The Springfield Museums present Make Your Mark: April School Vacation Week, with special, facilitated, and independent programing April 17-21, free with museum admission. Inspired by current exhibit Nelson Stevens: Color Rapping, the school vacation week activities explore themes of creativity and community art with hands-on, facilitated activities.

“Playful learning is a wonderful pathway to ah-ha moments and memories that fuel creative thought.” said Abby Garner, Family Engagement Coordinator for the Springfield Museums.

In addition to daily activities, listed below, the Museums will host special guests throughout the week.

SCHOOL VACATION WEEK SPECIAL GUESTS

Monday, April 17, 11 am-3 pm:  Watershed Table – Join our friends from Fish & Wildlife to learn about how water impacts the local geology.

Monday April 17: ¡Descubra! With the National Museum of the American Latino – Brought to us by the Smithsonian, meet a scientist and participate in four hands-on STEAM activities based on the work of the US Patent and Trademark Office and the visiting scientist.

Tuesday, April 18, 11 am-3 pm: The UMass Chemistry Club – Amazing Earth Week activities including making calcium alginate gels and exploring acidification!

Wednesday, April 19, 1 pm: The Fourth Wall Ensemble – Watch music come to life in this entertaining show! The Fourth Wall Ensemble will delight you with a new hybrid of the performing arts in which musicians are also actors and dancers!

DAILY ACTIVITIES

Color the Rhythm, 11 am-3 pm
Use marker and foil to doodle to the music of Nelson Stevens’ favorite jazz musicians. Recommended for ages 8+.

Prism Play, 11 am-3 pm
Use a flashlight and black paper to see how a prism works.

Mix it Up!, 11 am-3 pm
Experiment with color mixing using light.

Colorful Portraits, 12-4 pm
Create a portrait of yourself or someone who inspires you using the vibrant colors Nelson Stevens’ used in his art!

Collaborative Mural, 11 am-3 pm
Make your mark on this community mural.

Color Resist, 11 am-3 pm
Explore the magic of color resistance and make art to take home with you.