Join us for the best night of the year! The Gower Foundation Gala is returning from 6-11 PM on October 17th, to the Chicago Marriott Southwest at Burr Ridge. We are fundraising to help support experiences and opportunities for students at both Gower Middle and Gower West. 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

How do I get tickets?

Buy Gala tickets here.

Ticket sales close 10/1 and are nonrefundable.

New for 2026: buy a ticket that includes a Cash Bar or opt for a 2-hour Open Bar. Plus, there's an option to help pay for teacher tickets so they can join the fun.

 

What is Table Sponsorship?

The Gower Gala will feature open seating for all. With a Table Sponsorship of $2,500, your group will have a premium reserved table and entry tickets for up to 10 guests at the Gala. This is a wonderful way for Gower families and friends to gather for a fun evening out together while supporting our students — we would love to reserve you a table! Tables are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.

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To reserve, please email President@gower62foundation.com for additional details. As a 501(c)(3) organization, your donation could be eligible through your employer's company match program.

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When should I arrive?

Doors open at 6:00 PM for cocktails and gaming. We recommend arriving by 6:15 PM so you have time to pick up your gaming chips and hit the tables before dinner service. Opening comments and a welcome will begin at 7:00 PM, followed by dinner, with gaming tables and the silent auction open throughout the evening until 10:30 PM.

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What should I wear?

The dress code is ‘Elevated Tropical’. Think bold colors, guayaberas, floral prints, and breezy fabrics — wear whatever makes you feel your best for a night out. A few notes:

• Guayaberas, linen shirts, and colorful dresses all fit the theme.

• Comfortable shoes are a good idea — you'll be on your feet dancing, mingling, and hitting up the gaming tables.

 

How will the gaming tables work?

Casino-style tables — including blackjack, craps, roulette, and poker — will be set up for entertainment purposes only. Here's how it works:

• No casino gaming experience is necessary. Whether you’re a seasoned player or trying your hand for the first time, the friendly gaming hosts will explain the games, answer questions and get you started. 

• To play, every guest receives house money at check-in that can be redeemed for gaming chips. There will be opportunity to buy in with purchase of additional gaming chips.

• If you do not want to play at the gaming tables, you can cash out for raffle tickets at arrival and take your luck to the silent auction.

• Chips have no cash value and cannot be redeemed for money — they're used only to enjoy the tables and cash out for raffle entries. If you’re having a great time and want to keep playing, you’ll have the opportunity to reload your chips throughout the night.

• Tables are open from 6 PM until 10 PM.

 

How does the silent auction work?

This year's silent auction will run on an online bidding platform. Here's what to expect:

• The auction platform opens one week before the Gala — you'll need to create a bidder profile before the event.

• Once your profile is set up, browse items and build a watchlist of anything you're interested in bidding on.

• Bidding opens when the platform goes live; place your bids anytime leading up to and during the Gala.

• All transactions and winner notifications happen right in the platform — no paper bid sheets needed.

• If you're a lucky winner, items will be distributed at the close of the Gala.

 

What’s for dinner?

Meal selection for the Gala will include beef, chicken and fish options. Dietary Restrictions including Gluten Free, Dairy Free and Vegetarian can be indicated when you purchase your ticket.

 

Where should I stay?

Want to make it an overnight? Book your group rate for the Gower Foundation Gala. Last day to book: Thursday, September 24, 2026.

 

How can I help sponsor the Gala?

Interested in helping sponsor the Gala? Click here.

 

How can I make a donation for the silent auction?

If you have interest in making an in-kind donation of items for our silent auction, please complete this FORM.

 

Who do I contact with questions?

If you have any questions regarding the Gala, please contact gower62foundationboard@gmail.com. We look forward to celebrating with you on October 17th!