Spanish 
Santa Rosa, CA — The Children’s Museum of Sonoma County will host its annual Time to Wonder Gala on Friday, April 17, 2026, at The Backdrop in Santa Rosa, bringing together community members for an evening of fundraising, entertainment, and hands-on joyful experiences.
This year’s event will honor the Dow Family for their longstanding leadership and commitment to the Museum. Their support has played a vital role in helping the organization grow and continue serving children and families throughout Sonoma County.
The gala benefits the Museum’s Access for All programs, which provide free and reduced admission to low-income families and Title I schools, ensuring that all children have the opportunity to learn through play. Last year, over 50,000 children and families benefitted from this direct community support.
The evening will begin with a lively garden reception featuring interactive, hands-on activities, as well as local wine and beer tastings, and performances by Play Marimba!. Guests will enjoy dinner, live entertainment, and a high-energy program including a live auction, raffle, and Fund-a-Need.
This year’s auction will feature a range of premium experiences, including a week-long stay in the South of France, a scenic Sea Ranch coastal getaway, a luxury Bend, Oregon retreat, and a one-of-a-kind private dinner at the McDonald Mansion, prepared by four current and former Santa Rosa mayors. Additional packages include an E.R. Sawyer custom designed necklace and earrings, and a Healdsburg VIP Wine & Dine Experience at Folia Bar & Kitchen with chef Charlie Palmer and overnight stay at Appellation Healdsburg.
Raffle prizes will offer guests the chance to win luxury travel and local experiences, including a Sedona getaway, an extraordinary Sonoma County dining experience to over eight exclusive restaurants, and Bradford Brenner’s gorgeous “Persimmons Perhaps”, oil on canvas paired with a dinner for two at Dustin Valette’s notable Roof 106 at The Matheson and 10lbs of salami from Sonoma County Meat Co.
The event is presented with premier sponsorship from Poppy Bank, whose support helps expand access to the Museum’s educational programs and exhibits.
Last year’s gala welcomed 200 attendees; this year, nearly 300 guests are expected including support from notable Santa Rosa city philanthropic families, reflecting growing community support for the Museum’s mission.
Event Details:
Time to Wonder Gala
Friday, April 17, 2026, 5:30pm
The Backdrop, Santa Rosa
For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit:
