The Children’s Discovery Museum in Normal will close to the public from Sunday, Sept. 1 through Sunday, Sept. 8 for its annual adults-only fundraising event, Playla, to be held from 6-10 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 7.
Museum Executive Director Beth Whisman says the days leading up to Playla (a play on the word “gala”) will be spent ushering in specialty equipment and furnishings to create unique playful spaces and experiences curated especially for adults.
“Playla is a one-night-only event that completely transforms the Children’s Discovery Museum,” Whisman says. “It is a chance for grown-ups to enjoy the Museum in a radically different way, while raising crucial funds to support the next generation of exhibits and outreach programs.”
While some of the Museum’s exhibits are featured components of the Playla experience, other areas will be dramatically redesigned with luxe lighting, high-top tables, glow-in-the-dark décor and more.
In commemoration of the organization’s 30th anniversary, this year’s event will feature a nostalgic overlay, with playful activities and experiences inspired by 1990s pop-culture, including Jock Jams Silent Disco, Double Dare: Climber Edition, Mixology at Central Perk, Glow Nintendo Gameboy, Bill Nye the Science Guy, foosball with F. R. I. E. N. D. S. and much more.
Catered food and beverages will be stationed throughout the Museum, including a cash bar on every floor. Local hospitality partners include Ancho & Agave, Bonchon, DoubleTree Hotel, Hy-Vee, Keg Grove Brewing Co., Nautical Bowls, Pizza Payaa, Prairie Farms, Rivian, Rader Farms and Rob Dob’s Restaurant & Bar.
Tickets for Playla are available for purchase (until sold out) at www.ChildrensDiscoveryMuseum.net or by calling the Museum during open hours at 309-433-3444.
Playla is produced with support from “Power of Play” Sponsor, CEFCU. Other contributors include The Pantagraph, Rivian, The Shirk Family Foundation, Commerce Bank, Thrive Child Psychology, Advanced Women’s Healthcare and more. Event proceeds support the Children’s Discovery Museum and the furthering of its mission: “to inspire the love of learning through the Power of Play”.