Despite its name, The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis is not just for children. It is also for those young at heart. Grownups who want to get dressed up and enjoy a night out without the kids can dance with the dinos and learn about the science of beer all while paying it forward.
Slip back in time 100 years to the Roaring ‘20s and the Golden Age of Hollywood — full of glamour and glitter at Museum by Moonlight, The Children’s Museum biggest single-night fundraiser. The themed event takes place during a time in which guys wore pinstripe suits with sporty hats, such as a fedora or round bowler. “Dolls,” as they were called back then, donned loose-fitting flapper dresses that made it easier to swing to up-tempo jazz. The beads and fringe created quite the visual.
“This isn’t just another night on the town or date night,” says Rico Francis, co-chair of Museum by Moonlight. “Your support at this event allows us to continue keeping The Children’s Museum accessible to every child and family. Now that’s something to celebrate.”
The FUNdraiser supports:
- The museum’s nearly 100-year legacy so that it lives on for the next generation of explorers and dreamers
- Helps hold down the cost of general admission
- Provides reduced and free admission to underserved families
- Funds programming, interpretation and live theater productions
“The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis has seen generations of people around the world grow and learn through exhibits, events and programs,” says Meggie Dials, co-chair of Museum by Moonlight. “Whether you are a parent, guardian or caregiver, we hope you’ve witnessed the true museum magic in your children’s eyes. Now you, too, can experience that same child-like wonder as a grown up.”
On August 26, guests ages 21 and older will enjoy an elegant evening from 7 p.m. until the infamous water clock strikes midnight. With two levels of tickets available, all guests receive access to exclusive spaces and activities, as well as a tax acknowledgement letter. A VIP ticket provides early access to the festivities, including a silent auction, premium tastings, delicious food catered by some of the city’s best restaurants and much more.
“Museum by Moonlight aids in ensuring the museum’s legacy of creating larger-than-life learning opportunities live on for the next generation,” says Amy Kwas, vice president of development. “Museum staff have worked closely with an external committee of change-makers and creatives in the city to make this a memorable experience.”
Those who are 21+ and looking for a more casual night on the town will enjoy “After-Dark” events at the museum throughout the year. In October, the museum will host a Halloween After-Dark event, in which guests will brave their way through The Children’s Museum Guild’s 59th Annual Haunted House and participate in other activities just for grownups.
Embracing the opportunity to visit the Children’s Museum can reignite the sense of wonder and joy that is often left behind in childhood. Visit childrensmuseum.org/after-hours-adults to discover more about other adult-only events.
