Looking for free activities to do with the whole family this summer? At Crystal Bridges, we have several opportunities for families and kids of all ages to enjoy art and nature through play and activities. This July, take advantage of our free family programs, open to everyone, for some good summer fun!

Skyspace Nights » Star Party 

Wednesdays, July 3, 8 to 9:30 pm 

Spend a summer evening outdoors gazing at the stars and enjoying the night sky! The Star Party will begin at sunset with a special talk inside James Turrell’s Skyspace: The Way of Color, followed by a chance to look through telescopes, chat with astronomers from the Sugar Creek Astronomical Society, and engage with activities inspired by the night sky.

Preschool Playdate » Games

Thursday, July 11, 11:30 am to 2 pm

Tag, you’re it! Play all your favorite games this month at the museum with your preschooler, and make some frame-worthy art while you’re at it! Playdate begins with a performance in the Great Hall.

Sponsored by the Segal Family Foundation, Arthur J. Gallagher & Co., and Juan, Marcy and Joaquin Camacho.

Summer Outdoor Film Series

The Summer Outdoor Film Series offers evening screenings of family-friendly films in outdoor locations around the museum. Check each web event for dates, times, and locations.

» Wall-E

Friday, July 12, 8:30 to 10 pm

» Free Willy 

Thursday, July 18, 8:30 to 10 pm

» Nightingales in Berlin: Searching for the Perfect Sound

Thursday, July 25, 8:30 to 10 pm

» Planet Earth: Caves and Freshwater

Thursday, August 1, 8:30 to 10:30 pm

Discover the Grounds » National Moth Week

Friday, July 19, 7 to 9 pm

Celebrate National Moth Week at the museum with entomologist Don Steinkraus and his flying friends! The program will begin in our classroom where Don will present an exciting discussion on various species of moths, their role in art, history, and your own backyard. As the sun sets, the event will conclude with a chance to move outdoors and spot some of these excellent creatures in the field and under backlight! All ages are welcome. Reserve your spot here before they fill up!

Concert » Sounds of the Pond: An Interactive Nature Concert by David Rothenberg

Friday, July 26, 8 to 9:30 pm 

Enjoy the musical sounds of Crystal Bridges pond during the dusk time accompanied by musician David Rothenberg who floats through the museum’s pond in a boat to perform with the natural ecosystem of bugs, frogs, fish, and birds. Reserve your spot here before they fill up!