Gladhander Auction and Raffle
Join Grand Traverse Area Catholic Schools for Gladhander 2026, the signature fundraiser for Grand Traverse Area Catholic Schools (a 501(c)(3) organization). Proceeds are dedicated to critical areas of need, specifically funding student tuition scholarships and supporting teacher salaries to ensure strong Catholic education for future generations.
As one of the longest-running and most premier fundraising events in Traverse City, this year’s theme—“Marvelous Michigan: A Stately Affair“—highlights the iconic landmarks, traditions, and local treasures that make our state extraordinary.
Gladhander brings together more than 400 community members for an elegant evening of dinner, refreshments, live music, and a high-stakes live auction. Beyond the main gala, the celebration includes a popular online silent auction open to the broader public, a live in-person auction featuring high-value experiences and items, and the much-anticipated drawing of the legendary car raffle.
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Preview Night: October 23, 2026 (Free and open to the public to view the showstopping decorations, explore the silent auction items, and celebrate community sponsors.)
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Main Event Gala: October 24, 2026 (Purchase tickets HERE)
If you can’t attend the main event, there are other ways to support this major fundraising effort:
Volunteer: We are currently seeking volunteers to help build decorations, set up arrangements, and a variety of positions for the preview night and main event:
Auction Donations: We are currently seeking donations of goods, services, or experience-based packages to feature in our silent and live auctions. Examples of donations that align with this year’s theme include:
- Michigan getaway packages or lodging experiences
- Tickets to local festivals, events, or attractions
- Outdoor recreation opportunities (boating, skiing, guided tours, etc.)
- Gift baskets featuring Michigan-made products
- Dining experiences or culinary offerings
- Unique behind-the-scenes or VIP experiences
Sponsorships: Gladhander Sponsorships