Art museum to host annual gala at Altoona Grand Hotel

Kelly Urban, The Tribune-Democrat, Johnstown, Pa.
Updated ·3 min read

A trip back to the ’70s will have guests at this gala feeling groovy.

Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art will hold its “SAMA Night Fever” gala from 6 to 11 p.m. June 15 at the Altoona Grand Hotel, 1 Sheraton Drive, Altoona.

The event will feature first-class dining, casino-style games, a silent auction, musical entertainment and dancing.

Attendees are encouraged to wear their best fashionable disco attire.

“This is our 47th gala, and the theme is fun, and we see everyone having a great time,” said Sandie Hampton, SAMA’s director of operations.

“It’s a popular event, and we see a lot of of people who continue to come year after year, and they’re also bringing their friends because of the fabulous time they had the year before. If you’re new to the area, this is a wonderful event to meet other people who support our museums.”

Guests will be treated to a cocktail hour with hors d’oeuvres and an open bar.

Dinner will be provided by the Altoona Grand Hotel and will feature prime rib, chicken, salmon, potato bar and an array of sweet treats.

“It’s everything you can think of, and you will not leave hungry,” Hampton said.

Throughout the evening, guests will have the opportunity to play blackjack and craps in the casino.

“What you’ll win is beautiful baskets that have been donated by our committees and also the businesses in the area,” Hampton said.

The silent auction will feature jewelry, vacation and golf packages, furniture, antiques, unique garden items and artwork.

“There’s a wide variety of items to pique everybody’s interest,” Hampton said.

Dancing music will be provided by State College-based and We Danced DJ entertainment.

“People will be able to request any music they want to listen to, and they’ll be happy to play it,” Hampton said.

She said guests can expect to be immersed in the disco experience.

“We hope they have a wonderful time, and I think when they come in they’re going to see enjoyment,” Hampton said.

“It’s going to be a relaxed event and a fun night out where they can learn more about SAMA.”

The annual gala is SAMA’s largest fundraiser and helps its five museums – in Altoona, Johnstown, Ligonier Valley, Loretto and Bedford – provide art education programs to all, including local students and veterans.

“This is our big event that helps to support all of our museums,” Hampton said.

Tickets are $225 per person.

Reservations are required by June 7 and can be made online at www.sama-art.org/gala or by calling any SAMA museum.

Kelly Urban is a reporter for The Tribune-Democrat. Follow her on Twitter @KellyUrban25.

If You Go What: Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art’s “SAMA Night Fever” gala. Where: Altoona Grand Hotel, 1 Sheraton Drive, Altoona. When: 6 to 11 p.m. June 15. Tickets: $225 per person. Information: 814-472-3920 or www.sama-art.org/gala.