The 2026 Stargazer Circus

Prepare for the Extraordinary

Scroll Down for General Admission Circus Tickets

Be part of the excitement as we launch this extraordinary new tradition—

an evening designed to inspire, delight, and support the future of science,

education, and discovery on Nantucket.

The Stargazer Gala

A Night at the Circus

Thursday, July 23 | 6 - 10pm

Purchase Gala Tickets & Tables

The Maria Mitchell Association invites you to the Opening Night of the Stargazer Circus—an immersive, contemporary circus inspired by the spirit of discovery that defined Maria Mitchell, America’s first female astronomer.


In collaboration with the renowned Venardos Circus, this extraordinary experience brings world-class artistry, breathtaking movement, and theatrical magic to life—capturing the imagination and awakening a sense of awe beneath the stars.


The evening features bold Big Top bites and thoughtfully curated concessions by Island Kitchen, alongside celestial cocktails. A roaming magician and palm reader will illuminate the magic and mystery of the night as anticipation builds before the performance.


Following the show, the celebration continues with live music and lively entertainment with the DJ Hess Twins as guests dance, mingle, and revel in the magic of opening night—a jubilant tribute to imagination and the thrill of something extraordinary.

Individual Ticket: $750 ($550 tax-deductible)

Stage Side Seat: $1,250 ($1,050 tax-deductible)

The Stargazer Gala Sponsorship Opportunities

Center Stage $25,000

  • 8 Stargazer 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 Stargazer Gala tickets (stage side seating)
  • Name/logo on all marketing materials & event slideshow, and recognition in the souvenir program

Spotlight $10,000

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

Please contact MMA Development Director, Amy Young, for any questions regarding Stargazer Gala sponsorships at ayoung@mariamitchell.org or 508-228-9198 ext. 116.

The Stargazer Circus General Admission

Family Performances

Friday, July 24 | 3pm and 7pm

Saturday, July 25 | 3pm and 7pm

Sunday, July 26 | 11am and 4pm

Tickets will go live on Friday, April 24

Purchase General Admission Circus Tickets

A Circus Like No Other: Live Your Circus Dream!

Venardos Circus is a family-friendly performance featuring a world-class cast of acrobats, aerialists, jugglers, and comedians from around the globe, each bringing their own unique talent and energy to the stage. Founded by former Ringling Bros. ringmaster Kevin Venardos, this Broadway-style circus reimagines the traditional American circus as a theatrical experience that celebrates artistry, storytelling, and human connection.


Designed with all ages in mind, the show offers an experience that creates magical moments and lasting memories. Performed under a custom-built big top handcrafted in Italy, the setting provides an intimate atmosphere where every seat offers exceptional proximity to the ring, drawing audiences right into the heart of the action.


Tickets: $45 Children (12 and under) and $95 Adults

Stage Side Seating: $125 each

Performances run approximately 90 minutes, including a 15-minute intermission. Concessions are available.

2026 Stargazer Gala Committee:


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 | Heather and Rob Merrill | Katie Norton | Sarah Powers | Gay Ruddick | Peter Sutters | Janel Trivelas 


The Rising Stars:

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

Ella Mannix | Devon McCready | Sage Morgan | Ryan Murray | Samantha Pillsbury | Max Quidley | Claudia Pagnozzi-Schwam | 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 Opening Night Celebration 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 Gala?

    Yes! This year's Stargazer Gala is 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 Registration coming soon.

  • 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

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Where can I purchase single tickets and sponsorship packages?

    Please click HERE to purchase single tickets or sponsorship packages. 

  • 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 Development Director, Amy Young, for any questions regarding the Stargazer Gala at 

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

  • Where is the event?

    The 2025 Stargazer Gala is hosted at the MM Ranch (location to be revealed soon) on Thursday, July 24, 2025.


    Leading up to the event guests will receive emails from the Maria Mitchell Association that details the time, location, and 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 2025 Stargazer Gala?

    Yes! This year's Stargazer Gala is A Night at the MM Ranch inspired by Maria's visits to the western Frontier to view eclipses, with an emphasis on exploration, cowboys, and the wild west. 


    We're excited to celebrate the legacy of Maria Mitchell, continue the mission of the MMA, and dance to live country music under the incredible Nantucket night sky. 


    Come wearing your best dancing boots be ready to raise your paddle in support the MMA's Summer Internship Program! 


  • How do I register for the auction?

    We will host both in-person and online auctions for the 2025 Stargazer Gala. 


    Online Auction 

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


    Please click here to register and participate in our online auction. 


    Online bidding opens July 22, 2025, and closes July 29, 2025. 


    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 2025 Stargazer Gala. 

  • Parking

    Valet parking is provided for the convenience of our guests. Upon arrival, you'll be directed by our valet parking team.


    We ask that guests carpool when possible.


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

  • Is my ticket tax deductible?

    Yes, a single $750 ticket purchased for the 2024 Stargazer Gala is tax deductible up to $600. 

      

    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