2025 SHORT NORTH GALA
thank you for joining us for the Gala!
Together, we honored remarkable leaders whose vision and dedication have left a lasting impact on the Short North Arts District. We hope you enjoyed an unforgettable night of delicious food, lively entertainment, and the joy of gathering with neighbors, colleagues, and friends in support of our unparalleled creative community.
Details about the 2026 Short North Arts District Gala will be shared here once available.
delight in local delicacies
Taste of the Short North will invite guests to visit and sample tables upon tables of appetizers provided by distinctive Short North Arts District restaurants, including El Vaquero, Jerky’s Jamaican Grill, SoCal Kitchen, The Pearl, Bakersfield, The Eagle, ZCTea House, Mecha, Rooh, Parlay, and Galla Park.
Sip on one-of-a-kind cocktails creatively crafted by some of the community’s best mixologists, made with only the finest Middle West Spirits.
Delight in a seated dinner prepared by the world-class culinary team at the Hilton Columbus Downtown.
Indulge with a sweet treat during Dessert Hour presented by Thrive Companies, with decadent bites from Winans Coffee & Chocolate, Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams, and The Yard Milkshake Bar.
celebrate community
Silent auction items up for grabs feature the best in local goods and services. All proceeds are poured back into support of the growth, safety, and beautification of the Short North Arts District.
Celebrate the Short North’s boundless talent with us as we celebrate the talented 2025 honorees.
experience artistry
The ‘In Pursuit’ Concert Series suits up for the Gala with collaborative performances by local artists.
get dressed for the gala
On this celebratory evening we invite you to embrace “Short North chic”…suede sneakers with slacks, blazers with vintage tees — you get the idea. Need a new item to look your best? Consider supporting our sponsor Pursuit, or any of our fabulous Short North boutiques.
2025 live performances
DJ Pastel
VIP Reception | 5:30 – 7pm
eclectic • dynamic • heavy beats
DJ Pastel is a Columbus, Ohio native, with more than 13 years of experience in the music scene. Known for her eclectic style, and curating the perfect blend of genres to make everyone in the room feel seen. DJ Pastel is a dynamic force here in the world of entertainment.
The Whirlybirds
Taste of the Short North | 6 – 7:30pm
swing • big band • modernized classics
The Whirlybirds stand out as one of Columbus, Ohio’s favorite bands. They have made a reputation for themselves by blending classic swing, jazz, and big band sounds, putting a modern twist on the rhythms of the 1930s and 1940s. With their tight vocal harmonies and even tighter arrangements, the band energizes audiences and fills the dance floor.
The Jerry Powell Experience
Short North Gala
jazzy • rotating artists • refreshing
The Jerry Powell Experience is an eclectic band that showcases a variety of talent and artistry. Every show has a rotation of some of the best musicians throughout the midwest performing a refreshing fusion of Jazz, Neo Soul and R&B.
Funds raised for the Short North Gala support the projects, services, and mission of the Short North Alliance — to nurture the Short North Arts District as a vibrant, creative, and inclusive community and leading arts destination.
Partner with us on
Apps & Desserts
Tables
Awards
Experiences
Programs
Presenting Sponsorship
meet our 2025 honorees
thank you to our 2025
gala sponsors
host sponsor
program sponsor
experience sponsor
award sponsors
high street table sponsors
goodale table sponsors
arch sponsors
community partners
silent auction partners
culinary partners
