Old Sturbridge Village hosts several special donor events throughout the year to honor those who play an important role in furthering the long-term success and fiscal health of the Village and to make new friends for the Village.

Old Sturbridge Village Gala

Old Sturbridge Village's Gala is one of the museum’s largest and most important fundraising events, celebrating the museum’s patrons, members, and friends during a lively evening of delicious food, live and silent auctions, and celebration.

Learn more about how to support our Revolutionary Gala on September 26, 2026!

If you have immediate questions or wish to support the Gala, please call 508-347-0294 or email [email protected].

Ken Burns Lifetime Achievement Award

Celebrated documentary filmmaker Ken Burns returns to Old Sturbridge Village, where he made his first film, to honor an individual who has made a significant contribution to the preservation of history through the arts.

Past recipients include:

• Paul Giamatti (2023)
• Jon Meacham (2022)
• Norm Abram (2018)
• Cokie Roberts (2016)
• John Williams (2013)
• Tom Brokaw (2012)
• Sam Waterston (2011)
• Doris Kearns Goodwin (2010)
• Laura Linney (2009)

President's Award

An invitation-only annual event honoring a leading figure in the world of antiques collection and restoration. Please call 508-347-0294 or email [email protected] for more information about joining the celebration.

Past recipients include:

• Stephen L. Fletcher (2025)
• John Ott (2024)
• Hope Alswang (2023)
• Richard Nylander (2022)
• Miguel Gómez-Ibañez (2019)
• Dennis Fiori and Peggy Burke (2018)
• Phil Zea (2017)
• Nancy Coolidge (2016)
• Jonathan Fairbanks (2015)
• Martha Hamilton (2013)
• Ron Bourgeault (2012)
• Abbott Cummings (2011)
• Brock Jobe (2010)
• Jane C. Nylander (2009)

Joan M. McGrath Memorial Lecture

A memorial lecture bringing distinguished speakers to Old Sturbridge Village. Named in honor of the Village’s longtime volunteer and Chairman of the Overseers (now known as the Council of Ambassadors), Joan M. McGrath, who passed away unexpectedly in 2018, this memorial event continues Joan’s vision of a Distinguished Speaker Series, which she began in 2013.

Past speakers include:

• Jeffrey Rosen (2025)
• Richard Norton Smith (2022)
• David McCullough (2019)

President's Holiday Cocktail Party

An exclusive appreciation event for members of Old Sturbridge Village’s Federalist Society held every December during Christmas by Candlelight. For more information about joining the Federalist Society, please call 508-347-0210 or email [email protected].