The New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA) has announced the return of its popular fall fundraising event, "LOVE in the Garden." After a one-year break, the outdoor celebration is scheduled for November 7, 2025, in the Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden. The event serves as a key fundraiser for the museum's programs and exhibitions.
Key Takeaways
- The "LOVE in the Garden" fundraising gala returns to NOMA on November 7, 2025.
- The event was on hiatus in 2024, replaced by the sculpture garden's 20th-anniversary Visionaries Gala.
- This year's theme is "Light up the Night," honoring the long-standing support of the Frischhertz family.
- Highlights include live music from Where Y'acht, food from local restaurants, and a love-themed Cocktail Challenge.
Event Details and Entertainment
The upcoming "LOVE in the Garden" promises an evening of art, music, and culinary experiences. The event will take place within the scenic Besthoff Sculpture Garden, offering guests a unique atmosphere surrounded by world-class art.
Live Music and Local Cuisine
Entertainment for the evening will be provided by the popular local band, Where Y'acht. Known for their high-energy performances, the group will create a lively soundtrack for the festivities. In addition to music, a selection of New Orleans' notable restaurants will offer a variety of food, allowing attendees to sample diverse local flavors.
A central feature of the night is the Cocktail Challenge. Local mixologists will compete to create the most inventive love-inspired drinks. Guests will have the opportunity to taste the creations, and prizes will be awarded based on votes from both a panel of judges and the audience.
Event at a Glance
- What: LOVE in the Garden Fundraiser
- When: November 7, 2025
- Where: Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden, NOMA
- Tickets: Starting at $100, available at noma.org
A Unique Setting: The Besthoff Sculpture Garden
The choice of venue is a significant part of the event's appeal. The Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden is an expansive outdoor space that integrates art and nature. It provides a distinct backdrop for the annual fundraiser.
The garden spans 12 acres and features a collection of more than 100 sculptures from various artists. This setting allows guests to experience art in an open-air environment, different from a traditional museum gallery.
The Iconic 'LOVE' Sculpture
A centerpiece of the garden and the namesake for the event is Robert Indiana's iconic "LOVE" sculpture. The famous artwork has been a part of the garden's collection since 2003 and remains a popular spot for visitors and a symbol of the event itself.
“LOVE in the Garden offers the opportunity to come together to celebrate one of the city’s most important cultural destinations: NOMA’s Besthoff Sculpture Garden,” said Susan M. Taylor, NOMA's director.
Honoring Community Supporters
This year's event carries the theme "Light up the Night." According to the museum, this theme is a tribute to the Frischhertz family, who are being recognized for their consistent and generous support of NOMA over the years.
The family will serve as honorary chairs for the event. The designated chairs are Ellen and Stephen Frischhertz, Janet and Jimmy Frischhertz, and Lori and Kevin Frischhertz. Their involvement underscores the importance of community patronage in sustaining the city's cultural institutions.
In a statement, Director Susan M. Taylor commented on their role. “By honoring the Frischhertz family as chairs of this year's event, we celebrate their long-standing history as generous benefactors to NOMA," she said.
A Return After a Year's Break
"LOVE in the Garden" did not take place in 2024. Instead, the museum hosted the Visionaries Gala to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the Besthoff Sculpture Garden. The return of the popular fall fête in 2025 marks a restoration of the museum's traditional event calendar.
Organizers also made a strategic change to the event's timing. It has been moved from its usual September date to early November to take advantage of cooler, more comfortable autumn weather for the outdoor gathering.
Supporting the New Orleans Museum of Art
The primary purpose of "LOVE in the Garden" is to raise essential funds for the New Orleans Museum of Art. Proceeds from ticket sales and sponsorships directly support the museum's operations, including exhibitions, educational programs, and the conservation of its collection.
The event plays a crucial role in NOMA's financial health, enabling it to continue serving as a premier cultural resource for the city and its visitors. By attending, patrons contribute directly to the preservation and growth of one of New Orleans' most significant art institutions.
Tickets for the event begin at $100 and are available for purchase on the official NOMA website. The museum encourages those interested to secure their tickets in advance for this highly anticipated celebration of art and community.