ONE NIGHT ONLY
One Night Only is a special annual art-sale gala hosted by LBIF on Long Beach Island. The event features original artwork from established artists who live and/or work on Long Beach Island, giving attendees a unique opportunity to see, meet the artists, and acquire one-of-a-kind pieces.
It’s typically held in mid-summer, drawing both residents and visitors, and is often listed among the season’s top events on LBI. It’s a lovely celebration of the local community and arts scene.
Thank you to our 2025 One Night Only Sponsor A. Richard Aitken, Jr. Builder — Contractor
Overview for 2026
The Long Beach Island Foundation of the Arts and Sciences proudly presents The Art of Lifeguarding, a special one-night-only photography exhibition and community event celebrating the skill, dedication, and enduring spirit of Long Beach Island’s lifeguards. This unique event highlights the intersection of athleticism, artistry, and coastal heritage through compelling photographs that capture the lifeguarding experience, from historic archival moments to contemporary scenes along LBI’s shoreline.
Taking place on Saturday, July 11, 2026, the evening will feature a curated exhibition, live music, food and beverages, and a marketplace of lifeguard-affiliated vendors. Proceeds will directly support LBIF’s year-round arts and science programming as well as LBI’s six beach patrols.
Call for Photographers
LBIF invites photographers from across South Jersey to submit work that showcases the artistry, athleticism, and culture of ocean lifeguarding on Long Beach Island. Photographers are encouraged to explore themes such as training, teamwork, coastal conditions, rescue skills, daily routines, competition, and the unique visual landscape of LBI beaches.
Exhibition Content
The exhibition will include two primary components:
Archival Lifeguarding Photography
Historic photographs documenting the evolution of lifeguarding on Long Beach Island, boats, stands, rescues, competitions, uniforms, training traditions, and community moments from decades past.
Contemporary Lifeguarding Photography
Recent images that reflect the present-day lifeguarding experience, showcasing action, athleticism, beach culture, and the visual rhythms of the shoreline.
Together, these works create a dynamic timeline honoring LBI’s lifeguard legacy and celebrating the individuals who watch over the island’s coastal community.
Event Features
- Curated Photography Exhibition
- Fine Artwork Display
- Live Music from The Danksters
- Food & Drinks
- Lifeguard-Affiliated Vendors
- Exhibition Catalog + Program
- Community Celebration
Purpose + Impact
The Art of Lifeguarding is both a celebration and a fundraiser. Proceeds from the event will support:
- LBIF’s arts, science, and community programming
- The six beach patrols of Long Beach Island, helping sustain training, equipment, and youth development initiatives
This event strengthens LBIF’s mission to connect art, community, and culture while spotlighting a cherished LBI tradition.
Sponsor LBIF's One Night Only Event
Sponsoring One Night Only at LBIF supports a vibrant celebration of local arts while helping fund year-round programs that enrich the Long Beach Island community.
Coast + The Art of Lifeguarding Catalog
Debuting this summer, the combined “Coast” Exhibition Catalog & “The Art of Lifeguarding” Program unites two vibrant explorations of Long Beach Island’s shoreline: its creative expression and its lifeguarding heritage. The publication features an overview of the Coast exhibition, a juror’s statement, and a full listing of participating artists and their works, alongside essays, photographs, contributor bios, and an illustrated timeline celebrating the artistry and athleticism of ocean lifeguarding. It also highlights LBIF’s mission, community partnerships, and the sponsors and advertisers who make these programs possible.
Deadline: June 05, 2026
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