Miami Children’s Museum, South Florida’s premier institution for interactive and engaging early childhood learning through art, science, culture, and literacy, held its annual “Be A Kid Again” Gala at the Museum.   Chaired by Christina and David Martin, the 2026 “Be A Kid Again” Gala welcomed guests to an unforgettable evening of cosmic celebration and community impact themed Out Of This World.  This year’s celestial celebration transformed the museum into a dazzling space-inspired experience, complete with immersive décor, stellar entertainment, and interactive surprises that captured the wonder of exploration and discovery. Guiding the evening’s festivities was Laurie Jennings, the six-time Emmy award-winning journalist, serving as emcee for the night. Known for her engaging on-air presence and dedication to the community, Jennings launched the evening into orbit with energy and enthusiasm. In addition, Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava kicked the night off and welcomed guests to enjoy one of the most memorable events in the City of Miami.

“This year’s Out of This World theme captures the imagination and sense of possibility that defines our city and Miami Children’s Museum,” said gala chairs Christina and David Martin. “Our goal is to create a magical evening that not only dazzles our guests but also fuels the museum’s ability to provide transformative programs and access for children across our community.”

The annual “Be A Kid Again” Gala is the organization’s largest fundraiser of the year and critical in raising funds for the Museum’s impactful educational programs and initiatives. Proceeds from the playful evening support the Museum’s engaging, exciting exhibits and cultural programming, as well as the S.M.A.R.T. (Safe Multicultural Artistic Recreational Teaching) Program which provides daily, high-quality after-school youth development to six schools in Brownsville, Goulds, Liberty City, and Miami Gardens. These funds also extend to the Museum’s innovative programming by allowing the organization to deliver the highest quality educational experiences that promote the love of learning from an early age and empower children to realize their highest potential.

“Miami Children’s Museum is more than a place to play, it’s a launchpad for discovery,” said Deborah Spiegelman, Miami Children’s Museum CEO & Executive Director. “Funds raised through the gala allow us to expand innovative exhibits, enhance STEM learning opportunities, and keep our experiences accessible and engaging for every child who walks through our doors.”

The evening will also highlight the leadership and vision of the museum’s governing board, whose support helps propel the organization forward.

“Our board is deeply committed to the long-term sustainability and growth of the Miami Children’s Museum,” Jeffrey Berkowitz, who served as Miami Children’s Museum’s Chairman of the Board. “The Annual Gala is a powerful reminder of what we can accomplish together as a community when we invest in our children’s futures.”

The Museum’s annual gala is one of South Florida’s most engaging social events, offering a unique opportunity for adults to relive the joys of childhood for a night, and take part in a captivating escape from the ordinary. Guests are encouraged to embrace the Out of This World theme as they enjoy a cocktail hour followed by a seated dinner along with live and silent auctions and special programming designed to reflect the museum’s mission of inspiring curiosity and creativity in children and families.

Premier Sponsors

Citadel | Citadel Securities
Christina and David Martin
The Potamkin Family

VIP Sponsors

Academica
Jeff & Yolanda Berkowitz
Bilzin Sumberg
Heide & Jose Dans
Greenberg Traurig
Richard & Susan Lampen
Margaret and Ryan McKillen
Vita and Valerio Morabito & Wayne and Cynthia Boich
New Tradition Media
Volha & Nicholas Singer

Patron Sponsors

AB Bernstein
ANF
Century Risk Advisors
City National Bank
Vanessa Elias & The Netkin Family
KAST Construction
Company Florida LLC
Miami Dade College
Miami Herald
Northern Trust
Commissioner Damian Pardo
PNC Bank
Commissioner Raquel Regelado
Riemer Insurance Group
Sidley Austin, Sudsies

In-Kind Sponsor

Bacardi and Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits

Dessert Sponsor

Commissioner Micky Steinberg

2026 Gala Committee

Desiree Casoni
Marianne Devine
Vanesa Elias
Kate Lashley
Oscar Lopez
Gina Maisano
Elisa Marshall
Margaret McKillen
Kelly Ruane Melchiondo
Melissa Netkin
Lydia Pinnell-Lawrie
Pablo Rodriguez-Fraile
Vita Sidorkina
Volha Singer

About Miami Children’s Museum

Miami Children’s Museum is a 501(c)(3) non-profit educational institution dedicated to enriching the lives of all children by fostering a love of learning and enabling children to realize their highest potential. Visitors of all ages are encouraged to play together, learn, imagine, and create. The museum offers bilingual, interactive exhibits, hundreds of daily programs and classes, a Subway restaurant, Kid Smart educational gift shop and learning materials related to arts, culture, community, and communication. Celebrating 40 years of fostering childhood education and imagination, Miami Children’s Museum also marks 21 years in its iconic Watson Island location.