The Dayton Art Institute is welcoming the Miami Valley community to its final “Art for All” free‑admission weekend of 2026 on Saturday, Nov. 14, and Sunday, Nov. 15. This two‑day initiative removes financial barriers, allowing families, students, and art lovers of all ages to explore the museum’s permanent galleries and current special exhibitions at no cost.
Family‑friendly activities and special programming
During the weekend, visitors can join guided scavenger hunts and participate in hands‑on art‑making projects designed for children and parents alike. Museum curators will be on hand to offer mini‑tours of the galleries, and guests can browse the Museum Store while enjoying a 15% discount on new or renewing museum memberships (excluding Jefferson Patterson Society memberships).
Live music and exhibition highlights
Saturday’s program includes a special musical performance by the Bach Society of Dayton at 1 p.m. in the Great Hall. The museum’s regular weekend hours remain in effect, opening from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and from noon to 5 p.m. on Sunday.
Three major special exhibitions are on view simultaneously, giving free‑admission guests a rich cultural experience. The quilt displays “Wall Power! Spectacular Quilts from the American Folk Art Museum” (Oct. 17 – Jan. 10) and “Power of Remembrance: AIDS Memorial Quilt Panels” (Oct. 17 – Jan. 3) showcase historic and contemporary textile art. “Captivating Clay: Contemporary Japanese Ceramics from the Horvitz Collection” runs through Jan. 3, while the long‑term installation “Exploring Feminism” remains open through the same date. The photographic exhibit “Looking for Japan: Early Japanese Photography” will close on Nov. 29.
New exhibition celebrating biblical stories
Launching on Saturday, Nov. 14, the museum’s newest show, “Good Book: Bible Stories from the Collection,” will run through Feb. 14, offering visitors a chance to see artworks that illustrate key moments from Scripture.
Community support makes it possible
The free‑admission weekend is made possible by presenting sponsors Steve and Kate Hone, with additional support from Karen and Eric Spina and LexisNexis Cares. Their contributions reflect a shared commitment to cultural enrichment and education for all residents of the Dayton area.
Whether you are a longtime patron or a first‑time visitor, the Dayton Art Institute’s Art for All weekend provides an accessible, enriching experience that celebrates art, history, and community together.
Original reporting: WHIO-TV Dayton (local) — read the source article.
