Golden Gala
A Grand Celebration of 50 Years
- Saturday, September 26, 2026 — 4 pm - 7 pm
50 Years Growing Together: A Signature Anniversary Celebration
Join us for an unforgettable evening at the Golden Gala, celebrating 50 years of growth, beauty and community at the JC Raulston Arboretum. This milestone event commemorates the JC Raulston Arboretum's rich legacy of horticultural excellence, honors the remarkable relationships that have shaped its growth, and nurtures a vibrant vision for the next 50 years.
For five decades, the JCRA has flourished thanks to the collaboration, support and friendships of members, volunteers, industry partners, educators, students and plant enthusiasts across the state. Now, it's time to gather together and celebrate the roots we've planted — and the future we continue to grow.
Enjoy an elegant garden party on the Great Lawn featuring:
- Heavy hors d'oeuvres, cocktails and desserts
- Live music on the Great Lawn
- Silent and live auctions featuring rare plants and exclusive experiences
- Commemorative Ilex vomitoria 'Golden Anniversary' plant for all guests
Whether you've supported us for years or are newly connected to our community, we invite you to share in this milestone celebration. Come enjoy great food, good company and a can't-miss gathering together in the gardens. Your advocacy and partnership have made everything we do possible, and we can't wait to celebrate with you.
Let's celebrate 50 years of growing strong — together.
An Invitation to Partner with Us to Celebrate the 50th Anniversary
The Golden Gala marks the next chapter of our anniversary year. It will be a celebration of who we are today and an investment in what comes next. Proceeds from this signature event will directly support our student internship program, ensuring that emerging horticulture professionals gain the hands-on experience needed to carry forward the JCRA's mission for the next 50 years.
For questions or more information, contact Amy Beitzel at amy_beitzel@ncsu.edu or 919-515-1680.
Join us. Invest in the future. Help the JCRA, and its students, flourish.
Partner with UsFunds supporting the Golden Gala are collected and managed by The North Carolina Agricultural Foundation, Inc., a 501(c)3 non-profit, tax ID 56-6049304. Proceeds from the event will support JCRA Student Internships. Tickets are valued at $250 each. You will receive an official receipt for the tax deductible portion of your donation.
- Cost
$250.00 per person.
A limited number of tickets will be available for this special fundraising event.
- Registration
Registration coming soon!
Advance registration is required.
- Location
- JC Raulston Arboretum at NC State University, 4415 Beryl Road, Raleigh, NC 27606.
- Directions
- Get directions to the JC Raulston Arboretum.
- Parking
- Free parking is available at the JC Raulston Arboretum and along Beryl Road.
- Questions
- Contact the JCRA Events Team at jcra-events@ncsu.edu for more information about this event.