Gather: A cinematic dining experience

About this event

Join us for GATHER, the signature event of Missouri State University Hospitality Leadership, for an unforgettable evening of cuisine, creativity, and student-led hospitality.

GATHER celebrates the talent, professionalism, and real-world learning of Missouri State hospitality students. The evening is designed, managed, and executed by students in the Special Event Planning course, giving guests a front-row seat to hospitality education in action.

GATHER stands for Growing and Aspiring Talent in Hospitality through Education and Readiness.

For 2026, guests are invited to step into A Cinematic Dining Experience - an immersive evening inspired by the storytelling, style, and emotion of the movies.

The evening begins with an upscale reception inspired by the energy of a red carpet premiere and the elegance of a classic cinema. From there, guests will move through five genre-inspired dining spaces, each presenting a thoughtfully portioned course within a progressive, multi-course meal.

Rather than recreating specific films, each space will capture the mood, atmosphere, and creativity of a different movie genre through food, décor, service, and guest experience. Across the reception and five dining spaces, guests can expect a one-of-a-kind evening where every room sets a scene, every course adds to the story, and every detail is brought to life by the students of Missouri State University Hospitality Leadership.

By attending GATHER, you are directly supporting hands-on, experiential learning for hospitality students as they apply their skills in event design, menu development, guest service, logistics, leadership, and professional execution.

Seats are limited. Reserve your seat today and join us for an unforgettable evening of cinema, cuisine, and hospitality in action.