Gala 2026 Groovin' at the Gala

Annual Restaurant Gala

GROOVIN' AT THE GALA!

Please save the date for the 43rd Annual Restaurant Gala: Groovin' at the Gala! On Thursday, March 12, 2026, we will transform Harrah’s Waterfront Conference Center in Atlantic City into a dazzling celebration of disco lights, groovy cuisine, and the bold, funky spirit of the 1970s, all while raising critical support for Atlantic Cape students. Since 1984, the Restaurant Gala has generated more than $4.6 million in scholarships for students in our Academy of Culinary Arts (ACA) and Hospitality Management programs as well as raising emergency funds for Atlantic Cape students. 

Join us and 1,000 other community leaders, industry executives, food and beverage enthusiasts, and college supporters as we celebrate the 2026 Community Honoree, Gary Musich, President and CEO for Visit Atlantic City, and 2026 Academy of Culinary Arts Honoree, Giancarlo Generosi '99, Executive Chef at Bally's Atlantic City! The event begins at 6:00 p.m. with a one-hour cocktail reception showcasing hors d’oeuvres prepared by our talented ACA students alongside local restaurants. After the reception, guests will proceed to the Avalon Ballroom, where more than 50 of South Jersey’s top dining establishments will serve their signature dishes, desserts, and libations.

With live entertainment from the GrooveHeart Band, raffles with a chance to win cash and exclusive dining prize packages valued at $1,000+ each, a photo booth, and an open bar, the Restaurant Gala promises to be THE party of the year! A variety of sponsorship and advertising opportunities are available as well as individual tickets and tables of ten.

Sponsorships & Ads Tickets & Tables Raffle Tickets

For more details about the 2026 Restaurant Gala or to discuss sponsorships and advertising opportunities, please contact Kristin Jackson at kjackson@atlanticcape.edu or (609) 463-3621.

Interested in Being a Part of the Gala?

Your Support Makes a Difference

For additional information about becoming a participating restaurant or to find out more about sponsorship and advertising opportunities for the Annual Atlantic Cape Restaurant Gala, please email Kristin Jackson or call (609) 463-3621.