Megan Barry - Minnetrista

July 18; 2–4 p.m. | Center Building, Cantina  
Cost: $35/Faerie House | Member Discounts Apply 

Join our imaginative family workshop and create the faerie house of your dreams. Using an array of vibrant faux florals, you can design a one-of-a-kind masterpiece that will have faeries eager to move in! Children must be accompanied by an adult. Preregistration is preferred; limited walk-in tickets may be available—please call ahead. 

July 22; 2–4:30 p.m. or July 23; 6–8:30 p.m. | Center Building, Cantina 
Cost: $45 | Member Discounts Apply | Ages 14+ 

Discover the art of bookbinding in this hands-on workshop. Participants will learn the long-stitch binding method to create a soft leather journal with an exposed spine that allows for flexibility and durability. Each participant will create one 6" x 8.5" leather journal, with the option to add a leather strap closure. All tools and supplies will be provided. Preregistration is preferred; limited walk-in tickets may be available—please call ahead. 

Happens on the following Dates:

• Jul 22, 2026, 2:00pm to 4:30pm Timezone: Eastern Time (US & Canada)
• Jul 23, 2026, 6:00pm to 8:30pm Timezone: Eastern Time (US & Canada)

Minnetrista Museum & Gardens

July 25; 2–4 p.m. | Center Building and Wishing Well Lawn Cost: $18/Adult; $15/Child; 3 & Under Free | Member Discounts Apply Experience a tea party like no other, faerie-style, alongside fellow winged friends in the enchanting setting of Minnetrista. Enjoy a magical afternoon filled with games, a special craft, and—of course—lovely tea and treats. Costumes encouraged—wings, wands, and all things sparkly are welcome! Children must be registered with an accompanying adult. Preregistration is preferred; limited walk-in tickets may be available—please call ahead.

Turn your imagination into wearable art! In this hands-on workshop, you’ll craft a copper or bronze pendant using Precious Metal Clay (PMC)—a moldable clay made of real metal particles that transform into solid metal when kiln-fired.

Long Description

August 6; 2–4:30 p.m. or August 7; 6–8:30 p.m. | Center Building, Cantina 
Cost: $45 | Member Discounts Apply | Ages 13+ 

Turn your imagination into wearable art! In this hands-on workshop, you’ll craft a copper or bronze pendant using Precious Metal Clay (PMC)—a moldable clay made of real metal particles that transform into solid metal when kiln-fired. Learn how to cut, texture, and layer your piece while working with the clay in both its wet and green (dry) stages. Finished pendants will be kiln-fired by the instructor and ready to pick up the following week. All tools, supplies, and safety gear will be provided; please wear clothing you don’t mind getting dirty. Preregistration is preferred; limited walk-in tickets may be available—please call ahead. 

Happens on the following Dates:

• Aug 6, 2026, 2:00pm to 4:30pm Timezone: Eastern Time (US & Canada)
• Aug 7, 2026, 6:00pm to 8:30pm Timezone: Eastern Time (US & Canada)

Turn your imagination into wearable art! In this hands-on workshop, you’ll craft a copper or bronze pendant using Precious Metal Clay (PMC)—a moldable clay made of real metal particles that transform into solid metal when kiln-fired.

Long Description

August 6; 2–4:30 p.m. or August 7; 6–8:30 p.m. | Center Building, Cantina 
Cost: $45 | Member Discounts Apply | Ages 13+ 

Turn your imagination into wearable art! In this hands-on workshop, you’ll craft a copper or bronze pendant using Precious Metal Clay (PMC)—a moldable clay made of real metal particles that transform into solid metal when kiln-fired. Learn how to cut, texture, and layer your piece while working with the clay in both its wet and green (dry) stages. Finished pendants will be kiln-fired by the instructor and ready to pick up the following week. All tools, supplies, and safety gear will be provided; please wear clothing you don’t mind getting dirty. Preregistration is preferred; limited walk-in tickets may be available—please call ahead. 

