Bid, Play, Give Back: Don’t Miss These Live & Silent Auction Highlights at the Imagination Ball!

Bid, Play, Give Back: Don’t Miss These Live & Silent Auction Highlights at the Imagination Ball!

Friday, May 9, 2025 | 7–10 PM | 250 Thompson’s Point Road, Portland, ME

Step into a world of imagination and impact at the Children’s Museum & Theatre of Maine’s first-ever Imagination Ball! On Friday, May 9, guests will be treated to a dazzling evening of interactive exhibits, themed activities, delicious bites and drinks—and of course, our can’t-miss live and silent auctions. Whether you're joining us in person or bidding online, every bid you make supports play, learning, and belonging for all children through CMTM's Community Fund.

Here’s a sneak peek at just a few of the extraordinary experiences and items you can bid on this year:

LIVE AUCTION SPOTLIGHTS

African Safari Adventure for Two
Six nights at Zulu Nyala Heritage Safari Lodge
Bid on the adventure of a lifetime! Explore South Africa’s stunning Zululand conservation region while enjoying luxurious accommodations, daily game drives with expert rangers, and three delicious meals a day. Expect close encounters with elephants, lions, rhinos, and more—all from the comfort of a world-class safari lodge.

Illuminated "Hopeful" Sign by Charlie Hewitt
Bring home a glowing beacon of resilience with this signed five-foot sculpture by celebrated artist Charlie Hewitt. Featured in public art installations across the country, this piece is a powerful reminder that hope shines brightest in community.


Paint Your Own Ceramic Mug with Lisa Houck
Get your hands dirty and your creativity flowing with a private pottery workshop for up to eight people in the home studio of celebrated artist Lisa Houck in Cape Elizabeth.

Perfect for a birthday party, creative gathering, or unique group experience, this hands-on workshop welcomes participants ages 12 and up to explore the art of ceramics in an inspiring and intimate setting. Under Lisa’s expert guidance, you’ll shape and glaze your own pieces, which will be professionally fired and ready for pickup two weeks later at her studio or the museum.

To complete your artful day, you'll also receive a $250 gift card to C Salt, the perfect spot to enjoy a delicious, relaxed lunch with your group before or after your workshop.

Bid live for a memorable, art-filled experience—complete with creativity, community, and cuisine!

Mainely Burgers Block Party
You bring the guests, we’ll bring the grill. Host up to 40 people with this private food truck experience from Mainely Burgers, a local favorite known for its unforgettable eats. A party no one will want to miss!




SILENT AUCTION SPOTLIGHTS

Lift Tickets for Two at Sugarloaf
Hit the slopes at one of New England’s top ski destinations with two day passes to Sugarloaf’s scenic mountain trails.

Discovery Flight with Airlink Flight School
Take to the skies with a one-on-one flying experience! Learn the basics, co-pilot a small aircraft, and get a bird’s-eye view of Maine.

Goo Goo Dolls Live in Bangor
Score two tickets to see the Goo Goo Dolls and Dashboard Confessional at the Maine Savings Amphitheater this August. Summer anthem magic awaits!

Dinner for Two at Scales
Enjoy a romantic evening or special night out at Scales, one of Portland’s premier waterfront restaurants, with this all-inclusive dining gift certificate.

$100 to Crown Jewel
Escape to Great Diamond Island and enjoy a vibrant coastal meal at this charming, ferry-accessible Casco Bay gem.

Two-Night Stay at The Inn at Ocean’s Edge
Unwind with a two-night ocean-view escape near Camden. Includes breakfast and breathtaking views of Penobscot Bay.

$500 Gift Card to Springer’s Jewelers
Add sparkle to your life or surprise someone special with a generous gift card to one of Maine’s most trusted names in fine jewelry.

Dahlov Ipcar “Calico Jungle” Floor Mat
Add a touch of Maine art history to your home with this whimsical, limited-edition mat featuring vibrant illustrations by legendary children’s book author Dahlov Ipcar.

 
 

Why It Matters

Your bids helps keep CMTM’s doors open wide — making creativity, learning, and play accessible to all. Proceeds support:

  • Year-Long Scholarship Memberships for families in need

  • Free or discounted admission for the Museum & Maddy's Theatre performances

  • Educational Outreach programming to schools and community organizations

  • Free Community Partner Nights for local community service organizations

  • Free Play Your Way sessions for families of children with sensory processing challenges

Join us, bid generously, and help make a difference.
Together, we can spark joy, curiosity, and creativity for every child.

Tickets are going fast — don’t miss your chance to be part of this magical night!

Hannah Daly