Join us for a special drop-in event where kids and families can start or finish their shoebox museum exhibits with plenty of support and inspiration. Whether you need help getting started or simply want to create alongside others, this is the perfect opportunity. All materials will be provided, including shoeboxes, craft supplies, labels, glue, and markers. Participants will receive plenty of guidance and inspiration from staff and fellow makers in a welcoming, hands-on environment.
The event is free and open to the public. No registration is required—just drop in and get creative.
Dates to remember
- Sunday, July 20, 1-4 p.m.: Maker's Day.
- Monday, July 21 - Friday, July 25: Submission dates.
- Monday, August 4 - Friday, August 22: Mural display days.
Guidelines
- Choose a topic: Pick a subject that interests you—this could be something from your home you'd like to explore further or a topic that fascinates you, like space exploration, animals, or local history.
- Gather your artifacts: Collect items for your display. These can be real objects, cut-out images from magazines, or printed pictures from the internet.
- Create your exhibit: Arrange your artifacts creatively inside a shoebox. Make it both fun and informative.
- Add a title and description: Give your museum a name and write short description to explain your artifacts and tell the story of your exhibit.
- Keep it family-friendly: All exhibits should be appropriate for all ages to enjoy.
- Stick to the size limit: Exhibits should fit inside a standard shoebox (no larger than 15” x 15” x 7”). If your display is larger, a photo of the full exhibit is welcome.
Shoebox details
- Format: Use a standard shoebox no larger than 15” x 15” x 7”. If your exhibit is larger, you may submit a photo instead.
- Submission dates: Entries will be accepted from July 21 to July 25, 2025.
- Drop-off location: Deliver your shoebox exhibit to the Washington County Historic Courthouse at 101 Pine Street W., Stillwater.
- Drop-off hours: Monday–Friday: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. or Saturday and Sunday: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
- Email photo submissions: HistoricCourthouse@washingtoncountymn.gov
Resources
There are wonderful resources available online to help you get started: https://micro.ooo/diy and https://blackcreek.ca/create-your-own-exhibit/.