NTBG gala is Saturday

KALAHEO — Exotic plants and dinner by internationally recognized chef JP Filion of Stone House Catering will set the stage for National Tropical Botanical Garden’s 10th annual Moonlight and Music gala on Saturday.

“Moonlight and Music is Kauai’s premier gala event and supports the critical plant conservation, research and education efforts of National Tropical Botanical Garden,” said Chipper Wichman, NTBG president and director.

Guests will dance to live music by The Quake and dine in style, surrounded by NTBG’s McBryde Garden. A silent auction is also planned. Attendees can also bid on Niihau shell jewelry and a private tour of NTBG’s Kahanu Garden in Hana, Maui, that includes airfare on Hawaiian Airlines.

NTBG is nearly 2,000 acres of gardens and preserves in Hawaii and Florida. With a focus on research, discovery, conservation and education, NTBG works to perpetuate the survival of plants and ecosystems within tropical regions.

It’s primarily supported by grants and donations, garnered through fundraisers like the Moonlight and Music gala.

“Our donors, members, visitors, volunteers and supporters are the lifeblood of our organization, and we’re delighted to have the opportunity year after year to come together, have fun and fundraise for plant conservation efforts that make a difference in Hawaii, Florida, and tropical regions around the world,” Wichman said.

Guests will meet at the South Shore Visitors Center on Lawai Road near Spouting Horn Park in Poipu before the event and board a shuttle to McBryde Garden, taking them through a historic sugar cane train route that passes by Lawai Bay and Allerton Garden.

Tickets are limited to 350. Individual tickets are $175 per person and tables of 10 are offered at various levels. Purchases can be made online at ntbg.org/moonlightmusic or by calling 332-6500.