Second Annual Night of Discovery Gala

✨ Night of Discovery 📅 Thursday, September 17 ⌚ 5:00-9:30pm An Evening of Discovery. An Investment in the Future. Join us for Minnesota Discovery Center’s Second Annual 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. Cocktail attire is encouraged. 🎶 Live Music: Sam Miltich & The Clearwater Hot Club | 7:00–9:30pm Event Timeline: 5:00pm — Doors open 5:00pm-7:00pm — Social hour, raffle, and Discovery Pairings 7:00pm-8:15pm — Dinner and Award Presentation 7:00pm-9:30pm — Live music by Sam Miltich & The Clearwater Hot Club 8:00pm — Last chance to place bids on Raffle! 8:15pm — Raffle closes 8:30pm — Raffle winners announced, additional time to explore the museum and grounds 9:30pm — Event concludes 🎫 Tickets can be purchased on our TicketTailor page. UPDATE: Chef has finalized the menu! Check it out. 👇🏽 HORS D’OEUVRES Blackberry, basil, & balsamic skewers Spinach & artichoke puff pastry roulades Sun-dried tomato & goat cheese bites ENTRÉES Coffee-rubbed beef tenderloin Steakhouse chicken with peppercorn-mushroom sauce FRUITS & VEGETABLES Parmesan-roasted asparagus with fresh lemon zest Arugula, pear, & parmesan salad with lemon vinaigrette Bourbon-glazed carrots SIDES Roasted potatoes with feta Roasted garlic & thyme polenta DESSERTS Panna cotta Tres leches Yuzu cheesecake