Ground Control to Galveston: Get your OkraFest Gala details now!
Honoring Dr. Matthew Neighbors
When: August 15, 2026
Where: Historic Galveston Water & Electric Light Community Center, 715 30th St, Galveston TX 77550
Theme: Gardens Galactica
TICKETS
The Mission Plan
The Space Fit: OkraHat Competition & beyond
Dust off your silver sequins, don your bioluminescent blooms, and prepare for the OkraWear Competition.
This year’s theme is Gardens Galactica Gala.
The Fuel: Cosmic Libations & Earthly Delights FEAST
Enjoy a far-out meal, abundant libations, excellent tunes, and the unique vibes only found at this one-of-a-kind “Met Gala of Galveston!”
Sip on themed cocktails from Daiquiri Time Out, ice-cold brews from Galveston Island Brewing, and a curated selection of wines. Galveston Restaurant Group & our local farmers offer up a tasty multi-course dinner.
Relish in:
- Seasonal ingredients sourced from GOFM’s farmers & makers: including The Farm at Bald Hill, Daphodill Farm, Grow4Health, and Groundswell’s Victory Gardens.
- Craft cocktails & beer generously provided by Daiquiri Time Out & Galveston Island Brewing
- VIP Happy Hour Appetizers sponsored by Marmo Cafe
- VIP Happy Hour Oyster Bar shucked by Pier 6 Seafood & Oysters
- Music + Good Vibes with Swimwear Department
- One-of-a-Kind Poster & Pin by Gabriel Prusmack for VIP guests
You’ve really made the grade: The VIP Experience
VIPs, prepare for an exclusive Cocktail Hour! Sip specialty drinks from Daiquiri Time Out, savor bites from Chef Yarik & Marmo Café, enjoy an oyster bar by Pier 6 Seafood & Oysters, and sparkle at our Glitter Bar (plus, get your commemorative poster with art from Gabriel Prusmack and custom collector’s pin!).
The Honoree: Dr. Matthew Neighbors
From his days as Principal at Austin Middle School to his current role as the steward of the entire District, Dr. Neighbors has been a stalwart supporter of outdoor learning and innovative teaching methods that leverage our unique island home as the ultimate learning space.
We have found a friend, supporter and advisor in Dr. Neighbors for years, and Groundswell is proud to call him this year’s 2026 OkraFest Gala Honoree!
Read his bio here (or shake his hand at OkraFest!)
The Sound: Swimwear Department
Prepare for a sonic boom! We’re thrilled to feature the Houston cult-favorite band Swimwear Department, bringing their high-energy, infectious vibes to the Gardens Galactica stage. Read More About The Band
More Info
If you’ve never been to OkraFest, come discover the fun with us this year & learn why “the Met Gala of Galveston” is so many locals’ favorite fundraiser. This is Groundswell’s night of interstellar jubilance, dining, and fun at the Historic Water & Electric Light building.
We aren’t just throwing the best party in town; we’re fueling the future of food access, education, and community health on Galveston Island.
