Events Calendar

This Free First Saturday, Florida Humanities and the Appleton are partnering to present a talk by Dr. David Morton at 2 p.m. in the auditorium. Often overlooked in its contribution to film history, Florida has played a key role in creating the modern entertainment industry. This presentation discusses how Florida became a third coast to […]

Appleton Director's Circle members are invited to celebrate the opening of “Under the Cover of Knowledge: Betty Ford-Smith’s Pinecone Quilts,” on view in the Edith-Marie Gallery from September 6–February 22. Be the first to see this exhibition of work by nationally recognized Florida-based artist and quilter Betty Ford-Smith (American, b. 1951), whose hand-sewn pinecone quilts […]

Visit the Appleton on September 6 for Free First Saturday! Admission to the museum is free from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Explore the permanent collection, special exhibitions, and enjoy family-friendly artmaking activities in the Artspace. At 11 a.m. in the auditorium, join artist Seth P. Benzel for a talk on his solo exhibition, Deconstructing Self. Following […]

Join us in the auditorium on the September 6 Free First Saturday for a talk with artist Seth P. Benzel. He will share insights into his creative process, artistic influences and the themes behind his work. Following the presentation, head to the galleries for a Q&A session with the artist inside his solo exhibition, Deconstructing […]

Meet artist Seth P. Benzel in the Deconstructing Self exhibition during Free First Saturday on September 6. Stop by to chat with the artist, ask questions and learn more about the inspiration behind his work in an informal setting. This program is free as part of Free First Saturday; no reservations needed to attend.   […]

Visit the Appleton on October 4 for Free First Saturday! Admission to the museum is free from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Explore the permanent collection, special exhibitions, and enjoy family-friendly artmaking activities in the Artspace. At 11 a.m., join photographer John Elliott for a tour of his solo exhibition, "The Human Pulse." Tour meets in the […]

Join us on Saturday, October 4, during Free First Saturday for a special gallery tour with artist John Elliott, featuring his solo exhibition, "The Human Pulse." Explore the themes and techniques behind Elliott’s work as he leads an insightful walkthrough of the show. The tour meets in the Balcony Gallery for Florida Artists on the […]

Join us for a special weekend of free admission in celebration of the life and legacy of museum founder Arthur I. Appleton (1915-2008). Arthur I. Appleton established the museum to share his extraordinary collection of art and artifacts with the public, ensuring that generations to come could be inspired by creativity, culture and history. Each […]

Join us for a special weekend of free admission in celebration of the life and legacy of museum founder Arthur I. Appleton (1915-2008). Arthur I. Appleton established the museum to share his extraordinary collection of art and artifacts with the public, ensuring that generations to come could be inspired by creativity, culture and history. Each […]

As part of the CF Ira Holmes International Film Series, see a screening of "Pre Fab!" (NR, USA/UK, 2023, 1 hour, 36 minutes) "Pre Fab!" has been called “the last Beatles story to tell about how it all began.” The film chronicles the rise of skiffle music and its impact on post-World War II British […]

As part of the CF Ira Holmes International Film Series, see a screening of "Drive My Car." (NR, Japan, 2021, 2 hours, 59 minutes) This haunting road movie follows a renowned stage actor and director traveling a path of love, loss, acceptance and peace after his wife’s death – chauffeured by a young woman who […]

Visit the Appleton on November 1 for Free First Saturday! Admission to the museum is free from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Explore the permanent collection, special exhibitions, and enjoy family-friendly artmaking activities in the Artspace. At 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., enjoy an energetic musical performance by the 7-piece swing band, Swing Theory. Important show information: […]

Join us on Saturday, November 1, during Free First Saturday for a special musical performance by 7-piece swing band Swing Theory. Important show information: —There are two showtimes: 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. —We kindly request that you choose one showtime to allow us to accommodate more guests. —Seating for each show is limited to […]

Join us on Saturday, November 1, during Free First Saturday for a special musical performance by 7-piece swing band Swing Theory. Important show information: —There are two showtimes: 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. —We kindly request that you choose one showtime to allow us to accommodate more guests. —Seating for each show is limited to […]

As part of the CF Ira Holmes International Film Series, see a screening of "Yesterday." (PG-13, UK, 2019, 2 hours) After a freak accident during a worldwide blackout, a struggling musician wakes to discover that he is the only person in the world to remember The Beatles, so he launches himself to superstardom performing their […]

As part of the CF Ira Holmes International Film Series, see a screening of “Long Flat Balls II.” (NR, Norway, 2008, 1 h, 37 m) Welcoming back a film series member and fan favorite for the third and last time, the film series will complete Harald Zwart’s highly successful Norwegian comedy trilogy with “Long Flat […]

Get a head start on your holiday shopping and enjoy exclusive savings during our Black Friday Sale! For one day only, Appleton members will receive 20% off all purchases in the Appleton Store. Nonmembers can also join the fun with 10% off storewide. From unique gifts and jewelry to art-inspired home décor, books and more, […]

