7 Black Tie Events That Anyone Can Attend in NYC
Glamour, gowns, and giving back, no elite status required.
Think you need to be a socialite or fashion heiress to attend New York City’s most prestigious black-tie events? Think again. While some galas and benefits are exclusive to insiders and A-listers, several of the city's most iconic soirées are surprisingly open to the public, for a price. Whether you’re hoping to rub shoulders with art world luminaries, catch live performances in haute couture, or simply live out your “Gossip Girl” fantasy, these seven events deliver high glamour and cultural cachet. From museum galas to ballet openings, here’s how to secure your spot at the table (or, at the very least, the champagne reception).
Guggenheim International Gala
Hosted annually at the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, this gala supports the museum’s programming and attracts fashion icons, collectors, and curators alike. The benefit dinner is invitation-only, but the pre-party, often in collaboration with Dior, is open to the public via ticket purchase. Expect DJs, open bars, and exhibits after dark.
Carnegie Hall Opening Night Gala
A glittering night of music, the Carnegie Hall Opening Night Gala is one of the most culturally rich events of the season. Tickets to the concert and gala dinner are available for public purchase, though tables can run high. For a taste of the glamour without the financial stretch, concert-only tickets offer the magic at a more accessible price.
American Ballet Theatre Opening Night
ABT’s season kickoff is a masterclass in black-tie ballet glamour. While the gala dinner comes with steep donor-level contributions, the performance itself is ticketed to the public. Fashion-forward New Yorkers use this as an excuse to don their best formalwear and support the arts in style.
MoMA Film Benefit
This annual fundraiser brings together cinema lovers, celebrities, and artists to celebrate the intersection of film and contemporary art. Honorees like Greta Gerwig and Martin Scorsese have graced the event. A limited number of benefit tickets are made available to the public, often with early access to exhibits and a seated dinner.
Whitney Museum Annual Gala
Supporting contemporary American art, the Whitney’s gala is a bold and stylish affair. With enough advance planning (and budget), anyone can purchase individual tickets or sponsor-level seats. The event is known for its eclectic fashion, boundary-pushing crowd, and intimate performances.
New York City Ballet Fall Gala
This red carpet event, popularized by Sarah Jessica Parker’s curated costumes—blends fashion and dance in a single night. Tickets to the performance are public and range in price, while the full gala experience (including dinner and afterparty) is available to higher-tier patrons.
FIT Couture Council Luncheon
Held at Lincoln Center or the Plaza Hotel, this fashion-forward luncheon honors a major designer each year and kicks off New York Fashion Week. Tickets can be purchased through the FIT Couture Council and often sell out quickly. Past honorees include Wes Gordon, Thom Browne, and Carolina Herrera.