EVENTS
These are happenings where we have fun, celebrate our sponsors, cheer on our wins for the year, and most importantly, come together as a community in support of the arts!
ANNUAL GALA
SAVE THE DATE | 2026 UYA GALA
The Up Your Arts 2026 Cool & Fancy Gala Presents: Opa! Under the Mediterranean Stars
Get ready to shout “Opa!” as we raise a glass to the arts and the incredible community support that makes them thrive.
This unforgettable evening is inspired by the vibrant spirit of the Mediterranean, bringing together community leaders and friends for a lively celebration of a thriving arts community and future growth. Guests will enjoy live music by Uptown Easy, a delicious Mediterranean-inspired dinner, beer and wine, a Live Auction featuring a dream trip to Santorini, Greece, and a carefully curated local Silent Auction—all while celebrating the creativity that makes our coastal community so special.
This festive evening also provides the opportunity to recognize and honor the artists, musicians, and creative visionaries who enrich the greater Southport and Oak Island area. The program will also feature a Live Appeal supporting art students at South Brunswick High School, helping ensure the next generation of creatives has the resources and opportunities to grow. Proceeds from the gala support our mission to promote, celebrate, and expand creative and performing arts throughout our community.
FAQ regarding 2026 Cool & Fancy Gala
1. Will there be assigned seating? Yes! Guests will enjoy place card reserved seating very similar to a Greek dinner party with rectangular tables adorned with flowers, wine and fellowship. If groups have purchased separately, please send an email to accrowley67@gmail.com with whom you'd like to sit with. Sponsor guests will sit together.
2. What is included with my ticket? Your ticket includes an unforgettable evening beginning at 5:30 PM with a cocktail hour featuring preset charcuterie appetizers as you mingle with fellow guests and browse our Silent Auction offerings. At 6:45 PM, guests will enjoy a delicious plated dinner followed by an inspiring program highlighting the impact and mission of Up Your Arts.
The evening will also feature an exciting Live Auction, including the opportunity to bid on an incredible getaway to Santorini, Greece. After the program, the celebration continues with a dynamic live band and dancing until 10:00 PM, creating the perfect ending to a memorable night under the Mediterranean stars.
3. What beverages will be available? Guests will enjoy complimentary wine and beer service throughout the evening, along with our signature Mediterranean-inspired martini. Additional non-alcoholic beverage options will also be available.
4. What should I wear? The evening is "Cool & Fancy" attire. Think cocktail attire with a touch of Mediterranean flair—dress to celebrate under the stars!
5. How will the funds raised be used? Proceeds from the gala support local artists, arts education, community cultural programming, and initiatives that enrich the creative life of our coastal communities. A special Live Appeal donation moment will raise funds for art initiatives for South Brunswick High School.
Gather your friends, reserve your seats, and prepare for an evening filled with music, laughter, great food, and community spirit—all while supporting the arts.
We can't wait to celebrate with you!
UYA BIRTHDAY PARTY
The UYA Birthday party is one of our favorite events. It's a time to celebrate our local musicians, artists, and supporters in a low key, fun way. This event is about coming together as friends and family around the community we love and serve.
