBOOK BY THE SEA 
June 28 at LTV Studios, 75 Industrial Road, Wainscott

Benefiting: LTV Studios, a nonprofit television and media platform dedicated to sharing public discourse, education and creative expression
The big deal: The season opener of this summerlong cabaret series — which kicks off with a performance by Norm Lewis — turns LTV’s industrial television studio into an intimate club with Broadway stars, cafe-style seating, a baby grand piano and professional lighting. The season opener features a reception as well as the show.
Haute tip: Don’t worry about parking — there’s a huge lot at the studio. Stick around after the show to chat and take photos with the performers.
Star power: In addition to Lewis (above left), the season will include performances by Broadway stars Ann Hampton Callaway (above right) and Billy Stritch.