VINEart 2026: A Night of Renewal and Community Support
$392,793 raised thanks to YOU. Funds raised will support YWCA Banff’s residential programs including emergency shelter, transitional housing, affordable housing, and counselling services. A portion of funds will support our Higher Ground Project, YWCA Banff’s plan to build a new facility in Canmore to increase our capacity to deliver critical services to our community.
The Heart of the Evening
On Saturday night, we gathered under the theme of The Birth of Venus – a story of rebirth and support. The Fairmont Banff Springs was filled with more than just fine wine and beautiful art. Just as the Goddess Flora offered a cloak to Venus upon her arrival, you stepped forward to wrap our community in support, and a shared vision for a safer, more equitable future.
Your Impact
Because you chose to invest in our mission, we exceeded our goals to raise $356,293. We extend a special thank you to the Wim & Nancy Pauw Foundation for their massive $61,500 cash donation, which increased the reach of every dollar you donated. These contributions are vital to our residential programs and the future of the Higher Ground Project.
Honouring Our Guides & Supporters
This evening was guided by powerful voices and talents:
- The Stories of Strength: We extend our deepest thanks to Brinley for sharing her journey first, followed by moving stories from Mary Tidland and Tracy Little.
- Our Guides for the Evening: Eli Snow for opening our evening in a good way, and our emcee and auctioneer, Bridget Ryan, for her energy and dedication.
- The Soundtrack and Art of the Night: A huge thank you to our musicians The Ensemble Cascade and our live painter Maya Corona for creating an atmosphere of renewal.
- The VINEart Team: Sincere thanks to Jade Ansley and the incredible VINEart committee for their tireless work.
Our Partners: The Fairmont Banff Springs and their exceptional Culinary Team for the world-class meal, and Encore for their technical production
Congratulations to our Raffle Winner!
A huge congratulations to Jim Miller, the lucky winner of our Hawaiian getaway! Jim will be enjoying five nights at the Fairmont Orchid thanks to your incredible support of our raffle.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How Does the Silent Auction Work?
When you arrive at VINEart Gala & Auction, register your cellphone number at the registration table. You will then receive a link by text message to our online silent auction portal – Givergy.
Here is the link to Givergy
You will be able to view and bid on silent auction items using your cellphone.
Please note, it is recommended you bring a cellphone to the event.
- Fairmont Banff Spring Hotel - Room Rates & How to Book
Room Rates
Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel has generously provided a discounted room rate for VINEart Gala & Auction 2026.
Discounted Rate: Starting at $325.00 per room (per night) + taxes (No resort fees apply) Subject to availability.
Check-in Time: 4:00 p.m. MST
Check-out Time: 12:00 noon MST
How to Book Rooms at the Discounted Rate
To book a room at the discounted rate please call Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel at (403) 762-6866 and mention you are booking a room for YWCA Banff’s VINEart Gala & Auction.
- Parking & Directions
For Guests staying at the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel:
Guests have the option of self-parking at $39.00 per night or valet parking at $59.00 per day.
For guests NOT staying at the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel:
Guests can park in the parkade where there is a $13.00 per hour charge or they can valet park their vehicle for a $50 charge.
Directions
Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel
405 Spray Avenue
Banff AB
T1L 1J4 - Attire
This years theme takes inspiration from Botticelli’s, Birth of Venus. VINEart Gala & Auction is a black tie optional event. We invite our guests to indulge in the decadence of pearls, the lightness of spring flowers, and rich, colourful tapestries at this year’s event.
- Dietary Restrictions
If you or someone at your table has dietary restrictions or allergies, please refer to the online guest registration form that you received at time of ticket purchase and update your preferences.
Sign into Givergy
Be sure to update this information before January 24th, 2026, so that we can accommodate any needs.
- Non-Alcoholic Pairing Option
Sauvage Restaurant is generously curating an elevated non-alcoholic pairing experience for VINEart guests.
If you or someone at your table would prefer non-alcoholic pairings, please refer to the online guest registration form that you received at time of ticket purchase and update your preferences.
Be sure to update this information before January 24th, 2026, so that we can accommodate any needs.
- Can I Pay with Cash?
Cash, debit cards, and credit cards are accepted.
Login to Givergy
- Tax Deductible Portion of VINEart Tickets
- Accessibility
- Submit Auction Item
To submit items or experiences to the VINEart Auction please fill out the following form.
Auction item Submission Form VINEart 2026
The difference in my emotional state from the time I arrived, to the time I left, was a full circle. It was so wonderful to have a clean, quiet, safe place to heal, but the thing I appreciate the most was having the counsellors to speak to. You truly changed my life for the better, now and for the future.Former Client
For more information about sponsorship opportunities please download our sponsor package here, or contact Salina McNamara at or 403-996-2997.
Shaping a safe and inclusive Bow Valley that empowers women and their community for a better future.
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