Experience the Civic Museum like never before at a one-of-a-kind event where the museum comes alive after hours. Step into a world where history meets creativity as the entire museum is transformed into a playground of music, art, installations, performances, and activations.

Free admission begins at 5 PM, and Preetam Sengputa takes the 4th Friday stage at 7 PM. The festivities continue until midnight.

Explore hidden corners and discover the museum’s treasures with behind-the-scenes tours. Engage in storytelling sessions that whisk you away to different times and cultures. Immerse yourself in interactive experiences that ignite your imagination.

Doors Open After Dark promises to be an unforgettable night of exploration and excitement!

Featuring

Ame Papatsie Drumming Activation
Feel the heartbeat of the land with Ame Papatsie’s mesmerizing drumming experience. Immerse yourself in the rich rhythms and ancestral echoes of Indigenous drumming as Ame guides you through a captivating journey of sound and spirit. Join us as we honor Indigenous traditions and connect with the soul-stirring power of the drum.

Articus Roaming Juggling Act
Prepare to be dazzled by Articus, the master juggler, as he roams through the museum spaces, weaving his magic with an enchanting juggling act. Catch glimpses of his mesmerizing skills as he navigates through the exhibits, engaging the audience with his playful and captivating performance.

Behind-the-Scenes Tours
Gain valuable insights into the museum’s vast collection with behind-the-scenes tours throughout the night. Explore areas typically hidden from public view and uncover the secrets of the museum’s archives.

Community Consultation with Mary Kroetsch
Share your thoughts on creativity in Mary Kroetsch’s “Creativity Is” project. Participate in a community consultation and contribute to a collective vision of what creativity means to you and your community.

Drag Storytelling
Step into the enchanting world of drag storytelling in the Folklore exhibition on the first floor. Be captivated by tales of adventure, romance, and fantasy presented by our fabulous drag performers at regular intervals throughout the night.

Family Gallery Face Painting
Let your imagination soar with face painting available all night in the Family Gallery. Transform into your favorite character or creature and add a touch of whimsy to your museum adventure.

G9 Bhangra Dance Performance
Ignite the night with the electrifying rhythms of Bhangra! Join us on the patio for a dynamic dance performance by local performers G9 Bhangra, showcasing the vibrant energy and cultural heritage of this traditional Punjabi folk dance. Let the pulsating beats and infectious moves set the tone for an unforgettable evening of celebration.

Historical Costume Dress-Up
Travel back in time and dress up in historical costumes from our collection in the Family Gallery. Channel your inner child and capture the magic of the past through fun and dress-up

Megan Arnold’s Comedy Exploration
Prepare to be amused and engaged by Megan Arnold’s comedy performance, where she delves into the rare pastimes of worm grunting and musical canine freestyle! Expect laughter and surprises throughout her captivating act.

Preetam Sengupta Fourth Friday Folk Music Concert
Kick off the night with the soulful melodies of Guelph-based folk artist Preetam Sengupta. Join us in the programming room for an intimate concert where stories come to life through song.

Roxanna Bahrami’s Community Art Project
Contribute to a local artist’s community project, “Dot by Dot, We Unite,” by collaboratively creating a bench symbolizing rest, focus, and relaxation. Join Roxanna Bahrami in this interactive and meaningful art installation.

Sai Soul Strings Musical Fusion
Experience the mesmerizing fusion of Indo-Western music performed on the tabla and harmonium by Sai Soul Strings. Discover the enchanting sounds of these beautiful instruments and lose yourself in the magic of their performance.

Teresa B Intuitive Rune Stone Readings
Explore the mysteries of the ancient art of Rune Stone readings with Teresa Barry. Sign up for a slot on the third floor and receive a free personal reading that may offer insight and guidance for your journey ahead.