Thursday, May 21, 2026 6:00 pm
The Cooper
176 Concord Street, Charleston, SC

We invite you to celebrate the start of another extraordinary Spoleto Festival USA at the Opening Gala! Raise a glass to the season ahead with cocktails, a seated dinner, and a thrilling live auction – all in support of Spoleto’s mission.

Be among the first to experience Charleston’s stunning new hotel, The Cooper at Waterfront Park, where the evening will come alive with captivating performances from some of this season’s artists including the inimitable acrobats of Circa and other surprise guests.

Together, we’ll kick off the Festival in true Spoleto spirit and celebrate an unforgettable evening of artistry and splendor.

2026 CO-CHAIRS

Sarah Beardsley
Lee Bell
Wenda Harris Millard
Andrea Strawn

Event Tickets

Buy Tickets

Click here for ticket, table, and sponsorship details.

For additional questions, or to purchase tickets directly with a team member, please contact Special Events at [email protected] or call the events team at 843-724-1188.  

Event Supporters 

Contribute

For more information about individual and corporate event contributions and sponsorship opportunities for 2025, please contact the Special Events Team at (843) 724-1188 or email [email protected]. 

Opening Gala Sponsors 

LUMINARY

ICON