2026 Georgia Rivers Gala

September 17, 2026

Georgia Rivers protects and connects people with Georgia rivers and water trails across the state – from the Chattahoochee National Water Trail to the Okefenokee Wilderness Canoe Trail. Join us to celebrate the Okefenokee World Heritage designation and honor champions who speak up for the protection of healthy, clean flowing rivers across the state.

Guests will enjoy a cocktail reception, buffet dinner, auction, and live music.

5 PM VIP Sponsor Reception
6 PM Cocktails and Auction Dinner
8 PM Dancing to Pine Grove Band

 Address provided upon purchasing a Gala ticket. Email info@garivers.org with questions.

Honorary Event Chairs

Judy and Ed Garland

Host Committee

Blain and Ivan Allen
Elizabeth Benator
Kim and Jim Butler
Winston Garland
Judy and Doug Hamilton
Dorsey and Rob Mann
Rhonda O’Gorman and David Freiderich
Laura Lee and Jon Simmons
Jack and Haley Spalding

Honorees

Okefenokee Champion
Georgia Department of Natural Resources

Freedom to Float Champion
Nantahala Outdoor Center

Georgia Rivers Champions
Jim Butler & Butler Prather Trial Lawyers

Water Trails Champion
Gail Priest

Enter Raffle to Win a Crescent CK1 Venture Kayak!

Purchase $5 raffle tickets for the chance to win an 11 foot high-weight capacity throw-and-go kayak with an emphasis on paddling performance.

The CK1 Venture kayak provides a completely customizable platform for every kind of paddler. This kayak was designed to navigate a wide range of waterways with ease and versatility. From camping and fishing to spending time in nature with your family, the CK1 is ready for your next venture.

Cortland Line Company Fly Fishing Kit

Win a complete 8′ 4-weight fly fishing outfit, perfect for trout and panfish throughout Georgia! The package includes a rod, reel, line, leader, net, carrying case, fly box, 8 flies, extra 3X leaders, and two sizes of nylon tippet. $500 Value

The raffle drawing will take place on September 17 at the Georgia Rivers Gala. The winner of the boat doesn’t have to be present, but you must be present to win the fly fishing kit.

All raffle proceeds support Georgia Water Trails and river conservation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the dress code for the event?
Garden Party Attire. Think festive and elegant, but comfortable for an outdoor evening – sundresses, cocktail dresses, slacks, jeans, blazers, or sport coats. We recommend flat shoes or wedges as the event will take place on grass.

Where is the event?
The Georgia Rivers Gala will be held at a private farm in the Atlanta area. The exact address and directions will be provided by email to registered guests prior to the event.

When should I arrive at the Georgia Rivers Gala?
5:00 PM: VIP and Sponsor Reception
6:00 PM: General Gala begins
6:00–9:00 PM: Dinner, cocktails, auction, live music, and dancing

Where is parking?
Parking is very limited at the event location. A parking map and detailed arrival information will be provided to registered guests. Uber and Lyft are strongly encouraged, and we ask guests to carpool whenever possible.

What will the evening include?
Guests will enjoy cocktails, dinner, a live and reverse auction, raffle opportunities, live music, and dancing while celebrating Georgia’s rivers and the work of Georgia Rivers.

Is the event indoors or outdoors?
The Gala will take place outdoors on the grass, so please dress comfortably for the weather and choose footwear appropriate for an outdoor setting.

What happens if it rains?
The Gala is an outdoor event and tickets are non-refundable. Additional weather-related information will be shared with registered guests if needed.

Is there assigned seating?
Sponsors and table purchasers will have reserved seating. Individual ticket holders will be seated at shared tables.

Do I need to bring my ticket to the event?
No. Simply check in at the welcome table using your name.

Is my event ticket tax-deductible?
Individual tickets are not tax-deductible. Sponsorships may be tax-deductible, less the fair market value of the benefits and tickets received.

Georgia Rivers is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Tax ID: 58-2404112.

Will there be fundraising opportunities at the Gala?
Yes! The Gala is one of Georgia Rivers’ largest fundraising events of the year. Guests will have several opportunities to support our work, including a reverse auction, live auction, and raffle.

What is the Reverse Auction?
The Reverse Auction is an opportunity for guests to directly support Georgia Rivers’ programs. We will share specific ways your gift can make an impact, including opportunities for young people to experience Georgia’s rivers through programs such as Paddle Georgia and Fish Georgia. The auctioneer will begin at a higher giving level and work down, allowing guests to raise their hand at the level they would like to support.

Will there be a Live Auction?
Yes! Guests will have the opportunity to bid on two experiences.

Will there be a raffle?
Yes! Raffle tickets will be available for purchase at the Gala.

What payment options are available?
We will accept credit cards, checks, and cash for donations, auction purchases, and raffle tickets.

What if my plans change and I can no longer attend?
If you are no longer able to attend, please contact Anna Calhoun anna@garivers.org as soon as possible so we can update the guest list.