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
2026 UYA GALA Opa! Under the Mediterranean Stars
Join us for an unforgettable evening celebrating the arts and the community that supports them. Inspired by the Mediterranean, the night features live music by Uptown Easy, a Mediterranean-inspired dinner, beer and wine, a Live Auction with a dream trip to Santorini, and a curated Silent Auction.
We'll also honor the artists and creatives who enrich Southport and Oak Island, plus hold a Live Appeal supporting art students at South Brunswick High School. Proceeds fuel Up Your Arts' mission to promote and grow creative and performing arts in 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.
