Night of Discovery

✨ An Evening of Discovery. An Investment in the Future.

Join us for Minnesota Discovery Center's Night of Discovery Gala on Thursday, September 17, from 5:00–9:30pm. It will be an unforgettable evening of celebration, entertainment, and philanthropy.

Set against the backdrop of MDC's beautiful campus, this special event brings together community leaders, supporters, and friends for a night dedicated to preserving Iron Range stories and expanding educational opportunities for future generations.

Enjoy delicious food, signature cocktails, exciting raffle packages, and exclusive after-hours access to MDC's exhibits and grounds. Throughout the evening, you'll experience the impact of our work and learn how your support helps connect children, families, and visitors to the history, culture, and natural resources that define our region.

The evening will feature live music from Minnesota’s own Sam Miltich & The Clearwater Hot Club. Born and raised in Grand Rapids, Sam’s instinctive jazz has captivated audiences on hundreds of stages—from Iron Range bars to New York’s Lincoln Center. His timeless sound will provide the perfect soundtrack for an unforgettable evening.

Every raffle ticket purchased and donation made during the evening will support MDC's Discovery Fund, helping provide financial assistance for field trips, educational programming, summer camps, workshops, and transportation costs so every child has the opportunity to learn, explore, and discover.

Night of Discovery is more than a gala—it's a celebration of the Iron Range's past, present, and future.

Raise a glass, make a difference, and join us for an evening where discovery creates opportunity.

Event Timeline:

• 5:00pm ~ Doors open; socializing, raffle, and Discovery Pairings begin
• 5:15pm ~ VIP excursion for Premier ticket holders out to the Thompson Homestead
• 6:00pm ~ VIP excursion for Premier ticket holders out to the Thompson Homestead
  
• 7:00pm ~ Dinner and live music begin; award presentation happens
• 8:00pm ~ Last call to enter the raffle
• 8:15pm ~ Raffle closes, dinner finishes up
• 8:30pm ~ Raffle winners announced; free time to explore the Museum & Grounds
• 9:30pm ~ Live music ends, event concludes

A delicious steakhouse-style dinner, served from 7:00-8:15pm.

Live Music:

Sam Miltich & The Clearwater Hot Club | 7:00–9:30pm

Thank you to our wonderful event sponsor!

Thank you to our incredible partners!