Baltimore MET Gala Celebrates Fifth Anniversary with Diana Ross-Inspired Theme

The Baltimore MET Gala is marking its fifth anniversary with a celebration of fashion, art, food and community impact.

The annual event returns Saturday, Aug. 29, at The Hall at LIVE! Casino & Hotel Maryland, where this year’s celebration will honor seven Baltimore-area cultural leaders while raising awareness and support for Choo Smith Youth Empowerment Inc.

Produced by Curators of Culture LaRian Finney of The Finn Group and Derrick Chase of Chase Executive Holdings, the Baltimore MET Gala has grown into a signature regional event focused on recognizing the people shaping Baltimore’s creative and cultural landscape.

The theme for Season Five is “Mahogany — A Tribute to Diana Ross,” drawing inspiration from the 1975 film and Ross’ enduring influence as an entertainer, fashion icon and cultural figure.

Themes of elegance, ambition, resilience and artistic excellence through fashion, visual art, culinary experiences and live entertainment will be explored throughout the night.

“As we celebrate five years of the Baltimore MET Gala, we’re proud to recognize individuals whose creativity and leadership continue to elevate our communities,” said LaRian Finney, Executive Producer and Managing Partner of The Finn Group. “This year’s honorees and our beneficiary, Choo Smith Youth Empowerment, embody the spirit of the Baltimore MET Gala—celebrating culture with purpose.” 

This year’s Culture Awards will spotlight individuals and organizations making an impact across several industries.

The 2026 honorees include:

• Demont “Peekaso” Pinder — IMPACT Culture Award
• Dr. Frances “Toni” Draper, owner of the AFRO — Media ICON Award
• Brandon “Bleecasso” Lee — Unsung ICON Award
• Ashlee Mack and Adeirdra Campbell, owners of Yeiboh Kitchen — Culinary ICON Award
• Nancy Blackwell, owner of Quid Nunc Art Gallery — Artist ICON Award
• Kevin Scott, owner of Benedetto Haberdashery — Fashion ICON Award