Philadelphia Friendship Fete.

Originally called the Friendship Festival, the Philadelphia Friendship Fete began in the 1920s in New York City. The purpose of the group was to promote friendship among Philadelphia area women's clubs, to recognize and honor area women, nationally and internationally. There were enthusiasts in New York, Philadelphia, Baltimore and Washington. In 1929 the Soroptimist Club in Philadelphia began with its first Friendship dinner. Seventy-five clubs were part of this dinner. This later became a luncheon, due to practicality and expense. The Advisory Council, which met three to four times a year, was the governing body of this club. The council consisted of officers and delegates from the various clubs. Officer positions were rotated on a yearly basis, finally becoming permanent positions.

The Fame Award recipient was chosen by motion within Advisory Council meetings. Suggestions for recipients were received from the council and the hostess committee. The announcement was made at the luncheon, unless publicity of the recipient would increase ticket sales. Guest speakers and Fame Award recipients included Ethel Barrymore, Amelia Earhart, Norwegian crown Princes Martha, South Korean politician Louisa Yim, congresswoman Katherine O'Hay Grananhan, Julie Nixon Eisenhower, Baroness Maria Van Trapp, Shirley Temple Black, Abigail Van Buren, and journalists Orien Reid and Lisa Thomas Laury.

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