Exploring Local Museums in Oklahoma for International Museum Day

International Museum Day falls on May 18th this year, making Spring the perfect time to get out of the house and explore your local museums. While not many museums in the state are hosting special events for the holiday, there are several museums that are hosting free events throughout May 2023. Below are some of the museum programs any adult or family can check out free of charge.

Fort Smith Regional Art Museum RAM Saturdays

The Fort Smith Regional Art Museum has art events all year long. Every Saturday from noon to three, (with exceptions to holidays and emergency closures) the museum hosts a RAM Saturday event. RAM Saturdays are events that anyone, of any age (children with adult supervision) can join for free. Each week, the museum picks out a new art project. 

On May 20, the art project is a pet rock that can be decorated to look like an animal. On May 27, the museum’s art project is beginner’s macrame. You can learn more about the upcoming art projects by checking out their calendar here. 

National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Chuck Wagon Festival

The Dogwood Foundation is hosting the 32nd Annual Chuck Wagon Festival from May 27-28 from 10 am to 4 pm at 1700 Northeast 63rd St., Oklahoma City. This festival is the state’s largest celebration of cowboys and Native American history. The festival will be full of vendors, lectures, classes, and even examples of 1800s fashion and medicine. Of course, there will be some cowboy activities too!

The event is free for Museum members, children under 12, foster families (through the Arnall Family Foundation) and Blue Star Families. All other community members can buy tickets for $15 in advance and $20 at the door. It is sure to be a hootin’ hollarin’ good time!

Oklahoma Hall of Fame Summer Thursdays Family Fun

Beginning on June 1, going to July 27, the Oklahoma Hall of Fame will begin hosting a free family fun day. Each week, there is a new event anyone can attend for free. The Hall of Fame says these days are best for families with children aged 2-12.  

June 1 – Once More, with Feeling!

June 8 – Write, Away!

June 15 – Soda Counter-Culture

June 22 – Under the Red Dirt

June 29 – Over the Moon

July 6 – NO SUMMER THURSDAY!

July 13 – Bug Out!

July 20 – Designer for a Day

July 27 – Bust a Move!

Along with activities, there will be a story time once an hour and outdoor games. Small groups can just show up, but larger groups will need to call in advance to reserve space. 

Will you try one of them or try them all? Do you of other great museum events around the state? If so, comment below!