Take an innovative approach to the “unofficial start of summer” this Memorial Day Weekend at the Summer Kick-off Celebration at Hagley Museum and Library!

On Saturday, May 25, Hagley has something for everyone with special programs, engaging tours, and hands-on activities that will “inspire all people to be innovative in their own lives.”  Get a taste of all that Hagley has to offer all summer long with this special preview day that includes:

•    Hands-on activities for the whole family in the DuPont Discovery Loft and at Hagley’s immersive 19th-century workers’ community
•    Cannon firings, black powder programs, and water-powered machine shop demonstrations throughout the day
•    Special behind-the-scenes talks about what it takes to restore and maintain 19th-century machinery in the historic DuPont powder yard with Hagley’s Mechanical Exhibits team. (45-minute programs starting at 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.) 
•    A rare look inside the historic greenhouse complex and walk through the E. I . du Pont heritage garden and orchard with Hagley’s Gardens and Horticulture team. (45-minute programs starting at 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.)
•    Historic Home and Garden tours with a visit to the new “Du Ponts Down the Road” historic vehicle exhibition
•    Displays by some of Hagley’s community partners at locations throughout the museum grounds and
•    The whole property open for walking and exploration, including areas typically closed to visitors 

For the Summer Kick-off Celebration, we’re extending free admission to all youth aged 14 and younger!  (A $10 savings for kids aged 6-14.) Admission can be purchased upon arrival at the Hagley Visitor Center at 200 Hagley Creek Road.  As always, admission is FREE for Hagley Members.  For additional discounts on admission, see below.

Food trucks will be on hand and a selection of sandwiches, snacks, and beverages are available for purchase in the Visitor Center.

Summer Kick-off Celebration activities are from 10AM to 4PM with regular museum operations until 5PM.  

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Museums for All Discount: Visitors from all states, other than Delaware, with EBT/SNAP Cards receive full admission for up to four people, at $2 each. Visitors must present their EBT/SNAP Card with a photo ID to receive the discount. Offer valid only for general admission and Summer Nights at Hagley. Not valid for special events, special exhibitions, or with any other offers or group rates.

ACCESS Discount: Present your EBT Card or Art-Reach ACCESS Card and receive admission for up to four people, at $2 each. Visitors must present their EBT Card or Art-Reach ACCESS Card along with a photo ID to receive the discount. Not valid for special events, exhibitions, or with any other offers or group rates. The ACCESS program is a region-wide initiative led by Art-Reach. Click here to learn more about the ACCESS program.