Let the Mayor’s Gala for the Arts transport you away from the winter doldrums as the Coast Kamloops Hotel and Conference Centre is transformed into a nightclub along one of the most famous beaches in the world; the theme for the 2018 gala event is At The Copacabana.

Guests at the gala will bask in the magnificent tropical setting as they enjoy the sumptuous Brazilian flavours of the gourmet meal created by Chef Romeo from Romeo’s Kitchen and Spirits. The gala is also known for its captivating live entertainment, and this year will feature a variety of song and dance befitting the Copacabana theme.

There will be a big change in the silent auction portion of the evening this year, as the gala moves into the 21st Century with an online auction. Anyone can start the bidding online at www.mayorsgalaforthearts.ca, starting Wednesday, January 10. Throughout the evening, guests can use their smartphones or one of many tablets on site to put in their bids. There will be several volunteers on hand to assist with the online auction. Highlights of the silent auction items include a Whistler Heli Tour for 2, a Private BC Winery Tour for 10, a Quebec City Getaway for 2, and a Craft Brewery Tour for 10.

The Mayor's Gala for the Arts is a collaborative partnership that brings together the City of Kamloops, Kamloops Art Gallery, Kamloops Symphony, and Western Canada Theatre, to acknowledge and celebrate the arts and culture sector of Kamloops. The Mayor’s Awards for the Arts will be presented at the 11th annual Mayor’s Gala for the Arts on Saturday, January 20, 2018. Tickets for the gala are $150 (tables seat 8), and can be purchased from Kamloops Live! Box Office, 250-374-5483, or www.kamloopslive.ca.