Join us for the annual Holiday Community Day, held on Free First Saturday and generously sponsored by Dr. Paul and Joyce Urban. Admission is free all day to enjoy “A Dickens Christmas: The Urban Family’s Holiday Exhibition,” the Community Tree Display and other special exhibitions, and to make seasonal crafts in the Artspace. From 10 […]

Join us for a memorable ASL experience featuring Santa and Mrs. Claus! Sensational Selfies will be on-site to capture your holiday photos; each guest will receive one free printed photo and a texted image. Admission is free. After your visit with Santa, be sure to enjoy “A Dickens Christmas: The Urban Family’s Holiday Exhibition,” the […]

Visit the Appleton on January 3 for Free First Saturday! Admission to the museum is free from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Explore the permanent collection, special exhibitions, and enjoy family-friendly artmaking activities in the Artspace. At 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., see a screening of the film "The Trip to Italy." (2014, NR, 1h 48m) Years […]

Join us on the January 3 Free First Saturday for a free screening of "The Trip to Italy." (2014, NR, 1h 48m) Years after their successful restaurant review tour of Northern Britain, Steve Coogan and Rob Brydon are commissioned for a new tour in Italy. Equally hilarious and insightful, “The Trip to Italy” effortlessly melds […]

Join us on the January 3 Free First Saturday for a free screening of "The Trip to Italy." (2014, NR, 1h 48m) Years after their successful restaurant review tour of Northern Britain, Steve Coogan and Rob Brydon are commissioned for a new tour in Italy. Equally hilarious and insightful, “The Trip to Italy” effortlessly melds […]

As part of the CF Ira Holmes International Film Series, see a screening of “Flow.” (PG, Latvia, 2024, 1 h 25 m) A wondrous journey through realms natural and mystical, this animated film follows a courageous cat after his home is devastated by a great flood. Teaming up with a capybara, a lemur, a bird […]

As part of the CF Ira Holmes International Film Series, see a screening of “Harry Benson: Shoot First.” (NR, USA, 2016, 1 h 27 m) This documentary profiles famed photographer Harry Benson (b. 1929), who has captured iconic portraits of celebrities and notable figures including Winston Churchill, Michael Jackson, Muhammad Ali and Dr. Martin Luther […]

Visit the Appleton on February 7 for Free First Saturday! Admission to the museum is free from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Explore the permanent collection, special exhibitions, and enjoy family-friendly artmaking activities in the Artspace. We will be showing two different documentaries in the auditorium, one at 11 a.m. and one at 2 p.m., both in […]

Join us on the February 7 Free First Saturday for a screening of "Quiltmaker's of Gee's Bend" (2004, NR, 56m). This documentary explores the extraordinary lives, inspirations, and history of these artists, and also follows them on a poignant and sometimes very comical bus journey to see their quilts exhibited at The Milwaukee Art Museum. […]

Join us on the February 7 Free First Saturday for a screening of "The Quilting Women of Gee's Bend" (2025, NR, 53m). This documentary explores how an isolated community of women in rural Alabama became respected worldwide as the creators of celebrated woven works of art. Established during enslavement, the nuanced quilting practice in Gee’s […]

As part of the CF Ira Holmes International Film Series, see a screening of “Nowhere Boy.” (R, UK, 2010, 1h 33 m) A chronicle of John Lennon’s teenage years, exploring the future rock ‘n’ roll icon’s complex relationships with his family and the early influences that shaped his musical career before he achieved fame. Free […]

Enjoy free admission on February 15 in honor of President's Day (February 16). At 1 p.m. in the auditorium, see a free screening of "The Monuments Men" (PG-13, 2014, 1h 58m). Throughout the day, enjoy family-friendly art activities in the Artspace. About the film: Based on the true story of the greatest treasure hunt in […]

As part of the CF Ira Holmes International Film Series, see a screening of “Linda Linda Linda.” (R, Japan, 2005, 1h 54m) For three friends, their dream of playing the final high school concert together is dashed when their lead vocalist quits the band. Desperate, they recruit the first person they see: a Korean exchange […]

Visit the Appleton on the March 7 for Free First Saturday! Admission to the museum is free from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Explore the permanent collection, special exhibitions, and enjoy family-friendly artmaking activities in the Artspace. At 2 p.m. in the auditorium, Dr. David Morton will discuss Florida’s springs and their unique role in shaping the […]

Join us in the auditorium at 2 p.m. on the March 7 Free First Saturday for a talk by Dr. David Morton. Morton will discuss Florida’s springs and their unique role in shaping the American motion picture industry. Featuring iconic films such as “Creature from the Black Lagoon,” “Thunderball,” “Moonraker,” and “Doc Hollywood,” along with […]

