“Imagine 2008,” Annual Fundraiser for the Falls Church-based Northern Virginia AIDS Ministry, Torpedo Factory Arts Center, Alexandria, Saturday, April 26, 8 p.m. (following house parties all over the region).

The annual NOVAM event is among the most creative and effective of the year. The dessert and cocktails party at the Torpedo Factory follows scores of house parties that volunteers throw all over the region, and includes many civic leaders and elected officials. The highlight of the party, in addition to many amazing auction items, are performances by the “D.C. Cowboys,” a troupe of shirtless, buff young cowboys who know how to strut their stuff in a variety of high-steppin’ dance routines. They’ve become “worth the price of admission” alone at these annual events, so make sure you elbow yourselves forward to get a good look. Hundreds attend and $171,000 was raised last year. To find a house party near you, call (703) 533-5505.