Appleton Museum of Art / College of Central Florida

Free First Saturday
2025-08-02 10:00 - 17:00 UTC | Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala, FL, 34470, United States
Visit the Appleton on August 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, Dr. David Morton will present “A Motion Picture Paradise! A History of Florida’s Film and Television Industry,” and how Florida became a “third coast” to the American film and television industries over the past 100 years. Free as part of Free First Saturday; no reservation needed to attend. Seating is limited to 250 guests on a first-come, first-served basis. Learn more
Cora’s Kitchen food truck will be onsite throughout the day, as will LifeSouth Community Blood Centers.
Saturday hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Free First Saturdays are supported in part by CAMPUS USA Credit Union.

A Motion Picture Paradise! A History of Florida’s Film and Television Industry
2025-08-02 14:00 - 15:00
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 the American film and television industries over the past one hundred years. Starting with the first film pioneers in Jacksonville during the 1900s and 1910s to South Florida’s television boom during the 2000s and 2010s, Florida has inspired countless exciting stories captured by the camera.
This talk is part of Florida Humanities’ Florida Talks program, which offers nonprofit organizations across the state an accessible way to host engaging speakers who present Florida’s history, heritage, and culture through historical and contemporary lenses.
This event is free as part of Free First Saturday; no reservation needed to attend. Seating is limited to 250 guests on a first-come, first-served basis.
About the speaker:
David Morton received his Ph.D. in Texts and Technology from the University of Central Florida in 2019, where he also is an instructor in both History and Media Studies. He was a recipient of the 2016-17 Fulbright scholarship and serves as program director for the Flickering Landscapes Conference Series. His book, Motion Picture Paradise! A History of Florida’s Film and Television Industry was published by the University Press of Florida in July 2024.
Funding for this Florida Talks program was provided through a grant from Florida Humanities with funds from the National Endowment for the Humanities. Any views, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this program do not necessarily represent those of Florida Humanities or the National Endowment for the Humanities.”
Topics and concepts presented at this event are for discussion purposes only and are not intended to espouse, promote, advance, inculcate, or compel individuals to believe the topics or concepts presented therein. Nor do they constitute endorsement of such topics or concepts by the College of Central Florida, its Board of Trustees, or any of their officers, employees, or agents.

Director's Circle Reception: "Under the Cover of Knowledge"
2025-09-05 17:30 - 19:30
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 transform a traditional bedcover into extraordinary works of art.
RSVP required to Colleen Harper, harperc@cf.edu, or 352-291-4455, ext. 1831.

Free First Saturday
2025-09-06 10:00 - 17:00
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 the talk, visit the exhibition with the artist for a Q&A. Free as part of Free First Saturday; no reservation needed to attend.
At 2 p.m., meet artist Seth P. Benzel in the Deconstructing Self exhibition for in informal meet-and-greet, with the opportunity to ask the artist questions.
Tasty Pot Island and Poppy’s Dogs food trucks will be onsite throughout the day, as will CAMPUS USA Credit Union.
Saturday hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Free First Saturdays are supported in part by CAMPUS USA Credit Union.

Artist Talk with Seth P. Benzel
2025-09-06 11:00 - 12:30
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 Self. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear directly from the artist and experience his thought-provoking work up close.
At 2 p.m., there is an additional meet-and-greet with the artist. Click here to learn more.
This program is free as part of Free First Saturday; no reservations needed to attend.
This Free First Saturday is supported in part by CAMPUS USA Credit Union.
Topics and concepts presented at this event are for discussion purposes only and are not intended to espouse, promote, advance, inculcate, or compel individuals to believe the topics or concepts presented therein. Nor do they constitute endorsement of such topics or concepts by the College of Central Florida, its Board of Trustees, or any of their officers, employees, or agents.

Meet-and-Greet with Seth P. Benzel
2025-09-06 14:00 - 15:00
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.

This Free First Saturday is supported in part by CAMPUS USA Credit Union.
Topics and concepts presented at this event are for discussion purposes only and are not intended to espouse, promote, advance, inculcate, or compel individuals to believe the topics or concepts presented therein. Nor do they constitute endorsement of such topics or concepts by the College of Central Florida, its Board of Trustees, or any of their officers, employees, or agents.

Free First Saturday
2025-10-04 10:00 - 17:00
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 Balcony Gallery for Florida Artists on the second floor.
Casita Luna, Brew Hope Coffee and Donut Express food trucks will be onsite throughout the day, along with CAMPUS USA Credit Union and LifeSouth Community Blood Centers.
Saturday hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Free First Saturdays are supported in part by CAMPUS USA Credit Union.

