Western Illinois University Athletics has announced the date for the 35th Annual Purple and Gold Gala, which will be held on Saturday, August 10, in Western Hall. 

The Gala will return to Western Hall for this year's 35th Anniversary. The 2023 gala was held in the University Union's Grand Ballroom while the court at Western Hall was being refinished. This year's gala will also include tours of the facilities in Western Hall, many of which have benefited from proceeds of previous Purple and Gold Galas.

"The 2023 Purple and Gold Gala was one of our best on record, having raised more than $82,000 for WIU Athletics and the Leatherneck student-athlete experience," said Director of Athletics Paul A. Bubb. "We're looking forward to building on that momentum and setting more records on August 10, as well as celebrating the great achievements of our student-athletes during the 2023-24 academic year!" 

The Purple and Gold Gala will feature a social, silent auction, dinner featuring a variety of food stations, and a live auction. Items auctioned at the gala in years past have included autographed sports memorabilia, unique travel and team experiences with the Leathernecks, special vacation packages, and a variety of gift items fit for any Leatherneck fan. Beginning on July 17, a list of this year's auction items can be seen under the Purple and Gold tab on the goleathernecks.com website.