Open Wed–Sun, 9 am–4 pm • Free Thur nights, 4 pm–8 pm • Get museum tickets
Open Wed–Sun, 9 am–4 pm • Free Thur nights, 4 pm–8 pm • Get museum tickets
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.
It’s the shortest day of the year—let’s bring some light! Children and caregivers are invited to create lanterns using paper, nature-inspired decor, and their own imagination. We’ll talk about the solstice and the changing seasons as we work. Take your lantern home to shine through the long winter nights.
Step into a tiny frozen wonderland! Create your own miniature diorama capturing the magic of a winter scene. From snowy forests to icy adventures, you’ll use natural and crafty materials to build your vision of winter. It's a hands-on experience for all ages—and the perfect take-home to display or gift.
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.
Shake up your holiday season—literally! Join us to make snow globes with a Kwanzaa twist. Kids can decorate miniature scenes with symbols of unity, creativity, and community. Whether you’re learning about the holiday or celebrating it already, this project brings the spirit of Kwanzaa to life in a jar.
Design your own frosty masterpiece with popsicle sticks, gems, and more! Little hands will love this sensory-friendly crafting experience, turning simple materials into glittering snowflakes. Each one is as unique as its maker—and perfect for hanging at home or gifting to someone special.
Make your own frosty masterpiece! Use gel printing plates (gelli plates) and paint to create layered, textured art inspired by the chill and beauty of the winter season. No two prints are the same—this open-ended art process is fun for all ages and abilities. Free with general museum admission.
Madison's cutest New Years celebration kicks off bright and early this morning! Meant for littles aged 0-3 years, this party will feature a Baby New Year photo op, a toddler dance mix led by Erica Pinigis of Isthmus Dance Collective, and three countdowns (toddlers love repetition!) at 9:30, 10, and 10:30 am. This event is […]
Celebrate the end of 2025 with a creative twist! Use your imagination to craft a wearable New Year’s Eve button that captures your hopes, dreams, or just your favorite glittery colors. It’s a fun way to mark the moment and carry a little piece of the party into 2026.
Are your little ones not quite ready to stay up until midnight? Bid farewell to 2025 with the most bedtime-friendly New Year's Eve party in Madison! This dance party begins at 1:30 pm, with early New Year's countdowns at 2 pm and 3 pm. Bundle up and boogie down in the Wonderground with family-friendly DJ […]
Come join MCM for the very first day of 2026! The museum is open 9 am-4 pm today. Please note that we will not hold extended evening hours today. This event is free with general museum admission.
Celebrate a new beginning with Junebug! This special edition of Music with Junebug brings extra energy, smiles, and rhythm to kick off the year. With songs, storytelling, and hands-on movement, Junko “Junebug” Yamauchi inspires connection and play. Who knows—she might even bring a Taiko drum to join the fun!
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.
Get your hands on some clay and sculpt your heart out! Kids can pinch, shape, roll, and mold their own one-of-a-kind creations—animals, monsters, treasure boxes, or abstract masterpieces. It’s all about creativity and experimentation. This drop-in activity is great for all ages and free with museum admission.
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.
