Programs & Events

Free & Open to the Public

Learning is an ongoing practice at the Museum, with many ways to engage:  

• Join community led workshops
• Explore art materials and techniques with artists
• Discover local art and history at talks
• Celebrate culture at public events
• Tour the Museum with your K-12 learners and trained docents 

Our programs are always free and open to all.

In Person

First Thursdays: 
In the Vault: Crochet 1-2-3 

All Ages

Thursday, December 5

5 PM – 8 PM

Sign up required

Cozy up and let your creativity flow with fiber art and hot cocoa! Join us for a festive In the Vault session to explore fiber art in the Museum’s collection and crochet a unique holiday gift with a coaster-making workshop hosted by Matthew Jaramillo, founder of Yarntario. Materials will be provided. Space is limited. Sign up required. 

In Person

Studio Saturdays: That’s A Wrap

All Ages

Saturday, December 7

12 PM – 4 PM

Deck out your holiday gifts with a personal touch by creating your own custom holiday wrapping paper. Carve your unique linocut print block stamp featuring treasured local icons like the Frankish Fountain, Armstrong roses, and Nugent’s Park horseshoes. Pre-made stamps will also be available.

In Person

Community Reception: Mission Gráfica: Reflecting a Community in Print and Centered in Ink: Printmaking in the Inland Empire 

All Ages

Saturday, January 11

2 PM – 4 PM

Join the Museum for an afternoon of art and printmaking featuring artists in the exhibitions Mission Gráfica: Reflecting a Community in Print and Centered in Ink: Printmaking in the Inland Empire. Light refreshments will be provided.   

In Person

Studio Saturdays: Pots of Courage

Ages 10+

Saturday, January 18

Session 1: 11AM – 1 PM

Session 2: 2 PM – 4 PM

Sign up required

Celebrate the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and dive into a creative studio experience where you’ll explore themes of resilience, courage, and diversity by transforming flowerpots into vibrant canvases with artist, Krafty Sunflower. Celebrate our community’s strength and beauty as you paint, and let your flowerpots become a colorful testament to the inspiring legacy of Dr. King. Space is limited. Sign up required.

In Person

Studio Saturday: Celebrating the Year of the Serpent with Artist Flora Kao

All Ages

Saturday, January 25

2 PM – 4 PM

Sign up required

Celebrate the Year of the Serpent with artist Flora Kao as we encounter the vibrant traditions of the Lunar New Year. Join us for an exciting event where you will create your own firecrackers and adorn paper lanterns, setting the stage for a joyful Lunar New Year. Space is limited. Sign up required. 

In Person

Artist Talk: Mission Gráfica: Reflecting a Community in Print and Centered in Ink: Printmaking in the Inland Empire

All Ages 

Saturday, February 1

2 PM – 3 PM

Join the Museum and talented artists featured in the exhibitions Mission Gráfica: Reflecting a Community in Print and Centered in Ink: Printmaking in the Inland Empire for an engaging discussion on their printmaking techniques, diverse printing methods, and the stories behind their work. Explore the rich history and challenges these artists have faced as they share insights into their creative processes.

In Person

Studio Saturdays: Black History Month Collective

All Ages 

Saturday, February 8

12 PM – 3 PM

Celebrate Black History Month at the Museum and engage with local artists through interactive activities, creative projects, and inspiring conversations that honor and explore Black heritage and culture.

In Person

Ontario Art Walk: An Evening at the Museum

All Ages 

Saturday, February 15

6 PM – 9 PM 

Visit the Museum, shop local artisan booths, and participate in a hands-on artmaking experience. Light refreshments provided by the Ontario Museum of History & Art, Associates. Interested in participating as a vendor? Contact [email protected]. To learn more about the Ontario Art Walk, visit OntarioArtWalk.org

In Person

First Studio Saturdays: Block by Block: Building Community Through Art

All Ages | Toda las Edades

Saturday, February 22 | Sábado, 22 de febrero

Session 1: 12 PM – 1:30 PM (Español)

Session 2: 2 PM – 3:30 PM (English)

Sign up required

You are invited to contribute to a community card deck! Join artist cindy “cindita” macias for a community block printing workshop inspired by the exhibition, Mission Gráfica: Reflecting a Community in Print. Create custom trading cards that reflect you and your community and trade them with others. Supplies and materials provided. Space is limited. Sign up required. 

