Rahm Emanuel (Getty Images)

Tonight brings the first presidential debate, moderated by the unflappable Jim Lehrer—but for those who have already determined whom they’re voting for, skip the partisan pandering and come gab with Oscar and Annette! The de la Rentas, along with Mercedes Bass and Mrs. Julio Mario Santo Domingo, are hosting opening night at Carnegie Hall. The new season kicks off with a performance of Carmina Burana featuring conductor Riccardo Muti and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. Windy City Mayor Rahm Emanuel is the honorary chair for the evening, appropriate given the provenance of the musicians—and the fact that, long out of our nation’s capital, Mr. Emanuel no longer has to keep up appearances and look like he gives a hoot about the evening’s debate.

Carnegie Hall, 881 Seventh Avenue, pre-concert reception in the Rohatyn Room, 5:30pm, concert in Stern Auditorium, 7pm, post-concert gala dinner at the Waldorf Astoria, 301 Park Avenue, 8:30pm, tickets and information can be obtained by calling the Special Events office at (212) 903-9679.