Museum Gala

The Hopkinsville History Foundation in collaboration with the Museums of Historic Hopkinsville-Christian County and with support from Planters Bank announces its third annual gala fundraiser Palm Royale: The Museum’s Gant Gaither Gala on Friday, September 18, 2026.* This fundraising event supports the Museum and its mission to share the stories of our community through an inclusive dialogue about our history.
Inspired by the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Met Gala, this evening will begin with a grand promenade entrance and cocktail hour inside the Pennyroyal Area Museum followed by a dinner and music with Full Circle outside under the stars. The promenade and cocktail hour start at 6:00pm with dinner and music at 7:00pm.
The event will also feature a special art installation inspired by items designed by Gant Gaither. The pieces that compose this unique “Create from the Collection” exhibition will be created by local artists and available for purchase at a silent auction during the event. More information about participating as an artist will be shared soon.
The theme for the evening is “Palm Royale: The Museum’s Gant Gaither Gala.” Inspired by local artist Gant Gaither, this evening of mid-century glamor celebrates the life and work of one of Hopkinsville’s most creative souls. After graduating from Hopkinsville High School, this son of a local surgeon studied abroad, opened a theater in Miami, worked as a producer in Broadway and Hollywood, and became great friends with celebrities like Grace Kelly. He settled in the resort community of Palm Springs, California in the 1960s where he established himself as an artist. His whimsical designs featured animals of all kinds and were used as designs for textiles and home interior products. Guests are encouraged (but not required) to use the whimsical, 1960s resort theme as inspiration for their attire.
The event will also feature a special art installation inspired by items designed by Gant Gaither. The pieces that compose this unique “Create from the Collection” exhibition will be created by local artists and available for purchase at a silent auction during the event. More information about participating as an artist will be shared soon. In the meantime, view the art HERE.
Tickets are $100 per person. Reserved tables with premier seating for 8 people are available for $1,000. Additional sponsorship opportunities are also available All proceeds support the Museums of Historic Hopkinsville-Christian County.
Tickets can be purchased at the Pennyroyal Area Museum or online through Zeffy starting Saturday, Aug. 1. For more information, visit our website, follow us on Facebook, or contact us at (270) 887-4270.