Estudio sábados: Bloque por Bloque: Construyendo una comunidad a través de arte 

¡Están invitados a contribuir a una baraja de cartas comunitario!  Unese con artista cindy “cindita” macias en un taller de impresión comunitario inspirado por la exposición, Misión Gráfica: Reflectando a una Comunidad en Impresión. Crea tarjetas personalizadas que se reflejan a usted y su comunidad y intercámbialas con otros. Los materiales y útiles serán proporcionados. El espacio es limitado. Se requiere inscripción. 

In Person

Ontario Art Walk: An Evening at the Museum

All Ages 

Saturday, November 16

6 PM – 9 PM 

Come celebrate traditional folk art, while you visit the Museum, shop local artisan booths, and participate in a hands-on artmaking experience. Light refreshments provided by the Ontario Museum of History & Art, Museum Associates. Interested in participating as a vendor? Contact [email protected]. To learn more about the Ontario Art Walk, visit ontarioartwalk.org

In Person

Ontario Art Book Fair

All Ages 

Saturday, March 29, 2025

11 AM – 5 PM 

The Ontario Art Book Fair is a one-day unique, and regional showcase of artists’ books, catalogues, monographs, periodicals, and zines.

At the inaugural Ontario Art Book Fair we will highlight exhibitors from around the country with an emphasis on California-based artists and publishers. Exhibitors from the Inland Empire are strongly encouraged to participate. All publishing houses, independent press collectives, artists, zine-makers, printmakers and individuals practicing in experimental paper formats are welcome and encouraged to apply.

In Person

First Thursdays: Paint in the Dark with Mario Solorzano

Ages 18 +

Thursday, November 7

6 PM – 8 PM 

Sign up required

Experience the magic of painting in the dark at Adult Paint Night with Mario Solorzano. Join us for a unique and colorful evening using neon paints under black lights. Let your creativity glow as you create stunning, luminescent artworks. All materials will be provided and no prior experience is necessary.

In Person

Dia de los Muertos Gallery Reception

All Ages 

Friday, November 1

3 PM – 6 PM 

Join us for a gallery installation and related activities of Dia de los Muertos, highlighting ofrendas and vibrant art. Explore the cultural significance of this tradition through intricate displays and meaningful tributes. Enjoy some light refreshments and live entertainment.

In Person

Ontario Arts Festival

All Ages 

Saturday, October 19

10 AM – 5 PM 

The City of Ontario’s Department of Museum, Arts, & Culture and the Chaffey Community Museum of Art are excited to announce the sixth annual Ontario Arts Festival. The festival features over 50 artist booths offering a wide variety of visual arts, as well as other attractions for festival visitors, including free entry to museums, food trucks, a beer and wine garden, art activities, live demonstrations and more. Join us for this one-day event that exemplifies the City’s commitment to making Ontario the destination for arts and culture in the Inland Empire.

In Person

First Thursdays: Altar Shadowbox

All Ages 

Thursday, October 3

5 PM – 8 PM 

Sign up required

Create your own mini altar for the opening of the Dia de los Muertos exhibition. We invite the public to bring a 2”x 3” photograph of an individual who has passed away and create a mini altar in their honor. The Museum will provide supplies and materials to create offerings to be used in your mini altar.

In Person

Studio Saturday:

Paper mâché with Monica Thaller

Ages 12+ 

Saturday, September 21

1 PM – 4 PM 

Sign up required

Join us in celebrating Latinx/Hispanic Heritage Month with a paper mâché workshop! Discover the vibrant art of creating pan dulce (conchas) with artist Monica Thaller. Dive into the cultural significance of these traditional Mexican crafts while crafting your own unique work. All materials will be provided and no prior experience is necessary.

In Person

Healing Circle with Denise Silva

Ages 16+ 

Saturday, September 7

2 PM – 3 PM 

Join us for a transformative experience in a healing circle led by The Art of Healing: Holistic Expressions artist Denise Silva. Engage in meditation, meaningful discussions, and grounding artistic exercises to promote overall well-being and healing. 

In Person

First Thursdays:

Botanical Brews and Impressions: Stamping with Plant Clippings

All Ages 

Thursday, September 5

5 PM – 8 PM 

Sign up required

Create unique stamps from plant clippings and tea satchels while enjoying refreshing iced tea brewed from native California plants. Immerse yourself in this creative and nature-inspired workshop, perfect for artists and nature enthusiasts alike. 

