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 WAVE's!

WAVE Foundation’s annual 21+ Aquarium fundraising event!

Step inside Newport Aquarium after dark for the 20th Annual Make WAVEs Gala (formerly Nauti Nite) – an exclusive, adults-only evening where you will mingle with marine life, sip yummy drinks, enjoy delicious drink offerings and celebrate the ocean in style.

This isn’t your average fundraiser. Explore illuminated exhibitors, come face-to-face with incredible aquatic animals through up-close animal 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 youth, improves community standards, and champions sustainability for future generations!

VIP Tickets include a preparty with exclusive live auction items, animal encounter, OKBB specialty cocktail and first sips of WAVE Special Reserve Bourbon. VIP tickets are included at the Conservation Champion sponsorship level and above and can also 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!

Enjoy a Silent Auction, featuring handcrafted jewelry, themed baskets, exclusive signed merchandise, and more
Dance the night away at our Silent Disco or stop by one of our other activities to keep you movin’ and groovin’
Savor NKY and Cincinnati’s best food and drink vendors throughout the aquarium

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.