Celebration of the Arts takes place tomorrow night at the Glesby Centre in Portage la Prairie. Portage and District Arts Centre Marketing and Events Coordinator Lee Beaton's excited.

"The food's going to be great. The artwork is phenomenal. I cannot say just how fantastic the donations have been. They are just incredible. You'll have to see for yourself. If people cannot make it -- some people weren't able to get tickets, or weren't able to come -- but if they want to bid on something, give us a call."

Tables prepared for gala meal

She says it's no small event.

"It's pretty big. It's our major fundraiser of the year. I think last year our profit was $30,000. So, it's big. Is it important? It's extremely important. This is where we get our funds and stuff to go toward our programming. And we really want to increase the programming that we have, and develop it even more; bring in some different instructors. And to do that we need some funds in place. We're just going forward and continue to offer different stuff for the community. I've got some ideas on some new programming, and we'll see what happens."

Tickets have been somewhat slower this year, but Beaton says there have been other galas in the area, and they still appreciate the support they have. She notes they're thankful for all the support they have. Beaton adds prices have gone up a little this year, but food prices are more expensive, adding nothing's staying the same. She says they have some PDAC students who are doing the entertaining, and it will prove to be a lot of fun.

The event's in the William Glesby Centre theatre.  Events begin Thursday at 5:30 p.m. with live entertainment, with the art preview, dinner and auction to follow.

Next year's the PDAC's 30th year, and they're already planning for it, as well as the upcoming garden tour. Beaton asks anyone wanting to showcase a garden to give them a call.

Contact number is: (204) 239-6029