Build Community. Spark Conversation. Inspire Change.
Community Programs
The Dennos Museum Center presents a variety of programs for all ages, seeking to build community, spark conversation, and inspire change. Check out the listings here to find out what's happening.
Tour Tuesdays
Tuesdays | 12:00 PM
Come to the museum and join an informal tour of our current exhibitions with one of our docents. Tours are free with museum admission and will begin at 12:00 PM. Please meet by the front desk a few minutes before the tour begins.
Second Sunday Art Projects
Every Second Sunday of the Month | 1:00 - 3:00 PM
Come to the museum and take part in a vibrant participatory artistic experience every second Sunday of the month! From printmaking to painting and weaving, each session offers a unique and creative activity.
Second Sundays are supported by the Linda O'Meara Fund for Arts Education. Second Sunday Art Projects are included with museum admission. Please pay admission when you arrive.
TADL Summer Storytimes
Second Wednesdays | 11:00 AM
DROP IN | FREE
Dig into discovery this summer at the Dennos! In partnership with Traverse Area District Library, families are invited to explore stories, art, and imagination! Enjoy lively read-alouds, songs, and hands-on activities that spark curiosity, creativity, and connection. Designed for young learners and their caregivers, this playful program brings our mission to life—building community, inspiring creativity, and learning together in the Discovery Gallery.
June 10 | Dinosaurs
July 8 | America’s 250th
August 12 | Dinosaurs
Dennos Birthday Community Day
Thursday, July 2 | 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
FREE
Join us in celebrating our birthday with a free day at the museum. We’ll have giveaways on the hour in celebration of 35 years of The Dennos.
Tickets are not necessary for this event.
Summer Reception + Launch Party
Thursday, July 2 | 7:00 PM, 6:45 PM Doors
You’re invited to the next era of the Dennos! Celebrate our summer exhibitions and get a first look at our updated brand. Doors will open at 6:45 PM. Members get free admission and double discounts in the Museum Store the night of the event. Guests of members and the public are welcome to attend at the cost of admission.
During the event, enjoy our Collector's Silent Auction. Thanks to generous donors, artwork from their collections will be available to bid on, including sculptures, photographs, prints, and more.
Your ticket includes one drink ticket and passed appetizers. Cash bar available. Please RSVP in advance.
Guardians of the Galleries (Ages 6-9)
July 20-23 | 1 - 4:00 PM
$249 | REGISTER AT NMC EXTENDED ED
Calling all young art heroes! Join the Guardians of the Galleries for a week of imagination, exploration, and creative fun at the Dennos. Each day brings a new mission—searching for hidden details in artworks, solving playful museum puzzles, making hands-on art projects, and discovering what makes a museum special.
The week ends with a festive family celebration where our newly minted Guardians share their artwork and highlights from their adventure.
Catie Newell Artist Talk
Friday, July 31 | 4:00 PM
Newell’s artist talk will invite participants into her material-driven practice, exploring light, perception, and the emotional resonance of objects and environments.
Catie Newell is an architect and professor at the University of Michigan A. Alfred Taubman College of Architecture and Urban Planning. This program is presented in partnership with the University of Michigan Arts Initiative through its Faculty Arts Ambassador Program.
Limit of 34.
Objects for Passing: Art for Grief, Care, and Life Transitions
Saturday, August 1 | 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM
Catie Newell, architect and professor at the UM A. Alfred Taubman College of Architecture and Urban Planning, will present this workshop using work from her own artistic practice.
This program is presented in partnership with the University of Michigan Arts Initiative through its Faculty Arts Ambassador Program.
Limit of 20.
Ikebana Pop-up exhibit
August 8 & 9
11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Traverse City’s local Ikebana International chapter returns for the third year, presenting original floral arrangements in the sculpture court and galleries for visitors to enjoy. Join us for a weekend of botanical creation and inspiration!
Included with admission to the museum. Please pay regular admission rates at the front desk upon arrival.
Ikebana Flower Arranging for Adults
Saturday, August 8th | 1:00 - 3:00 PM
SOLD OUT
Step into the serene world of Ikebana, the Japanese art of flower arranging. This beginner workshop will introduce you to the fundamental principles of balance, simplicity, and harmony. Learn to create your own unique arrangements, using creativity and mindfulness. No previous experience is needed—just bring your enthusiasm and an open mind.
Limit of 15.
Ikebana Flower Arranging for Littles
Sunday, August 9 | 11:00AM - 12:00 PM
Discover the art of ikebana with your child in this hands-on workshop! Learn the ancient Japanese art of flower arranging as you create beautiful, balanced compositions together, fostering creativity and mindfulness.
Limit of 8 children (5-8 years old), each with a parent or guardian.
