WAVE Foundation, the nonprofit partner of Newport Aquarium, located at Newport on the Levee, will celebrate its biggest fundraiser of the year with the 20th Annual Make WAVEs Gala (formerly known as Nauti Nite) on Friday, September 11, 2026, at Newport Aquarium. The exclusive, 21+ evening invites guests to explore the aquarium after dark while enjoying food and drinks from top local vendors, a silent disco, animal encounters, and a silent auction – all in support of WAVE Foundation’s conservation and education programs.

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Guests will step into Newport Aquarium after hours for an evening of cocktails, food, dancing, and up-close encounters with the aquarium’s animal ambassadors, all while bidding on one-of-a-kind auction items. In keeping with tradition, guests are encouraged to “Paint the Town Blue” by wearing their favorite blue cocktail attire in support of ocean conservation.

Event Details

•  Date: Friday, September 11, 2026
•  Location: Newport Aquarium
•  General Admission: 7:30 p.m. – 11:30 p.m.
•  VIP Pre-Party: 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
•  Registration: MakeWAVEs2026.givesmart.com

Highlights of the evening include:

•  Food and drink from Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky’s best local vendors
•  Live animal encounters with WAVE’s animal ambassadors   
•  A Silent Disco
•  The Octopass Adventure with a prize for completion
•  A silent auction featuring handcrafted jewelry, themed baskets, exclusive signed merchandise, and more

VIP ticket holders will gain early access to an exclusive Pre-Party featuring live auction items, a special animal encounter, hors d’oeuvres by The Delish Dish, Old Kentucky Bourbon Bar specialty cocktail, and first pours of WAVE’s Special Reserve Bourbon. New this year – the VIPenguin Speakeasy – an exclusive escape with drinks, food and fun games! VIP access is included for sponsors at the Conservation Champion level and above, or may be purchased separately.

The Make WAVEs Gala is presented by MassMutual Ascend, with support from a wide network of sponsors and food and beverage partners. Proceeds directly benefit WAVE Foundation’s environmental education programs, conservation initiatives, and volunteer program.

For tickets, sponsorship opportunities, and more information, visit wavefoundation.org/events/make-waves-gala.