LINCOLN, Neb. – Childhood made a comeback Thursday night as more than 300 college students from the Lincoln area filled the Lincoln Children's Museum for College Takeover Night, the Museum's first 18-and-older event since before COVID-19.

For one night, the Museum swapped its usual crowd of young explorers for college students ready to revisit their childhood favorites. Guests explored the Museum's three floors of exhibits, competed in a costume contest, enjoyed jumbo board games, and danced to music from a live DJ. A speakeasy-inspired setting offered alcohol-free mocktails and dirty sodas, while cookies added a sweet touch to the evening. 

The event was designed to give college students a much-needed break from their studies and an opportunity to reconnect with the simple joy of play. 

"College students spend so much of their time focused on what's next, whether that's their next exam, internship, or career," said Ellie Charter, Chief Marketing Officer at Lincoln Children's Museum. "We wanted to give them one night to forget about their to-do lists, revisit a little childhood nostalgia, and just have fun. Seeing more than 300 students embrace that opportunity was incredible."

The enthusiastic turnout marked a successful return to adult-only programming at the Museum and demonstrated that the benefits of play extend well beyond childhood.

"Play isn't something we should outgrow," Charter added. "Whether you're five or 25, there is value in taking time to laugh, connect with friends, and recharge. We hope everyone left feeling a little lighter and ready to tackle the rest of the semester."