One night a year, the International Museum of Art and Science (IMAS) in McAllen hosts one of the most fun nights in philanthropy.
After 17 amazing years, this event continues to thrive and evolve, keeping its spark. The dedicated team ensures each year is as refreshing and vibrant as the drinks served.
“We are not your typical fundraiser,” Gaby Jones, Brew-seum Co-Chair said. “When Brew-seum started it was mostly imported beers from Europe, Latin and South America. It has then adapted itself to the growing craft beer trends in the 2010s and is now shifting towards the new age of adult beverage consumption. People are craving a variety of flavors, styles, and even non-alcoholic beverages.”
Being a fundraiser that is constantly adjusting, evolving, and being nimble in the community is key for Jones, the Brew-seum Committee, aka the Brew Crew, and the staff at IMAS,
“That’s the key — Museum and Beer! We pride ourselves in providing our guests with a memorable experience,” Jones said. “A lot of Brew-seum attendees are visiting IMAS for the first time since their 2nd grade field trip. We want to rekindle that fond memory of their time here, where they learned about the water journey inside Discovery Pavilion, interacted with our Animal Ambassador, Binky, the ball python, in the MPU BioZone, or became inspired in our art galleries. This event “brews” up that sense of play and wonder in our guests while simultaneously helping to raise funds for the museum and re-establishing connections.”
IMAS — A Cultural Staple in the RGV
Jones expanded on the impact that IMAS has on McAllen and its surrounding areas.
“IMAS has been a cornerstone of culture and education not just for the City of McAllen but for the entire South Texas Region. In an area where access to major museums is limited, having IMAS locally ensures that our families, students, and educators can engage with high-quality cultural and scientific programming — without the need for long-distance travel.”
With Brew-seum already approaching its 20th year, there are plenty of long-lasting relationships and repeat participants.
“A lot of our key partners, restaurants, and breweries always look forward to this fundraiser,” Jones said. “I think a lot of that excitement stems from our Brew Crew, who help us recruit sponsors and businesses for Brew-seum. Their love for the event is “intoxicating”. Our partners see that, and as soon as Brew-seum is over, they’re already asking, “When’s the next one?”
Advancing the Mission
While Brew-seum is certainly a fun date on the calendar it is also crucial to keeping IMAS a thriving part of the community.
“Both our sponsors and supporters play an immense role in helping the museum continue to operate on a day-to-day basis,” Jones said. “IMAS fundraisers account for about 5% of our annual budget. While Brew-seum is quite the party, the funds raised through sponsorships and ticket sales help us to continue to carry out our mission to inspire audiences of all ages to explore art and science through IMAS’ permanent collections, exhibits, programs, and partnerships by empowering learners to discover their interests and pursue their passions.”
What Beverages Can One Expect?
“Beer is king at Brew-seum,” Jones said. “We have had an array of local, Texan, and national beers throughout the years. In true Brew-seum tradition, we’re shaking things up a bit this year and reaching out to various independent breweries as well as brewery partners who we haven’t seen in a while. Expect the unexpected at this year’s Brew-seum. That’s all I am going to say. You’ll have to join us on April 5 to see what all the “buzz” is about.”
The event for guests 21 years and older, takes place on Saturday, April 5th, 2025. For more information, visit theimasonline.org/brew-seum/.
