Youth and Family Programs and Events

The Missouri History Museum provides Youth and Family programs and events year-round. These programs and events are designed to allow families to interact with each other through storytelling, performances, tours, and workshops.

    Our Storytelling programs engage our youngest visitors and their families by combining historic paintings and objects with traditional and contemporary children’s tales from various cultures. Each storytelling program is highlighted by a hands-on activity related to the theme that children and their adult chaperones can create.


    • Theatre and Performances

    Our Theatre and Performance programs combine historical topics with dramatic interpretations to allow visitors to experience history in a non-traditional format.  From full stage plays to one-person performances, there is a program for everyone.

    Performing Arts Series
    The Performing Arts Series at the Missouri History Museum presents local and national artists in main stage productions. Performances are chosen based on their relevance to the Missouri History Museum mission and in some cases tie into our exhibitions as well. Season tickets are available.

    Theatre in the Museum
    Watch as historical characters come to life in these one- or two-person plays. Past plays have covered such topics as the 1904 World’s Fair, the Civil War, and the founding of St. Louis. Each play lasts 20 minutes and is followed by a discussion.

    Theatre in the Museum: Teens Make History
    Teens from local high schools take the stage in our museum, performing plays based on St. Louis history. Teens are trained in historical content research methods and dramatic interpretation. Performances have covered such topics as: Segregation, The Underground railroad, East St. Louis race Riots, and St. Louis Popular Culture.

     

    • Second Sunday Celebrations

    These programs, aimed primarily at the family audience, occur throughout the year on the afternoons of the second Sunday of each month. Events offered during these programs may contain hands-on programs and activities for children, guided museum tours, fashion shows, concerts, ethnic festivals, puppet shows, storytelling, live theater, lectures, book signings, and celebrations of both American and international holidays. Check the events calendar for upcoming events.

     

    • Workshops

    Whether you want to learn some new moves, create a work of art, or research your family history, our interactive workshops provide you and opportunity to learn from experts in the field.

     

    Arts and Crafts
    Participants of all ages will enjoy creating arts and crafts projects inspired by objects and themes in our galleries. Projects will include Native American dream caters, model airplanes, historic paper dolls, rally flags, and more. Just drop in and join us!  One adult for every four children is required.

    Genealogy
    The Missouri History Museum is utilizing collection resources and expertise to provide families with assistance in genealogical research. This program series consists of workshops, lectures and other offerings to strengthen families and build family histories.

    Dance
    Movement in Time: African Dance Workshops - Celebrate dance in this active workshop.All ages are welcome, and the music is live. Special classes will include playing drums and small percussion.

    The Missouri History Museum offers a number of thematic tours for family groups.  Tours are designed to engage participants in object-centered learning.  Most tours include activities for family groups to work together and share their thoughts and ideas.  Group must be 8 or more to reserve.

     
    • Scout Programs

    The Missouri History Museum now assists members of Girl Scout and Boy Scout troops in earning merit badges! Through close examination of artifacts, discussion, and hands-on activities, Scouts gain the skills needed to complete badge requirements, and it’s free of charge! 

    All Scout programs will include a docent-led tour of the Museum in addition to variable activities. Museum space can be provided for Scouts to meet before or after the tour if desired. To inquire about exact details for Scout programs, please call 314-361-9265 or send an email to education@mohistory.org. 

    Check the events calendar for upcoming events.