“An Evening at the Derby” – 2023 Sacred Heart Gala

On Friday, April 14, our friars, deacons, and parishioners cruised along Tampa Bay aboard the Yacht StarShip for our annual Parish Gala, the first held since 2020. Our guests were able to enjoy a beautiful sunset alongside dinner, drinks, dancing, and live and silent auctions dressed in their derby day best. Thanks to all who attended, volunteered, donated, and bid to aid renovations of the North Campus kitchen. We look forward to seeing you at next year’s Gala!

Click here to view a gallery of photos from the Gala, including portraits!

Silent Auction Items Still Available!

Our Gala featured both a live and silent auction again this year, with a more that 50 items on offer from local partners and the church! Even if you could not attend the Gala, there is still a chance to bid!  All proceeds go to benefit the renovation of the North Campus kitchen. Thank you for your support!

View the Auction Items via Qtego!


Diamond Raffle

The Diamond Raffle returns with a Franciscan themed trip to Rome and Cortona. This six-night vacation includes a three-night stay in a four-star hotel in Rome, a three-night stay in a private apartment in Cortona, and exclusive tours of the Vatican and Assisi!

Tickets for the raffle will be sold after Masses on 3/25, 3/26, 4/1, and 4/2, or at the parish office.
Tickets are $100 each, and only 100 tickets will be sold!

*Cash and check preferred. To pay via a credit card, sign up on the QTEGO auction site, and contact Angela Erb via email.


Diamond Raffle Participation Details
    • No purchase necessary
    • Need not be present to win
    • One winner will be selected by random drawing of all tickets received
    • If winner is under 18 years of age, prize may be assigned to the parent or legal guardian
    • Prize may not be redeemed for cash
    • Winner shall hold harmless the Diocese of St. Petersburg and Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Tampa
    • The winner is responsible for any and all taxes, fees and tariffs, both Federal and State associated with the prize
    • No mechanically reproduced entries will be accepted
    • Airfare not included
    • Package must be scheduled within 18 months of winning date (4/14/23)

Interested in Becoming a Sponsor?

We’re looking for businesses and organizations to support our renovation of the North Campus kitchen by sponsoring our Gala. You can support our parish while at the same time receive community recognition through various opportunities (digital marketing, bulletin, social media, event signage and more). Contact Angela Erb for details.


Gala 2023 Frequently Asked Questions
How much do the tickets cost?

Tickets are priced as follows:
– January 20 – February 20: $100/each
– February 21 – April 14: $125/each

“First Out The Gate” Bundle:
– January 20 – February 13: Four (4) tickets for $350

Get your tickets early and save!
Processing fees apply

What does my ticket include?

Each ticket includes a 3-hour cruise on the Yacht StarShip, passed hors d’oeuvres, food stations, drink tickets, and dancing.

Do I need to print out my ticket?

No. Simply download the Eventbrite app (Apple | Google Play) to your smartphone and show your phone to one of our volunteers before boarding the Yacht StarShip.

Can I purchase tickets with cash or check?

Yes. If wish to purchase tickets with cash or check, simply visit the parish office, or contact Angela Erb at aerb@sacredheartfla.org.

Can I purchase tickets at the door?

Yes. If tickets are still available, they can be purchased until we sail.

What are my transportation/parking options for getting to and from the event?

There are no scheduled events at Amalie Arena on the night of our event. Parking is available in the Garrison Street Parking Lot at a fee of $2/hour. Parking will also be available at the Tampa Port Authority Parking Garage 369 South 12th Street, Tampa, Florida, 33602. Please note that prices are subject to change.

What should I wear?

Wear your dancing shoes and cocktail attire with a derby twist!

What is the refund policy?

There are no refunds, but tickets are transferrable.

How do I bid on the silent auction items?

Our silent auction will be online, with bidding beginning in February.

How can I help with planning and sponsorship?

You are encouraged to join our Parish Event Committee at their meeting on Sunday, January 22, at 11:45 a.m. in the North Campus Auditorium. The committee is looking for volunteers who can assist with sponsorship and the silent auction. For more information, please contact Angela Erb.