As part of the CF Ira Holmes International Film Series, see a screening of “Across the Universe.” (PG-13, UK/USA, 2007, 2h 13m) This jukebox musical stars Evan Rachel Wood as a 1960s activist and features 33 Beatles songs with performances by rock icons Joe Cocker and Bono. Free for Appleton and film series members; included […]

All Appleton members are invited to celebrate the opening of "My Country, ’Tis of Thee: Celebrating American Art and Design," on view March 13-September 13, 2026. Enjoy light hors d'oeuvres and American wines, and be the first to see this exhibition that brings together three centuries of American art and design from the permanent collection. […]

As part of the CF Ira Holmes International Film Series, see a screening of “Living is Easy with Eyes Closed.” (NR, Spain, 2013, 1h 48m) Set in 1966, a high school teacher in Spain teaches English and uses Beatles songs to help his students. When he learns John Lennon will be in the country making […]

Visit the Appleton on the April 4 for Free First Saturday! Admission to the museum is free from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Explore the permanent collection, special exhibitions, and enjoy family-friendly artmaking activities in the Artspace. At 1 p.m. in the auditorium, exhibiting artist A.E. Kozeliski will discuss the works featured in her solo exhibition, “Portraits […]

Join us in the auditorium at 1 p.m. on the April 4 Free First Saturday for a talk and demonstration by A.E. Kozeliski. Kozeliski will discuss the works featured in her solo exhibition, “Portraits in Passing.” Learn about her contemporary Chinese brush painting techniques and enjoy a live demonstration in the auditorium. Free as part […]

Director’s Circle members are invited to a special talk on artist William-Adolphe Bouguereau (French, 1825–1905) by Kerry Elkins, Museum Specialist at the Appleton. Guests will begin in the café with light snacks and a glass of wine from the Loire Valley, a region just outside Bouguereau’s birthplace, La Rochelle, a coastal city in southwestern France. […]

Visit the Appleton on May 2 for Free First Saturday! Admission to the museum is free from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Explore the permanent collection, special exhibitions, and enjoy family-friendly artmaking activities in the Artspace. At 11 a.m. in the courtyard, the Fort King Middle School marching band will perform. At 2 p.m. in the auditorium, […]

Join us at 11 a.m. in the museum's interior courtyard on the May 2 Free First Saturday for a performance by the talented Fort King Middle School Marching Band. Free as part of Free First Saturday; no reservation needed to attend. Free First Saturdays are supported in part by CAMPUS USA Credit Union.

Join us in the auditorium at 2 p.m. on the May 2 Free First Saturday for a screening of "Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory" (1971, Rated G, 1h 38m). Join the expedition visiting legendary candy man Willy Wonka (Gene Wilder) in a splendiferous movie that wondrously brings to screen the endlessly appetizing delights of […]

Visit the Appleton on May 2 for Free First Saturday! Admission to the museum is free from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Explore the permanent collection, special exhibitions, and enjoy family-friendly artmaking activities in the Artspace. At 2 p.m. in the auditorium, we welcome back Dr. Wayne Wood for a talk on Kenneth Treister, a Florida architect […]

Join Dr. Wayne Wood in the auditorium on the June 6 Free First Saturday for a talk on Kenneth Treister, a Florida architect and sculptor whose designs have been described as, “a cross between Frank Lloyd Wright, Antoni Gaudi, Auguste Rodin and the Mayans.” His avant-garde approach to creating sensuous environments with unconventional shapes and […]

Museum admission is free throughout the entire month of July in celebration of the 250th anniversary of the United States. Explore special exhibitions and permanent collection galleries, visit the Artspace and take this opportunity to introduce family, friends and colleagues to the Appleton. Also in July, enjoy a free, special event featuring a talk by […]

Join Dr. Keri Watson in the auditorium for a free talk: “Picturing Paradise: From John James Audubon to the Florida Highwaymen.” The Florida landscape has provided aesthetic inspiration to artists for centuries. Titian Ramsay Peale and John James Audubon came in search of native flora and fauna, followed by Harriet Beecher Stowe, Martin Johnson Heade, […]

Visit the Appleton on August 1 for Free First Saturday! Admission to the museum is free from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Explore the permanent collection, special exhibitions, and enjoy family-friendly artmaking activities in the Artspace. At 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. in the auditorium, see a screening of “1776” (1972, Rated G, 2h 20m). This adaptation […]

Join us in the auditorium at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. on the August 1 Free First Saturday for a screening of "1776" (1972, Rated G, 2h 20m) This adaptation of the Broadway Tony-winning musical celebrates the founding fathers’ midwifery of the Declaration of Independence, the document that would give birth to a nation. Free […]

Join us in the auditorium at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. on the August 1 Free First Saturday for a screening of "1776" (1972, Rated G, 2h 20m) This adaptation of the Broadway Tony-winning musical celebrates the founding fathers’ midwifery of the Declaration of Independence, the document that would give birth to a nation. Free […]