The National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium will host the annual Party for the Planet on April 26 from 10 AM – 2 PM. General admission grants access to the day’s activities and visitors who bring canned food items will receive $5 off admission (one discount per transaction, unlimited number of canned items) All donations will benefit the Dubuque Food Pantry. This year’s event is presented by TH Media.
“We are excited to highlight animal and habitat conservation at this year’s Party for the Planet,” said Codi Sharkey, Conservation Programs Manager at the River Museum. “Our theme this year showcases the interconnectedness of wildlife and the ecosystems that support them. By educating the public about the challenges facing animals and the importance of habitat protection, we hope to inspire positive environmental change both locally and globally.”
Party for the Planet is a fun-filled celebration of the planet’s diverse animals and the importance of preserving their habitats. It will include engaging educational programs, hands-on activities, and a chance to see what our wonderful partners are doing to inspire guests of all ages to take action in conserving wildlife and protecting natural environments. Members of the River Museum’s Living Collections team will host keeper chats about the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Saving Animals from Extinction (SAFE) programs for Wyoming Toads and Freshwater Mussels, highlighting the impactful work happening right here in Dubuque.
The River Museum’s popular outreach program, the Ocean Odyssey mobile shark touch tank, will be on-site from 12 – 2 PM. Guests can also bring home yellow birch saplings, courtesy of Wagner Nursery, and have the chance to win an octopus encounter, alligator experience, or a prairie plant consultation. Other regularly scheduled activities like Behind the Scenes Tours, Stingray Feedings, and movies in the 4D Theater will still be available for purchase at the box office.
Rain or shine, Party for the Planet will take place, and guests are encouraged to make their visit an entire day!
A special thank you to our partners:
Friends of the Mines of Spain, White Pine Sierra Club, Dubuque County Conservation, U.S Fish and Wildlife Service, Genoa National Fish Hatchery, Wagner Nursery, Dubuque Food Pantry, Green Dubuque, City of Dubuque Public Health, Dubuque County Master Gardeners, Dubuque County Conservation Board, Scouting America, Soil and Water District/NRCS, University of Wisconsin-Platteville Animal House, Teens Take C.A.A.R.E.