The 2022 Party on the Plaza is just around the corner — this year with a “Return to the Renaissance” theme that features a life-size catapult, a fantastic fireworks display, exclusive auction items and much more.
Apart from the endless possibilities for fun, here are our top 10 reasons (plus a bonus) why you should attend Party on the Plaza: Return to the Renaissance on Saturday, Sept. 17.
1. Just by attending, you will make a difference in the lives of students.
Scholarships equal opportunity for students with a collegiate dream, and for some, pursuing higher education wouldn’t be possible without financial support. By purchasing a ticket and participating in other fundraising efforts throughout the event, you will help students realize their dream of earning a degree. All money raised goes directly toward Newman University student financial aid.
2. Enjoy a blast into the past with a return to the renaissance.
Leave your 21st-century worries behind for an evening and step into the time period of discovery, rebirth and wonder that is the Renaissance. This year’s renaissance theme pays homage to Newman University’s annual Renaissance Faire, which was first held by students as a class project in 1975.
3. Enjoy a few glorious games.
Guests will enjoy a life-size catapult, courtesy of the Investigative Summer STEM Program, and can even try their hand at the art of sabrage by using a sword to ceremoniously open a bottle of champagne!
4. You could walk away with unique winnings.
From exclusive travel packages to art, gift certificates, wine and more, you won’t want to miss this year’s live and silent auctions. If you can’t attend the event but still want to participate in the silent auction, you’re in luck! This year’s silent auction items will be viewable online and open for bids starting at noon Wednesday, Sept. 14. Bidding closes at 8 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 17.
5. Indulge in delicious food and drink.
Chef Clarke and his team of Great Western Dining staff never fail to deliver tasty and filling plates of food. This year the menu includes various hors d’oeuvres, smoked prime rib, grilled chicken and penne pasta, as well as roasted potatoes, garden salad, a Sicilian/Malibu blend of vegetables and assorted breads with butter, plus a deliciously sweet dessert. Thou may feast to thy heart’s content.
6. This is your excuse to wear a costume.
Who says it has to be Halloween to enjoy a good costume party? Party on the Plaza: Return to the Renaissance gives you the opportunity to dress in your favorite 15th- or 16th-century garb in a uniquely fun setting. Renaissance-style costumes are encouraged, but not required.
7. Watch a fantastic fireworks display.
Sit back at your banquet table and experience the spectacle of colorful fireworks lighting up the sky over the Newman campus. This year’s fireworks display is sponsored by Klaus Enterprises. Huzzah!
8. Connect with the community.
Party on the Plaza is a community-wide effort from start to finish. Students often volunteer to serve food and drink during the event, and many use this as an opportunity to thank those who’ve contributed to their scholarships and financial support. Party on the Plaza is a great way to meet people who share similar philanthropic interests, support and learn about other parts of the Wichita community and raise money for the educational journey of the next generation.
9. Golden Tickets.
At the beginning of the event, the Newman Cheer & Dance team will sell 100 Golden Tickets. Purchasing a golden ticket is your chance to win a live auction item and only spend $100! Before the live auction, a golden ticket number will be drawn and the winner will get to pick from any of the live auction packages.
10. Peer into life at Newman University.
From the moment students enroll in courses to the second when they walk across the graduation stage, dedicated faculty and staff work to support them along the way. Whether you’ve received a degree from Newman firsthand, know someone who has, or are curious about what makes a Newman education unique, the biggest party of the year should give you a taste of what our mission and purpose are all about.
Reservations are required for Party on the Plaza: Return to the Renaissance; the final day to reserve tickets is Friday, Sept. 16. Visit wichitapop.com to learn more about the event or to buy your tickets. Tickets may also be purchased by contacting Laura Hartley at 316-942-4291 ext. 2161.
Reserve your Party on the Plaza tickets today
Join the Wichita community at Party on the Plaza: Return to the Renaissance Saturday, Sept. 17 and discover a unique fundraising event right here in the heart of our city.