In Person

Studio Saturdays: Practice of Healing through Poetry and Sound

Ages 15+ 

Saturday, August 31 

2 PM – 4 PM  

Join the Museum to connect with local artists and immerse yourself in the realm of healing through poetry and sound. Dive into the transformative world of creative expression with a creative writing and performance workshop, led by Micah Tasaka of Creative Grounds. Afterwards, exhibiting artist in The Art of Healing, Amabelle Aguiluz, will guide you the soothing waves of a meditative sound performance.

In Person

Ontario Art Walk

All Ages 

Saturday, August 17 

6 PM – 9 PM 

Visit the Museum, shop artisan vendors and support local businesses as the Downtown Ontario Arts District hosts open studios, gallery exhibitions, and extended store hours. To find out more about Ontario Art Walk, visit OntarioArtWalk.org. 

We are seeking artist vendors! The deadline to apply is August 2nd.

In Person

First Thursday: Emerging Artist Meet-Up: Setting Up Your Booth for Artist Festival

Ages 15+ 

Thursday, August 1 

5:30 PM – 7 PM 

Registration Required 

Join us for an in-depth look at the many ways to build out your artist booth for arts festivals. You’ll gain insight from veteran Ontario Arts Festival exhibitors and learn how to transform your space from start to finish. All participants will leave with a free checklist in preparation for setting up your artist booth. 

In Person

The Art of Healing: Holistic Expressions Walkthrough and Artist Talk

Ages 15+ 

Saturday, July 20 

1:30 PM – 2:30 PM 

Join the Museum and the exhibiting artists from The Art of Healing: Holistic Expressions for a panel discussion. Learn about their techniques for creating artwork and listen to the artist’s stories about how art has been an essential part of their daily lives and how its presence can be a healing element in the community.

In Person

Studio Saturdays: Mindful Art-Making / Sábado de Estudio: Técnicas Artísticas Conscientes

Ages 10+ 

Saturday, July 13 

12 PM – 2PM (English)AT CAPACITY

2:30 PM – 4:30 PM (Español) 

Relax and take a break with your family at the Museum using mindful art techniques. Discover and practice grounding exercises that can help ease stress. Participate in a zine-making session where you can craft your own zine booklet to bring home with you!

Este programa está diseñado para relajar y tomarse un descanso con su familia en el museo utilizando técnicas artísticas conscientes. Descubra y practique ejercicios de conexión a tierra que pueden ayudarle a aliviar el estrés. Participe en una sesión de creación de revista en la que podrá crear su cuaderno para llevárselo a casa. 

In Person

First Thursday: Emerging Artist Meet-Up: Applying for Ontario Arts Festival  

Ages 15+ 

Thursday, July 11 

5:30 PM – 7 PM 

Registration Required 

Learn to use the Submittable platform to apply for the Ontario Arts Festival. Artists of all levels are welcome to attend this invaluable step-by-step tutorial which will guide you from start to finish on the Ontario Arts Festival application. The Ontario Arts Festival is an annual event co-hosted by the Ontario Museum of History & Art and the Chaffey Community Museum of Art that showcases the best of art in our region. 

In Person

Exhibition Reception: The Art of Healing  

All Ages 

Sunday, June 30  

2 PM – 4 PM 

Exhibition Reception: The Art of Healing  

All Ages 

Sunday, June 30  

2 PM – 4 PM 

Celebrate the artists from The Art of Healing: Holistic Expressions at the Museum with light refreshments and an artist workshop led by Flora Kao.

Trees represent resilience and hope. As symbolic conduits from earth to heaven, trees growing by sacred sites often serve as repositories for prayers and wishes. In Irish and Scottish tradition, wish ribbons are tied to trees by holy wells for health and healing. Colorful prayer ties are wrapped to cottonwood trees during Lakota and Seminole sun dances. In Argentina, food offerings are tied with brightly colored thread to sacred trees. In Thailand, tree spirits are presented with strips of colored silk for good luck. During the Japanese Tanabata festival, wishes are written on narrow strips of colored paper and hung on bamboo trees. Fluttering in sacred Buddhist colors, salvaged silk serves as prayer leaves in artist Flora Kao’s bamboo installation Sacred Grove; each leaf is a wish for peace in the face of loss.

