The 2026 Stargazer Gala

A Night at the Circus

Thursday, July 23 | 6 - 10pm

Purchase Stargazer Gala Tickets

Step into the magic of a Broadway-style circus filled with wonder, imagination, and delight.


Inspired by the spirit of curiosity and discovery that defined Maria Mitchell—America’s first professional astronomer—

this extraordinary evening celebrates the joy of exploration through performance and enchantment.


In collaboration with Vernardos Circus, the Stargazer Circus brings world-class acrobats, aerialists, jugglers, and moments of humor

and heart to the stage in an unforgettable experience under the Big Top.


Guests will enjoy "Big Top" bites and curated concessions by Island Kitchen, along with "Celestial Cocktails" crafted for the occasion.

A roaming magician, fortune tellers, and a whimsical wishing tree add to the mystique of the evening.


Following the performance, the celebration continues with live music by the Hess Twins, as guests dance, mingle,

and revel in the thrill of something truly magical.

 

 Tickets: $750 ($550 tax-deductible)

Stargazer Gala Sponsorship Opportunities

Center Stage $25,000

  • 8 Premiere Gala tickets (table seating)
  • Pre-show meet-and-greet with Circus performers and photo op
  • Premium wine service throughout the performance
  • Special take-home gift
  • Name/logo on all marketing materials & event slideshow, and recognition in the souvenir program


Ringmaster $5,000

  • 4 Premiere Gala tickets (stageside seating)
  • Name/logo on all marketing materials & event slideshow, and recognition in the souvenir program

Spotlight $10,000

  • 6 Premiere Gala tickets (table seating)
  • Pre-show meet-and-greet with Circus performers and photo op
  • Premium wine service during the performance
  • Name/logo on all marketing materials & event slideshow, and recognition in the souvenir program


Patron $2,500

  • 2 Premiere Gala tickets (grandstand seating)
  • Name/logo on all marketing materials & event slideshow, and recognition in the souvenir program

The Stargazer Circus General Admission Family Performance Tickets Will Go Live on Friday, April 24.

Performances Under the Big Top Will be Offered:

Friday, July 23 | 3pm and 7pm

Saturday, July 24 | 3pm and 7pm

Sunday, July 25 | 11am and 4pm

Learn More

Thank You to Our 2026 Stargazer Gala Committees:


The Super Stellars:

Tanya Forman, co-chair | Elizabeth Markel, co-chair

Rebecca Becker | Jenny Benzie | Brooke Buppert | Kelly Burke | Tessa Cressman | Laura Freedman | Missy Griffiths | Keely Irwin

Linda Holliday | Debi Lilly and Mike Springer | Cara Marquis | Heather and Rob Merrill | Katie Norton | Sarah Powers | Gay Ruddick | Peter Sutters | Janel Trivelas 


The Rising Stars Young Professionals:

Ashley Hess | Kat Hess | Rob Alper | Liam Burbage | David Feldman | Ella Griffiths | Sophie Langlois | Ava MacDonald

Ella Mannix | Devon McCready | Sage Morgan | Ryan Murray | Claudia Pagnozzi-Schwam | Samantha Pillsbury | Max Quidley | Cullen Weise 


Frequently Asked Questions:

  • I'd like to pay by check, where should it be addressed to?

    Checks can be addressed to the following: 


    Maria Mitchell Association 

    4 Vestal Street

    Nantucket, MA 02554


    *Please include a note that indicates the number of tickets or sponsorship level you wish to purchase. Additionally, please include your contact email and guests names. 

  • Who should I contact if I have questions?

    Please contact MMA Development Director, Amy Young, for any questions regarding the Stargazer Gala at 

    ayoung@mariamitchell.org or 508-228-9198 ext. 116.

  • Where is the event?

    The 2026 Stargazer Gala is hosted at Tom Nevers Field on Thursday, July 23, 2026 from 6 - 10pm.


    Leading up to the event guests will receive communication via email that details additional important event information. 


    Please check the email used during the ticket registration process leading up to the event. 


    If you would like your guest to receive updates on the event, please email Amy Young, at ayoung@mariamitchel.org with your registered guest's name and contact email.

  • I've registered, now what?

    After registering for the Stargazer Gala, you'll be placed on our Stargazing Gala email list. 


    Leading up to the event, we'll be sending out details including the event address, arrival times, auction items, and even a fun mood board. 


    Please periodically check the email used during the ticket registration process leading up to the event. 


    If you would like your guest to receive updates on the event, please email Amy Young at ayoung@mariamitchel.org with your guest contact email.

  • Is there a theme for the 2026 Stargazer Circus Opening Night Celebration?

    Yes! This year's Stargazer Gala Circus Chic! 

    We're excited to celebrate the legacy of Maria Mitchell, continue the mission of the MMA.




  • How do I register for the auction?

    We will host both in-person and online auctions. 


    Online Auction 

    We welcome all supporters of the MMA to participate in our online auction.


    In-Person Auction 

    Guest will recieve a paddle number upon arrival which will be used during our event programming. 


    Items presented during the event programming are exclusively available to ticketed guests of the 2026 Stargazer Gala.

  • Parking

    Field parking is provided for the convenience of our guests. Upon arrival, you'll be directed by our parking team on where best to park.


    We ask that guests carpool, uber, and taxi when possible.


    For accessibility questions, please contact Amy Young at ayoung@mariamitchell.org or 508-288-9198 ext. 116.

  • Is my ticket tax deductible?

    Yes, a single $750 ticket purchased for the 2025 Stargazer Gala is tax deductible up to $550. 

      

    Click here to view sponsorships' tax-deductible amounts.


    A formal acknowledgment letter, which will include the tax-deductible portion of your donation, will be sent to the address provided during the registration process.


    In accordance with IRS regulations, the tax-deductible portion of your contribution to the Nantucket Maria Mitchell Association (Tax ID# 04-2129139) is limited to the excess of the contribution over the value of the goods and services we provided to you. 


    Acknowledgment letters should be retained in your records to substantiate any charitable income tax deduction claimed in connection with this gift.  


     

  • Are tickets and sponsorships refundable?

    Tickets and sponsorships are non-refundable. 


    If you cannot make it to the event, please contact Amy Young, at ayoung@mariamitchell.org