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
2025 Summer Art Camps | July 14–18 and July 21–25
Summer Art Camp at the Palmer Museum of Art is devoted to artistic adventures. Campers will enjoy exploring the galleries, creating art, and participating in a variety of art-inspired activities and games.
Each week offers two camps, morning and afternoon, so campers can create a full-day option by registering for both. Instructors are highly skilled and experienced K–12 art teachers. Sessions offer a specialized art focus and include age-appropriate rest times, creative play, opportunities for socializing, and group walks through the Arboretum (weather permitting). Full-day campers will pack their own lunches and snacks.
Visit our Summer Camps page for information about each of the four sessions – Art & Nature, Paper Magic, Animals in Art, and Elements of Printmaking – as well as registration instructions.
Summer Camps InformationPrograms 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.
Quiet Hours
With a busy tour and program schedule serving a diverse community, the Palmer Museum is not necessarily a quiet place. If you’re interested in a peaceful experience, plan to visit during Quiet Hours, when there will be no programs or tours scheduled.
Upcoming Quiet Hours:
- August 21 | 11:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.
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 Self-Care Studio Sessions
Free, drop-in, no registration required.
Get creative, connect with others, move your hands, learn about self-care art techniques, and take time to relax and rejuvenate through art-making processes. Hosted by Erin E. Carter, EdD, ATR-BC, Assistant Teaching Professor of Creative Arts Therapies, these sessions will focus on therapeutic art practices for self-care as well as provide a time and place to build community with other creative people.
Yoga at the Palmer
Exercise your body and mind in a beautiful, artful environment. All bodies are welcome, and no experience is necessary. Wednesdays at noon.
Space is limited to the first 20 participants per class. Borrow a yoga mat or bring your own!
Instruction by Lisa Franklin. 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 our Visitor Services team at PalmerVisitorServices@psu.edu
Adult Workshops
Coming soon! 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.
Check the Community page for listings and registration information.
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