Programs + Events

Ruth Stark Sunday Spotlight – Our long-running Ruth Stark Sunday Spotlight series is where exhibiting artists at the Danforth can discuss their work, their process, and their installation.  As they are focused on current exhibitions, attendees get to walk around with the artist to examine and learn about their work in detail.

Saturday Artist Sessions – For these afternoon sessions, artists active in the local community are invited to the Museum to share selected pieces of their work with the audience as they talk about their art and process. Guests will have the chance to ask questions and talk with the artists in an informal setting. This is an opportunity to be inspired by artists not currently on view at the museum.

Panel Discussions – The Danforth occasionally plans a live conversation featuring artists, curators, or experts from various fields related to a current exhibition theme. The panel of speakers delves deeper into the artwork and provides insightful perspectives. Our most recent panel discussion was Pathways to Action: Climate Conversations at the Local Level. Please find a recording of the program here.

From beginner levels to more advanced, each workshop provides a comprehensive lesson and students come away with a finished project and a new or refined skill! Advanced registration is required for all workshops. Check out our Art School page to see what workshops are coming up!

The Tranquility and Connection programs encourage dialogue, reflection, and creativity. The series explores the various ways of seeking respite, rejuvenation, contemplation, and inspiration. Amid the Danforth’s collection and studio art programs, we practice community care.  Check out the program offerings on our Event Calendar.

Drop into Art – This event is held on the second Sunday of the month (except for June-August) from 1-4 pm. Interactive tours, art projects, writing activities, and/or games help visitors of all ages explore art objects in special exhibitions and the permanent collection. Each month, the program explores a new subject or theme. Children must be accompanied by an adult.  Free to all and no registration is required – just drop in!

Kids Night Out – Parents, take advantage of a chance to go shopping or get a bite to eat – it’s a night just for the kids with us at the Danforth. Children will enjoy an art project, and a scavenger hunt in the museum! Includes pizza, lemonade and a treat to take home.  This event takes place several times a year and is limited to 15 participants, Grades K-8. Registration is required and tickets are $30 per child.  Drop Off is between between 5:45-6 p.m. with pick up promptly at 9 p.m.

Brunch at the Danforth – Enjoy light brunch treats, coffee, tea, and mocktails while discovering fascinating facts about various artwork topics, from artwork in the Danforth’s Permanent Collection, rotating exhibitions, or other specific art related topics!  Brunch at the Danforth happens twice a year and topics vary every event. Brunch takes place two times a year on Sunday between 11am to 1pm, with the events talk started at 12pm.  Advance registration is required and tickets are $25.00 for non-members and $15.00 for members.

Drinks at the Danforth – The Danforth invites you to spend a creative evening with us meeting new friends while enjoying a unique cocktail (or mocktail)!  Members receive discounts and special perks for this event.  Projects and cocktails will vary with inspiration found from the current exhibitions.  Event takes place two times a year on Friday from 6-9pm with admission $25 for non-members, $15 for members.  Cash bar available to those over 21 as well as an assortment of snacks and refreshments. Advanced registration is required as only a limited number of spaces are available.

Participate in awesome make-and-take art activities, watch masterful artist demonstrations, enjoy a museum scavenger hunt, and help create a collaborative work of art.  Meet and hear from artists who are represented in Danforth’s Annual Juried Exhibition.  Food trucks, DJ entertainment, and more. All are welcome and admission is free!  The next Hype the Arts will take place on July 19, 2025. Keep an eye out for more details about the festivities!