In November, the Building for Kids Children’s Museum (BFKCM) will celebrate its 30th birthday and the millions of kids and their grown-ups who have been impacted over the decades.
Founded by two local businesswomen and mothers, the BFKCM, originally named the Fox Cities Children’s Museum, opened its doors on November 2, 1992 with a goal of revitalizing downtown Appleton. Within the first 10 weeks of opening, the museum saw over 50,000 visitors, eager to explore hands-on, play-based learning. Today, as the largest children’s museum in Wisconsin, the BFKCM continues to affect Appleton’s economic impact while also supporting the needs of kids and families through innovative exhibits, evidence-based programming, and community-based partnerships.
“The Building for Kids is truly a generational treasure in the Fox Cities,” said Oliver Zornow, Executive Director of the BFKCM. “People who first came as kids, now come as parents with their own kids. We look forward to continuing to be a safe place for families in our community, and beyond, to learn, grow, and explore for generations to come.”
The BFKCM will celebrate its 30th birthday with the following:
- BFK Birthday Bash – Saturday, November 5 from 9am – 4pm
- The BFKCM is hosting a family-friendly birthday party, complete with birthday-themed activities, face painting, goody bags, and a happy birthday confetti throw at noon. Plus, all who attend will be entered for a chance to win a free annual membership to the BFKCM.
- Party Like It’s 1992! – Saturday, November 5 from 7pm – 10pm
- Everyone 21 years and older is invited to an adults-only night at the BFKCM. From grunge to pop, flannels to fanny packs, the event will rewind and celebrate all things ‘90s, including a ‘90s fashion contest, board and arcade games, a DJ and dance party, and lots of ‘90s-inspired food and drinks.
- 30th Birthday Membership Sale – Saturday, November 5 – Saturday, November 12
- To show appreciation for its members, the BFKCM is offering a 15% discount on annual memberships purchased or renewed November 5 – 12.
To learn more about how the BFKCM is celebrating its 30th birthday, visit Building For Kids Children’s Museum | The BFK Turns 30!
The BFKCM has been inspiring discovery and building resilience through intergenerational play-based learning and exploration of the arts, sciences, and humanities since 1992. For more information about the BFKCM, including its programs and events, visit www.buildingforkids.org.