Goo Goo Dolls are bringing their hit-laden rock show to the Mile High City this fall – all for a good cause. The Grammy-nominated band has been announced as the headliner for the 39th annual Carousel Ball in Denver, scheduled for October 11, 2025. The star-studded charity gala benefits the Children’s Diabetes Foundation, and this year will pay special tribute to legendary singer-songwriter Neil Diamond, who will be honored with the Inspirational Lifetime Achievement Award during the event.
The Carousel Ball will take place at the Hyatt Regency Denver, transforming the venue into an elegant celebration of music and philanthropy. Proceeds from the gala support the Barbara Davis Center for Diabetes, helping fund research and care for children with Type 1 diabetes. “We’re excited to take the stage at the Carousel Ball and support an amazing cause,” Goo Goo Dolls frontman John Rzeznik said in a joint statement with bassist Robby Takac. “The progress the Children’s Diabetes Foundation has made in diabetes research and patient care has brought new hope to countless families, and we’re honored to be a part of their special night.”
Event organizers Dana and Barbara Davis – the foundation’s chairman and founder, respectively – praised the band’s involvement, noting the Goo Goo Dolls’ enduring impact on popular music. “Since our inception, musicians have been at the forefront of our fundraising efforts, connecting hearts to our mission to find a cure for diabetes,” the Davises said, pointing to Goo Goo Dolls hits like “Slide,” “Black Balloon” and “Better Days” that have touched so many lives. “We couldn’t think of a better collaborator to help us ring in nearly 50 years of impact,” their statement continued.
In addition to Neil Diamond receiving his honor, the Carousel Ball will recognize the MacMillan Family with the High Hopes Tribute Award for their contributions. The evening promises a mix of heartfelt speeches, a high-profile auction, and of course live performances – capped by Goo Goo Dolls delivering a full headline set. Founded in 1978 by Barbara Davis, the Carousel Ball alternates between Denver and Beverly Hills and has raised over $117 million to date. With Neil Diamond’s presence and the Goo Goo Dolls onstage, this year’s gala is shaping up to be both an entertaining and inspiring night dedicated to making a difference in the fight against diabetes.
