ST. PETERSBURG — Things are set to get a little wild when guests experience Menagerie at the Museum, set for Saturday, Aug. 15, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art, 150 Central Ave., St. Petersburg.
Guests will encounter live animals, explore a photography exhibition showcasing wild wolves, and enjoy activities for the whole family. Admission is $5, and timed entry tickets for the popular event are on sale now. Now in its fourth year, the family-friendly event has sold out the past three years, so advance ticket purchase is encouraged. For information and to purchase tickets, visit thejamesmuseum.org.
Menagerie at the Museum features live animal encounters. Attendees will have an opportunity to engage with live animals indoors from Tampa Bay’s beloved animal rescue and wildlife conservation organizations. This is a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with a variety of species.
Guests may also experience “Wolves: Photography by Ronan Donovan,” a photography exhibition created by the National Geographic Society and the National Museum of Wildlife Art. This exhibition presents stunning photography and videos of wild wolves living in two very different environments: the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem in the American West and Ellesmere Island in the Canadian Arctic. National Geographic Explorer and photographer Ronan Donovan has examined the relationship between wild wolves and humans to better understand the animals, our shared history, and what drives the persistent human-wolf conflict. Whether you’re a kid who loves wolves or an adult interested in wildlife photography, this exhibition is fun and educational for all ages.
In addition, the museum will host a variety of kid-approved activities, including artmaking in The James Museum’s classrooms, animal-inspired face-painting by Glitter & Giggles, puppy and pet caricatures from Tampa Caricatures, a wildlife themed scavenger hunt in the galleries and more. These activities ensure a fun-filled day for younger guests.
Visitors also will have access to entire museum collection. Attendees can explore the full collection of The James Museum, offering a comprehensive cultural and artistic experience that extends beyond the wildlife-themed activities.
This year, Menagerie at the Museum animal rescue and wildlife conservation partners currently include Boyd Hill Nature Preserve, Honey’s Mini Therapy Adventures, Pet Pal Animal Shelter, Pet Skunk Advocates and Rescue, Satchel’s Last Resort, and Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center.
“We are so excited to bring Menagerie at the Museum back for a fourth year,” said Stephanie Adamo, director of communications and advancement at The James Museum. “This event has become a tradition for families in Tampa Bay, and to be able to pair it with an incredible special exhibition like ‘Wolves’ makes this a truly unique opportunity for guests of all ages to interact and learn about art and animals in one place.”
Tickets are timed entry with guests entering every 30 minutes. Last entry will be at 2 p.m. Guests are encouraged to purchase tickets early to ensure a spot.
The James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art provides experiences that inspire human connection and transformation through art depicting the peoples, landscapes, and history of the American West, and wildlife of the world. More than 400 premier works of art, including sculpture, paintings and jewelry are on view in 26,000 square feet of gallery space. The museum engages the community through educational programs and tours, for all ages that bring history to life and amplify voices that are not often at the forefront of mainstream Western art. Visit thejamesmuseum.org.