26th Annual Mission Creek Gala

Revealing the Colors of Nature - March 21, 2026

The Museum inspires a thirst for discovery and a passion for the natural world and is committed to providing exceptional educational programs for the Santa Barbara community. Our annual Gala has raised nearly $8.5 million for school programs since 2000.

Revealing the Colors of Nature will celebrate the vibrant ways color connects us to the natural world. From the dazzling hues that attract pollinators to the subtle shades that help animals hide or warn of danger, color plays a vital role in how life survives and thrives. This special evening will highlight the fascinating science behind nature’s palette—mimicry, camouflage, attraction, and defense—while supporting the Museum’s mission to inspire wonder, discovery, and care for the world around us.

Guests will enjoy an unforgettable evening featuring imaginative décor, delicious food by duo catering and events, amazing wines, inspiring speakers, and the company of fellow Museum friends who share a passion for making a difference.

Together, we will make the Gala a night to remember—not just for the fun of the evening but for the lasting impact it will have on the education and connection of our youngest community members to the wonders of the natural world.

To save resources, we are not mailing a printed invitation but will be emailing a digital invite.

Table sponsorships are available.

Aurora Sponsor - $12,000
Beautiful table for 10 guests, Priority placement, Dedicated server, Bubbly toast, and Museum Honorary Patron memberships for guests

Starlight Sponsor - $7,500
Lovely table for 8 guests, Museum memberships for guests

Moonbeam Sponsor - $2,000
VIP tickets for 2 guests

In lieu of a live auction, you can purchase a private and enchanting dinner in the Museum's Butterfly Pavilion or host the party of the year at the Sea Center for the 2026 Parade of Lights.

Butterfly Dinner - $15,000
Enjoy a personalized gourmet dinner for 10 guests in the Sprague Butterfly Pavilion (summer 2026). Includes a butterfly release, butterfly experts on hand to answer questions, and an incredible dinner blending nature's splendor and culinary artistry.

Parade of Lights Party - $25,000 (only one available)
View the 2026 December Parade of lights event at the best location in town - the Sea Center! Enjoy cocktails and appetizers while you and your guests watch the boat parade pass right by the Sea Center deck. Vote for your favorite decorations to give out the Sea Center Award. Afterwards, move to the front of the Sea Center for a 5- minutes fireworks show. Delight in a sit-down gourmet dinner for ten in the Sea Center foyer.

Please contact Philanthropy Director Caroline Baker 805-682-4711 ext. 109 or cbaker@sbnature2.org with any questions or to support the event.

2026 Gala Committee

Stacey Byers
Sheri Eckmann
Venesa Faciane
Lucy Firestone
Elisabeth Fowler
Heather Hambleton
Tamara Jensen
Kenneth Kelly, Ph.D.
Bobbie Kinnear
Amanda Lee
Jackie McBride
Karen Nicholson
Susan Parker

Thank you to our generous supporters and sponsors of the April 12, 2025 Mission Creek Gala: Flora & Fauna who contributed $665,000 to support the Museum’s education programs.

Past Galas

The 2024 Mission Creek Gala Mineral Masquerade raised $675,000!

Board Chair Tory Milazzo with his wife Kelly. Photo by Baron Spafford
Photos by Baron Spafford

The Galactic Gala was held on Saturday, April 15, 2023 and raised $570,000!

Staff event speakers and support Isabella Figueroa, Charlie Thrift, Krissie Cook, and Luke Swetland. Photo by Baron Spafford

Sponsors Heather and Rob Hambleton and their table guests enjoying the Gala.
Photo by Baron Spafford

2022 Seahorse Soiree

Sea Center on Stearns Wharf lit up for the Seahorse Soiree

Thanks to the generous sponsors and donors to the Seahorse Soiree the event raised $500,000 to support our important nature and science education programs for schoolchildren in our tri-county area. These funds will be used to fund hands-on learning opportunities that provide an understanding and appreciation of the natural world thereby fostering the next generation of ecologists, policy makers, and informed citizens. For many, the Museum is their first introduction to the wonders of nature, and the remarkable region in which we live. This sets the stage for a life-long interest in both science and the natural world.

Heather Hambleton and Melissa McCann enjoy the opening reception at the Seahorse Soiree.

For more information contact Caroline Baker at 805-682-4711 ext. 109 or cbaker@sbnature2.org.