There is a lot to think about when you start planning a fundraising event. The venue, food, drinks, music, run of show. But all of those things are centered around one thing: your gala event theme!
Whether it’s a throwback to ages past or an homage to your favorite flick, every organization and audience loves a great gala event theme they can get behind! But as many have experienced, it’s not that easy to put a new spin on a common theme. So, to help kick start your idea sessions in the new year, here is a quick list of some of the most unique themes we’ve ever spotted at fundraising events.
Tips for Choosing a Theme
- Consider the Season: Is your fundraising event in the spring—near Valentine’s Day—or in the fall around Halloween? Pull from the seasons and the relevant holidays to come up with a theme that your guests will be excited about.
- Personalize it: Tie your gala event theme in with some aspect of your organization? Think about the colors in your logo, the history of your organization, and about what is important to your supporters. Adding a personal touch will make your gala event even more memorable.
- Don’t forget your Budget: Some themes are more costly than others so be sure you consider that during your planning process. Luckily, you can DIY decorations and other event elements, if needed. Ask around for crafty volunteers and committee members who can help stretch your budget!
- Factor in your Venue: When finalizing your gala event theme, verify that your venue has enough space to accommodate your plans, and that you are allowed to use your own decorations.
Seasonal Gala Event Themes
These season and holiday-related themes are fun and will appeal to any audience!
- Monster Bash: If you’re holding your gala event in October, consider leaning into a Halloween theme by throwing a Monster Bash! Costumes optional.
- Oktoberfest: Fall gala events can embrace an Oktoberfest theme, complete with pretzels, beer, and lederhosen. Prost!
- Valentine’s Day: If your event is in February, make love part of your gala event theme. Think heart-shaped candies, red and pink decorations, and champagne. Or, take advantage of Valentine’s platonic counterpart—Galentine’s Day—for a fun spin on a classic holiday.
Pop Culture Gala Event Themes
What has been trending lately? What movies are coming out this year? Check social media to see what everyone is talking about and consider these iconic pop culture themes.
- Superhero Soiree: Infuse a little pop culture into your fundraising event! Take it vintage with a comic book classic or modernize it with the latest in blockbuster movies!
- Wonderland: We are all a little bit mad with this event theme! Whether you embrace the Mad Hatter with a tea party-inspired gala event or channel the Cheshire Cat for a fundraiser full of imagination, this theme will wow your guests.
- British Invasion: Going international? Get classy with James Bond if you're looking to spice up your black-tie affair. Those bright reds and royal blues are sure to make every moment pop! Comes complete with a music selection that will get everyone dancing.
Geographic Gala Event Themes
No matter where you are located, these geographic themes will be a hit!
- Safari or Jungle: Cheetah and zebra print galore! You can feature all of your favorite wild animals in this theme. Bring in lots of greenery and plants to bring your jungle to life.
- Wonders of the World: Draw inspiration from wonders of the world with this international theme. Each section of the room could be dedicated to a different wonder—from Stonehenge to the Colosseum, the Great Wall of China to the Taj Mahal.
- Secret Garden: Hosting an outdoor event in warmer climates? Add some whimsy and wonderment with twinkling lights for a magical touch! Need to stay out of the weather? Bring the green indoors and whisk your guests away to an enchanted garden of your design!
Generational Gala Event Themes
Nostalgia is a powerful tool (and a lot of fun!). Consider these generational gala event themes when planning your next fundraiser. Don’t forget to take into account the median age of your guests!
- Sock Hop: Grab your poodle skirts and leather jackets, and enjoy this wholesome 1950s inspired theme.
- '90s Throwback: For many of us the '90s don’t seem like that long ago, but pop culture has spoken and officially declared them a throwback. So, why not make a fun event theme out of it? Bright colors, geometric shapes, bucket hats, and more will make your event totally rad!
- Disco: Glitz, glamour, and great music come together to make this gala event theme groovy! Channel Studio54 with metallic decor and colorful lights. Consider hiring a band to play live disco music and encourage guests to dress up in their best '70s outfits!
Use Auction Frogs for your next Gala Event
Our platform is feature-rich, simple to use, and yields great results. It allows for an unlimited number of item and image uploads, plus it can be customized to reflect your brand identity. And, with a mobile-friendly user experience, bidders can participate on any smart device.
So, get in touch today to see how we can help make your next gala event a successful one!
About the author
Auction Frogs
Auction Frogs streamlines your fundraising process by giving live and silent auctions a digital backbone. Reduce hassles, save valuable volunteer time, and increase your revenue raised. We deliver unique technology to simplify the experience of hosting a successful fundraiser.
