Harvard Auction Gala FAQ
Everything you need to know about our biggest night of the year!
What is the Harvard Auction Gala?
The Harvard Auction Gala is our largest adults-only fundraiser of the year — an exciting, themed evening hosted by the Harvard Elementary PTA. All parents, teachers, staff, and supporters are invited to attend!
You’ll enjoy delicious food and drinks from local favorites, beautiful décor, live entertainment, and the chance to win amazing items through our silent and live auctions.
It’s a night of fun, community, and fundraising — and we can’t do it without your support!
How do I attend?
Tickets will go on sale a few weeks before the event through our auction website. Don’t worry — we’ll spread the word far and wide so you don’t miss it!
What’s included with my ticket?
Your ticket includes:
• Food and drinks from top local restaurants
• Entertainment and music
• A lively dance floor
• Mingling with the Harvard community
• Access to bid in both our silent and live auctions
Do I need to buy a VIP table to have a seat?
No VIP table? No problem! While VIP tables are reserved, there will be a variety of open tables and cocktail tables available. The night is designed for mingling, so come ready to move, mix, and enjoy the party!
Where are my tickets? Do I need to print them?
No printed ticket needed! Your ticket is stored in your auction site account. Just check in at the door, and we’ll take care of the rest.
What should I wear?
This year, let’s make Harvard POP — so think bold colors, eye-catching prints, and Pop Art-inspired fun! Embrace playful fashion, creative flair, and unexpected combos.
Most guests dress up, and themed outfits are always a crowd favorite. Need inspiration? Check out what guests wore to past galas.
Where is the event?
This year’s Gala will be held at Garage HTX
📍 1201 Oliver St., Houston, TX 77007
Parking is available nearby. Please plan ahead and do not drink and drive.
Want to support but can’t attend?
You can still make a big impact! Donate an item, host a Social, sponsor the event, or bid online. Every contribution brings us closer to our goal — and helps Make Harvard POP!
Can you get me a free ride?
Yes, actually. We have teamed up with Alto, the world's safest, cleanest and highest-quality rideshare experience. Get $10 off each ride ($20 value per guest), valid on up to 2 rides the night of the gala. Use Code: HES26 in their app.
Is there parking?
Yes, in front of the venue.
What if I can’t make the event?
We will definitely miss you! But! You can still bid in the online silent auction from the comfort of wherever you are!
What is the auction?
The silent auction is a two-week, online auction full of exciting items, donations from local businesses, and unique experiences. You can also purchase tickets to socials, as well as activities for your students’ class, and so much more!
The live auction, on the night of the gala, is where we auction off the best items… a lot of things that money can’t buy. The list changes every year, and you don’t want to miss the bidding!
What is a social?
A social is an exclusive party or event planned and sponsored by a Harvard family or teacher(s). They almost always sell out, some within minutes! After the main auction, we do sell more tickets to some of the socials, but it’s still best to buy early!
Can I donate something to the auction or host a social?
We would love that! You can donate auction items here. You can get more information and sign up to host a social here.
How do I register to bid?
Once you go to our auction site, go to “SIGN IN” in the upper right to register! We recommend registering and adding your credit card info before the auction begins for faster bidding!
What if I still have questions or want to help plan this amazing party?
Email gala@harvardelementarypta.org