Happens on the following Dates:

• Aug 6, 2026, 2:00pm to 4:30pm Timezone: Eastern Time (US & Canada)
• Aug 7, 2026, 6:00pm to 8:30pm Timezone: Eastern Time (US & Canada)

August 12; 3–4 p.m. | Center Building  

Cost: $10 | Member Discounts Apply | Ages 13+

Show your school spirit on a nostalgic journey through the Minnetrista Heritage Collection. Join the Collections team for a behind-the-scenes tour into secure storage areas, where you’ll discover the tools, trends, and traditions that shaped school life in our community. Explore artifacts rarely on public display, including educational toys, uniforms, sports memorabilia, instruments, photographs, class rings, and yearbooks—and maybe even spot a few objects from your own school days. This tour may include standing, stairs, and exposure to loud HVAC noise. Preregistration is preferred; limited walk-in tickets may be available—please call ahead. If you need accommodations, please notify us in advance.

https://www.minnetrista.net/events/collections-tour-aug-12-2026

August 13; 6–8 p.m. | Center Building, Indiana Room 
Cost: $28 | Member Discounts Apply | Ages 21+

 
Join Cody Sprunger, Archivist for Architectural and Design Records at Ball State University, for an exploration of the local built environment shaped by Herbert Smenner, one of Muncie’s leading 20th-century architects. Working both independently and alongside his professional partner Charles Houck, Smenner helped define the region’s architectural character through designs such as the Muncie Fieldhouse and the Grace Keiser Maring Library. Through original architectural drawings, documents, and photographs from Ball State University Libraries’ Andrew Seager Archives of the Built Environment, the program brings Smenner’s creative process to life while highlighting the lasting impact of his work across East Central Indiana. Guests are invited to see familiar places in a new way while enjoying delicious appetizers. Preregistration is preferred; limited walk-in tickets may be available—please call ahead. 

August 15; 2–4 p.m. | Center Building, Cantina 
Cost: $25 | Member Discounts Apply | Ages 18+ 

Capture the bright, tangy flavors of tomatillo salsa in this beginner-friendly canning workshop. You’ll learn the fundamentals of water-bath canning while creating a fresh, flavorful salsa perfect for dipping, topping, or adding a kick to your favorite dishes—and you’ll leave with a jar to take home. This relaxed, hands-on experience builds confidence in the kitchen while teaching practical skills you can use at home. Preregistration is preferred; limited walk-in tickets may be available—please call ahead. 

August 27; 5:30–8:30 p.m. or August 29; 2–5 p.m. | Oakhurst Gardens, Education Center 
Cost: $55 | Member Discounts Apply | Ages 18+ 

Experience the art of torchworking as you create one-of-a-kind glass beads in this hands-on workshop with local artist Marcos Jarp. Using a flame and an array of colorful glass rods, you’ll be guided step by step through the process of shaping molten glass in a supportive, beginner-friendly environment. All tools, supplies, and safety gear will be provided; please wear clothing you don’t mind getting dirty. Preregistration is preferred; limited walk-in tickets may be available—please call ahead. 

Minnetrista Museum & Gardens

September 2; 9:30 a.m.–3 p.m. | All Campus  Cost: $6 per child; includes free admission for two adults with each child ticket. Additional adult tickets are $7 each. Free for members. Homeschool families are invited to a fun-filled day of educational activities across Minnetrista’s campus. Enjoy a hands-on experience using an old-fashioned cider press, explore current exhibitions, and venture along our scenic trails. Come ready to learn and play! Preregistration is encouraged.

Minnetrista Museum & Gardens

September 2 and 3; 6–8:30 p.m. | Center Building, Cantina Cost: $65 | Member Discounts Apply | Ages 18+ Learn the art of traditional case binding in this two-day, hands-on workshop. Participants will build and sew their own text block, then create a durable hardcover book using decorative papers. Each participant will leave with a completed, handcrafted book suitable for journaling, sketching, or creative projects. A variety of decorative papers will be available to personalize your cover. All tools and supplies will be provided. Preregistration is preferred; limited walk-in tickets may be available—please call ahead. For those interested in exploring additional design techniques, Minnetrista is partnering with Art Mart, which is offering a separate paper marbling class. Participants are welcome to bring marbled paper from that experience to use in this workshop, though it is not required. Registration and fees for the marbling class are handled separately through Art Mart.

