BGC Ottawa is preparing to welcome hundreds of business leaders, community partners and supporters to its annual Glamping Gala, with this year’s event combining Mediterranean-inspired hospitality and entertainment with fundraising for programs serving children and youth across the nation’s capital.
The Sept. 3 event, themed Sunset on the Riviera, will take place on BGC Ottawa’s Great Lawn at the Tomlinson Family Foundation Clubhouse. Organizers are aiming to recreate the atmosphere of the French Riviera through food, drinks, live entertainment and an outdoor evening gathering.
Beyond the gala setting, the event will raise funds to help BGC Ottawa maintain free and accessible programs designed to provide young people with safe spaces, mentorship and opportunities for personal development.
Sunset on the Riviera Brings Mediterranean Theme to Ottawa
The outdoor gala is scheduled to run from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. at 1463 Prince of Wales Drive in Ottawa.
Guests can expect golden-hour cocktails, Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, premium beverages, live music, entertainment and dancing under the stars. The event is scheduled to proceed rain or shine.
The organization expects members of its board of directors, staff, volunteers, community champions and representatives from the local business community to attend. Mark Motors Group is serving as the presenting sponsor.
The gathering also provides an opportunity for businesses and community supporters to connect while contributing to programs focused on children and youth in Ottawa.
Gala Highlights Growing Needs Facing Ottawa Youth
While the Riviera theme is intended to create a distinctive fundraising experience, BGC Ottawa said the central purpose of the gala remains focused on the needs of young people in the city.
During the evening, attendees will learn more about the organization’s work and the challenges facing local children and youth. The program will also highlight the importance of food and nutrition initiatives in supporting young people’s well-being and development.
BGC Ottawa operates clubhouses that provide safe and welcoming environments where young people can develop confidence, build friendships and connect with supportive adults and mentors.
Funds raised through the Glamping Gala will help the organization continue offering those programs without creating financial barriers for participating families.
Fundraising Supports Free Programs Across Ottawa
BGC Ottawa’s services are designed to give children and youth opportunities to learn, grow and explore their potential in supportive environments. The organization says thousands of young people rely on its clubhouses and programs across the city.
Fundraising events such as Sunset on the Riviera provide financial support for maintaining those services and responding to changing community needs.
For the local business community, the annual gala also serves as a platform for corporate participation in community initiatives. Sponsors, businesses and individual supporters contribute alongside BGC Ottawa staff, volunteers and board members to help sustain programming.
Food and Nutrition Programs Take Focus at Annual Event
Food security and nutrition will be among the areas highlighted during the gala. BGC Ottawa plans to share information about the role its food programs play in helping children and youth participate, learn and thrive.
Access to meals and nutritious food can be an important component of broader youth programming, particularly as organizations respond to rising costs and pressures affecting families.
By directing gala proceeds toward free programs and critical services, BGC Ottawa aims to keep its clubhouses accessible to young people regardless of their families’ financial circumstances.
Ottawa Gala Scheduled for Sept. 3
Sunset on the Riviera will be held at the Great Lawn of BGC Ottawa’s Tomlinson Family Foundation Clubhouse, located at 1463 Prince of Wales Drive.
Free parking will be available nearby at 885 Meadowlands Drive, next to the Shell station, with the parking area a short walk from the venue. Organizers are also encouraging attendees to consider taxis and ride-share services.
With hundreds of supporters expected to gather for the annual event, the 2026 Glamping Gala will combine an evening of food, music and networking with BGC Ottawa’s broader goal of ensuring children and youth across the city continue to have access to safe spaces, positive mentors and opportunities to develop their potential.