Saturday, August 9 • 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

Special Events

Celebrate movement, creativity, and outdoor fun during the first ever Commonwealth Day of Play at the MSV! This day is a statewide celebration designed to bring classic play back into children’s lives. The MSV is celebrating by encouraging families and visitors of all ages to enjoy the Trails at the MSV through hands-on activities, interactive stations, and self-guided adventures.

Activity Stations (10 a.m.–4 p.m.) – Lawn in front of the galleries building
Stop by and enjoy a variety of fun, family-friendly stations, including:

  • Welcome Table – Pick up trail activity guides like the Trail Scavenger Hunt, Family Fitness Trail Walk, Family Trail Sculpture Walk, and a Trails Map.
  • Postcard Coloring Station – Create your own nature-inspired postcards using colored pencils and example sketches.
  • Hula Hooping Station – Give it a whirl! Try out hula hooping with playful movement suggestions.
  • Leaf Printing Station – Use leaf rubbing plates to make your own botanical art and explore tree identification.
  • Compass Station – Learn basic compass skills and explore trail maps to become a confident explorer!
  • Chalk Station – Add your art to the Reception Hall Patio and join in some hopscotch fun.

Self-Guided Trail Experiences (10 a.m.–4 p.m.)
Extend your day with themed walks along the MSV Trails:

  • Family Fitness Trail Walk – Follow a suggested route with activity prompts at scenic trail stops like the Silo, Standing Stone Circle, and Osage Orange Circle.
  • Sculpture & Yoga Walk – Discover outdoor sculptures while pausing at each stop for a kid-friendly yoga pose and reflection.
  • Trails Scavenger Hunt – Maps will be available at the Welcome Table

Make a Day of It
Bring a picnic and relax on the grounds! Visitors are encouraged to enjoy the picnic areas and soak in the beautiful surroundings. Biking to the MSV and along the Trails is also welcomed and encouraged.

This event is free to all. Admission fees apply to visit the galleries & gardens. 

Click to see MSV policies on refunds & photography.