MONMOUTH ARTS GALA

Monmouth Arts will celebrate music, creativity and community at its annual gala, Bring on the Funk: Where the Arts Get Down, on Thursday, October 29, 2026, in Asbury Park.

The evening begins at 5:30 p.m. with a VIP Cocktail Party at Asbury Ocean Club Hotel, followed by the main gala and Funkadelic Dinner Celebration at 7 p.m. at Asbury Lanes.

This year’s gala honors five extraordinary artists, cultural leaders and institutions:

George Clinton — Lifetime Achievement in Music Award
Dorothea Bongiovi — Outstanding Community Service Award
Harlan Coben — Outstanding Literary Achievement Award
Nicole Atkins — Outstanding Musical Achievement Award
PNC Bank Arts Center — Distinguished Cultural Landmark Award

Guests will enjoy cocktails, dinner, entertainment, auctions and a high-energy celebration inspired by the legendary sounds of funk and soul. The evening will feature immersive visuals and music celebrating the influence of Parliament-Funkadelic, Earth, Wind & Fire, Prince, Kool & the Gang and Chaka Khan.

A featured performer will be C.P. Lacey, one of the country’s leading celebrity impressionists, performing as James Brown. Stephen Rubino will serve as emcee.

Guests are encouraged to embrace the theme with “Funky Chic” attire — sequins encouraged!

Proceeds from Monmouth Arts’ largest annual fundraiser support arts education, grants, community programs and initiatives that bring the arts to youth, seniors, artists and underserved communities throughout Monmouth County.