SPARKS -- The Sparks Heritage Museum’s exhibits will literally come to life at 6 p.m. today during the Night at the Museum silver anniversary celebration and fundraiser. During this gala event, Young Chautauqua actors and musicians will be performing inside the actual displays. After watching the performances, guests will be entertained by acoustic guitarist Joe Bonauro in the “grandeur” of the old library.

In 1932, renowned Nevada architect Fredrick DeLonchamps designed the building at 814 Victorian Ave. to be used as a library and justice court. The building is the oldest existing government building in Sparks and is a Nationally Registered Historic Building. In March, as part of the museum revitalization project, the Sparks Heritage Museum began restorative work on the upstairs portion of the building. Guests will have the opportunity to see the progress that has been made to date and enjoy the wide open spaces that once made up the first library in Sparks.

Each Night at the Museum performance is about a half hour long and famous historical Nevada characters such as Josie Reed Pearl will be depicted. The performances will occur throughout the evening until approximately 8 p.m. and audience numbers will be limited.

The Sparks Heritage Museum, founded in 1985, exists to preserve the historical and cultural history of Sparks and the Truckee Meadows. Future plans for the museum include the development of a multipurpose educational space and an archival research room.

Funds raised at today's event will go toward the museum revitalization project. To date $253,000 has been raised in grant funding, primarily from the Commission of Cultural Affairs. The CCA grant funds are specifically for “bricks and mortar” and do not cover operating expenses or such items as computers or tables and chairs. These funds are designed specifically to create a network of cultural centers throughout Nevada to stimulate economic growth, enhance tourism, preserve our heritage and provide education and enjoyment to the citizens of the state.

The cost to attend Night at the Museum is $25 per person or $40 per couple. Ticket price includes a Museum Comes Alive performance, a light buffet, live music and opportunities to participate in a silent auction and 50/50 raffle. Advance reservations are strongly encouraged as ticket numbers are limited. To RSVP, call 355 1144 or e-mail anthea@sparksmusuem.org. The Sparks Heritage Museum is located at 814 Victorian Ave.

The Night at the Museum is made possible thanks to Great Basin Brewing Co., Oski’s Irish Pub, the Blind Onion, Wilderness Adventure’s Dog Sled Tours, The Herb Lady, Helsel Construction, MBA Architects, the members and volunteers of the Museum and The Young Chautauquas.