Since opening its doors in 1976 as the first museum in the nation designed specifically for children ages seven and under, the Please Touch Museum has served as a cornerstone of early childhood education and interactive play in Philadelphia. Now housed in Fairmount Park’s historic Memorial Hall, the beloved institution is kicking off a yearlong 50th birthday celebration this October to honor half a century of sparking curiosity, creativity, and discovery across generations.

The milestone anniversary will feature free community events, new interactive exhibits, and special celebrations for local families.

Key Highlights & Event Schedule

Free Birthday Weekend (October 3–4): Thanks to support from the Philadelphia City Fund’s 2026 Milestone Grant Fund and PECO, museum admission is free for all visitors. Memorial Hall will host a party featuring interactive performances, craft stations, daily cupcake giveaways, and a giant two-tier interactive birthday cake installation. Advance registration is now open.

PAW Patrol: Adventure Play (October 7 – January 3): A new interactive traveling exhibit featuring eight rescue pups from the popular series. Kids can run rescue missions while exploring community helper roles and teamwork.

Imagination Ball (October 22): The museum’s annual fundraising gala honors founder Portia Sperr and former President/CEO Nancy Kolb. Proceeds support free and reduced-price admission programs serving nearly 100,000 children annually.

Character Quest Exhibit (Opening February 2027): A new permanent exhibit in Memorial Hall focused on developing emotional intelligence, perseverance, social skills, and a growth mindset through interactive play.

Community members are invited to share their favorite photos, videos, and memories of the museum to help commemorate the milestone. More details and registration information are available here.

(Photo: The Please Touch Museum Facebook)