National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium to host annual Party for the Planet

DUBUQUE, Iowa — The National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium will hold its annual Party for the Planet event on April 26 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The event includes general admission and focuses on conservation and environmental education.

Visitors who bring canned food items will receive a $5 discount on admission, with donations benefiting the Dubuque Food Pantry.

Party for the Planet will feature interactive exhibits, hands-on activities, and educational programs centered around wildlife conservation and habitat protection.

Codi Sharkey, Conservation Programs Manager at the River Museum, emphasized the event’s goal of inspiring environmental awareness.

“Our theme this year showcases the interconnectedness of wildlife and the ecosystems that support them,” Sharkey said. “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.”

The event will include presentations by the River Museum’s Living Collections team on conservation efforts for Wyoming toads and freshwater mussels, part of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ (AZA) Saving Animals from Extinction (SAFE) programs. Visitors can also interact with the museum’s Ocean Odyssey mobile shark touch tank from noon to 2 p.m.

Additional activities include a giveaway of yellow birch saplings, courtesy of Wagner Nursery, and opportunities to win an octopus encounter, an alligator experience, or a prairie plant consultation.

Other regular museum attractions, like Behind the Scenes Tours, stingray feedings, and 4D theater movies, will still be available to buy.

The event will take place rain or shine, and guests are encouraged to make the most of their visit.