September 9; 3–4:30 p.m. | Center Building, Indiana Room Cost: $25 | Member Discounts Apply | Ages 13+

What does it take to bring a fully immersive art experience to life? Local artist Carrie Wright offers an intimate, behind-the-scenes look at creating a large-scale contemporary installation of seven hand painted silk panel rooms, sharing the high-stakes balancing act of logistics, innovation, and stewardship. Enjoy light refreshments as you explore the realities of bringing ambitious creative visions to life. From navigating unfamiliar infrastructure to carrying the responsibility of introducing a city to total immersion, this talk explores the unique pressures and rewards of a professional artist’s journey. Preregistration is preferred; limited walk-in tickets may be available—please call ahead.

September 12; 6:30–8:30 p.m. | Center Building and Nature Area  

Cost: $12 Adult and $8 Child (3 and Under Free) | Member Discounts Apply  

Experience Minnetrista’s Nature Area after dark in this guided evening adventure. Learn about the history of the land and discover the plants and animals that call it home as you explore from dusk into night. Flashlights and walking sticks are encouraged as you take in the sights and sounds of Indiana’s natural landscape. The evening concludes with s’mores around the fire, adding a tasty finish to this unique outdoor experience. Preregistration is preferred; limited walk-in tickets may be available—please call ahead. 

September 19; 5–7:30 p.m. | Oakhurst Gardens, Education Center Patio  

Cost: $35 | Member Discounts Apply | Ages 18+  

Gather around the table for an evening centered on local farms and the people who sustain them. Guests will share a family-style meal alongside farmers and growers from our region, hearing firsthand about their work, challenges, and the traditions that shape life on the land. Through conversation, participants will gain a deeper understanding of how foods moves from field to table and the role local farms play in community wellbeing. Preregistration is preferred; limited walk-in tickets may be available—please call ahead.  

September 19; 5–7:30 p.m. | Oakhurst Gardens, Education Center Patio 

Cost: $35 | Member Discounts Apply | Ages 18+

Gather around the table for an evening centered on local farms and the people who sustain them. Guests will share a family-style meal alongside farmers and growers from our region, hearing firsthand about their work, challenges, and the traditions that shape life on the land. Through conversation, participants will gain a deeper understanding of how foods moves from field to table and the role local farms play in community wellbeing.

Preregistration is preferred; limited walk-in tickets may be available—please call ahead. 

September 23 and 24; 5:30–8:30 p.m. | Education Center 
Cost: $85 | Member Discounts Apply | Ages 18+ 
 
Create your own glass mosaic in this two-day, hands-on workshop. Participants will design and complete a 6" x 8" mosaic panel using a variety of colorful glass. Choose from provided bird and butterfly patterns or bring your own inspiration to create a design that’s uniquely yours. All tools and supplies will be provided. Preregistration is preferred; limited walk-in tickets may be available—please call ahead. 

This Event Runs From Sep 23, 2026, 5:30pm to Sep 24, 2026, 8:30pm Timezone: Eastern Time (US & Canada)

September 23 and 24; 5:30–8:30 p.m. | Education Center 
Cost: $85 | Member Discounts Apply | Ages 18+ 
 
Create your own glass mosaic in this two-day, hands-on workshop. Participants will design and complete a 6" x 8" mosaic panel using a variety of colorful glass. Choose from provided bird and butterfly patterns or bring your own inspiration to create a design that’s uniquely yours. All tools and supplies will be provided. Preregistration is preferred; limited walk-in tickets may be available—please call ahead. 

This Event Runs From Sep 23, 2026, 5:30pm to Sep 24, 2026, 8:30pm Timezone: Eastern Time (US & Canada)

October 7 | 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
📍 Campus-Wide | Check-In at Center Building
🎟️ Free Family Event
✨ Presented by First Merchants Bank

🍏 Celebrate the Season at Minnetrista!
Gather the family and spend the day exploring apple-inspired adventures, hands-on activities, live entertainment, historic demonstrations, and autumn fun across the Minnetrista campus!

