New College Foundation Announces 47th Annual Clambake on the College Hall Bayfront
SARASOTA, Fla. — October 20, 2026 — The New College Foundation is excited to announce the 47th Annual Clambake, a longstanding Sarasota fall tradition, taking place on Thursday, November 5, from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. along the scenic bayfront of College Hall. Co-chaired by Elizabeth Moore and Mary Gratehouse, the evening brings together community leaders, alumni, and supporters to celebrate student achievements while raising vital funds for New College of Florida.
Guests will enjoy a traditional New England-style clambake catered by Michael’s On East, live entertainment by the New College of Florida Chamber Orchestra, and inspiring presentations from current students and faculty.
Event Highlights & Program
- Signature Bayfront Setting: An iconic coastal backdrop for community gathering and celebration along Sarasota Bay at historic College Hall.
- Live Entertainment: A special performance by the New College of Florida Chamber Orchestra.
- Gourmet Dining & Inspiring Voices: A New England-style clambake by Michael’s On East, featuring remarks from New College students and faculty.
- Live Auction & Paddle Raise: Opportunities to bid on exclusive items and directly fund student scholarships, academic programs, and campus initiatives.
Featured Live Auction Packages
- Yacht Excursion: Private luxury yachting experiences along the Gulf Coast with dining and entertainment.
- California Wine Adventure Vacation: 4 day & 3 nights at Paso Robles
- Private Dining at Michael’s On East: An exclusive, custom dining experience for 10 guests.
- Sarasota Opera Night: A VIP evening at the opera curated for 15 pairs of guests.
- BSWANKY Experience: A luxury design experience hosted by the regional fashion brand.
“It’s more than a wonderful tradition; it’s a celebration of friendships, spirit, and the students that make New College so special,” said Tony Balistrere, Executive Director of the New College Foundation.
Ticket Reservations & Sponsorship To reserve your tickets or learn more about the 47th Annual Clambake, please visit: https://trellis.org/clambakefy2027
Sponsors and Community Partners
The 47th Annual Clambake is supported by the generosity of sponsors at the First Mate level and above, including Elizabeth Moore, Mary Gratehouse and Larry Greenspon, Robert Allen Law, Douglas Jeep Chrysler Dodge, The Famiglio Family (Alumni classes of ’75, ’01, & ’07), Mote Scientific Foundation, Cornelia & J. Richard Matson, Kathryn and Pierre McCormick, Representative Fiona McFarland & Friends of Sarasota, Ling Z. & Michael C. Markovitz, Donald R. Patterson, Grimes Galvano, P.L., Creative Contractors Inc., Sarasota Veterinary Center, So Staged, BSWANKY, Gold Coast Eagle Distributing, Michael’s On East, Palm Printing, WhiteLeaf Concert Club and 4Stay.