Free First Friday Eve is a favorite summer tradition at Shelburne Museum. From June through August on the first Friday of the month during the evening hours, admission to the Museum is free. It’s the perfect time to visit galleries, enjoy a picnic on the grounds, stroll through gardens, and take in the splendor of a summer’s evening.

Join us Fridays June 7th, July 5th, and August 2nd!

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to pay to get in?

No! The event is free and open to all between the hours of 5 – 7:30 p.m. Museum visitors who wish to visit during the daytime will be asked to pay normal admission.


Is there an ATM available?

Unfortunately, no. However, select food truck vendors may accept credit/debit cards.


Will the buildings be open?

All buildings will be open except for the Shaker Shed.

 
What time does the music start?

Live music begins at 6 p.m. and ends at 7:30 p.m. at the conclusion of the event.


Is this event kid-friendly?

Yes! The event is designed to appeal to all audiences. Children may enjoy a story walk, lawn games, dancing, and exploring the Museum grounds – ask a staff member for their recommendations.


What activities are happening?

Each event features an activity from 5 – 6 p.m. These activities often include exploration stations, artist lectures, exhibition tours, and more! See specific calendar listings for details. Ongoing activities include live music, food vendors, open buildings, and lawn games.


Are visitors required to wear face masks during the 2023 season?

In accordance with Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines Shelburne Museum will no longer require face masks on the Museum campus either indoors or outdoors. Individuals are welcome to wear masks, but they are not required. We do ask that visitors continue to practice social distancing as an important ongoing preventative measure. This policy is subject to change as the Museum monitors the pandemic situation, adhering to national and state guidelines.

 
Can we bring in a picnic?

Yes! We have picnic tables set up near the Weathervane Café, benches around the grounds, an open-air lounge area at Shaker Shed, and plenty of lawn space. Visitors may not bring alcoholic beverages on the grounds. Food and drink will be available for purchase from the Museum Store and select food truck vendors at each event.


Can we bring in lawn chairs?

Yes! You may bring lawn chairs or picnic blankets, or may utilize the picnic tables and benches around the grounds.


Is the Museum accessible to wheelchairs?

The Museum’s grounds are accessible, as are nearly all of our buildings. Paths, walkways, and roads consist of firmly packed gravel or slate surfaces and the terrain varies in slope and surface. Because each building is unique, we have published a Physical Accessibility Guide to help you plan your visit. You can download this guide from https://shelburnemuseum.org/visit/


Can I bring my dog in?

Service animals are welcome on the Museum grounds, but pets are not allowed. Visitors with service animals should speak with a member of the admissions staff prior to entering the grounds, for clarification on our policy and building access.


Where can I get something to eat and drink?

Featured food truck vendors will be present at each event. Check our event listings for more details on food and entertainment offerings each evening.

For more questions, please see our 2023 Visitation FAQs: https://shelburnemuseum.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Shelburne-Museum-FAQs-2023.pdf