The Gardiner Museum is celebrating the upcoming long weekend by offering four days of free admission, from Friday March 25 to Monday March 28, part of the Museum’s commitment to community access. Drop in and see Beneath the Surface: Life, Death, Gold and Ceramics in Ancient Panama. This special exhibition takes visitors on an interactive journey through the history of a complex and mysterious society that disappeared approximately 1,000 years ago and left no written language. The centrepiece of the show is a three-tier recreation of the largest grouping of grave goods ever unearthed in Panama—gold plaques and pendants, precious stones, and literally tons of detail-rich painted ceramics.

Visiting archaeologists will be stationed in the exhibition throughout the weekend to answer visitors’ questions about this incredible discovery and the fascinating practices of modern archaeologists (Friday 3 – 8 pm; Saturday 11 am – 2 pm and 3 – 5 pm; Sunday 11 am – 2 pm, 3 – 5 pm).

Kids can also explore the Museum’s world-famous permanent collection through a series of scavenger hunts, encouraging them to discover ancient Mayan statues, porcelain animals commissioned by the kings of Europe, and an incredible recreation of an 18th century dessert table.

On Sunday from 11 am to 4 pm, families are also invited to take part in hands-on clay activities in the lobby.

Visit www.gardinermuseum.com to learn more.