The amfAR Venezia gala, a highlight of the Venice Film Festival, took place on Sunday, August 31, 2025, at the Arsenale in Venice, Italy. Hosted by Colman Domingo, who donned a bright green custom Valentino jacket, the event drew a crowd of celebrities and philanthropists. The evening was more low-key compared to the amfAR event held during the Cannes Film Festival.

The event commenced with champagne, canapés, Italian spritzes, and negronis served on the waterfront terrace, accompanied by a DJ. Guests also had the opportunity to view the artwork that would later be auctioned. Following the reception, attendees were seated for a traditional Venetian dinner of Ombrina fish, while Paris Jackson performed an acoustic set.

A live auction during the dinner featured contemporary artworks, jewelry, and destination vacations, ultimately raising $3.4 million. Julian Schnabel, who is set to present his film "In the Hand of Dante" at the festival, contributed to the auction by donating his sought-after plate portraits. Introduced by Jude Law, Schnabel spontaneously offered two portraits to the highest bidders, raising 500,000 euros ($586,000) for each. Halsey was one of the highest bidders and secured one of Schnabel's portraits. According to one source, Halsey bid $585,000 for a portrait of herself painted by Julian Schnabel. Halsey exclaimed she was "feeling on top of the world".

Halsey spoke on the red carpet about how amfAR's work has personally impacted her. She revealed her diagnosis a couple of years ago with two severe autoimmune diseases and emphasized amfAR's contribution to autoimmune and cancer research. She highlighted the importance of amfAR's work in providing access to treatment for individuals with limited resources, stating that the cause was very close to her heart.

In addition to the auction, Julian Schnabel received the Award of Inspiration in recognition of his commitment to amfAR’s research. The evening culminated in a performance by pop star Ava Max, who energized the crowd and led to a rush toward water taxis for transportation to Venice hotels and after-parties.

amfAR, The Foundation for AIDS Research, is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting AIDS research, HIV prevention, treatment education, and advocacy. Since its establishment in 1985, amfAR has raised nearly $950 million for its programs.

Other notable attendees included Jude Law, who is in Venice to promote his film “The Wizard of the Kremlin,” Paris Jackson, Sofia Resing, Leonie Hanne, and Sofia Carson. Paris Jackson, Ava Max and Halsey made best dressed lists.