The Aquarium receives ticket donation requests from hundreds of organizations for fundraising events and charitable causes. Thanks to the generosity of friends, corporate partners, and foundations, we are able to help our community by granting a limited number of requests each year.

Please note: All ticket donation requests must be made via our online form at least two months in advance of your event for consideration.

Please review the donation criteria and guidelines and then continue to our online application.

Donation Criteria & Guidelines

The Aquarium will consider ticket donation requests from other 501(c)(3) organizations that serve Maryland, Washington, DC, and out-of-state communities. The Aquarium cannot grant requests involving animal interactions, memberships, or behind-the-scenes tours.

Preference is given to Maryland-based organizations, particularly those that have conservation-focused missions or activities, promote successful outcomes for youth or families, and help build strong communities.

Donation requests for schools are generally declined, as more than 70,000 Maryland and Washington, DC, children in school groups visit the National Aquarium’s venues free of charge each year.

All donation requests must be received a minimum of two months prior to the date of the event. If your organization misses this deadline, feel free to submit your request for the next year.

Apply for Ticket Donation

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