North Shore Children’s Museum will offer adults a chance to have fun at its first-ever Grown-Ups Gala on Friday, May 17. The signature fundraising event for the museum will take place at the Black Box Theater.
This special cocktail party will raise funds to empower kids to learn through play, by supporting the museum’s newly created 501c3, Friends of North Shore Children’s Museum. Access is a fundamental part of the North Shore Children’s Museum mission, including income-based admission prices, educational exhibits, and robust program offerings.
“Since opening in October 2022, we’ve welcomed over 50,000 visitors to our space at 10 Main St. in Peabody and 25% of those visitors have come for free or on a significantly reduced ticket price. Philanthropy allows us to offer income-based admission so everyone can enjoy and benefit from our museum. We are also proud to offer 100% of our special programs at zero additional cost. Donations make this possible,” Executive Director Ali Haydock said.
The theme for this year’s gala is “A Night at the Carnival” and will feature special performers like magicians, jugglers, and live music. Carnival games will help raise funds for the museum, silent and live auctions will include fantastic, one-of-a-kind items from local businesses and experiences including hot air balloon rides, sky diving, Patriots suite tickets, a trip to St. Thomas, and more. Guest Emcee Katie Thompson from Channel 5 WCVB will be on stage throughout the night.
“We are excited to gather the community and our supporters for the Grown-Ups Gala. As the only children’s museum in northeast Massachusetts, access is an important part of our mission. Donations support programs like our $3 tickets for EBT and WIC card holders. From the start, this museum has been a place for everyone and your support ensures that can continue,” Peabody Mayor Ted Bettencourt said.
Bettencourt’s vision for the museum began several years ago and the community’s involvement has always been essential to its success. “It’s been tremendous to see the city and broader North Shore come together to support and enjoy the museum over the past 18 months since it opened on Main Street,” he said.
Tickets for the Grown-Ups Gala are on sale now at www.nschildrensmuseum.org/grownupsgala. Interested in sponsorship opportunities? Contact Ali Haydock at 978-538-5776.
