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Event Series: Celebrate Play Gala

Celebrate Play Gala 2026

March 6, 2026   |   5:30 pm - 9:00 pm

Please join us for an evening that sparkles with good company, great food, and plenty of bubbles as we Celebrate Play!

The night begins with a champagne cocktail in our signature shade of purple, passed hors d’oeuvres, games that make you feel like a kid again, and opportunities to take home fantastic prizes. Then, enjoy a multi-course dinner as we share stories of impact from The Iowa Children’s Museum.

Raise a glass of champagne with your table as we reach our fundraising goals, then join the excitement of the live and silent auctions. When the final bids are in, collect your winnings, savor one last sip, and celebrate what we’ve achieved together.

This event blends classy and casual with a black-and-white theme—dress it up in black tie or keep it simple in your favorite white tee and denim.

Your support helps fund exhibits, operations, and programs at The Iowa Children’s Museum, including ICM for Everyone, which provides free and reduced admission for families with financial need. Together, we can ensure that every child has the opportunity to imagine, create, and discover through the Power of Play.

View the 2025 Event Wrap-Up and Photos Here!

Tickets

Individual Ticket ($125.00)

Individual tickets provide admission to the event, including a multi-course dinner, drinks, and entertainment.

Table Sponsors ($1,500.00)

Sponsored Tables provide admission for 10 to the event, including a multi-course dinner, drinks, and entertainment. Table Sponsors also receive recognition in the event program distributed to all guests, inclusion of the sponsor’s name and/or logo in the Live Auction slide show, and signage with the sponsor’s name welcoming guests at the event.

Reserve your tickets

Click here to purchase your tickets! You won’t want to miss this flashy, classy event full of games, drinks, food, and supporting kids in our community.

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Shape the Future of Play!

Please take a moment to share your thoughts in our 5-minute survey. Your feedback will help us keep the museum’s exhibits and programs fun, accessible, and meaningful for every child.

Give the gift of play

This holiday season, give them moments that matter. Memberships and gift cards create warm memories and give curiosity a place to grow!

Closed August 25th-29th

The Iowa Children’s Museum will be closed Monday, August 25th, through Friday, August 29th, for routine cleaning and maintenance. This includes STEM Family Free Night. Thank you for your patience while we work to make our exhibits even better for your next visit!

Due to Winter Weather

We will be closing at 5:00 pm on 2/12

Thank you for your understanding!