How do museums use special events and fundraisers to raise money?

Many museums rely on events as an important part of their budget, along with memberships, donations, grants and admissions. Common events include galas, member preview nights, lectures, tours, holiday parties and exhibition openings. Some host antique appraisal days or collector events tied to their collections.

Fundraising auctions are also popular, with live or silent auctions of donated items, trips and experiences. Professional benefit auctioneers can help a museum or nonprofit raise more by planning the catalog, the order of items and the pacing of the evening.

If you want to support a museum, attending events and becoming a member are good ways to help while enjoying behind-the-scenes access. If you are donating an item to a fundraiser, ask the organization how it will be used and talk to your tax professional about whether any deduction may apply.