Make WAVEs Gala

Our Biggest (and Best) Fundraiser of the Year

Make WAVEs Gala (formerly Nauti Nite) is WAVE Foundation’s biggest fundraiser of the year! This 21+ event allows guests to explore the aquarium after-dark, all while enjoying tons of local food and drink vendors, live music, auctions, animal encounters, and more!

Get ready for the

Make WAVEs Gala
September 11, 2026

You're Invited to Make WAVEs!

This isn’t your average fundraiser

Step inside Newport Aquarium after dark for the 20th Annual Make WAVEs Gala (formerly Nauti Nite) – an exclusive, adults-only evening where you will sip yummy drinks, enjoy delicious food-by-the-bite, dance the night away and celebrate the ocean in style.

Explore illuminated exhibits, meet incredible ambassador animals through up-close encounters, and bid on one-of-a-kind auction items all while supporting a cause that matters.

By attending, you’ll be directly impacting the education programs and conservation efforts of WAVE Foundation. This meaningful work inspires underserved youth, improves local environments, and champions sustainability for future generations!

VIP Tickets include access to the Pre-Party with exclusive live auction items, animal encounter, Old Kentucky Bourbon Barrel specialty cocktails, and first sips of WAVE Special Reserve Bourbon. VIP tickets are included at the Conservation Champion sponsorship level and above, or can be purchased at an additional cost.

@ Newport Aquarium

7:30 p.m. – 11:30 p.m.

VIP 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

Make WAVEs Gala has Something for Everyone!

Our event is packed to the gills with things to keep you busy all night!

Bid at the Silent Auction, featuring handcrafted jewelry, themed baskets, exclusive signed merchandise, and more
Dance the night away at the Silent Disco
Savor NKY and Cincinnati’s best food and drink vendors throughout the aquarium
Meet Animal Ambassadors with Live Animal Encounters
Take part in the Octopass Adventure

Paint the Town BLUE!

Come dressed in your favorite blue cocktail attire and explore Newport Aquarium at night!

Guests are encouraged to wear blue to show their support for ocean conservation. Proceeds from Make WAVEs Gala benefit WAVE Foundation’s conservation actions, youth education, and volunteer programs.