Toyota, Microsoft & CITGO Sponsor Smithsonian Mag's Museum Day

Smithsonian Magazine's 6th Annual Museum Day, which opens the doors to 1,000 participating museums and cultural institutions throughout the country to visitors free of charge, has signed on Toyota Avalon as presenting sponsor. Toyota will provide tours, contests and giveaways at museums throughout the country in promotion of its Avalon line.

Toyota will also make a donation to museum programming for each Avalon inquiry it receives online. Toyota, along with other sponsors, Microsoft and Citgo, will receive media assets in Smithsonian magazine and online at smithsonianmag.com.

"CITGO and our network of local marketers and retailers are committed to historical preservation, scientific advancement and cultural education in each of the local communities we serve," stated Gustavo Velasquez, vice president of supply and marketing for CITGO. "As we celebrate the 100th anniversary of the CITGO brand this year, we look back at the milestones and events that have helped shape who we are and the people we serve. The Smithsonian Magazine's Museum Day is a great way for local families to join us in celebrating this rich history."

More than 1,000 museums, galleries and historical sites will take part in the initiative, including the network of 19 Smithsonian museums and its 168 affiliate museums. Other participating institutions include: Boston Children's Museum; the Museum of Contemporary Art in Chicago; the Miami Zoo; and the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum in New York City.

"We know many families are looking for value these days. We are pleased to be able to give our customers a great way to make memories without having to spend a lot of money," Velasquez said.

Last year, more than 300,000 museum-goers and 1,300 venues participated.