Day: August 2, 2025

Museum: a not-for-profit, permanent institution in the service of society and its development that acquires, conserves, researches, communicates and exhibits tangible and intangible heritage for the purposes of education, enjoyment and inspiration. Museums are open to all and operate ethically, professionally, and with the participation of communities.

While museums chronicle the past and depict the present, they also serve as touchstones for the future. How do museums respond to social pressure for greater sensitivity and inclusivity in collecting, interpreting and sharing cultural heritage? How do they address collections that stem from power and colonization? How do they reclaim the past to foster the future of a diverse global community?

The new ICOM definition challenges museums to cede some of their institutional authority and to shift their objective from transmitting expert knowledge to fostering connections with visitors. This is a vital debate that every museum professional should participate in.

Whether you visit a museum as a way to educate, inspire or simply to escape from the demands of daily life, it can be an enriching and restorative experience. In fact, studies show that the presence of art and culture increases one’s ability to concentrate and focus, thus enhancing performance and productivity. Museums should offer more opportunities for interaction, and provide a space for contemplation and reflection.

In order to meet the needs of all their audiences, museums should make an effort to engage with communities and promote diversity in their staffing, programming, and outreach. Museums that have already begun to do so are demonstrating the impact they can have on our wellbeing.

Most museums are nonprofit entities with missions to reach and educate their audience. They rely on the support of their visitors, members and donors to sustain their work year-round. If you are interested in supporting a museum, consider becoming a member or making a donation so that it can continue to fulfill its mission for decades to come.

Many museums were once private homes or royal palaces, including the Louvre and Versailles in France. In addition to the vast collections they house, some of them feature awe-inspiring architecture and grounds. They are also often home to a variety of unique experiences that give their visitors a taste of what it would be like to live in a different time and place.

Many museums are family friendly, offering a wide range of activities and events designed to appeal to children. These programs are important because children who enjoy museums are more likely to become adults who will return as adults, bringing their own children with them. This is an investment in our future and should be made a priority for all museums. Visiting museums as families is not only fun but can also bring you closer to your kids and strengthen your bond with them. Moreover, it is a great way to spend quality time with your friends and loved ones. In many cases, a museum membership pays for itself in as few as three visits.

Birthdays are a time to celebrate your life and all the good things it has to offer. Whether you’re celebrating with a few close friends or the entire family, there are plenty of fun birthday ideas to help make your day extra special.

For a unique twist, consider holding your party away from home or at a restaurant that’s new to you. It’s a chance for your guests to try something different and will give you the opportunity to discover a hidden gem in your neighborhood or city.

A night at the bar is a great option for an adults-only birthday, and there are tons of options in NYC to choose from. For instance, the Brooklyn-based Area53 offers laser tag, an indoor rock climbing wall, and a private room for groups of up to 20 people. Or, try Brooklyn’s newest brewpub, Barcade, which blends carefully sourced craft beers with retro video games. Another great choice is Sunshine Laundromat and Pinball, which offers cheap beers, board games, and a vintage-inspired space.

If you’re looking to add an extra element of fun, host your birthday party at a theme park or water park. Not only are there a variety of rides and attractions to check out, but they’ll also give you plenty of photo-worthy opportunities. Plus, it’s a chance for you and your guests to test your courage as you face your fears and step out of your comfort zone.

Take some time to pamper yourself on your birthday by booking a beauty appointment or spa day with a friend. You could get a new haircut, go shopping at your favorite stores, or even book an aesthetician to come to your house and perform a relaxing facial and massage.

Plan a fun birthday adventure with your closest friends or family members. Whether you’re going on a road trip or taking a train or plane ride, getting out of your usual routine and seeing loved ones who live far away is always a treat.

Make your birthday memorable by stepping into a whole new world at a museum. From science and history to art galleries, there’s a lot to explore at your local museum, so be sure to bring along your curious minded friends or make it a group outing.

There’s nothing like a classic Broadway show to help you feel special on your big day! If you’re planning to see a show, you can make the experience even more exciting by booking dinner before or after.

The traditional birthday song “Happy Birthday” isn’t going anywhere, but there are a ton of fun, creative spins on it that you can have with your friends or significant other. From rap versions to hilarious parodies, there are lots of ways you can reimagine this timeless tradition.