LIST: Museums with free entrance fees, activities in celebration of International Museum Day 2023
The official celebration of International Museum Day may have ended last May 18, but several museums launched free activities and even waived entrance fees to encourage Filipinos to pay a visit even after the holiday.
The International Council of Museums (ICOM) established the special day in 1977 to increase public awareness on how museums serve society and contribute to its development.
This year's global theme is "Museums, Sustainability and Wellbeing," with ICOM saying museums are avenues "supporting climate action and fostering inclusivity, to tackling social isolation and improving mental health."
If you fancy a trip to a nearby museum, here are some activities you ought not to pass.
Pintô Art Museum
The iconic museum in Antipolo will have no entrance fee on May 23, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Pintô Art is not only a site for paintings, murals, and installations. It's also filled with cafes, restaurants, lush gardens, and buildings that are so Instagrammable.
The Museum at De La Salle University
The museum, which waives fees for university students and alumni, extends the privilege to non-Lasallians on May 26, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
University of the Philippines Vargas Museum
The UP Vargas Museum is holding free on-site activities about printmaking.
On May 20 at 10 a.m., Virgilio Aviado and Diana Aviado will talk about the country's history of printmaking—and demonstrate woodcut printing. Select participants will be able to make their own prints, though pre-registration is required through this link.
On 26 May 2023 (Friday), Rey Concepción of the UP College of Fine Arts will discus the art of serigraphy or silkscreen printing, followed by a demonstration of techniques associated with the art form. Sessions are from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., then from 2:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. Walk-ins are accepted.
Metropolitan Museum of Manila
The Metropolitan Museum of Manila will hold a highlights tour for a guided exploration of selected artworks in its exhibitions from May 18 to 20.
Tour groups are limited to 25 participants, who must book their visit through this link.
Ayala Museum
Ayala Museum will have free admission on May 20, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Registration starts today, May 19, at 3 p.m.
Attractions include museum as a "healing space," the Touch the Object corner, a sneak peek of the Filipinas Heritage Library, and live art production from the Agos Kulay Group. Its Museum Shop and partner booths will also have special offers.
Yuchengco Museum
Yuchengco Museum waived entrance fees on May 19, Friday – 12 n.n. to 6 p.m.; May 20, Saturday – 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; May 21, Sunday – 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Pre-registration isn't required, though visitors are highly encouraged to wear face masks.