Excellence Black Tie

Culinary

Entertainment

Fashion

Culinary

Art

Casino

Exhibits

Saturday NOVEMBER 18th, 2023

Center of Science and Industry (COSI)

333 W Broad St, Columbus, OH 43215

We ask that you consider supporting our mission to bring Black Creatives in Arts, Fashion and Culinary more into the mainstream of Columbus’ economy.

Excellence Black Tie Gala is one of the largest Black culturally driven experiences in Ohio. An exhibit of Art, Food, Entertainment, and Socialization produced specifically to promote, recognize and celebrate talent in the Urban Community.

In 2023, COSI and NOW Foundation have formed a longterm partnership to showcase culture and science.

The establishment of The Now Foundation marks a significant turning point, consolidating and amplifying the support that was previously channeled through the renowned initiative, First Fridays. For over two decades, First Fridays has stood as a beacon of empowerment for creatives spanning the realms of visual arts, culinary expertise, fashion design, modeling, and entertainment in our local community. Through mentorship and guidance, it has honed the technical, marketing, and corporate readiness skills of numerous artists, providing them exposure to vast audiences, potentially reaching hundreds of thousands of eager customers.

Beyond our commitment to the creative arts, The Now Foundation has forged a formal partnership with the country’s premier science museum, the Center of Science and Industry (COSI), marking a proactive approach to education. Our primary focus rests in the domain of STEAM education — Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics. Yet, our approach is distinctive: we concentrate on engaging adults within our network and beyond to actively champion the youth in their lives in these critical disciplines. The Now Foundation acts as a guiding force, directing young minds toward the world-class learning opportunities established at COSI.

In a collaborative effort, COSI and The Now Foundation have instituted a scholarship aimed at benefiting STEAM-oriented students bound for college. Through these concentrated endeavors, we strive not only to nurture the creative spirit within our community but also to inspire the next generation of innovators and thinkers. Our intent is to help shape a future that is not just brighter and more enlightened, but also profoundly inclusive for everyone.

EXCELLENCE BLACK TIE GALA

The Excellence Black Tie Gala is a true masterpiece, skillfully merging the realms of culinary artistry, mesmerizing entertainment, and the captivating world of science. In the vibrant year of 2022, this extraordinary event wove its enchantment, captivating the senses and curiosity of more than 3,500 attendees.

This Gala is far more than a culinary extravaganza; it’s a symphony of sounds and a visual spectacle that unfolds as the night progresses. The atmosphere resonates with the melodies of the city’s most talented musicians, the rhythmic beats spun by skilled DJs, and the infectious laughter sparked by gifted comedians. Against this vibrant backdrop, local artists’ exhibitions and a show-stopping fashion display add a layer of creativity, elevating the Gala into an electrifying experience that caters to the diverse tastes of its attendees.

Beyond the allure of gastronomy and entertainment, the Gala transforms into a thrilling Casino Royale, inviting guests to test their luck at various casino games. But the Gala offers more than just games of chance; it opens the doors to the awe-inspiring exhibits of COSI, Columbus’s Center of Science and Industry. This unique opportunity allows attendees to delve into the realm of scientific wonders, sparking curiosity and enriching the intellect. The Gala, thus, becomes a holistic experience, nurturing both the senses and the mind.

The festivities commence at 7 pm, ushering in a night of enchantment and excitement that dances in the air until the stroke of midnight. However, for those yearning to prolong the night’s magic, an exclusive after-party awaits at the newly inaugurated Junto Hotel. Here, the night finds its second wind, promising an experience as unforgettable as the Gala itself.

In essence, the Excellence Black Tie Gala transcends the boundaries of a typical event. It embodies a fusion of passions and interests, offering a night where indulgence meets intellectual stimulation. Through the artistry of culinary creations, the allure of entertainment, and the marvels of science, this Gala crafts an unforgettable experience, leaving attendees with cherished memories that echo long after the night has drawn to a close.

EXCELLENCE BLACK TIE GALA

This extraordinary gathering for foodies, entertainment, and scientific exploration drew over 3,500 people in 2022.

The evening is centered around Black Culinary along with an array of unique activities that make the First Fridays Excellence Black Tie Gala a “one of a kind” event. Guests are greeted with a Red-Carpet experience as they enter the venue that does not end until they leave. Food stations are located throughout the building for tastings provided by some of the most talented and creative culinary professionals in Columbus.

Entertainment is on another level with some of the City’s best musicians, DJS and comedians performing all night long. The evening encompasses Casino Royale with casino games open for play.

The biggest and best part of the event is being able to explore and interact with the amazing exhibits of COSI from the Dinosaur to Ocean exhibits.

Activities open to attendees at 7pm and continue until 12am. There is an after-party that starts immediately after at Junto Hotel.