Community Programs
Discover a variety of gallery and studio programs for all ages and interests. This page is devoted to registration-based programs. For more information about drop-in programs such as Tours, Family Days, and Gallery Talks, please see the schedule of listings on the Programs page.Youth Programs
2026 Summer Art Camps | July 13–17 and July 20–24
Summer Art Camp at the Palmer Museum of Art is devoted to artistic adventures. Campers will enjoy creating art, exploring the galleries, and participating in a variety of art-inspired activities and games.
Each week offers two half-day sessions with a specialized art focus. Additional camp activities include age-appropriate rest times, creative play, opportunities for socializing, and time outdoors (weather permitting).
Visit our Summer Camps page for information about each of the four sessions – Mixed Media Magic, Sculpture Studio, Printmaking Lab, and Museum Masters – as well as registration instructions.
Summer Camps InformationAdult Workshops
Sign up for one-day or multi-session art workshops to learn new skills, advance your artistic practice, or have a fun night with friends.
Stay tuned for more info about what workshops are coming up!
Programs for All
Community Days
Enjoy a variety of activities connected to a special exhibition or theme. From gallery talks, tours, and art-making, to music, dance, and games, there is something for everyone.
Drop-in Workshops
Try out art-making techniques related to collections and works on view.
Sensory-Friendly Hours
Join us in the galleries during designated Sensory-Friendly Hours for a more relaxed and comfortable visit. During these times, we adjust the environment by dimming gallery lighting and turning off audio on gallery tablets and no tours are scheduled. While all visitors are welcome, these sessions are especially appropriate for individuals with sensory sensitivities, for neurodivergent visitors, disabled visitors, or anyone who prefers a calmer museum experience.
Check our Programs page for upcoming hours!
Talks & Discussions
Take a deeper dive into the collection or a special exhibition with gallery talks by museum staff, faculty, or other knowledgeable speakers.
Check listings on our Programs page.
Family Guides & Self-Guided Tours
Interested in exploring the galleries but feel a little intimidated by art? We’ve got you!
Printed family guides and self-guided tours are available at the museum welcome desk. Large print text of gallery labels are also available. Inquire at the Visitor Services desk.
Wellness Programs
Take time for yourself and enjoy creative expression and mindfulness in an artful environment.
Creative Studio at the Palmer
Free, drop-in, no registration required.
This season, Creative Studio sessions take inspiration from artists featured in the galleries—Howardena Pindell, Barkley Hendricks, Willie Cole—and their artistic connections to the circle. A powerful symbol of unity, wholeness, and the cycles of life, the circle is also a foundational element of art. Hosted by Erin E. Carter, Art Therapist, and Erin Bolger Welsh, artist and Art Educator, these sessions offer art-based creative activities designed to encourage relaxation, connection with others, and rejuvenation of spirit.
Join us for these free, drop-in sessions:
- Mandalas – Thursday, January 22 | 5:30–7:30 p.m.
- Somatic Circles – Thursday, February 19 | 5:30–7:30 p.m.
- Sound & Motion – Thursday, March 19 | 5:30–7:30 p.m.
- Positive/Negative – Thursday, April 30 | 5:30–7:30 p.m.
Generous support for this program provided by Art Bridges.
Yoga and Mindfulness at the Palmer
Join Sima Farage for yoga, mindful movement, and meditation in this free, drop-in program at the museum. All bodies are welcome, and no experience is necessary.
Space is limited to the first 20 participants per class. Borrow a yoga mat or bring your own!
This program is presented through a partnership with Penn State Health Promotion & Wellness. Offered in collaboration with Student Affairs, Health Promotion and Wellness.
Volunteer Program: Palmer Ambassadors
Palmer Ambassadors are volunteers dedicated to welcoming visitors and supporting the museum’s mission through a variety of programs and projects. After completing onboarding sessions, Ambassadors establish regular shifts to fit their schedule and museum needs.
Check back in late spring or early summer for the next application and onboarding cycle.
For questions about the Palmer Ambassador program, contact Bronwyn Flemming, education and public programs specialist, at bmf5778@psu.edu.
Drop-in Tours
Deepen your engagement with the Palmer’s collections and exhibitions with a guided tour.
Regularly scheduled tours are available free-of-charge for individuals or small groups (up to eight people) to drop-in, no reservation needed. These participatory tours explore highlights of the collection and special exhibitions through a unifying theme and encourage visitors to connect with artworks and share ideas with fellow visitors.
Check our Programs page for dates.
Outreach
Connect with us out and around the local community at festivals and event and enjoy a family-friendly activity inspired by art in the permanent collection. Find us at State College Pride, Arts Fest, LION Bash, WPSU Event-a-palooza, Pumpkin Fest . . . and many more!
Check back for future outreach programs.
See all the Palmer’s upcoming programs at our Programs page