December 31

UPDATE 12/27: Performance tickets are sold out; however, tickets are not required to visit the MSV (10 a.m. to 5 p.m.) or enjoy face painting or balloon animal making (noon to 3 p.m.).

Celebrate First Night at the MSV! Enjoy free family-oriented entertainment and admission by donation to the MSV galleries, Glen Burnie House, and gardens.

In the galleries building, Magic Shows will take place at 10 a.m. & noon (tickets required), the Blue Ridge Wildlife Center will present programs at 2 & 4 p.m. (tickets required), and balloon animal making & face painting will take place from noon to 3 p.m. (tickets not required). Free take-and make party hat kits will be available throughout the day.

Light snacks and drinks will be available for purchase in the Museum Store, and from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m., The Chef’s Corner will be in the Museum Lobby selling a Shenandoah Snack Box ($10–$13)—which includes your choice of chicken salad or gourmet hummus, crackers, grapes, and water—and various sweet treats and nuts ($7–$9).

Artists of all ages are also invited to participate in the First Night Winchester Coloring Contest! This annual MSV tradition includes prizes for the winners from each age group, and the winning coloring sheets will be on display on December 31. Find out more and download the free coloring sheet here!

On New Year’s Eve, the galleries building will be open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and The Trails at the MSV will be open from 7 a.m. to dusk.

Get tickets for the shows online or by calling 540-662-1473, ext. 240; early registration encouraged as space is limited.