California Academy of Sciences Raises Funds for a Thriving California

On April 18 the California Academy of Sciences opened its doors to welcome guests for its annual Big Bang Gala and Party After Dark, to support its Thriving California initiative. Thriving California works to regenerate biodiversity in our state’s coasts, cities and Sierra forests. 

The evening began with 300 attendees gathering to enjoy a sustainably sourced feast from McCall’s Catering, served in the museum’s Piazza. Indigenous chef Crystal Wahpepah of Oakland’s Wahpepah’s Kitchen collaborated on the uniquely Californian menu. Distinguished speakers, including California Natural Resources Secretary Wade Crowfoot and Academy executive director Scott Sampson, led guests on a journey exploring the Academy’s impactful work to regenerate the natural world. 

After dinner, 2000 more celebrants joined in the fun for the Party After Dark, where they enjoyed craft cocktails and danced to music from the Bay Area’s own DJ Umami. This year, the gala and afterparty raised nearly $2 million to support Thriving California’s critical work in stewarding the state’s biodiversity and priceless natural resources.