Families Looking for Something Different This Spring Break Will Find It at the San Antonio Museum of Art on March 10
The San Antonio Museum of Art is hosting a free, family-friendly celebration inspired by its special exhibition on African masquerades. Admission is free from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., with art activities running from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
The event explores both contemporary and traditional masquerade practices from West Africa, highlighting how artists use color, movement, rhythm, and storytelling to express identity and community.
Hands-On Art and Interactive Experiences
Throughout the day, families can participate in:
• Mask Studio: Guests design and decorate their own masks while learning about symbolism and celebration in African masquerade traditions.
• Dance Wands: Participants create colorful wands inspired by rhythm and performance.
• DIY Djembe (Drums): A hands-on rhythm experience using traditional djembe drums to explore sound and beat.
Interactive gallery experiences will allow visitors to connect directly with the exhibition and discover how everyday materials are transformed into powerful artistic figures.
Storytelling Inspired by African Traditions
Storytelling sessions throughout the day bring oral traditions to life:
• Mondrea Harmon – The Griot (10:30–10:50 a.m. and 1:30–1:50 p.m.)
• Baba Aundar – Tales of Africa (12:00–12:20 p.m.)
Each session blends folktales, audience participation, and cultural heritage in a format designed for families.
Live Performances and Drum Circle
The celebration includes live performances from:
• Umoja Community Drummers
• Master Percussionist Aboubacar Sylla
• Jean-Claude Lessou
Guests can also join a participatory drum circle led by Tbow Gonzalez and a campus parade led by Brother Mondrea.
Artisan Market and Food Vendors
An artisan market will feature local artists and cultural vendors including:
• Kwanzaa Edwards – Artist
• Hebron Chism – Artist
• Baba Ifalade – Copper Jewelry Artist
• Maat Market – Books & Cultural Materials
Food vendors will offer African and African American cuisine, along with kettle corn and shaved ice.
Event Details
Where: San Antonio Museum of Art
When: March 10, 2026
Free Art Activities: 10:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.
Free Museum Admission: 10:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.
Paid parking is available directly across from the museum and is first-come, first served. Carpooling is encouraged.
The free Spring Break event offers families a full day of artmaking, music, storytelling, and cultural exploration — all centered around the traditions and transformations of African masquerade.
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