With activities happening throughout the day, you can create your own adventure and discover something new around every corner. 🍎🌿

🐾 See, Hear & Explore
Get up close with fascinating animals during live animal shows from Indiana Wild, enjoy live music from Oxford Baking Company in Hackley Gallery, and keep an eye out for Johnny Appleseed as he makes his way throughout the Center Building.

Head to the Apple Barn for live cider pressing demonstrations featuring both modern and historic methods, then explore the campus to find even more seasonal activities.

🎨 Make Something
Get creative with the “Still Life With Apples” painting activity in the Education Center, make an apple ornament at Betty’s Cabin, or try your hand at apple stamping on the Betty’s Cabin Lawn.

Looking for a little friendly competition? Enjoy classic family lawn games in the Wishing Well Garden and test your skills with the Rag Ball Apple Basket Game on the Oakhurst Lawn.

🌱 The Horticulture team will also be on the Greensward with a hands-on gardening activity.

🍎 More to Discover
Take a break from the activities to explore Minnetrista’s galleries and exhibitions with free admission throughout the day, shop special Family Adventure Day offers at The Orchard Shop, or grab something delicious from one of the food trucks along Center Drive. 🌭🍂

There’s something for every member of the family to enjoy!

📌 Plan Your Visit
Preregistration is encouraged.

Please note: Animals will be part of some of the day’s activities. If you or someone in your group has animal allergies or sensitivities, please plan accordingly. While animals will be supervised by professionals, we cannot guarantee an allergen-free space.

🍂 Come celebrate the sights, sounds, and flavors of fall with us! 🍎

Presented by First Merchants Bank.

October 9 | 5:30–8:30 p.m.
October 10 | 2–5 p.m.
📍 Center Building, Cantina
🎟️ $60 | Member Discounts Apply | Ages 18+

✨ Create Something Beautiful in Copper

Explore the colorful world of copper enameling with local artist and metalsmith Victoria Stout! In this hands-on workshop, you’ll learn the complete enameling process and create your own one-of-a-kind landscape pendant on a 2½- or 3-inch copper base.

From learning kiln safety and working with enamel powders to building your design and creating a finished piece, Victoria will guide you through the process step by step. No need to be an experienced metalsmith—this workshop is an opportunity to learn a new technique, get creative, and make something uniquely yours. 🌄🎨

By the end of the workshop, you’ll leave with a beautifully finished enameled copper pendant and the skills and confidence to continue exploring this colorful art form.

🛠️ What’s Included

All tools, supplies, and safety gear are provided, so you can focus on creating!

👕 Please wear cotton clothing. Polyester and acrylic clothing should not be worn for this workshop.

📅 Choose Your Workshop Date

Friday, October 9 | 5:30–8:30 p.m.
Saturday, October 10 | 2–5 p.m.

Both sessions cover the same workshop experience.

Preregistration is preferred. Limited walk-in tickets may be available, so please call ahead if you’re interested in joining us at the last minute.

🌈 Come explore the art of enameling and create a landscape you can carry with you!

October 29; 3–4 p.m. | Center Building  

Cost: $10 | Member Discounts Apply | Ages 13+      

Step behind the scenes into secure storage areas where mysterious, unusual, and rarely displayed artifacts wait to be rediscovered. From puzzling tools to objects with surprising purposes, each piece carries a story. Guided by the Collections team, you’ll examine real collection items up close and put your detective skills to the test. Can you determine what these objects were used for, who made them, or why they were preserved? Perfect for the curious, the clever, and anyone who loves a good puzzle, this tour invites you to uncover the secrets hidden within these delightfully obscure treasures. This tour may include standing, stairs, and exposure to loud HVAC noise. Preregistration is preferred; limited walk-in tickets may be available—please call ahead. If you need accommodations, please notify us in advance.  

https://www.minnetrista.net/events/collections-tour-oct-29-26