Summers Not Over at the Cummer

Summers Not Over at the Cummer

Words and photos by Ambar Ramirez

The ring of school bells sounds nearer as summer vacations come to an end and shopping for backpacks, notebooks and pencils begins. But don’t stow your beach towels and coolers away so soon cause Summer is not over at the Cummer. Every Friday until Sept. 8, the museum is offering free admission from 4-9 p.m.

Of course, I decided to go to the museum on a day that a heat advisory warning was put out, but nonetheless, I made my way in through those large glass doors, where I was immediately met with A/C (thankfully) and smiling employees who gave me a quick rundown of where to find the live music, games and other festivities. 

Straight through the lobby, toward the back of the museum, you’ll come upon the museum’s beloved gardens. Now on any other day when the temperature isn’t reading 100 degrees, the museum would organize the event to be outside on the riverfront lawn. Luckily for anyone who dared to brace the scorching heat that day, the museum moved the outdoor games and live music indoors to the “upper tier,” along with a full bar and a full view of the gardens seen through the ceiling-to-floor windows. There were also games like giant chess, ring toss and cornhole, while DJ Enerji was set up in the room with string lights, prompting dancing and laughter. Outside in the gardens, visitors strolled through the grounds with drinks in hand.

The event isn’t limited to just the gardens, though. In the cafe, Bronero was set up with their keyboards exuding a welcoming vibe while visitors grabbed a quick bite. Summer at the Cummer also allows guests who take advantage of the free admission to check out the current exhibitions in the gallery, as well as pieces from the Cummer’s permanent collection.

So if you’re in need of an escape from your everyday routine, grab those blankets and beach chairs you were about to put in storage and head over to the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens for a free night of culture and inspiration for the whole family. 

      Aug. 4

•     Cafe Patio: Arvid Smith
•     Upper Tier: Huan

      Au. 11

•     Cafe Patio: Yael Dray
•     Upper Tier: Caribe Groove

      Aug. 18

•     Cafe Patio: Scott Greenaway
•     Upper Tier: Bold City Opera

      Aug. 25

•     Cafe Patio: Folk is People
•     Upper Tier: TBD

      Sept. 1

•     Cafe Patio: Claire Vandiver
•     Upper Tier: TBA

      Sept. 8

•     Cafe Patio: Bronero
•     Upper Tier: TB