Ahoy! Why the Buccaneer Ball Is a Treasure at Sacramento Children’s Museum

Imagine stepping into the Sacramento Children’s Museum at dusk, little explorers dressed as pirates, mermaids, princes, and princesses flooding the galleries for an evening of make‑believe and laughter. That’s exactly what happens each year at the Buccaneer Ball, a beloved special event held at SCM. The most recent edition is set for Friday, September 19, 2025, from 5:00–6:30 p.m., and while general admission is $10, museum members enjoy complimentary entry, and Museums for All pricing ($3) is also honored.

In years past the Ball has embraced a magical pirate‑inspired twist that feels like stepping into a storybook. Back on August 10, 2024, families packed the museum from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., with kids navigating interactive play stations, dancing with mascot Leo, and engaging in a treasure hunt around the exhibits.

One parent shared that their child spent the entire event declaring “I’m Captain Sparklebeard!” while leading a brigade of stuffed‑animal pirate companions from station to station. At every exhibit corner, mini‑adventures awaited: crafting pirate hats, waving foam swords, and even mermaid themed sensory tables where beads became “sea pearls.” Songs and a DJ tied the show together as littles boogied beneath softly glowing lanterns.

Every year, organizers invite families to let imagination run wild. Princesses mingle with pirates; toddlers wield foam cutlasses beside their siblings in princely attire. These playful interactions—where fantastical dress meets museum‑scale learning—inspire smiles and lasting memories. The Buccaneer Ball isn’t just a party—it’s a community celebration of creativity, inclusivity, and museum magic.

Sacramento Children’s Museum
2701 Prospect Park Dr
Rancho Cordova, CA 95670