Special Events | Ages 4+ | Our Location
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Experience Family Day at the Center
What do Lamb Chop, Cookie Monster, and the giant balloons of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade have in common? They were all brought to life by puppetry pioneers who changed the art form forever!
Join us for Pioneers of Puppetry, a Center-wide celebration of the artists, inventors, and storytellers who helped shape modern puppetry. Discover the fascinating stories behind legendary innovators like Jim Henson, Shari Lewis, Tony Sarg, Bil Baird, Willis O’Brien, and Marjorie Batchelder McPharlin as you explore interactive activities throughout the Center.
Get hands-on with art projects inspired by their groundbreaking work, meet puppets connected to their traditions, and uncover the imagination and ingenuity that brought some of the world’s most beloved characters and creations to life.
Filled with creativity, discovery, and family fun, Pioneers of Puppetry is a chance to celebrate the visionaries who transformed the art form for generations. Join us from 10 AM–3 PM for a day of activities happening all across the Center!
Jim Henson: Little Golden Book Biography
Reading and Signing with Luke Flowers
Award-winning author, illustrator, and puppeteer Luke Flowers will be reading his new book, Jim Henson: A Little Golden Book Biography! This biography captures Jim Henson’s revolutionary approach to puppet building, performing, and storytelling. Every page is filled with rich details and beloved characters that spotlight the inspiring story of Henson’s unique artistry. Introducing young readers and new fans to Jim Henson’s life story was at the heart of Luke’s vision for this book. At the same time, he wanted lifelong fans of Jim’s work to enjoy the many special tributes hidden throughout its pages.
Join us for this special reading and book signing with Luke, included with your Pioneers of Puppetry ticket!
All Family Day activities are included with either museum or show tickets!
Choose from 2 Ways to Buy!
Pioneers of Puppetry (Only)
Enjoy all Pioneer Day activities and access to the Jim Henson Collection, the Global Gallery Museum, and the Frame by Frame: The Art of Stop-Motion Animation special museum exhibition.
Pioneers of Puppetry + Show
Double your Family Day fun with Pioneer Day AND a performance of American Tall Tales. All tickets also include early access to the Jim Henson Collection, the Global Gallery museum, and the Frame by Frame: The Art of Stop-Motion Animation special museum exhibition.
