December 31 • 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Celebrate First Night at the MSV with free family-friendly entertainment and activities. On this special day, admission to the MSV is by donation and highlights include a free family portrait photo session (10 a.m.–noon); a Kids’ Animal Masquerade Ball (11 a.m.–1 p.m.) featuring a “Noon New Year’s Countdown,” DJ, and photo booth; and fun animal presentations by the Blue Ridge Wildlife Center (2 & 4 p.m.). Throughout the day, explore the wildlife art in the Curious by Nature exhibition, enjoy face painting, make animal masks, and more!
The free portrait photo session is part of the Family Portrait Project organized by Summit Events. To guarantee a spot for the family photographs, advance online registration is strongly encouraged. Walk-ins will be accepted if time permits on a first-come, first-served basis.
Hot beverages will be available for purchase from the Good News Coffee Company (11 a.m.–2 p.m.), and light snacks and drinks will be available for purchase in the Museum Store. Admission is by donation, and activities are free. Wildlife presentations are first-come, first-served with limited space. On New Year’s Eve, the galleries are open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and The Trails at the MSV are open from 7 a.m. to dusk.