Tis the Season — Embracing Seasons at Your Site

Thursday, April 25, 2013 2:24 PM by Betty Brennan in Other


With spring supposedly here and summer quickly approaching most outdoor sites, such as refuges and parks, are preparing for their ‘busy season’ while indoor museums may be beginning to feel the lull as the end of the school year approaches, meaning less visiting school groups, teacher led tours etc. So—how can you keep your site relevant year round? By cueing in to the things people desire as the seasons change.

During the spring, people are always geared up to get outside. Use the weather as a springboard to bring people to your site. When possible, bring discussions and debriefings outdoors or integrate special elements into your surrounding space. Consider hosting an outdoor community event such as a scavenger hunt, a cookout, or a potluck.

As the heat of summer sets in, opportunities to cool off are welcomed as well. How about hosting an evening ‘wine and design’ talk, where you can showcase your galleries to adults? Or on a crisp summer evening, maybe the side of your building could become a projection space for an outdoor movie that relates to your site?

And even though school may not be in session, opportunities for learning are always beneficial. Consider connecting up with local camps or putting information about tours or exhibits in a community flyer. Parents are always looking for opportunities to entertain and keep their kids engaged during the summer months.

Maybe traffic slows down at your nature preserve in the winter, how about a scavenger hunt for animal tracks in the snow? A winter walk warmed by hot cocoa and conversation? Or maybe a woodland creature-themed snow sculpture day?

There are many opportunities just waiting to be discovered and adapted to your site. Rather than just accepting your slow season, find a way to embrace the change!

How do you hope to keep your site relevant during the coming seasons?

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