Veterans Art Center Tampa Bay: Art & Acoustic: Sunset Gathering

Description

Venue Setup & Layout The Stage (Patio / Tiki Deck): An outdoor acoustic setup featuring a local veteran musician/guest performer providing background music and acoustic sets throughout the evening. The Pop-Up Gallery Walk (Backyard / Patio Perimeter): Display easels positioned along the perimeter showcasing powerful original artwork by local veterans exploring themes of healing, strength, and life after service. Welcome & Raffle Desk (Main Entrance / Patio Gate): 

Check-in table with suggested $20 donation collections, raffle ticket purchases, program literature, and early-bird promotional materials for the Nov. 15 Dallas Bull Concert. 

Event Schedule & Itinerary   Time Activity Detail 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM Event Setup & Soundcheck Display easels arranged; soundcheck on the Tiki Deck/Patio; raffle packages set up. 6:00 PM Doors Open / Gallery Walk Begins Guests arrive, enjoy food/drinks from Freg's, and browse the pop-up artwork display. 6:30 PM – 7:15 PM Acoustic Live Music: Set 1 Live performance by guest acoustic artist on the outdoor stage. 7:15 PM – 7:30 PM Welcome Remarks & Awareness Address VACTB Leadership brief remarks on Suicide Awareness Month and veteran wellness. 7:30 PM – 8:15 PM Acoustic Live Music: Set 2 Music resumes; raffle ticket sales continue across the venue. 8:15 PM – 8:30 PM Dallas Bull Concert Announcement & Raffle Draw Teaser presentation for the Nov. 15 Benefit Concert at The Dallas Bull; live drawing of raffle prizes. 8:30 PM – 9:00 PM Open Mixer & Closing Music Final acoustic set, networking, and last-chance artwork/merchandise purchases. 

Key Program Elements & Fundraising Drivers Pop-Up Art Display: Focuses on visual storytelling. Art pieces created by local veterans will be available for viewing, with select pieces available for purchase or bid, with proceeds directly supporting VACTB programs. Raffle Packages: Donated prize packages from local businesses, including original art pieces, local dining vouchers, and gift baskets. 

Raffle: 1 for $5, 5 for $20, or "Wingspan" for $50. Dallas Bull Concert Promotion: Dedicated signage and verbal announcements during the program promoting the November 15th Benefit Concert at The Dallas Bull, encouraging attendees to secure tickets and sponsorships early. Community Partnerships: An opportunity to engage local supporters, families, and area businesses in a low-pressure environment that highlights wellness, creativity, and peer connection.