Today's Hours
10:00am - 5:00pm There’s always more to discover!
Saddle up cowboys and cowgirls, this year Chemistry of the Cocktail presented by Dolan Auto Group – The Discovery’s premier annual fundraising event – takes on a wild west theme. At this one-of-a-kind event, you’ll sample intriguing cocktail creations prepared by expert mixologists (and you), taste delicious fare from some of your favorite local culinary hot spots, bid to win in spirited live and silent auctions, and explore the entire museum.
Here is just a sampling of what’s happening at this year’s event on Friday, November 16th:
Apothecary Lab
Visit the Apothecary Lab to learn the intricate art of cocktail construction. Understand the difference between a spirit-forward and a sour cocktail and learn how bitters, sweets, bases and garnishes combine to create the cocktails you know and love. This lab is led by internationally recognized bartender Nicole Barker of Liquid Gold Cocktail Catering.
Science Saloon
Put your newfound mixology expertise to work in the Science Saloon presented by US Bank. In the saloon you’ll use the knowledge gained in the Apothecary Lab to create a classic cocktail or invent your own tasty libation.
Signature Cocktail
Dylan Evans, owner of Reno’s 1864 Tavern will be mixing and serving “Diana’s Punch Bowl,” this year’s signature cocktail.
Unique Tastings
Sample some of Northern Nevada’s best handcrafted spirits from Ferino Distillery, The Depot Craft Brewery Distillery, and Frey Ranch Estate Distillery.
Delicious Fare
Enjoy a delectable and wide-ranging menu of bites from the likes of Cherry Bomb Catering, Hash House a Go Go, Butter + Salt, Sushi Pier 1, Food Evolution, Fig Tree Catering, Blend, Bibo Freddo, Men Wielding Fire, DoughBoys Donuts, Mellow Fellow, Redwood Rotisserie + Grill, and Wild Garlic Pizza & Pub. Guaranteed to be far better than anything you’d find on a chuck wagon!
Live and Silent Auctions
Bid early and bid often in the live and silent auctions! This year’s live auction, sponsored by JPMorgan Chase & Co., will feature a number of unique experience items including tickets for A Night in the Country along with a two-night Gypsy Wagon stay, a private plane ride to Napa or Monterey with brunch for two, the chance to help build a custom exhibit for the museum, a private dinner with firefighters, and many more. Save time by registering for the silent auction in advance!
Photo Booth
Take an old-timey photo at the TapSnap photo booth sponsored by Gunderson Law Firm.
VIP tickets for the event are also available. VIP entry to the event begins at 6:00pm and include a featured cocktail, an exclusive preview of auction items, and more:
Bar Ritual
Join Karl “The Pharmacist” Brevick from Renaissance Reno Downtown Hotel for a ritual that’ll soon turn into a habit. Make the transition from 9-to-5 workday to an evening of discovery with a spirited group exploration of the science mixology.
Featured Cocktail
Crafted by the experts at Mark Estee’s Liberty Food & Wine Exchange, wet your whistle with a sip of “The Spur,” an intricate cocktail comprised of bourbon, butterfly pea tea, sage agave syrup, cactus and other surprising ingredients.
Proceeds from Chemistry of the Cocktail help The Discovery achieve its mission to inspire our region by being the place to experience science. Your philanthropic support enables The Discovery to reach more people, more often, with innovative ways to create interest and engagement in science.
Get your tickets!
Chemistry of the Cocktail tickets are available online, by calling 775-786-1000, or at the museum’s admissions desk. We hope see you here!
Chemistry of the Cocktail is presented by Dolan Auto Group. Additional support provided by U.S. Bank, Vantage Wealth Planning, Gunderson Law Firm, Koch Elevator, TMCC Child Care Center, JPMorgan Chase & Co., Fennemore Craig Attorneys, Bodger Law Practice, Tolles Development Company, Vaulet Group Real Estate, Albright & Associates, LTD., KRNV News 4, FOX11, and Reno News & Review.
Event supported by Celadon Events, Craft Productions and Creative Coverings.