On Saturday, September 19, 2026, 5pm-8pm, the Blaffer Art Museum is hosting its first annual fundraising garden party, Cocktails in the Courtyard.

Underwriting hosts: Ben Ackerley, Kaleta Blaffer Johnson, and Sebastian Keitel

Host Committee: Mary Arocha, Micheline Newall, Lauren Arocha, Kristopher Stuart & Gensler

Event Sponsor: Judy Nyquist

Join us for a vibrant, art-filled evening at Cocktails in the Courtyard, celebrating and supporting an exciting year of contemporary art & community at the Blaffer Art Museum.

Set within the dynamic University of Houston Arts District, the evening unfolds across the Louise J. Moran Courtyard—an outdoor space activated for the night with music, conversation, and unexpected delights. Guests will enjoy thoughtfully crafted cocktails, seasonal bites, and live music alongside artists, patrons, and creative voices from across Houston. Exhibitions by renowned artists Adriana Corral and Maria Gaspar will be on view inside the museum, and guests can bid on a unique panel of curated experiences and bespoke items in a silent auction. Proceeds from this festive evening make possible the Blaffer Art Museum’s bold exhibitions, thought-provoking programs, and impactful educational initiatives.

Bid on curated experiences with local artists and creatives, including a private studio tour with Terrell James and Cindee Klement in Acres Homes, and a Sonic History of Houston with Gracie Chávez.

Browse the Blaffer Boutique, a bespoke shop featuring custom designed luxury goods, newly commissioned design objects from local artists and University of Houston students, and artworks by artists including Mel Chin, Eugenio Dittborn, Leonardo Drew, Rachel Hecker, and Lynne McCabe, among others.

Heavy hors d’oeuvres will be served by Café Natalie. Vinyl sets by DJ Good Grief, and live music by Bayou City Funk Band will fill the courtyard, for an evening inspired by our Gulf Coast traditions. An after party will be held at Bar Daphne in the Heights from 8pm-11pm.

Event Details

Date: September 19, 2026

Music by Bayou City Funk Band

Vinyl Sounds by DJ Good Grief

Heavy hors d’oeuvres by Café Natalie

Cocktails in the Courtyard | 5pm – 8pm

After-party at Bar Daphne | 8pm – 11pm

Suggested Attire | Summer Chic

Complimentary Valet

Tickets:

General Admission: $250

Young Professionals (Under 35): $150

We look forward to welcoming you for an evening bringing our communities together to celebrate our love of contemporary art!