Gallery Tour with John Elliott
2025-10-04 11:00 - 12:30
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 second floor.
This program is free as part of Free First Saturday; no reservations needed to attend.
This Free First Saturday is supported in part by CAMPUS USA Credit Union.
Topics and concepts presented at this event are for discussion purposes only and are not intended to espouse, promote, advance, inculcate, or compel individuals to believe the topics or concepts presented therein. Nor do they constitute endorsement of such topics or concepts by the College of Central Florida, its Board of Trustees, or any of their officers, employees, or agents.

Free-Admission Day
2025-10-11 10:00 - 17:00
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 year, we honor his vision and generosity by opening our doors to the community at no cost.
Bring family and friends to explore the permanent collection and special exhibitions, enjoy the beauty of the museum grounds, and reflect on the enduring impact of Mr. Appleton’s gift to Marion County and beyond.
From 11:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m., enjoy pop-up performances in the cafe throughout the day by Heartstrings & Harmonies. These short sets will celebrate Arthur I. Appleton’s era and his love of the arts with jazz standards and swing classics from the 1920s-40s.

Free-Admission Day
2025-10-12 12:00 - 17:00
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 year, we honor his vision and generosity by opening our doors to the community at no cost.
Bring family and friends to explore the permanent collection and special exhibitions, enjoy the beauty of the museum grounds, and reflect on the enduring impact of Mr. Appleton’s gift to Marion County and beyond.

CF International Film Series: "Pre Fab!"
2025-10-14 14:00 - 15:30
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 youth, the influence of American Rock ‘n’ Roll and how, in 1956, a boy named John Lennon rounded up friends including Paul McCartney and George Harrison to form a group called The Quarrymen.
Free for Appleton and film series members; included with admission fee for nonmembers.

CF International Film Series: "Drive My Car"
2025-10-28 14:00 - 17:00
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 helps him face the haunting mysteries his wife left behind. This film won three Cannes Film Festival prizes in 2021, including Best Screenplay.
Free for Appleton and film series members; included with admission fee for nonmembers.

Free First Saturday
2025-11-01 10:00 - 17:00
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:
—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 250 guests on a first-come, first-served basis.
—For the 11 a.m. show, auditorium doors will open at 10:30 a.m.
—For the 2 p.m. show, auditorium doors will open at 1:30 p.m.
—Attendees must exit the auditorium after each performance.
Poppy’s Dogs food truck and Sass & Sips Coffee Cart will be onsite throughout the day, along with CAMPUS USA Credit Union and LifeSouth Community Blood Centers.
Saturday hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Free First Saturdays are supported in part by CAMPUS USA Credit Union.

Musical Performance by Swing Theory
2025-11-01 11:00 - 12:00, 2025-11-01 14:00 - 15:00
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 250 guests on a first-come, first-served basis.
—For the 11 a.m. show, auditorium doors will open at 10:30 a.m.
—For the 2 p.m. show, auditorium doors will open at 1:30 p.m.
—Attendees must exit the auditorium after each performance.
About the band: Swing Theory was formed in 2015 as an instrumental jazz sextet and took off later that year when their star, Becky Sinn, joined the band. Since then, the group has performed extensively across Gainesville and the surrounding area.
Free as part of Free First Saturday; no reservation needed to attend.
This Free First Saturday is supported in part by CAMPUS USA Credit Union.
Topics and concepts presented at this event are for discussion purposes only and are not intended to espouse, promote, advance, inculcate, or compel individuals to believe the topics or concepts presented therein. Nor do they constitute endorsement of such topics or concepts by the College of Central Florida, its Board of Trustees, or any of their officers, employees, or agents.

CF International Film Series: "Yesterday"
2025-11-11 14:00 - 16:00
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 songs. The film stars Ed Sheeran and Kate McKinnon in supporting roles.
Free for Appleton and film series members; included with admission fee for nonmembers.

CF International Film Series: "Long Flat Balls II"
2025-11-25 14:00 - 15:40
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 Balls II.” The guys from the Ed Garage find themselves drafted for a National Guard maneuver. After an accidental meeting with a U.S. Admiral (Don Johnson), the six misfits turn out to be the only ones between able to stop a nuclear disaster.
Free for Appleton and film series members; included with admission fee for nonmembers.

Black Friday Sale in the Appleton Store
2025-11-28 10:00 - 17:00
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, the Appleton Store is the perfect place to find something special for everyone on your list.
Don’t miss this opportunity to shop local, support the museum, and save big!
You do not need to pay the museum admission fee if you are just shopping in the store.

