Nelson, BC (March 1, 2023) – Singalongs, dance performances, writing workshops, and sock puppet shows will fill every nook and cranny at the 2023 spring Museum Mash at the Nelson Museum. Designed especially with kids in mind, this free event provides an approachable way for the whole family to explore the Museum.
“Children are so often told that museums and galleries are places to be quiet, keep your hands to yourself, walk, and never play,” says Nelson Museum Executive Director Astrid Heyerdahl. “Museum Mash is one of our favourite programs because it provides the space for kids to be kids and shows them that museums and galleries aren’t devoid of movement and sound, and are exceptional places of learning and fun.”
Museum Mash is on Sunday, March 12, with activities scheduled from 10 am to 3 pm. Performers include Lucas (Myers) & Krista (Lynch), Dance Umbrella, and more. Activities and performances will take place throughout the building, including both galleries, the 2nd Floor Museum Exhibit, and the newly renovated 3rd floor Meeting Rooms.
The Museum is also launching a new Spring Break Camp program for children ages 6-11, which will run from March 27 to 30. The program will feature a different theme each day, and will include gallery tours, hand-on activities, immersive programming, and more. The Spring Break Camp is a pilot project for a longer-term Summer Camp program, currently in the planning stages.
The focus on children’s programming aligns with the Museum’s strategic plan, which includes strengthening family programming as a main pillar of the next three years of planning. In addition to increasing family programs, the Museum is partnering with local businesses to sponsor the Youth Access Program, offering free admission to all children under 18. In 2023, sponsors include Kalesnikoff Lumber and the Kootenay Co-op, and upcoming sponsors Grant Thornton and Kays Contracting.
“Instilling a life-long love of learning, and an unwavering belief in the essential value of art and history, begins with inspiring children at an early age,” Heyerdahl adds, “and supporting the mental health and education of the incredible young people in our community is always a good investment.”
More information for both Museum Mash and the Spring Break Camps, as well as current and upcoming exhibition programming, is available at nelsonmuseum.ca