Ovation is GAACC's celebration of Asian Pacific American (APA) Heritage where we recognize businesses and organizations who have made contributions to the economic success of the region, and toast APA individuals and organizations who have achieved uncommon success and/or are working to make our community a better place. Our theme for this year is The Mad Hatter as we play off the classic book, so get ready go down the rabbit hole and attend our tea party!

Contact Moin Baig for any details or questions.

Austin Marriott Downtown (Not JW or Courtyard!) 304 E Cesar Chavez St, Austin, TX 78701 Waterloo Ballroom on the 5th Floor 6:00 PM – Check in and Cocktail Reception 7:00 PM – Awards, Dinner and Live Auction 9:30 PM – After Party   Parking: Valet parking is available at the Austin Marriott Downtown for $27. There is limited availability and it will be first-come, first-served. Please note that the valet could take up to 45 minutes to be retrieved. Self Parking is offered at the Austin Convention Center for $5, located at the 2nd Street Garage. A QR code will be provided at the end of the event to get the discounted $5 rate (only available 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM). See below for a digital copy of the QR code. Card payment only, cash will not be accepted. Parking is limited and we encourage everyone to use ridesharing if possible to avoid traffic and parking. Attire: Our theme is Austin Cocktail Chic and we encourage you to wear your best hat. However, we would love to see you get creative and dress up in Alice and Wonderland theme. For example, a red dress (representing the queen of hearts), a blue tux or dress (representing the caterpillar). Either way, come in your best attire! Cocktail Reception: Our event will be the only one on the 5th floor, at the Waterloo Ballroom. Please follow all signage in the lobby to lead the way. Check-in for the event will be outside the ballroom along with a cocktail reception featuring a cash bar, entertainment, photo booths, and a glitter makeup artist! You definitely don't want to miss this. Gala check-in will begin as early as 5:30. To enjoy the cocktail reception with a cash bar, please plan accordingly.  COVID Safety: To ensure that our event runs according to COVID safety protocol, we and the hotel staff have established that tables are to be six feet apart, hotel staff will be wearing face masks, ballroom doors to be open earlier so guests may spread out, and temperature screenings and COVID questionnaires will be conducted. Masks are optional and will be available along with hand sanitizer at multiple stations.