Wayside Days at the Art Preserve Offers Music, Tours, and Community Fun
The John Michael Kohler Arts Center’s Art Preserve is keeping the creativity alive this fall with Wayside Days, a series of events designed to bring people together around art, performance, and community. On Friday, September 19, from 4:00 to 6:00 PM, visitors are invited to enjoy a unique blend of behind-the-scenes access, interactive music, and casual socializing.
The evening begins with a special guided tour of the Art Preserve’s collection storage, offering a rare chance to peek behind the doors and see treasures not usually on display. Curators will open drawers, cabinets, and archives to reveal how the museum preserves and cares for its pieces—a fascinating experience for art lovers of all ages.
At 4:30 PM, the focus shifts to music with an Open Singing Circle led by performers from The Hinterlands troupe. Guests are welcome to join in—no experience required—as the group explores traditional songs ranging from Ojibwe drum rhythms to Appalachian folk melodies. It’s a chance to participate in living traditions and learn something new while singing in community.
To wrap up the evening, visitors can gather for a Happy Hour at the Fred Smith Bar inside the Art Preserve. Local craft beers and soft drinks will be available, giving everyone the perfect chance to relax, mingle, and reflect on the experience.
Like all Wayside Days programs, this event is free and open to the public, making it a great option for families, friends, or anyone curious about art and music. The museum galleries close at 6:00 PM, so arriving early ensures you get the full experience.
For those who love art, storytelling, and song, Wayside Days at the Art Preserve is an inspiring way to spend a Friday afternoon in Sheboygan.
