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The Appleton Museum of Art, College of Central Florida, announces its new schedule of fall and holiday events, free-admission days and educational programs, building on a summer of record-breaking attendance. The 2026 Summer Art Camp hosted nearly 450 children ages 5–17 across 10 weeks, with an additional 100 students served at East Marion Elementary School through a free, one-week outreach camp. The museum also offered free admission throughout July in celebration of the 250th anniversary of the United States, welcoming 11,690 visitors.

This fall, there is no shortage of engaging opportunities to enjoy the museum. Free First Saturdays continue with free admission on the first Saturday of each month. Visitors can explore the galleries and participate in free programming such as film screenings and talks, as well as support local businesses by visiting on-site food trucks and vendors.

Saturday, Sept. 5: “Florida Lore” Storytelling Presentation by Dr. Caren Neile, noon
Saturday, Oct. 3: Film Screening, “The Yearling,” 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Saturday, Nov. 7: Film Screening, “Who the #$&% Is Jackson Pollock?,” 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Saturday, Dec. 5: Holiday Community Day, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

Free First Saturdays are supported in part by CAMPUS USA Credit Union. The Holiday Community Day is supported by the Urban Family. Saturday hours are 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Event details are available at AppletonMuseum.org.

From Oct. 13–18, visitors can also enjoy free admission in honor of the birth date of museum founder Arthur I. Appleton (1915–2008).

Early October brings two exclusive events for Appleton members. On Oct. 2, 5:30–7:30 p.m., Appleton Director’s Circle members are invited to celebrate the opening of “Jeffrey Kronsnoble: Master of Allusion, A Life of Art” with heavy hors d’oeuvres and wine. The artist will give a talk in the auditorium at 6:30 p.m. This event is open to Appleton Director’s Circle members. RSVP is required to Colleen Harper at harperc@cf.edu or 352-291-4455, ext. 1831.

On Oct. 8, 5–8 p.m., all Appleton members are invited to a festive evening with the popular Alpine Express. Dance and sing along to favorite tunes as the band performs traditional Oktoberfest music in two lively, interactive sets. Enjoy light snacks and beverages, including Oktoberfest brews, in the café before the music begins in the auditorium at 5:45 p.m. The event is free to attend. RSVP is required by Monday, Oct. 5, to Colleen Harper at harperc@cf.edu or 352-291-4455, ext. 1831.

New this fall, The Appleton with an Artist program invites visitors to tour the galleries with Heather Dawn Batchelor on Sept. 19 at 11 a.m. Batchelor will share works that have influenced and inspired her own artistic practice. Along the way, hear about her creative journey and process, with plenty of opportunities for questions and conversation. The program is free for members and included with museum admission for nonmembers. No reservation is needed to attend.

The Appleton also offers a new schedule of fall studio art classes, with offerings for pre-K through adult participants. Designed for all skill levels, classes invite the community to learn, create and be inspired in a safe, supportive environment. Held on-site in the Appleton’s art studios, each class is led by experienced educators and artists who provide guidance to help participants build and expand their artistic skills. New this year is open studio time in the ClayLab for adult students who have recently taken a clay class at the Appleton. For the class schedule, descriptions, fees and registration, visit AppletonMuseum.org. For inquiries, contact AppletonEducation@cf.edu.

The Appleton Museum, Artspace and Store are open Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday, noon-5 p.m. A campus of the College of Central Florida, the Appleton Museum of Art is located at 4333 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala, east of downtown on SR 40 (exit 352 east off I-75 or exit 268 west off I-95). Parking is free. For more information, call 352-291-4455 or visit AppletonMuseum.org.