Tonight, Thursday, October 8, the McNay Art Museum opens its grounds to everyone — free — for Second Thursday, from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. on the museum lawn at 6000 N New Braunfels Ave.
The evening features live music by HoneyBunny, hands-on art activities (popsicle stick people, sunglass portraits, and “draw yourself” half-face portraits), food trucks on site, and room to relax on the lawn — bring a blanket or lawn chair. Outdoor activities run 6 to 8 p.m., and the outdoor areas are dog-friendly. Inside, gallery admission is free from 4 to 9 p.m. courtesy of H-E-B, and October’s edition celebrates the exhibition Two Faced: An Exhibition of Artist’ Portraits, In Two Parts.
Registration is required — sign up on the museum’s Second Thursday event page before you go. Free parking is available (limited) behind the Jones Building off Emporia Blvd and off N New Braunfels Ave. Questions? Call the McNay at (210) 824-5368.
Can’t make it tonight? Bring your EBT card any other day — it’s still free
If you receive SNAP, WIC, or MAP, you get free McNay admission year-round through Museums for All — just present your EBT card and a photo ID at the desk. The museum’s visit page also lists more free windows: every Thursday from 4 to 9 p.m. (courtesy of H-E-B), the first Sunday of each month from noon to 5 p.m., plus free admission for children 12 and under and for active military and veterans.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it really free?
Yes. The Second Thursday event on the McNay grounds is free, and gallery admission is free tonight from 4 to 9 p.m. courtesy of H-E-B. (Food and beverages from the on-site food trucks were not confirmed as free by the museum, so plan accordingly.)
What do I need to bring?
Register on the museum’s event page first — registration is required. Bring a blanket or lawn chair for the lawn, and if you plan to use the year-round Museums for All benefit another day, bring your EBT card and a photo ID.
Can kids come?
Children 12 and under get free McNay admission year-round, and the evening’s art activities take place on the lawn.
What if I miss tonight?
Second Thursday runs March through May and September through November, so there’s another one in November. Or visit any Thursday from 4 to 9 p.m. for free general admission, or use your EBT card + photo ID for free admission year-round through Museums for All.
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