NexGenLA Celebration at LACMA’s New David Geffen Galleries | May 3, 2026
Photo © Museum Associates/LACMA, Monica Orozco
LACMA is throwing open the doors to its brand-new David Geffen Galleries, and families are invited to be among the very first to walk through them. On Sunday, May 3, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art hosts its NexGenLA Celebration, a free, full-morning party of art, performances, and hands-on fun for kids, teens, and families.
This isn’t just a museum open house. It’s a milestone moment for one of the most anticipated cultural openings in L.A. history, and you can be part of it.
NexGenLA Celebration Event
Sunday, May 3, 2026
10am – 2pm
Free, RSVP required
The NexGenLA Celebration is a free family event marking a historic new era for LACMA. It’s designed for NexGenLA members (free to join!) and their families, giving L.A.’s youngest art lovers a VIP-style welcome to the museum’s stunning new permanent collection home.
Schedule:
- David Geffen Galleries Access
- Andell Family Sundays Art Workshops
Hands-on art workshops for all ages - Art-Inspired Face Painting
Creative designs on the W.M. Keck Plaza - Boone Children’s Gallery Open House
Creative exploration at the W.M. Keck Education Center - Maya Mobile Tour and Workshop
A rolling cultural experience right on the plaza - Family Portraits by Las Fotos Project
Professional photos for your crew - Docent-Led Family Tours (10:30am – 1pm)
Guided tours of LACMA’s iconic outdoor artworks (subject to availability)
Performances:
- 10:00 am: TAIKOPROJECT
Thunderous, high-energy Japanese taiko drumming - 10:45 am: CONTRA-TIEMPO Activist Dance Theater
Bold, joyful, socially alive dance performance - 11:30 am: Bob Baker Marionette Theater
An L.A. legend and an absolute must for the little ones - 12:00 pm: KCRW DJ Set by Novena Carmel
This event is free, but advance timed-entry tickets are required for entry. Grab yours early, as walk-in availability is limited.
Photo: LACMA / David Geffen Galleries
About the New David Geffen Galleries
After two decades of transformation, LACMA’s David Geffen Galleries officially opened on April 19, 2026 — and the NexGenLA Celebration is your family’s invitation to experience it firsthand.
Designed by Pritzker Prize-winner Peter Zumthor, the building is home to LACMA’s permanent collection, organized not by region or era, but by the world’s oceans (Pacific, Indian, Atlantic, and Mediterranean).
With over 155,000 objects spanning 6,000 years of human creativity, there’s a lot to discover.
Photo © Museum Associates/LACMA, Monica Orozco
How to Sign Up for a Free NexGenLA Membership
NexGenLA membership is completely free and takes just a few minutes to set up. There’s no cost, no catch, and no annual renewal required.
NexGenLA is LACMA’s free youth membership program for L.A. County kids and teens ages 17 and under. Once your child is a member, they can:
- Visit LACMA for free anytime and bring one guest for free admission
- Participate in creative programs for kids, teens, and families
- Get discounts on art classes and art camps
- Enjoy membership that lasts until their 18th birthday, with no annual renewals needed
One free sign-up, years of free art. Honestly, it’s one of the best deals in L.A.
👉 Sign up for your free NexGenLA membership here
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the event really free?
Yes! The NexGenLA Celebration is free for NexGenLA members and their families. You do need to reserve free advance timed-entry tickets ahead of time.
Who can get a NexGenLA membership?
Any child or teen 17 and under who lives in L.A. County is eligible. Sign-up is completely free and takes just minutes online.
Do I need a membership to attend?
The event is designed for NexGenLA members and their families, so signing up first is the way to go. Head to the sign-up link above and you’ll be set.
What is the David Geffen Galleries?
It’s LACMA’s brand-new building designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Peter Zumthor, which officially opened in April 2026. It houses LACMA’s permanent collection in an entirely new and innovative way.
Is this appropriate for toddlers and young kids?
Absolutely. The Boone Children’s Gallery Open House, face painting, Bob Baker Marionette Theater performance, and art workshops are all great for younger children.
Will there be things for older kids and teens?
Yes! The art workshops, docent-led tours, gallery access, and live performances offer plenty for tweens and teens to engage with.
What if I can’t get advance tickets?
A limited number of walk-in tickets will be available in person, but availability isn’t guaranteed. Reserve in advance to avoid disappointment.
Where is LACMA located?
LACMA is located at 5905 Wilshire Blvd in the Miracle Mile neighborhood of Los Angeles, with parking available on-site and nearby.
Official Sources and Further Information
Categories: Blog
This post was written by Kidsguide
