Civil War Museum, Strong Farm Part Of CT Summer At The Museum Program

VERNON, CT — Connecticut's "Summer at the Museum" program is back for 2022 and a pair of Vernon venues is part of the deal.

The program allows children to receive free admission to more than 130 museums across the state during the summer months. It runs from July 1 through Sept. 5, and allows Connecticut children 18 and younger plus an accompanying adult to get into the venues free of charge.

In Vernon the New England Civil War Museum and Strong Family Farm are participating.

Gov. Ned Lamont announced on Wednesday the return of the popular program, which was established in 2021 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The program is funded through a $15 million investment in federal COVID-19 recovery money the state received from the American Rescue Plan Act.

"We are thrilled to bring back this popular summer enrichment program for Connecticut kids and families at a time when affordability is top of mind for so many households," Lamont said in a news release. "The world-class museums and cultural institutions across Connecticut offer unmatched educational and recreational experiences that will keep kids engaged all season long and spark curiosity for years to come."

For a list of all participating museums, click here.

The program is being administered by the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development’s Office of the Arts and Connecticut Humanities in partnership with the Office of the Governor, Connecticut State Department of Education, Office of Early Childhood and Office of Tourism.

While any museum in Connecticut can choose to participate in the program by offering free admission, eligible properties had an opportunity to apply for grant funding.

More than 120 grants were awarded and calculated based on the applicant’s average revenue from children’s admissions over the same period for multiple years, plus a base award tied to operating budget. The minimum grant award is $1,000.

"Museums and other arts and cultural institutions play an important role in our local communities and economies, plus they are rich canvases for socio-emotional development in young people," said Liz Shapiro in a news release. Shapiro is the director of arts, preservation, and museums at the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development. "This is the only program of its kind in the United States. We applaud all participating museums and encourage everyone to take advantage."

Participating museums have discretion to administer the Connecticut Summer at the Museum program to the best of their ability and according to their needs.

Certain restrictions may apply, and capacity may be limited (e.g., limit to one adult per household, block-out dates, exclusions for special events). Connecticut residents should check each museum’s website to learn of any restrictions before visiting.

Additionally, Lamont reminded residents that all public transit buses in Connecticut are operating fare-free through Nov. 30, and are a convenient way of receiving transportation to many of the participating museums.