The International Museum of Art & Science is part of museums nationwide in the Blue Star Museums initiative, a program that provides free admission to currently-serving U.S. military personnel and their families this summer. The 2023 program began on Armed Forces Day and will end on Labor Day, Sept. 4.
Blue Star Museums is a partnership between the National Endowment for the Arts and Blue Star Families, in collaboration with the Department of Defense and participating museums across America.
“It is our privilege to say, ‘Thank you’ to the active military and their families by once again partnering with the National Endowment for the Arts and Blue Star Families on the Blue Star Museums program and providing free admission to the International Museum of Art & Science in McAllen, Texas,” says Jessica Rodriguez, Visitor Services and Gift Shop manager at IMAS. “As Americans who benefit directly from service members’ sacrifices, supporting our active military and their families is the least we can do as an expression of gratitude for all that they are giving up to ensure our freedoms. Museums provide a safe place to think, grow, learn, wonder and feel. The IMAS is honored to help enrich the lives of military families and build meaningful connections between our nation’s military and our local community.”
“We thank the 2023 Blue Star Museums who invite military personnel and their families to experience the many wonders they have to offer, whether it’s a glimpse into the past, an encounter with awe-inspiring art, or a moment of discovery,” said Maria Rosario Jackson, chairwoman of the National Endowment for the Arts. “IMAS is helping to enrich the lives of military families and build meaningful connections between our nation’s military and their local community.”
Blue Star Museums include children’s museums, art, science, and history museums, zoos, gardens, lighthouses and more. They hail from all 50 states, District of Columbia and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The current list of participating museums will continue to develop over the summer as organizations are welcome to register to be a Blue Star Museum throughout the summer.
The free admission program is available for those currently serving in the United States Military — Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marine Corps, Navy, and Space Force, members of the Reserves, National Guard, U.S. Public Health Commissioned Corps, NOAA Commissioned Corps. Free admission is good for up to five family members. Must show proof of active status.