Saturday, September 26 from 4-7 PM

The Golden Gala

50 Years Growing Together

Join us for an evening of discovery, community and giving in the gardens as we celebrate 50 years of horticultural excellence and impact at the JC Raulston Arboretum (JCRA).

For five decades, the JCRA has flourished through the support of members, volunteers, industry partners, educators, students and plant enthusiasts. As we honor this milestone, we invite you to gather in the gardens to celebrate our shared history and help cultivate the next 50 years.

This signature anniversary fundraiser offers a unique opportunity to experience the JCRA at one of the most beautiful times of day. Stroll through the gardens during the golden hours of autumn, enjoy exceptional food and drinks, connect with fellow supporters and participate in engaging horticultural experiences throughout the evening.

The Experience | 4 - 7 PM

GOLDEN HOUR RECEPTION

Arrive as the afternoon light settles across the gardens. Enjoy a signature cocktail, beer and wine and hors d'oeuvres while exploring the gardens with fellow plant enthusiasts.

INTERACTIVE GARDEN EXPERIENCES

Discover hands-on horticultural activities and demonstrations throughout the gardens, including pruning with Mike Gibson and opportunities to learn from the experts who help make the JCRA thrive.

SILENT AUCTION

Browse an exceptional collection of rare plants, garden treasures and unique experiences while supporting the future of the JCRA.

LIVE MUSIC ON THE GREAT LAWN

Enjoy live entertainment as the gardens come alive with conversation, community and celebration.

LIVE AUCTION

Cap off the evening with our signature live auction featuring exclusive experiences, sought-after plants and one-of-a-kind opportunities.

A GOLDEN SURPRISE

Every guest will take home a special golden surprise to plant in their own garden — a living reminder of this milestone celebration and the future we are growing together.

Celebrate the past. Support the future.

More than a celebration, the Golden Gala is an investment in the future of the JC Raulston Arboretum. Proceeds support the gardens, educational programs, plant collections and outreach efforts that inspire gardeners of all ages.

Whether you have supported the JCRA for decades or are discovering it for the first time, we invite you to join us for an unforgettable evening of community, discovery and giving.

Celebrate 50 years of growing together and help us cultivate the next 50.

Tickets

$250 PER PERSON

A limited number of tickets are available for this special fundraising event. Reserve your place today to celebrate 50 years of horticultural excellence, community and impact at the JC Raulston Arboretum.

Can't attend? You can still support the next 50 years with a tax-deductible gift to the JCRA. Make a donation.

Become a sponsor

An Invitation to Partner with Us to Celebrate the 50th Anniversary

The Golden Gala marks the next chapter of our anniversary year. It will be a celebration of who we are today and an investment in what comes next. Proceeds from this signature event will directly support our student internship program, ensuring that emerging horticulture professionals gain the hands-on experience needed to carry forward the JCRA's mission for the next 50 years.

Learn more and become a SPONSOR.

Sponsor Levels:

MAPLE — $20,000 ($17,500 tax deductible)
10 tickets | Reserved table closest to the stage
OAK — $10,000 ($8,000 tax deductible)
8 tickets | Reserved table closest to the stage
MAGNOLIA — $5,000 ($3,500 tax deductible)
6 tickets | Reserved seating
GINKGO — $2,500 ($1,500 tax deductible)
4 tickets | Reserved seating
REDBUD — $1,000 ($500 tax deductible)
2 tickets | Reserved seating

Funds supporting the Golden Gala are collected and managed by The North Carolina Agricultural Foundation, Inc., a 501(c)3 non-profit, tax ID 56-6049304. Proceeds from the event will support JCRA Student Internships. Tickets are valued at $250 each. You will receive an official receipt for the tax deductible portion of your donation.