Public invited to events hosted by Little Rock museums
(LITTLE ROCK, Ark.) — The Division of Arkansas Heritage invites visitors and residents to experience the Great American Eclipse at its Little Rock museums.
“We encourage the community to enjoy this celestial phenomenon at one of our museums,” said Shea Lewis, secretary of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism. “These events are family-friendly and sure to offer a host of fun activities for all.”
All events are free and ISO-certified glasses will be available to guests while supplies last.
“The upcoming Great American Eclipse presents a wonderful opportunity for Arkansas, promising a significant economic and tourism boost across the state this spring,” said Marty Ryall, director of the Division of Arkansas Heritage. “Guests and locals alike are encouraged to enjoy the family-friendly activities at our museums to not only experience the Eclipse, but also unique aspects of the state’s heritage.”
Interested individuals can visit these museums in Little Rock, including:
● Enjoy events hosted by the Old State House Museum, including a lecture by Daniel Cockrell, museum director, Thursday, April 4; hands-on activities Friday, April 5, Saturday, April 6 and Monday, April 8; live band and solo performances Saturday, April 6; and an Eclipse Watch Party Monday, April 8. Eclipse-related merchandise will be available for sale during business hours.
● Historic Arkansas Museum will host a traveling 19th century scientist on Saturday, April 6, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., to discuss the 1834 Eclipse and the 19th century methods of viewing and understanding a celestial event. The museum will be open to the public Monday, April 8, as well, which is a rarity for the institution.
● Join the Mosaic Templars Cultural Center Eclipse Day Party on Monday, April 8, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The free party will include live performances by Rodney Block and the Cool Kids and food and beverages will be available for purchase. The newly-renovated exhibit gallery will be open to all visitors. Consider purchasing a VIP ticket for perks including covered seating, complimentary light hors d'oeuvres and beverages.
Arkansas Heritage
Arkansas Heritage was created in 1975 and is a division of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism. There are eight agencies with unique heritage focuses under the umbrella of this division: Arkansas Arts Council, Arkansas Historic Preservation Program, the Delta Cultural Center in Helena, the Old State House Museum, the Arkansas Natural Heritage Commission, the Mosaic Templars Cultural Center, the Historic Arkansas Museum and the Arkansas State Archives.
Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism
The Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism protects and promotes our state’s natural, cultural and historic assets, contributing to a thriving economy and high quality of life. It is made up of three divisions: Arkansas State Parks, Arkansas Heritage and Arkansas Tourism. Shea Lewis serves as the secretary for the department.