The award-winning Pratt Museum will host the next Homer Chamber of Commerce mixer from 5-7 p.m. April 18 at the museum.

The Pratt has several galleries containing exhibits that focus on the art, science and culture of Kachemak Bay. Its current special exhibit is “Encounters: Whales in Our Waters.” It explores how people of the region interact with the whales of Kachemak Bay and Lower Cook Inlet. Visitors can have their own personal encounter with the gray whale skeleton now hanging in the center of the Pratt’s Special Exhibits Gallery.

The Pratt’s Marine Gallery has displays of seabirds and small marine mammals found in the region, plus several saltwater aquarium tanks that house an array of colorful local sea animals and plants. The museum store features ivory carvings, Native crafts and a variety of work from Alaska artists. Other items include handcrafted jewelry, apparel, educational toys, books, maps and DVDs. 

The exhibits and galleries will be open to visitors during the mixer. A variety of appetizers, plus the Pratt’s famous punch, will be served during the mixer.