How to Plan a Fundraiser in New Paltz With Food and Entertainment
A great fundraiser does more than gather people, it builds momentum for your mission. At Novellas in New Paltz, near Poughkeepsie, we’ve helped local organizations and schools bring their causes to life through events where your mission takes center stage and your guests feel inspired to give. From the first conversation to the final toast, our team makes planning easy so you can stay focused on what matters most, your mission.
To plan a fundraiser in New Paltz with food and entertainment, choose a venue that provides full-service support, such as event coordination, catering, and equipment. Prioritize spaces with flexible layouts for dining, auctions, and performances, and consider nearby lodging for guests. A customizable menu and smooth setup help keep the focus on your cause.
The Right Space for Your Crowd
Our ballroom comfortably accommodates up to 250 guests, with built-in lighting, a dance floor, and a stage that’s perfect for speeches, performances, or live auctions. Two outdoor patios, including our Blue Stone patio and the terrace with teak furniture and a waterfall, give guests space to mingle during cocktail hour or step outside between activities.
Because we’re located between the Hampton Inn and America’s Best Value Inn, your guests can walk back to their rooms when the evening wraps up. That convenience means you can host late-night entertainment or an after-party without worrying about transportation.
Service That Simplifies Everything
Every fundraiser at our Fundraiser Venue, Poughkeepsie, NY, includes an in-house coordinator who ensures your event runs smoothly from setup through closing. Tables, chairs, linens, china, silverware, and glassware are all included, so you won’t need to rent the basics. Our staff handles setup, service, and cleanup while you focus on your donors and program.
Guests appreciate that everything flows easily, cocktails on the terrace, dinner in the ballroom, then music or raffles to close the night. Our nightclub-level sound and lighting systems are plug and play, so transitions between program segments happen without delay.
Food That Leaves a Lasting Impression
Our Executive Chef, Michael Garnero, brings over 25 years of Culinary Institute of America expertise to every menu. His team operates at a professional, CIA-level standard, rare in local event venues, and crafts meals that guests remember long after the night ends. Fundraiser menus are fully customizable, whether you want a plated dinner, a formal buffet, or themed food stations like Mediterranean, Hudson Valley, or Asian Fusion.
Everything is prepared on site with fresh ingredients, and the open bar can be tailored to fit your crowd, from wine and beer service to full premium selections. Food and beverages are always part of our all-inclusive packages, making it easy to stay on budget while delivering a professional dining experience.
Planning With Confidence
We know fundraisers come with moving parts, silent auctions, raffles, performances, and sponsors to thank. Our space supports all of it. Many hosts use the foyer or terrace for check-in and cocktail hour, then transition to the ballroom for dinner and presentations. Afterward, patios stay open for continued conversation by the fire pits.
As a family-owned venue, every event receives personal attention. You’ll work directly with our sales manager, Bryce Gioia, who helps tailor the layout, menu, and flow to your needs while our team ensures a warm, personalized experience from start to finish. Every package is all-inclusive, so you won’t have to juggle multiple vendors or hidden costs. When the evening winds down, guests can walk to nearby hotels or linger by the fire pits for a relaxed after-party. It’s one of the many perks of hosting everything in one convenient spot.
Let’s Make Your Next Fundraiser Count
Every fundraiser deserves a setting that supports your goals and reflects the heart of your cause. At Novellas, we combine thoughtful service, flexible space, and exceptional food to make hosting effortless. Whether you’re planning a gala dinner, a charity auction, or a casual community event, our team is ready to make it smooth from start to finish.
Located in the heart of the Hudson Valley, Novellas connects the energy of Poughkeepsie with the charm of New Paltz, making it the ideal backdrop for meaningful community events. Ready to start planning? Contact our team at (845) 249-6029 or sales@novellasny.com. We’ll help you create a fundraiser that’s smooth, memorable, and true to your mission.
FAQs
How many guests can Novellas accommodate for a fundraiser?
Our ballroom hosts up to 250 guests for seated dinners and larger cocktail-style events with flexible setups.
Can we bring outside vendors for raffles or entertainment?
Yes. You can bring in vendors for auctions, entertainment, or decor while our coordinator ensures they have everything they need.
Is food included in fundraiser packages?
Yes. All packages include catering from our in-house culinary team, led by Chef Michael Garnero. Menus can be customized to fit your event style.
Are there nearby accommodations for guests?
Yes. We share property with the Hampton Inn and America’s Best Value Inn, both within walking distance.
