2023 Rock Creek Gala
Frequently asked questions
Thank you for your interest in joining us for the 2023 Rock Creek Gala on Saturday, October 21, 2023 from 5:00 to 7:00 pm at Rock Creek Park’s Picnic Grove 6. Although we’ve done our best to anticipate any questions you may have below, please check back, as event details may change up to the date of the event.
Contact us at gala@rockcreekconservancy.org with any additional questions or concerns.
The Basics
What is the Purpose of the gala?
This event is an essential fundraising event for Rock Creek Conservancy, an official philanthropic partner to Rock Creek Park (National Park Service), and the only organization dedicated to the entirety of Rock Creek and its parklands. The Rock Creek Gala celebrates the work the Conservancy does to restore Rock Creek Park, as well as its advocacy for improved water quality throughout the watershed.
How can I join?
Tickets are required to attend. You can purchase those via this secure online donation form, or by sponsoring the event. If you’d like to mail a check for your tickets, please contact gala@rockcreekconservancy.org for assistance. All sponsors and ticket purchasers will be asked to provide a list of guest names and emails in advance of the event for check-in to the event.
Don’t delay in purchasing your tickets! Sales are limited and the Gala has sold out for the past few years!
Where is the event?
In Rock Creek Park at Picnic Grove 6, just north of the U.S. Park Police Station and the intersection of Military Road and Beach Drive.
Will there be parking?
Complimentary valet parking will be provided to guests at Picnic Grove 6. Upon arrival, your car will be driven to a secure parking site and retrieved for you upon request.
What if I don’t want to drive?
The site is accessible via several bus lines, including the S buses (S2, S9) that run along 16th Street and stop at 16th and Kennedy St/Morrow Dr.
There is a bike rack at Picnic Grove 6 that guests may use.
Rideshare services can drop off guests at the valet station at Picnic Grove 6.
We also encourage carpooling to protect Rock Creek’s environment; many of your friends and neighbors will be joining us as well!
What if it rains?
The Rock Creek Gala will continue rain or shine, unless weather is particularly severe. While our event will be held underneath the canopy of the beautiful trees, we will have a large event tent in place to provide protection from inclement weather.
Look for an email from Rock Creek Conservancy staff the week of the event with last-minute reminders, including weather forecasts.
What will we do?
The 2023 Rock Creek Gala will be an opportunity for Rock Creek Park lovers to gather with fellow supporters of this beautiful oasis while enjoying views of the forests less than a week off peak fall. Our event will feature fresh air, a gorgeous setting, delicious food from Founding Farmers Co., signature cocktails from The Cocktail Guru, wines from Total Wine & More, and cozy outdoor seating areas by Country Casual Teak.
Special tables will also feature demonstrations of Rock Creek-friendly plants and an opportunity to share your memories of your favorite times in Rock Creek, including concerts at the Carter Barron Amphitheater.
What should I wear?
The dress code for the event is “campfire chic”. It is a festive rustic cocktail party, however, please wear shoes that will be comfortable on both grass and outdoor paved surfaces, and remember to dress for the forecasted weather.
It’s a park; will there be restrooms?
Restrooms are available at Picnic Grove 6’s Comfort Station.
What do I do upon arrival?
There are two ways to check in – Expedited or Standard.
Expedited check-in will be offered to those who pre-register with our event system Qtego. Get to the party faster! If you are attending the event, you should have received more information about this opportunity by email.
Standard check-in occurs onsite at the Gala. We recommend pre-registering yourself and your guests to maximize convenience and fun. Please contact gala@conservancy with any questions.