Where Passion, Culture, and Art Meet

Experience Elegance at the Excellence Black Tie Gala

Join us for the most prestigious Black Tie event of the year, where culture, creativity, and elegance come together.

The Gala

About the Excellence Black Tie Gala

Get ready for a high-energy, upscale weekend where style, music, and culture take
center stage! The First Fridays Excellence Weekend brings together professionals,
creatives, and tastemakers from across the nation for two nights of unmatched
experiences at the Center of Science and Industry (COSI) – the nation’s #1 science
museum. With 4,000+ guests, live entertainment, and an electric atmosphere, this isn’t just an event—it’s the ultimate destination for those who appreciate elegance and culture.

Weekend Lineup:

Day 1 – First Fridays Sneakers & Blazers Concert

Kick off the weekend with live national acts, top DJs, and a stylish
crowd, blending sophistication with streetwear for a night of music,
networking, and energy.

Day 2 – Excellence Black Tie Gala & After Party

The Excellence Black Tie Gala transforms the Center of Science
and Industry (COSI) into the ultimate upscale celebration, featuring:

Gourmet Cuisine – Indulge in a variety of dishes from top
caterers across multiple cuisine stations.
Fashion & Style Showcase – A premier runway
experience featuring bold designs and statement looks.
Live Art Showcase – Experience stunning works from local
and national artists displayed throughout the venue.
Comedy Show – A night of laughter and entertainment with
stand-up performances from top comedians.
Live Entertainment – A mix of DJs, bands, and dance
performances, keeping the energy high all night.

After the gala, the official after-party keeps the celebration going with DJs spinning, drinks
flowing, and the city’s best-dressed crowd bringing the energy late into the night.

Sponsorship

Become a Sponsor

Partner with us and gain brand visibility while supporting an unforgettable cultural event.

Why sponsor?

Reach thousands of attendees and online followers.
Strengthen community engagement and brand alignment.
Exclusive marketing and branding opportunities at the event.

Event Gallery – A Look at Excellence

Relive the elegance and excitement from past Excellence Black Tie Galas with our exclusive photo and video gallery. Witness breathtaking fashion, joyful moments, and unforgettable experiences captured from previous years.

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What Participants Are Saying...

"My first time at Excellence, I experienced it with my mom, who traveled in from NYC. We made sure to gather as much information as possible about the event beforehand. I really wanted to see the fashion show and poetry performances. My expectations were exceeded—the food, the artists, and the networking connections were all incredible. I’m excited for the events to come."

"Being a vendor with First Fridays was a smooth and fun experience. It gave me an opportunity to attend one of their exciting events, meet some amazing people, and share my books with the world."

"It is such a proud and satisfying experience to sponsor this magnificent, unparalleled event. My team and I connected with over 4,000 attendees from some of the most impacted communities. No one else within our geographical boundaries can match this level of engagement and impact. Hats off to FACE 614 and First Fridays for their incredible work. Keep building, leading, and connecting the dots—we are the change we seek."

"Attending the 2024 Black Tie Gala was an experience I’ll never forget. Walking into the grand venue, I was struck by the elegance and grace of everyone present. It was a celebration of excellence, beauty, and community. The evening was filled with stunning fashion, heartfelt conversations, and a shared vision of progress. This wasn’t just a night of glamour; it was a celebration of history, heritage, and the promise of what’s to come. To anyone who hasn’t experienced this—let me tell you, it’s not just an event; it’s a reminder of who we are and what we can achieve together."