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press release

National Children’s Museum Announces Curiosity + Cocktails: a Playful Fun-raiser on November 7, 2025

August 5, 2025
For Immediate Release

An immersive, adults-only evening to support next-generation STEAM learning through play

WASHINGTON, D.C. (August 5, 2025) – National Children’s Museum invites community members, museum supporters, and new friends to its much-anticipated fall fundraiser, “Curiosity + Cocktails,” on Friday, November 7, 2025, from 8:00 to 10:00 p.m. This exclusive after-hours event gives guests the rare chance to rediscover their inner child while supporting hands-on STEAM education for children across the region.

Decadent desserts and complimentary craft cocktails will be served throughout the night, and a live DJ will be spinning nostalgic hits from the '90s and early 2000s. In addition to open exploration of the exhibit floor, guests can “build their own adventure” as they make their way through several playful pop-up experiences and engage in interactive science and art activations.

“All proceeds from ‘Curiosity + Cocktails’ directly support our mission to inspire children to care about and change the world through accessible, hands-on STEAM learning,” said Kiryn Hoffman, President and CEO of National Children’s Museum. “Every day, we engage with children in our space, seeing their eyes light up with curiosity. We also see caregivers having the exact same reaction, because National Children’s Museum is a place where adults can be kids again. That’s why I’m so excited we’re bringing this interactive event experience to the Museum. It’s a great way for those who may be new to our space to see what we do, engage with our dynamic offerings, meet our wonderful community of supporters, and have fun.”

This one-night-only event is a chance to step behind the scenes, enjoy playful experiences crafted just for adults, and invest in a future filled with wonder for every child who learn, plays, and grows at National Children’s Museum.

Event Details

Date: Friday, November 7, 2025
Time: 8:00 - 10:00 p.m. (add to calendar)
Location: National Children’s Museum
1300 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20004
Parking: Available
Attire: Creative cocktail attire encouraged

Tickets: $150 per person. Available starting September 15. Interested parties can sign up here to be notified when tickets become released.

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About National Children’s Museum

National Children’s Museum is a dynamic institution in the heart of Washington, D.C., that combines learning elements found in a science center with children’s museum experiences. Through play-based science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM) exhibits and programs, the Museum sparks curiosity and ignites creativity for children under the age of twelve and their families. Founded in 1974, the Museum has served Washingtonians for five decades, and since reopening its new location in September 2021, the Museum has established itself as an international destination for play, welcoming more than 771,000 visitors across all eight wards, 50 states, and more than 75 countries. Learn more about how to visit the Museum and engage with virtual STEAM resources at nationalchildrensmuseum.org.

curiosity + cocktails

Learn more about the event details and sponsorship opportunities.

view event page