Celebration on the Lake Church holds its annual Red Tie Gala on Feb. 15.
CAROLINE SAVOIE | East Texas Writer
carolinelsavoie@gmail.com
CEDAR CREEK LAKE — Red Tie Gala, an annual Valentine’s-themed LGBTQ fundraiser, is now in its fifth year as a public event. And its organizers at Celebration on the Lake United Church of Christ are gearing up for a night of celebration to raise money for local organizations.
The event will be held Saturday, Feb. 15, at the CR Legacy Event Center in Gun Barrel City.
Muddy Moxley, outreach chair at the church and longtime organizer of the event, said a church youth group inspired the gala when they approached Moxley and said they wanted to do something special for the LGBTQ folks in the congregation. Moxley said it was such a success that she helped open the gala to the public in hopes of involving more of the community.
“We’re a small church, but we’re open about being an LGBTQ church, and I’ve seen a good response,” said Moxley, 78, who has lived on Cedar Creek Lake for 25 years. “People loved the experience, and it allowed them to see our involvement in the community.”
Moxley, who has chaired the gala for five years, is stepping down this year and passing the role to Bradley Scott, the chairman of the board at the church. Scott, an interior designer who moved to the lake six years ago, said he is excited to bring a fresh perspective to the event.
“She does so much for our church, and someone needed to take something off her plate,” said Scott, 56.
Scott emphasized the unique atmosphere of the gala, describing it as a “safe place in East Texas where two guys or two girls can dance together.”
Moxley said allies also join in the festivities, making it a welcoming space for the entire community.
“Most people understand now that our community thrives on loyalty. Not only are we given things, but we give back,” Scott said in reference to the local businesses and sponsors who support the gala.
Proceeds from the Red Tie Gala support various outreach programs in the Cedar Creek Lake community, including local food pantries, women’s shelters and animal welfare organizations. Moxley remarked on how fulfilling it is to see the impact of the event, especially when presenting checks to the nonprofits in person.
“It’s so affirming because we really feel the impact of the money we raise,” Moxley said. “People give back to us, not just financially, but with their time.”
The 2025 event will feature a three-course dinner, a silent auction, and entertainment by Two Danes Productions. Guests can expect an array of games, including a 50/50 raffle and a bowtie contest, adding to the evening’s festive atmosphere.
Looking ahead, Scott hopes to expand the gala’s reach and continue building connections with other LGBTQ organizations across Texas.
“We’re maxed at 225 tickets, and, while it would be heartbreaking to leave CR Legacy, it would also be affirming to see that much support,” Scott said.
Both Moxley and Scott said the importance of the gala is more than just a fundraiser; it’s a beacon of support for LGBTQ individuals in the area.
“There are so many youth and adults who think they’re the only ones,” Scott said. “We need them to know they’re not alone, that they have a community.”
For tickets or more information, visit RedTieCelebration.com. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., and single tickets are available for $100. Tables for eight are priced at $800. Donations are also accepted through the website for those unable to attend the event.