Frequently Asked Questions
If your question is not addressed, please email auction@nativityschool.org
1. What is the gala?
The Nativity Stars Gala & Auction is our premier annual fundraising event dedicated to supporting the students and teachers of Nativity Catholic School. The evening features an open bar, silent and live auctions, raffles, a photo booth, and a variety of engaging entertainment - all coming together for a memorable night in support of our school community.
2. What should I expect at the event?
Guests will enjoy an open bar featuring beer, wine, and cocktails, along with exciting opportunities to participate in our silent auction, live auction, paddle raise, class basket raffle, and the crowd-favorite Heads or Tails game for a chance to win fantastic prizes.
Enhance your evening by adding the $25 Whiskey Tasting Package, where you'll sample a variety of whiskeys and take home a custom signature glass.
Capture memories with friends at the photo booth provided by Rick's Clicks, and don't forget to purchase raffle tickets (available after Masses on April 26, May 3, and May 10, as well as the night of the Gala). Winners will be drawn on May 16 - and you do not need to be present to win.
Please note: There are no physical tickets. Upon purchase, your name will be added to the event check-in list for a smooth arrival experience.
3. What is the attire?
Dress to impress in Derby-inspired cocktail attire as we celebrate our Night at the Races-themed Gala! Think classic spring elegance with a touch of fun - sundresses, bold colors, bow ties, seersucker, fascinators, and statement hats are all welcome. Whether you go timeless and sophisticated or festive and flair-filled, come ready to enjoy a stylish evening for a great cause.
4. Who can attend the gala?
We welcome all Nativity Catholic School parents, faculty, and staff, as well as those in the Nativity parish and community that would like to enjoy an evening out while supporting something important to us all - Our School! If you are new to the school, this is the perfect way to get to know people in a relaxed, fun environment.
As much as we love our students, this is a 21+ only event!
5. When does the event take place?
The Nativity Stars Gala & Auction will be held on Saturday, May 16th ,2026 in the Fr. Martin Center (Gym) at Nativity Catholic School. Check in begins at 6:30 p.m.
Please enter through the Fr. Martin Center (Gym) - Door 6. When arriving, please stop at the check-in tables before proceeding into the Fr. Martin Center.
No need to wait until the gala to start bidding! Silent auction bidding will open on Sunday, May 10th until 8:30 pm on Saturday, May 16th. Browse silent auction items HERE.
6. Why is this fundraiser important to my family?
The Nativity Stars Gala is our premier fundraising event, dedicated to strengthening and enriching the educational experience at Nativity Catholic School. Proceeds from the evening directly support vital programs such as STEM initiatives, school assemblies, enrichment activities, field trip transportation, teacher development, and community-building events that benefit every student.
This year, we are especially focused on replacing outdated classroom technology. By providing our teachers with new laptops, we are equipping them with the modern tools needed to keep pace with an ever-evolving digital curriculum - enhancing instruction, inspiring innovation, and ensuring our students are prepared for the future.
Your support makes all of this possible and helps our school community continue to grow and thrive.
7. What do we hold a raffle and an auction?
Our raffle is a wonderful way for school and parish families to come together in support of the Gala. By purchasing tickets for our themed class baskets - each filled with special, handpicked goodies - you help make this event a success while giving yourself a chance to win something truly delightful.
Tickets will be sold after all Masses on April 26, May 3, and May 10, and at the Gala on May 16. Drawings will take place at the Gala, and winners do not need to be present.
8. What's this "Heads or Tails" game I'm hearing about?
Get ready for one of the most exciting moments of the night! Purchase a beaded necklace to join the Heads or Tails game for $20 at the event.
When it's time to play, all participants will stand as the auctioneer asks you to choose heads or tails by placing your hands on your head or your "tail" (one choice only!). A coin is flipped each round - if it lands on your choice, you stay in the game. If not, you're out! The rounds continue until only one lucky player remains standing.
The final winner will take home an amazing prize!
11. Is there reserved seating?
This is a non-seated, cocktail-style event designed to encourage mingling and movement throughout the evening. A limited number of tables will be available on a first-come, first-served basis for guests who wish to sit and relax.
We invite you to mix and mingle, visit the whiskey tasting station, explore auction items, and enjoy a lively night of socializing with friends and fellow supporters.
12. I bought tickets but now cannot attend. Can I get a refund?
We regret that tickets are not refundable. You may transfer your ticket to another guest by May 15th by notifying the Gala Committee in writing (auction@nativityschool.org).
Alternatively, you may also donate your tickets back to the school to cover the cost of a school or church faculty member to attend the event (this option would be fully tax deductible, as you are receiving no goods or services for your contribution).
13. If one of my guests is unable to attend, can I invite someone else at the last minute?
Yes, you can invite someone other than your original guest. If you know ahead of time, please email auction@nativityschool.org the name of the person who is unable to attend and provide them with the name of your new guest.
15. Are my contributions tax deductible?
Nativity Catholic School is an IRS 501 (c)(3) and our Federal Tax ID is 54-1855944. Purchases and contributions above the fair market value (FMV) of an item may be tax deductible. Consult your financial advisor.
Event sponsors and donations are 100% tax-deductible. Raffle tickets are not tax deductible.
Acknowledgment letters and tax receipts will be mailed following the gala. Please allow for up to 2-3 weeks for processing. If you would like to request the acknowledgement by email, please contact us at auction@nativityschool.org.
16. How does the silent auction work?
How to bid: For the silent auction, bidding will take place online. If you are attending the event in-person, you can bid with your smartphone, or via computer, tablet, smartphone from the comfort of your home (or wherever you may be). If you need assistance with bidding, please head over to the registration/check-in table.
When to start bidding: Silent auction bidding will open on Sunday, May 10th until 8:30 pm on Saturday, May 16th. Browse silent auction items HERE.
Who can participate? Everyone is welcome to participate, with or without an event ticket. To register for the auction, visit HERE. A pre-registered credit card is required to begin bidding. Credit cards on file will be processed for items won in the silent auction on Sunday, May 17th, 2026.
Don't want to worry about bidding during the event? Set up "Auto Bid" by clicking the tab located above the bid box. Enter your maximum bid amount and click "Confirm." The system will automatically bid for you up to your maximum amount.
17. How does the live auction work?
The live auction is an exciting and dynamic event during the gala, often with a sense of urgency and competition (all in good fun, of course!!). Live auction items can be previewed by all HERE but can only be bid on by guests who attend the gala in-person.
18. Where do I go to collect my winning auction items?
Payment must be received in order to pick up your winning item(s). Payment can be made by cash, check, credit card, as well as via Apple Pay and Google Pay. Make checkout quick and easy! Enter your credit card information upon registering on GiveSmart.
If you are attending the event, please make your way to the check-in/registration area FIRST, which will open after the live auction/paddle raise ends to either make or confirm payment. You will receive any certificates/vouchers. Once payment has been confirmed, you will be able to collect your physical items.
If you are not attending the event, we will email the winning bidders a few days after the event to arrange for pick-up of items.
Watch this video for instructions on how to bid in our exciting auction.