SAN DIEGO—If there’s ever been a time to visit The Nat, it’s during its 150th anniversary year. From an unstuffy “un-gala” and a community block party to a film premiere highlighting the amazing wildlife in our region, there’s a celebration event for everyone to enjoy and commemorate this milestone.
“We’re extremely proud to celebrate 150 years of bringing people closer to nature,” said Judy Gradwohl, the Christy Walton President and CEO. “These anniversary events reflect our ongoing commitment to our community and region, and we invite everyone to join in the festivities.”
The Museum has been celebrating all year, but is hosting parties and events in the fall to coincide with its founding in October 1874 (as the San Diego Society of Natural History). Visitors are encouraged to explore all Museum activities, anniversary-related or not, at sdnat.org/calendar. Join the celebration and party like it’s 1847.
Friday, September 13, 7–11 PM: Secret Society of Adultologists. Need a night out for adulting? This 21+ event provides activities on every floor of the Museum along with live music and food and drinks available for purchase. This year’s theme is Wonderland, so bring your best top hat, pocket watch, or wacky attire for a night to remember. $35 for members, $45 for non-members.
Friday, September 27, 6–10 PM: The Big Birthday Bash. This unexpected, unstuffy “un-gala” will take place on all four floors plus the rooftop. Guests will enjoy creative dishes by top regional chefs, innovative cocktails, live music, and a silent auction. Ticket and sponsorship prices can be found on the website.
Tuesday, October 8, 5–7:30 PM: Members-Only Night. This is the one night a year members go behind-the-scenes of the Museum to get an inside-look at the collections and chat with Museum curators, scientists, and staff. Free for members.
Friday, October 18, 5–10 PM: Nat at Night, Birthday Edition. An extra-celebratory Nat at Night celebrates 150 years of bringing people closer to nature! The public (and staff alumni!) are invited to the museum for an evening of mingling, celebrating, and learning. Free for members, $6-12 for non-members.
Saturday, October 19, 10 AM–5 PM: The Big Birthday Block Party. This free event welcomes the entire community to celebrate the big birthday, including activities inside and outside of the Museum. Enjoy hands-on activities with local community organizations and vendors, live music, discounts on membership, access to all exhibitions, and a sneak peek at the brand-new Paleo Center. This event is free to the public.
Wednesday, October 23, 7–9 PM: Look What We Found in the Archives. The museum’s Research Library houses over 150 years of historical information, treasures, and mysteries—that’s a lot to sift through. This Nat Talk will take guests on an exploration of our history through the items in our archives and the stories of the people who made it happen. $12 for members, $15 for non-members.
Mid-November: Film Premiere of Wild San Diego. Welcome to San Diego, where the surf meets the city and the wild side of nature is just a heartbeat away. Wild San Diego unveils the hidden wonders of the country's most biodiverse urban landscape. From the dramatic rituals of grebes and the playful antics of ground squirrels to the thrilling hunts of orcas and the moonlit spawning of grunion, this film showcases nature's resilience and beauty amidst the urban sprawl. This brand-new film will screen daily in the Giant Screen Experience and is included with paid admission.
These events are only one part of The Nat’s 150th anniversary celebration throughout 2024. For more information about anniversary events and activities, visit the website, sign up for email updates, or follow on Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok.
The San Diego Natural History Museum (The Nat) is one of California’s oldest and most respected cultural and scientific institutions. Founded in 1874 by a small group of community scientists, the Museum works to preserve and protect this amazing place we call home. The Museum is located at 1788 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101 in Balboa Park. For more information, call 877.946.7797 or visit sdnat.org. Follow The Nat on Twitter and Instagram and join the discussion on Facebook.
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Fall anniversary event photos available on Dropbox.
Paula Sternberg, Science Communications Manager, psternberg@sdnhm.org, 619.255.0220
Toni Robin, TR/PR Public Relations,tr@trprsandiego.com, 858.483.3918