vernissage
/ˌvɜrnɪˈsɑʒ/
noun
- A private preview or opening of an art exhibition, usually held before the public opening.
- The artist was nervous as he greeted guests at his first vernissage.
- She wore a elegant dress to the vernissage of the new contemporary art show.
- The gallery invited only a few collectors to the vernissage before the official opening.