• MCM Roadshow: Butterfly Action Day

    MCM Roadshow will be featured at Butterfly Action Day at Olbrich Garden: https://isthmus.com/events/butterfly-action-day/?occ_dtstart=2025-08-01T10:00

  • Music with Junebug

    Sing, stomp, and hop to the beat with Junko "Junebug" Yamauchi. These energetic, interactive sessions blend lively music, playful rhythms, and storytelling elements that spark imagination. Junko’s joyful energy builds connection, confidence, and community—all through the magic of music and movement. Perfect for toddlers and preschoolers.

  • STEAM Time: Catapults

    This STEM program helps visitors build a catapult and test force and motion as they see how far different weight objects can fly.

  • Shutterbug Station

    Stop by the Celebrations Room to learn about photography and take photos on digital cameras or phones. Drop in any time during the hour. Free with admission, no registration required. Recommended for ages 6 and up.

    $50
  • Clay It Forward!

    Roll, shape, and sculpt with us on Friday afternoons! Join Art Studio staff to explore the magic of clay while creating pots, tiles, and shapes that will find a home here in the museum. It’s a hands-on way to leave your creative mark while learning the basics of ceramic art.

  • Live from the Wonderground: Grupo Balança & Handphibians with Ótimo Dance

    Every month this summer, enjoy free concerts at MCM featuring an eclectic mix of Madison bands. Adults get to dance and chat, kids climb and play, and caregivers enjoy low-stress social time in an outdoor space like no other! Tonight we're welcoming three superb samba groups to the MCM stage: Grupo Balança, The Handphibians, and […]

  • August Member Morning

    Start your weekend with a quiet hour of members-only playtime before the museum opens to the public! Sip complimentary coffee (while supplies last) and enjoy exploring exhibits in a relaxed setting without the crowds.Not a member yet? Join today—your membership starts immediately and gives your family unlimited free visits all year.

  • Early Explorers Playgroup (Saturday special)

    Join us for a special summer Saturday edition of our Early Explorers playgroup.Parenting a little one can feel isolating sometimes—come connect with others who understand! This special summer Saturday edition of our Early Explorers playgroup offers time for babies and toddlers under 2 to play with new toys while caregivers share conversation, stories, and support. […]

  • Let’s Move! with Abby

    Join us for movement games and activities! From obstacle courses to dances, group games and balance activities, we'll enjoy different opportunities to move our bodies every day. Program location is subject to change, depending on the weather. Please check our Welcome Wall for the most up-to-date location information.This event is free with general museum admission.

  • Kamishibai & Play: Japanese Storytime

    Step into the world of kamishibai—a traditional form of Japanese picture storytelling! Enjoy lively tales, sing along to simple songs, and play group games that bring the stories to life. Join us for a magical cultural experience perfect for young learners and curious imaginations. Included with museum admission.

  • MCM Roadshow: Veridian Homes

    The MCM Roadshow will be featured on Sunday, August 3 from noon to 2 pm at Veridian Homes' Parade of Homes at The Harlow, a furnished model home at 1207 Crane Meadow Way, Sun Prairie, WI. Come make your own art ice cream creation, play in the kid size ice cream truck, and enjoy a […]

  • MCM Roadshow: Parks Alive! At Allied Drive

    We’re taking the museum on the road! At community events all around Madison, you can stop by our station to dive into hands-on maker activities, design a small take-home art project, and experiment with creative fort-building. Our traveling play station sparks curiosity, encourages problem-solving, and brings museum-style learning to local events.

  • Open Tuesday (special for August)

    We’re adding an extra day of play throughout August! The museum will be open every Tuesday this month, giving families more opportunities to visit their favorite exhibits, try out activities, and enjoy the last days of summer. Make your plans now for a special Tuesday outing!

  • STEAM Time: Fish Prints, Gyotaku

    Gyotaku is the traditional Japanese art of fish printing. Give it a try and bring your unique piece of art home.