Where Passion, Culture, and Art Meet
the Excellence Black Tie Experience Weekend
Join us for the most prestigious Black Tie event of the year, where culture, creativity, and elegance come together.
the Excellence Black Tie Weekend
OCt 29th -31st
The 6th Annual Excellence Black Tie Weekend
An extraordinary celebration of art, music, dance, comedy, culture, and culinary excellence.
THURSDAY: THE BLACK LABEL SOCIAL – 10/29/26 – Blu Note Jazz Cafe
Start Excellence Black Tie Weekend with The Black Label Social, an elevated evening of premium bourbon and tequila tastings, luxury brands, handcrafted cocktails, live jazz, and great conversation. Set inside the historic Blu Note Jazz Café, Opening Night brings together professionals, entrepreneurs, and tastemakers for an intimate evening designed to begin the weekend in style.
Experience Includes
- Premium bourbon & tequila tastings*
- Luxury jewelry, watches, and lifestyle brands
- Live jazz and curated music
- Hors d’oeuvres
- An elevated social atmosphere
FRIDAY: FIRST FRIDAYS PRESENTS: THE THRILLER – 10/30/26 – Villa Milano
Halloween gets an upgrade with The Thriller, the Midwest’s hottest Halloween costume party. Expect incredible costumes, immersive décor, multiple DJs, premium bars, and the signature First Fridays energy that has made this one of the region’s most anticipated nightlife experiences.
Whether you’re competing in the costume contest or simply looking for an unforgettable night out, The Thriller delivers an incredible crowd, nonstop music, and an atmosphere unlike any other.
Experience Includes
- Multiple DJs
- Costume contest
- Halloween entertainment and immersive décor
- Premium bars and VIP experiences
SATURDAY: 6TH ANNUAL EXCELLENCE BLACK TIE EXPERIENCE – 10/31/26 – Center of Science and Industry (COSI)
Saturday marks the return of the R&B & Hip Hop Symphony performed by the Columbus Symphony Orchestra. Blending the power of a full orchestra with the rhythm of Hip Hop and the soul of R&B, this one-of-a-kind performance serves as the unforgettable centerpiece of the evening.
In addition to the symphony, guests will experience:
- One of the Midwest’s largest Excellence Fashion Shows
- Live comedy performances
- Live bands and multiple DJs
- Featured Author Showcase
- Converse Relationship Conversation Panel
- Artist installations and creative experiences
- Access to COSI’s 320,000 square feet of interactive exhibits
- Culinary tastings from more than 20 chefs, caterers, and culinary vendors
- Premium cocktails and elegant lounge experiences
The Black Tie Experience begins at 7:00 PM and continues until Midnight, creating an immersive evening of fashion, food, music, art, culture, and entertainment.
SATURDAY: THE EXCELLENCE AFTER PARTY – 10/31/26
When the gala concludes, the celebration continues.
The Excellence After Party brings together guests from throughout the weekend for one final unforgettable experience featuring multiple DJs, premium cocktails, dancing, and an energetic late-night atmosphere. It’s the perfect opportunity to celebrate with friends, make new connections, and end Excellence Weekend on a high note.
The After Party begins at 10:30 PM and continues until 1:30 AM.
Experience Includes
- Multiple DJs
- Premium cocktails and full-service bars
- Dancing and late-night entertainment
- An upscale social atmosphere
- The perfect finale to Excellence Black Tie Weekend
- caterers, restaurants, and culinary vendors
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.
