We’ve got a big crowd coming for the GeekWire Gala this Wednesday, Dec. 3 at the wonderful Museum of History & Industry in Seattle’s South Lake Union Neighborhood.
More than 900 geeks are expected for the holiday festivities, where we’ll toast the GeekWire 2014 Newsmakers of the Year and once again celebrate The Seattle 10 startup companies.
This year’s Gala, presented by Wells Fargo, is completely sold out. But if you scored a ticket early, here are the key details you’ll need to know for the festivities.
Where: The Museum of History & Industry, 860 Terry Ave N. in Seattle’s South Lake Union neighborhood. Map here.
When: Wednesday, December 3rd, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Attire: You have the rare license to don cocktail attire, or whatever you want for that matter. Tuxedos? Sure. Geeky T-shirts? Yep. Or, just get in the spirit and come dressed as Frosty or one of Santa’s little elves. The photo booth, presented by Moz, will offer plenty of opportunities to showcase your sweet duds.
Parking: South Lake Union is a bit of a mess these days, thanks in large part to our fast-growing tech industry. We’re expecting a big crowd for the Gala, so make sure to give yourself plenty of time to park and check in. We also recommend those coming from downtown ride the South Lake Union Streetcar Line, which passes directly in front of the museum. Or hop in a taxi or ride-share. The main parking lot is located just northwest of the museum off Westlake.
- AGC Bldg. Parking (Republic Parking, located by McCormick & Schmick’s) 1200 Westlake Ave N.).
Food and drink? Yes and yes. From Prosecco to beer to signature cocktails. The appetizers will be heavy, but it’s not dinner. No assigned tables, just tasty buffets and awesome conversation all evening.
After Party: All dressed up, and ready to enjoy a little more holiday cheer? We’ll be heading across the street to the private nightclub Forum for the Gala after party, hosted by Frontier. Things will get rolling around 9 p.m., with plenty of fun in store. Forum is located at 701 Westlake Ave. North — just southwest of the museum. UPDATE: Due to interest in the after party, we’ve opened a limited number of tickets. Again, these are just tickets for the after party at Forum. Tickets cost $20, and can be purchased here.
Museum: Exhibits to the museum will be open, so if you’ve not yet checked out MOHAI or the Bezos Center for Innovation, this is your chance. Note: Food and drink are not permitted in the upstairs exhibit areas.
Do I need to bring my printed tickets: Nope, just show up and our registration staff will take care of you.
Can my friends or coworkers still register? Nope, we’re totally sold out! (Hint: Make sure you grab tickets for GeekWire Startup Day on Jan. 30)
The Seattle 10 and Newsmakers of the Year: We’re excited to partner with MOHAI to recognize The Seattle 10 — a list of 10 up-and-coming Seattle area startups who are looking to change the world. Each of these innovative companies — chosen through a judging panel — sketched their business concepts on giant six-foot by six-foot cocktail napkins, and those napkins will make their public debut at the Gala on Wednesday. Look for them throughout the museum. Also, as in year’s past, we will be announcing the top Newsmakers of the Year, adorning them with a customized red and black GeekWire soccer scarf. A short program and toast will take place at 7 p.m.
Get the Gala app: Want to experience the Gala in all of its smartphone glory? We’ve written a lot about beacons, but you’ve most likely never interacted with them — certainly not in this way. At this year’s Gala, you’ll have a chance to discover just what all the buzz is about. Download the free Mixby app and you’ll be granted exclusive access to content while at the Gala. Explore rich media content about the Seattle 10 (both this and last year’s classes), uncover stories behind select MOHAI exhibits, receive event notifications and more. Grab the Mixby iOS app or Android app, and make sure to check into the location of MOHAI on the day of the big party..
Hashtag: #gwgala (see more social media posts from the Gala here)
And, finally, a big thanks to our wonderful GeekWire Gala Sponsors without whom this holiday tradition would not be possible. They are:
Presenting Sponsor: Wells Fargo
Gold Sponsors: Perkins Coie, UPS Connect, Avalara, Moz, Frontier, Whitepages, Tune.
Silver Sponsors: Acumatica, First Tech Federal Credit Union, Hired, 9Mile Labs, Sharp, Lighter Capital, T-Mobile.
Supporting Sponsors: Bader Martin, Anheuser-Busch, Vitamin T, Sworl, Tagboard.
