WQPT cancels Imagination Station due to federal budget cuts

Federal funding cuts mean WQPT won’t be able to hold an annual family event.

WQPT PBS announced that it will not hold its annual Imagination Station event in 2026 due to significant budget reductions from the loss of federal funding.

Imagination Station has been a free educational experience for Quad Cities families for years, with PBS KIDS characters, hands-on learning activities, games, music, art and community partners. Over the years, the event has become a beloved tradition for thousands of local children and parents. WQPT lost federal funding representing 53% of the station’s annual operating budget. This means the station was forced to make difficult decisions about services and community programs.

“Canceling Imagination Station was not a decision we made lightly,” said Dawn Schmitt, general manager of WQPT PBS. “Our staff and Community Advisory Board carefully evaluated every option. Unfortunately, the loss of federal funding has forced us to reduce some of the services and events we have traditionally provided. While this is disappointing, we remain committed to serving our community and finding new ways to connect families with educational resources.”

The station plans to offer four smaller community events throughout the year that will provide learning opportunities and family engagement across the region.

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