2025 Holiday Community Day
2025-12-06 10:00 - 17:00
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 a.m.-3 p.m., enjoy Face Painting by Tonya.
Also from 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Sensational Selfies is back this year to capture your photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Receive one free printed photo and a texted image.
At 11 a.m. and 1 p.m., enjoy short holiday performances in the auditorium by Devotions Dance Company.
All activities are free!
Donut Express, Casita Luna, Brew Hope and Tasty Pot Island food trucks will be on-site throughout the day, along with El Bell’s Flowers, Humane Society of Marion County and Friends of Silver Springs.
The annual Holiday Community Day is sponsored by Dr. Paul and Joyce Urban, with additional support from CAMPUS USA Credit Union.

Signing Santa: A Deaf-Friendly Holiday Event
2025-12-07 12:00 - 14:00
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 Community Tree Display and other special exhibitions throughout the museum.
This event is made possible in partnership with Hands Up Communications and Greater Marion County Association of the Deaf.

Free First Saturday
2026-01-03 10:00 - 17:00
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 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 the crackling chemistry between Coogan and Brydon to create a brilliantly comic rumination on the nuances of friendship and the juggling of family and career. Free as part of Free First Saturday.

Tasty Pot Island and Poppy’s Dogs food trucks will be on-site throughout the day.

Free First Saturdays are supported in part by CAMPUS USA Credit Union.

Film Screening: "The Trip to Italy"
2026-01-03 11:00 - 12:50, 2026-01-03 14:00 - 15:50
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 the crackling chemistry between Coogan and Brydon to create a brilliantly comic rumination on the nuances of friendship and the juggling of family and career.
Free as part of Free First Saturday.
Free First Saturdays are supported in part by CAMPUS USA Credit Union.

CF International Film Series: "Flow"
2026-01-13 14:00 - 15:30
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 and a dog to navigate a boat in search of dry land, they must rely on trust, courage and wits to survive the perils of a newly aquatic planet. “Flow” is a feast for the senses and a treasure for the heart.
Free for Appleton and film series members; included with admission fee for nonmembers.

CF International Film Series: "Harry Benson: Shoot First"
2026-01-27 14:00 - 15:30
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 King Jr. However, he may be best known for his coverage of the Beatles during their first trip to the U.S. in 1964.
Free for Appleton and film series members; included with admission fee for nonmembers.

Free First Saturday
2026-02-07 10:00 - 17:00
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 connection with the special exhibition, “Under the Cover of Knowledge: Betty Ford-Smith’s Pinecone Quilts.”
At 11 a.m., “Quiltmakers of Gee’s Bend” (NR, 56m) 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.
At 2 p.m., “The Quilting Women of Gee’s Bend”(NR, 53m) highlights the celebrated quilts made by a community of African American women in rural Alabama.
Films are free to attend; no reservations needed.
The Donut Express and Thank Me Later food trucks will be on-site throughout the day, along with CAMPUS USA Credit Union.

Free First Saturdays are supported in part by CAMPUS USA Credit Union.

Film Screening: “Quiltmakers of Gee’s Bend”
2026-02-07 11:00 - 12:00
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.
Free as part of Free First Saturday; no reservation needed to attend.
(Viewing permissions provided by Alabama Public Television.)
Free First Saturdays are supported in part by CAMPUS USA Credit Union.

Film Screening: “The Quilting Women of Gee's Bend"
2026-02-07 14:00 - 15:00
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 Bend was passed down from mothers to daughters for generations, surviving everything from reconstruction to Jim Crow to the Civil Rights Movement to the present day.
Free as part of Free First Saturday; no reservation needed to attend.
(Viewing permissions provided by Alabama Public Television.)
Free First Saturdays are supported in part by CAMPUS USA Credit Union.

CF International Film Series: "Nowhere Boy"
2026-02-10 14:00 - 15:30
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 for Appleton and film series members; included with admission fee for nonmembers.

President's Day Event + Film Screening
2026-02-15 12:00 - 17:00
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 history, “The Monuments Men” is an action drama focusing on an unlikely World War II platoon, tasked by FDR with going into Germany to rescue artistic masterpieces from German thieves and returning them to their rightful owners. It would be an impossible mission: with the art trapped behind enemy lines, and with the German Army under orders to destroy everything as the Reich fell, how could these guys – seven museum directors, curators, and art historians, all more familiar with Michelangelo than the M1 – possibly hope to succeed? But as the Monuments Men, as they were called, found themselves in a race against time to avoid the destruction of 1000 years of culture, they would risk their lives to protect and defend mankind’s greatest achievements.
