Play Ball 2018

Friday, October 26, 2018

6- 10:30 p.m.

Join the domino effect... at Play Ball 2018!

On Friday October 26, 2018, we invite you to join Honorary Co-chairs, the Birnbaum Family, at The Strong's eighth annual Play Ball—Rochester’s most playful gala!

• Marvel at magician and entertainer Steven Brundage, applaud the amazing stilt walker and juggler from Cirque Gravity, swoon to the stylish tunes of Rochester Institute of Technology’s 8 Beat Measure, dance with DJ Hogan from BreakThrough Entertainment, and more!
• Savor irresistible entrees and dazzling desserts from Wegmans.
• Bid on spectacular live and silent auction packages featuring fun-filled getaways, one-of-a-kind treasures, and extraordinary experiences.
• Explore The Strong’s more than 100,000 sq. ft. of interactive exhibits including Pinball Playfields and eGameRevolution!
• Open bar includes craft beer from Roc Brewing, a selection of bottled beers, wine from Constellation Brands, and more!
• For a small donation, enjoy the exclusive Good Luck Cocktail Club House, featuring cocktails crafted and served by Good Luck’s talented mixologists.

Tickets and Registration

All guests are registered electronically. Guests do not receive paper tickets prior to the event. When you arrive at Play Ball, please check-in by last name at The Strong’s admission desk. If you are attending via a sponsor, please be sure to email Kylee Fassler at kfassler@museumofplay.org with your name, email address, cell phone number (please see section on mobile bidding), and the sponsor name.

What to Wear and Where to Park

Model your finest black-and-white formal wear, add a splash of color, or be more playful and come in costume. As always, creative attire is admired, but not required. Need some inspiration? View photos from Play Ball 2017 below. And even if it's raining, don't worry about getting wet! Complimentary valet parking is available in The Strong’s secure parking lot.

Online Bidding: Now Giving is Even More Fun!

Online bidding is easy, fun, and 100% secure! To participate in online bidding, provide your name and cell phone number prior to the event or at registration. Online bidding allows Play Ball guests to search auction packages by number, keyword, or bid status. If you’re using a smartphone, you will receive a text message each time you’re outbid—and when you win. No smartphone? Our bidding buddies can help you place a bid with your paddle number. Just look for the volunteers with iPads. 

Payment for auction items may be made via Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover, check, or cash. If you pre-register your credit or debit card, you will be charged for all purchase(s) within five business days. All auction sales are final and The Strong is unable to provide refunds or exchanges for items purchased.

Become a Play Ball Sponsor

As Play Ball sponsors, local businesses and organizations support The Strong’s play-based educational programs that encourage learning, creativity, and discovery. Sponsorship opportunities start at $1,500 and include tickets to the event, recognition in event promotions, and much more. 

To learn how you or your company can become a sponsor, contact Hillary Bobys at 585-410-6302 or hbobys@museumofplay.org.