Get ready for a hands-on learning experience at The Carousel Museum’s 2025 Conference, where you’ll engage with passionate experts, participate in hands on workshops, and uncover the rich history behind these whimsical attractions. Whether you’re a seasoned carousel aficionado or simply curious, this weekend promises to ignite your imagination and deepen your appreciation for these timeless treasures. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this enchanting gathering; grab your tickets today and let the magic of carousels inspire you!
Are you traveling from far away? The Double Tree Hotel in Bristol (2 miles from the Museum) has discounted room rates of $199/night.
Book through the link below to receive discounted hotel rate, you must book by April 1, 2025
Simply present your license at the front desk.
Sponsored by: McPhee Foundation
Join us at The Carousel Museum for an enchanting evening with the Al Fenton Big Band. This open rehearsal and dance party is a vibrant blend of music, dance, and local culture held in the unique setting of our beloved museum.
Activities Include:
Live Music: Experience the dynamic and smooth sounds of the Al Fenton Big Band. The ensemble’s open rehearsal offers a sneak peek into their musical process, followed by a performance that invites all to the dance floor.
Dance: Bring your dancing shoes and take part in the swing dance session. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or a beginner, the rhythm of the big band is sure to get you moving.
BYOB: Make your evening more delightful by bringing your own beverages and food. Enjoy a relaxed and spirited night out with great music and company.
Explore: Visit the museum’s exhibits before or after the rehearsal to learn more about the rich history of carousels and the artistry that surrounds them.
Admission: Tickets Available at the door.
Adults: $15
Seniors/Students: $10
Kids 12 and under: FREE
Members: FREE!
This event is a wonderful way to support local arts while enjoying a night out in the scenic surroundings of The Carousel Museum. It’s perfect for anyone who loves big band music, dancing, or simply looking for a unique way to spend an evening.
Spread the Word
Invite friends and family who cherish music and dance to join us for this monthly celebration.
Photo credit: Emi-Lei Photography & Art
Join us for a memorable night each month and make it your new favorite tradition!
Join carousel artist and creator, Jeff Briggs as we discover how Marvin Sylvor’s Fabricon company transformed the artistic standard for our industry, showing the world how truly beautiful a carousel can be.
Virtual Option Available: Attend the session online.
Thursday, April 10, 2025, 6:00-8:00 PM
Event Details
Date: April 10, 2025
Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Location: The Carousel Museum, 95 Riverside Ave, Bristol, CT 06010
Cate Mahoney unveils our exciting Street Carousel Project. Learn about the allure of street carousels and their influence on public spaces and urban environments.
In-person Bonus: Join us for wine and cheese as you get a sneak peek of the project!
Virtual Option Available: Experience this revealing session from the comfort of your home.
Thursday, May 8, 2025, 6:00-8:00 PM
Support for the collection helps us tell the stories that we share with our community and visitors every day, and we could not do it without you! When you adopt one of the 50 animals up for adoption in 2025, you are directly supporting our efforts to fulfill our mission: The Carousel Museum is a non-profit organization that preserves and exhibits antique and modern carousel art, and celebrates dedicated craftsmen, to inspire creativity, joy, and wonder.
With your adoption you get:
To name your animal for the 2025 calendar year!
A plaque recognizing your contribution in the gallery.
An official “Adoption Certificate.”
1-year Family Membership (12 months from the time of adoption)
Limited Edition 2025 Adoption Pin!
FREE General admission to The Carousel Museum all year long!
Event Details
Date: 2025
Time: Online
Location: The Carousel Museum, 95 Riverside Ave, Bristol, CT 06010
The Connecticut Art Trail is pleased to announce its expansion to 24 member museums and cultural sites in 2024 with the addition of Eastern Connecticut State University’s Art Gallery (Eastern Art Gallery). Additionally, The Carousel Museum and Five Points Arts join as affiliate members. The expansion brings new opportunities for residents and visitors to participate in the Trail’s unique Passport program — providing access to rich cultural and arts experiences throughout the state.
The Eastern Art Gallery has been the university’s on-campus cultural incubator for four decades. The museum features exhibitions of contemporary art intended to inspire students, faculty, and the community and has dedicated itself to advancing the school’s public liberal arts mission. Eastern Art Gallery provides exhibition programming with depth and relevance to multiple disciplines and a diverse campus and community audience.
“We are thrilled to announce Eastern Art Gallery as the 24th member of the Connecticut Art Trail and sixth location in eastern Connecticut,” said Carey Mack Weber, President of the Connecticut Art Trail and the Frank and Clara Meditz Executive Director at the Fairfield University Art Museum. “Eastern Art Gallery and the university are tremendous partners in championing our state’s incredible creative and cultural spaces. Also, the addition of The Carousel Museum and Five Points Arts as affiliate members further diversify the cultural landscape available to all Connecticut Art Trail Passport holders.”
The Art Trail’s expansion signifies an unwavering commitment to making art accessible to everyone. For $35 art enthusiasts can purchase a Passport at ctarttrail.org or a member museum. Good for the year, the Passport provides one-time admission to each of 24 locations – 24 museums and the two affiliate members. This affordability aligns perfectly with the rising trend of “third spaces” – welcoming environments outside of home and work where individuals can connect, relax, and engage in enriching low-cost or no-cost activities. With more than two dozen unique destinations to explore, the Connecticut Art Trail offers a tremendous opportunity for residents and visitors to tap into accessible cultural experiences in every corner of Connecticut.
Trail explorers can gain more than an enriching experience by visiting Connecticut Art Trail museums and cultural sites. With every sticker collected at a participating museum, Trail explorers are one step closer to being entered in a grand prize drawing. Collect all 24 unique stickers and drop the completed Passport off at your final museum destination to be eligible for an overnight stay for two at the Delamar West Hartford — complete with a couples massage.