A lavish and spectacular evening of intergalactic fun is coming to one of St. Pete’s most beloved museums this weekend. Every year, hundreds gather for Great Explorations Children’s Museum’s annual fundraising gala, and this year’s spectacle is “The Great Extravaganza: Gala in the Galaxy,” taking place this Saturday, September 23 at Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater.

As part of the mystical and extravagant gathering, gala attendees travel across the universe on “a cosmic adventure like no other at this star-studded fundraiser.” Tickets for the food-and-drink-filled voyage into the cosmos are available now, with general admission and VIP options both available. Additionally, the silent auction for the gala goes live on September 18, which anyone can bid on their phone (in person or remote) with a slew of fantastic items and packages available.

Guests in orbit at Gala in the Galaxy can expect an incredible evening of interstellar delights. Attendees will treat their senses to a delightful culinary journey with a galaxy-themed menu that will transport their taste buds to uncharted dimensions. In addition to fantastic cuisine, the evening will be filled with a mesmerizing array of entertainment, including an LED poi performer, contortionist, illusionist, LED hula hooper, stilt walker, and virtuoso violinist. There will also be dancing, drinks, and an incredible lineup for the silent auction.

Ruth Eckerd Hall will be transformed like no one has seen it before, including the ‘Luminous Lounge’ featuring glowing furniture where guests can savor handcrafted themed cocktails and immerse themselves in “an ambiance that seamlessly blends exploration and elegance.”

To make the evening even more immersive, attendees will be able to participate in some incredible experiences. In the Celestial Gem Hunt, moon rocks will reveal the possibility of winning extraordinary, high-priced gems. The secrets of the stars will be discovered through personalized birth chart readings by expert astrologers. And all can witness celestial splendor from Ruth Eckerd Hall’s balcony, or become immersed in the new Great Explorations planetarium, embarking on a mesmerizing voyage through the universe.

While the recommended dress for the evening is cocktail attire, guests are encouraged to let their creative side shine with ensembles that embrace the cosmic theme of the evening. The funds raised during this event will support Great Explorations’ mission, which includes enriching creative play programming at the museum, in neighboring areas, and in Title 1 elementary schools in Pinellas County.

More information and tickets for Gala in the Galaxy can be found here.

Great Explorations, located at 1925 4th Street North, has led the way as Tampa Bay’s first children’s museum, showcasing interactive, educational and immersive exhibits to delight the imaginations of children of all ages. From their For All Animals veterinary exhibit, STEAM lab, and surfboard climbers to the Lego Wall, Imagination Playground and kid-sized fire station, Great Explorations is a wonderland for kids in Pinellas County and beyond.