SPARK! programs are designed for people in the early-to-mid stages of memory loss to visit with their family and care partners.
SPARK! programs are offered at 1 p.m. on the third Sunday of each month, see the 2023 dates listed below. There is a 30-minute coffee social before each program at 12:30 p.m. for participants to become comfortable and socialize with peers before we begin. Care Partners are welcome to stay and enjoy the Museum after the program. Street parking is FREE on Sundays.
Space is limited and reservations are required three days in advance by calling 414-278-2714.
Upcoming Programs
August 20 - Poisons in the Streets – One of our most popular exhibits, Streets of Old Milwaukee, offers guests an opportunity to travel back in time to what Milwaukee might have looked like at the turn of the century. This life might look idyllic and peaceful, but there are many stories of poisons that lurked right below the surface of daily life. Learn about some of these more dangerous aspects of living in historic Milwaukee.
September 17 - The Wonders of White Corn – Wisconsin is home to a large number of diverse communities with rich histories, and we have an incredible opportunity to learn from the harvesting practices of the Oneida Nation. This month, we will explore the work that goes into growing and harvesting white corn, have an opportunity to braid our own white corn floor mat, and be able to taste some delicious traditional foods made from white corn.
October 15 - Fantastic Folklore – Myths, ghost stories, fairy tales, and folklore have been important parts of every culture on Earth for as long as humans have been alive. Many cultures celebrate heritage and ancestry through storytelling in the fall months. This month, guests will have an opportunity to listen to and tell some of these stories. Guests are strongly encouraged to dress up in costume or any fancy dress of their choosing. (Please do not wear costumes that refer to cultures or ethnic heritage.)
November 19 - Holiday Traditions: South and Central America – MPM offers visitors the opportunity to experience the cultures of the world through our galleries, but how do these cultures celebrate during our coldest months of the year? We'll focus on the many diverse ways the fall and winter holidays are celebrated in South and Central America, with an opportunity to try some tasty local foods.
December 11 - SPECIAL PROGRAM: Holiday Songs & Hymns performed by the Florentine Opera Company – This is our annual tradition for the holidays and all SPARK! families are welcome. Limited seating; reservations required.
Groups from care communities
Programs for groups are currently paused. Please email Dawn Koceja for more information at Koceja@mpm.edu or call 414-278-6943.
Learn more
Registration
Registration must be received at least three days in advance of your selected program(s). To register, please call 414-278-2714. Pre-registration required.
Learn more about SPARK! programming and other partner Museums at www.sparkprograms.org