Museum of Broadcast Communications Unveils 2026 “Front Row” Charity Auction
Music enthusiasts can now bid on exclusive, once-in-a-lifetime experiences featuring Billy Corgan, The Smashing Pumpkins, Al Jardine of The Beach Boys, and access to the iHeartRadio Jingle Ball.
By Paul Grein
The Museum of Broadcast Communications has officially inaugurated its 2026 “Front Row Experiences” charity auction. The initiative features over 50 unique opportunities to connect with icons from music, film, sports, and media, with all proceeds dedicated to advancing the museum’s educational outreach and archival preservation efforts.
Bidding opens Tuesday, July 14, at 10 a.m. CT and runs through July 28 at 4 p.m. CT. Interested participants can place their bids via Charitybuzz.com and MUSEUM.TV.
The curated list of experiences is expansive, ranging from private luncheons with Hollywood stars like Henry Winkler and Bob Odenkirk to exclusive behind-the-scenes access at The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. Music fans are particularly well-served, with opportunities to meet The Smashing Pumpkins or secure VIP access to major live events like the iHeartRadio Jingle Ball. Additionally, the auction includes high-demand sports packages with the Chicago Bears, Cubs, and Blackhawks.
“This auction is about more than just memorabilia; it’s about forging a tangible connection between fans and the legendary figures who have defined our cultural landscape,” said David Plier, chair and CEO of the Museum of Broadcast Communications. “Every contribution directly funds our educational initiatives, ensuring we can continue offering free field trips for students from underserved communities.”
Celebrating its 44th year, the museum remains a vital hub for American broadcasting history. Since the debut of its new Chicago facility last autumn, it has garnered significant acclaim for major exhibits, including The Evolution of Late-Night Television and Johnny Carson: The Centennial.
