The Children's Museum of Wilmington Presents their 16th Annual YachtVenture Fundraiser


WILMINGTON, NC – October 1, 2026 – The Children’s Museum of Wilmington is excited to host its 16th Annual YachtVenture fundraiser at Bradley Creek YachtClub on Saturday, October 24th from 6-9:30pm. YachtVenture is one of Wilmington's signature waterfront events, bringing the community together for a fun-filled evening celebrating coastal life while raising critical funds to support The Children’s Museum of Wilmington.
Guests to YachtVenture will experience an unforgettable coastal evening featuring scenic yacht tours, handcrafted cocktails, delicious food, spirited auctions and raffles, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy time with friends while supporting a great cause.
YachtVenture is a 21+ event that offers guests the chance to support The Children’s Museum of Wilmington, a 501(c) (3) non-profit. Children's museums are community spaces that help young minds grow and create a foundation for lifelong learning for all children. By participating in YachtVenture, guests will help raise critical funds that will provide interactive exhibits, educational programming, and playful learning experiences at The Children's Museum of Wilmington that serve children and families across the community.
“YachtVenture is the very essence of Wilmington. It’s coastal, it’s fun, and it brings our community together for something that truly matters,” said Patti Erkes, Director of Development at the Museum. “Play is fundamental to childhood. It’s how children learn, grow, build confidence, and discover the world around them. We want every child to have a place where they can do that, and YachtVenture helps us keep that promise. The critical funds raised through this night help us fulfill our mission of inspiring imaginative play and curiosity so children can learn, grow, and thrive, reaching thousands of children right here in Wilmington.”
YachtVenture tickets are on sale now for $200 per person. Tickets are also available for the Museum's "A Taste of the Coast" raffle, where participants will have a chance to win $2500 in local dining gift cards. Raffle tickets are $100 each and only 200 tickets will be sold.
For tickets and additional information about YachtVenture, visit the Museum's YachtVenture website or follow the Museum on social media for event updates.
For press inquiries or more information about the event, please contact:
Patti Erkes
Phone: 910-254-3534 x 104
Email: perkes@playwilmington.org
Website: www.yachtventure.org
About The Children's Museum of Wilmington
The Children’s Museum of Wilmington is a non-profit organization committed to inspiring creativity, exploration, and lifelong learning in children through hands-on exhibits, educational programs, and exciting events. The Museum serves as a hub for playful learning and community engagement for families across southeastern North Carolina.

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