Looking for Something Different This Winter Break?

Article by Becky Fillinger, photos provided

You’re probably already planning what you’ll do with your days off in December. Sure, you’ll shop a bit and visit family and eat delicious food. You could combine all those things and visit our local treasure – Mia.  When the weather turns cold, there’s no better place to warm up than inside Mia, where creativity and curiosity come alive for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re exploring the latest exhibitions or rediscovering favorite works from Mia’s world-class collection, there’s always something new to see, do, and share. Here are just a few reasons to make Mia part of your family’s holiday tradition:

1. Experience the extraordinary with “Royal Bronzes: Cambodian Art of the Divine”

Step into a world of history and craftsmanship with this landmark ticketed exhibition, showcasing more than 200 bronze statues, ritual objects, and artifacts from the Khmer Empire - many never before seen in the U.S. Read more. It’s a memorable way for families to engage in a major cultural moment - monumental art, global heritage, and a story of resilience and craft.

(Please note: Members get free admission to ticketed exhibits on Member Days, including December 14 and January 1.)

2. Wander through free exhibitions throughout the galleries

Admission to Mia’s permanent galleries is always free, and families can wander through a variety of fascinating exhibitions this season:

● “Sopheap Pich: In the Presence Of” – four major sculptures by Cambodian-born artist Sopheap Pich, made of bamboo, rattan, burlap, that connect material, memory, and nature.

● “José María Velasco: A View of Mexico” – sweeping 19th-century landscapes from Mexico that invite you to slow down and take in color, light, and terrain.

● “Amy Usdin: After All” – a contemplative textile exhibition by Minnesota artist Amy Usdin, exploring life, memory, the land, and the ties that bind. Free exhibition.

● “Gatsby at 100” – a playful dive into the art and design of the Jazz Age, celebrating 100 years of The Great Gatsby.

●  “Timber! Art and Woodwork at the Fall of the Austro‑Hungarian Empire” – a show about art and woodwork from a dramatic moment in European history.

With this breadth of exhibitions, there’s literally something to appeal to every age - from young children intrigued by sculptural forms, to teens drawn to big vistas or textile art, to adults seeking new context or historical depth.

3. Go on a museum-wide scavenger hunt

Families can pick up a free scavenger hunt sheet at the front desk (or download here) and challenge themselves to find winter scenes, hidden animals, or favorite colors in works across the museum. For example, look for snow-covered landscapes in the American or European galleries, or try spotting natural-material sculptures in the contemporary galleries. It turns a visit into a fun, interactive adventure.

4. Get creative with the family

● Family Day (Dec. 14 and Jan. 11): Free hands-on art-making, music, and performances designed for families to enjoy together.

● Art Play (Dec. 20): A morning of discovery and sensory art play for younger children (while older siblings explore and parents enjoy coffee or the galleries).
 These events make the museum feel accessible and joyful - not just a “look at art quietly” space, but a place for making memories.

● Mini Mia (Jan. 2 and 7): A gallery tour specially designed for caregivers and little ones (ages 0–5), a movement class with Young Dance, and a cozy story time.

5. Relax with a Mia Matinee

Take a break from the holiday bustle and enjoy a special Mia Matinee - an afternoon film experience in the museum’s auditorium. It’s the perfect way to unwind together while staying in the spirit of art and culture.  We’ll watch Edward Scissorhands on December 27 at 2:00 pm. Grab a bit to eat and coffee at the onsite café, Agra Culture Kitchen.

6. Looking for an upscale experience?

Marius Hammer, Viking Dragon Boat, c. 1900, silver and enamel, Kode Bergen Art Museum, Bergen Silver Foundation, photo: Dag Fosse, Kode Bergen Art Museum. Part of the Scandinavian art collection.

Join us for a unique and completely delicious way to enjoy Mia. Mia After Dark is an intimate dining experience, held after-hours in the galleries, inspired by Mia’s special exhibition. On December 10, join us for a culinary experience featuring Mia’s Scandinavian art collection, paired with food and wine. Or, if you prefer an evening with art and wine, join us on December 16 for an evening of art, paired wine, and small plates.

7. General admission is always free!

That’s right - Mia is one of the few major museums with free admission to the permanent collection. Many of the special exhibitions (except ticketed ones, like Royal Bronzes) are free too. This makes it easy to drop by for an hour or stay for an entire afternoon.

8. Unique holiday gifts

The Store at Mia is the perfect place to find thoughtful, unique gifts that are handcrafted and locally sourced. This holiday season, let Mia’s galleries guide your gifting. Located on-site at Mia, The Store is the perfect place to find memorable gifts for art-lovers of all ages. From books, ornaments, jewelry, and everything in between, every purchase supports the Minneapolis Institute of Art.