Become a sponsor to reserve your tickets!

Join us for the Big Splash: An evening of discovery, inspiration, and connection — all in support of bold science for our blue planet!

The Big Splash is a fundraising event dedicated to advancing the critical research of Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences. As our oceans face increasing challenges, your support is vital to driving the scientific discoveries that will shape our future.

  • Thursday, July 24, 2025
  • 5:30 - 10:30 pm
  • Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences
  • 60 Bigelow Drive, East Boothbay

The Big Splash is a fun, inspiring party to engage caring people in the work we do.

The event will celebrate Bigelow's 50th anniversary and the opening of our new Center for Ocean Education and Innovation.

The night will include a special presentation by renowned National Geographic photographer, and Bigelow Laboratory Advisory Board member, Brian Skerry.

Brian Skerry in a wetsuit.

Event Program

  • Cocktail Hour & Oyster Bar with Novel Jazz
  • Presentation by Brian Skerry
  • Dinner catered by Trillium
  • Live Auction
  • Dancing
Dancing shoes and ocean-inspired attire are encouraged.

What to Expect at the Big Splash

The Big Splash is a fun, inspiring party to engage caring people in the work we do. The event will celebrate Bigelow's 50th anniversary and the opening of our new Center for Ocean Education and Innovation. Dancing shoes and ocean-inspired attire are encouraged.



Become a sponsor and be part of the solution!

If you are interested in learning more about becoming a sponsor for this event, please contact Michael Vilarello at mvilarello@bigelow.org or 207-315-2567 x126. You can also view our sponsorship materials here and make your commitment online.

We expect this event to sell out soon and appreciate your support!


Become a sponsor to reserve your tickets!

With deep appreciation for your support of our oceans,

The Big Splash Planning Committee

  • Barbara Burgess, Committee Chair
  • Meg Adams
  • Liz Bengis
  • Maria Canning
  • Victoria Corcoran
  • Wendy Drummond
  • Sarah Foulger
  • Leigh Garry
  • Judy Kildow
  • Alison Prawer
  • Sharma Schaknow
  • Alice Canning Senko

Please help us thank our event sponsors

Blue Planet Partners
Consigli Construction logo

Ocean Guardians

  • Marion Flores & Frank Rees
  • Adam & Diana Lee

Marine Champions

  • Barbara & Bill Burgess
  • Wendy & Gentner Drummond
  • Drs. Wen J Wolf & Mary B Neal
  • Jon & Mariann Bigelow
  • Alice Canning Senko
  • Leigh & Bob Garry

Sea Stewards

  • Sarah Foulger & Russ Hoffman
  • The Alberding Family

Plankton Patrons

  • Penny Paquette

Community Advocates

  • Marion & Mark Howard