Thank you to our sponsors!
We're excited to partner with many great organizations, businesses, and foundations dedicated to supporting our vital services.
Shiver of Sharks Presenting Sponsor
Herd of Seals Sponsor
Flotilla of Sea Turtles Sponsor
Colony of Puffins Sponsor
Galaxy of Starfish Sponsor
Coral Reef Sponsor
School of Clownfish Sponsor
Live Auction Items
Get ready to bid! Our live auction features an exciting collection of exclusive experiences and one-of-a-kind items. Every bid supports our mission and helps make a lasting impact in our community.
Private Chinese Cooking Class and Sake Tasting for 4
Here’s a rare opportunity to learn from Maria Cheung, a TCC board member who is an avid cook who can show you step by step how to make a delicious and authentic Chinese dinner that would be sure to impress your guests and your family.
This 2 ½ hour lesson for up to four people at Maria’s home in South Norwalk will include –
- Dim sum appetizers while you have a tasting of three of Maria’s favorite sakes
- Choose three of the following dishes that suit your taste and Maria will demonstrate how to make them one at a time so you can taste each one as they’re freshly made:
- Maria’s famous sticky rice with shitake mushrooms and Chinese sausage
- Sauteed prawns with ginger and scallion
- Chicken thighs sauteed with lotus root and bok choi
- Silken tofu with emperor and shitake mushrooms
- Kung Pao brussels sprouts with peanuts
- Sauteed string beans with oyster sauce
- Dessert: Yuzu sake, Chinese egg tarts, and Mochi ice cream
Open kitchen with view of Long Island Sound where cooking lesson will take place
Previous Year Review by Participants:
“An evening of delicious food, fun, facts, and laughs. Ah and sakes! What a wonderful experience learning new kitchen skills, new flavors, & new essential ingredients. Whether you’re a novice or an expert, spend time in Maria’s kitchen will bring your skills to the next level. One word... YUM! Thank you chef Maria for sharing your home, your gifts, and love of cooking.” (Heidi)
“A beautiful evening was started with a sake tasting with many delicious assorted foods and different sakes to taste... an evening to remember!" (Elizabeth)
“We had a great time learning how to make delicious Chinese dishes and learned all about sakes.” (Maria)
Sunset Norwalk Harbor Boat Cruise for 6
Looking to enjoy a fun day on the water with a TCC Board member?
This sunset cruise from Norwalk for 6 guests features enjoy stunning views, cocktails, and the opportunity to discuss all matters TCC.
The experience will be scheduled on a mutually agreed upon date between June 15 and September 15. You get to choose one TCC board member as crew.
Private Chef Paella & Tapas Experience for 4-6 in Your Home
Looking for an unforgettable way to celebrate?
Transport your dining room to Spain for a milestone birthday, anniversary, or "just because" private dining experience with close friends. This indulgent prize will create a 5-star restaurant in your home for one night, combining world-class culinary craft with freedom to relax as the ultimate host.
The Culinary Host: Chef Frank "Linguini" Cotroneo
Chef Frank brings master-level Spanish rice technique, deep flavor pairing, and warm hospitality directly to your kitchen. Frank honed his Spanish culinary craft under Momofuku alum Chef Paras Shah (El Bulli, Kat & Res). His playful nickname "Chef Linguini" appeared in his earliest days after the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park. Working in the kitchens of Walt Disney World, his uncanny resemblance to the lead character in Disney’s Ratatouille had him unofficially greeting young park guests as "Linguini". He went on to master traditional Spanish paella techniques and Spanish tapas through his tenure at La Fonda Del Sol in Manhattan and hosting private chef dinners in the tristate area. His paella consistently received rave reviews while at La Fonda Del Sol, even being named Manhattan's #1 Paella from a local magazine, NYCultureBeat.
An Unfolding Evening of Spanish Gastronomy
Welcome & Tapas Hour: Smell the fresh floral centerpiece and let your night's custom printed menus set the stage. Sit down to sip fine Spanish wine alongside a curated trio of handcrafted tapas.
The Main Event: Chef Frank prepares authentic Spanish paella for 4-6 in your brand-new 16-inch Garcima Carbon Steel Professional Paella Pan (imported from Spain), seasoned with premium saffron from Penzeys. Paella demands a carefully layered technique to cultivate that treasured crispy rice layer at the bottom of the pan. As your paella simmers, Chef Frank will describe how paella has become an important part of history and connecting communities.
Dessert & White-Glove Cleanup: Wind down with dessert while sipping a chilled Horchata de Chufa, a smooth and silky balance of natural nutty sweetness with gentle warm spices. A true restaurant experience means no dirty dishes. While you enjoy dessert, TCC Board President Ari Linder handles all dishwashing and cleanup to leave your kitchen spotless.
Luxury Package Includes:
1. Scene-setting custom printed menus
2. Fresh floral centerpiece
3. Spanish Coupé Saffron from Penzys Spices
4. a 16-inch Garcima Carbon Steel Paella Pan (imported from Spain)
5. Chef-made fresh tapas, 3 varieties
6. Traditional paella dinner for up to 6 people (Some protein options can be adjusted for dietary needs and allergies.)
7. A glass of Spanish wine for each guest
8. A glass of horchata for each guest
9. Dessert
10. Kitchen cleanup by TCC Board President, Ari Linder
Host Provides: Home venue, tableware, and additional beverages.
Valid for 1 year from the auction date. Scheduling subject to mutual availability.
Mexican Luxury Resort 7 Days/6 Nights for 2
Embrace romance in Mexico in a breathtaking luxury resort, including:
- Stunning accomodations in one of six breathtaking luxury resorts
- Upscale amenities from sprawling swimming pools, world class dining, waterparks, spas, golf courses, and much more
- Exclusive on-site entertainment, wellness center access, and preferred rates on golf
Winners have 12 months from the purchase date to confirm their reservation and up to 18 months from the purchase date to travel. Subject to availability and travel year-round with the exception of major U.S. holidays including Semana Santa, Christmas, and New Year's weeks.
Resort destinations include Nuevo Nayarit-Vallarta, Rivera Maya, Acapulco, Puerto Penasco, Puerta Vallarta, or Mazatlan.
Maximum occupancy of two adults and two children under the age of 12.
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where is the Gala being held?
The 2026 Gala will be held on Saturday, October 17 from 6pm - 10:30pm at Norwalk Maritime Aquarium.
Who can attend the Gala?
The Gala is an event for any Triangle Community Center supporter ticket holder who is over 21 years old.
How do I buy tickets?
See "Event Tickets" at the top of this webpage.
What should I wear?
Will there be folks wearing aquatic themed shirts? Yes. Will people be wearing gowns? At least one. Will someone show up in an octopus costume? We've heard threats of that happening. Do you feel great in a suit? Wear it. Show us what aquarium fabulous means to you!
How do I get there?
Maritime Aquarium is located at 10 North Water Street, Norwalk, CT.
The Maritime Parking Garage is located at 11 North Water Street with an additional entrance at 23 Marshall Street.
Parking fees will be waived.
The South Norwalk Metro North train station on the New Haven Line is a 16 minute (.7 mile) walk from the Aquarium.
What accessibility services are in place?
This year's gala is located in a fully accessible building, There is no stair option to enter, and ramps and elevators throughout the space. American Sign Language interpreters will be present for the program. If you have accessibility needs or questions, contact gala@ctpridecenter.org.