In the Healing Tree workshop, Kao invites community members to write and tie their wishes, remembrances and prayers to bamboo trees that will be incorporated into a community grove in The Art of Healing: Holistic Expression exhibit.

In Person

Studio Saturdays: Fabric Art  

Ages 10+ 

Saturday, June 29 

Session 1: 12 PM – 2 PM 

Session 2: 2:30 PM – 4:30 PM 

Learn how to create fabric art using your recycled clothing and fabric. Bring fabric or clothing you are willing to rip or cut and textile artist, Sumi Foley, will walk you through her artmaking process for working with fabric and recycled materials. Space is limited; reservations are required. 

In Person

Emerging Artist Meet-Up: Preparing your Digital Portfolio for Ontario Arts Festival  

Ages 15+ 

Thursday, June 13 

5:30 PM – 7 PM 

Registration Required

Artist of all levels are invited to dive into this crash course designed to prepare you to apply to the Ontario Arts Festival. Learn how to compile an attractive and accurate portfolio that will make your application stand out. The workshop will review artist statements, the presentation of process, and finished works in order to stand out. 

In Person

First Thursdays: Night of the Children/ Noche de los Niños   

All Ages 

Thursday, June 6  

5 PM – 8 PM 

Registration Required

Join us for a night of family fun at “Noche de los Niños”. Embark on an adventure of imagination and curiosity through guided exhibition tours, hands-on art activities, and discover the fascinating history of toys in the Museum’s collection through a featured presentation of In the Vault. It’s a night where families can come together to bond, explore, and make museum memories.  

Embárquese en una aventura de imaginación y curiosidad a través de visitas guiadas a las exposiciones, con actividades artísticas y descubra la increíble historia de los juguetes de la colección del Museo con la presentación de In the Vault. Es una noche donde las familias podrán reunirse para convevir, descubrir y crear recuerdos en el museo. 

In Person

Ontario Art Walk: A Night at the Museum

Saturday, May 18, 2024

6 PM – 9 PM

All Ages

Join us as we celebrate achieving accreditation; the highest national recognition awarded by the American Alliance of Museums. Explore the Museum, support artisan vendors and shop at the Museum store. Join artist and creative strategist Danielle Giudici Wallis for a zine making workshop in conjunction with the Built on Water exhibition. Make your own zine to take home or contribute to a collaborative community zine about water. To find out more about Ontario Art Walk, visit ontarioartwalk.org   

In Person

Culture Fest: Block Party

Saturday, May 11, 2024

12 PM – 4 PM

All Ages

The Ontario Museum of History & Art presents Culture Fest, an annual celebration of the different cultural experiences that exist within Ontario’s diverse community. This year we’re highlighting the rich Chicanx diaspora which has called Ontario its home for generations. Take mall-style glamour shots with your friends, taste delicious local food and beverages, and watch talented performers express what it means to be Chicanx in the Inland Empire. During the event, be sure to explore the galleries and participate in hands-on art-making activities.   

In Person

First Thursdays: Family Paint Night

Thursday, May 2, 2024

6 PM – 8 PM

Ages 8+

Bring the family and paint a citrus still life with artist Elide Sanchez out in the Museum courtyard. All painting supplies are provided, but space is limited, so reserve your spot! Experience First Thursdays at the Museum and enjoy extended hours from 5PM-8PM.

‡ Reservations for this program will be available one month before the event.

Thank you for your interest. We have reached capacity. If interested, please give us a call at (909) 395-2510 to be added to our waitlist.

In Person

Studio Saturday: Earth’s Canvas & Upcycled Art

Sunday, April 20, 2024

12 PM – 4 PM

All Ages

Celebrate Earth Day at the Museum in collaboration with the Integrated Waste Department. Meet Recycle Roo and learn about source separation, attend a composting demonstration, create upcycled art and make your own paper out of plants using a bicycle! Learn how artists are using art to talk about our earth’s resources in a special gallery walkthrough at noon with Conduit guest curator Debra Scacco and exhibiting artist christy roberts berkowitz. 

This activity is funded in part by the California Arts Council, a state agency.

‡ Reservations for this program will be available one month before the event.

In Person

Basketry and Mother Earth Clan with Lorene Sisquoc

Sunday, April 7, 2024

1 PM – 4 PM

All Ages

Join curator and basket-maker Lorene Sisquoc to learn about Mother Earth Clan and participate in a Creekside round reed basket workshop. Lorene Sisquoc is curator of the Sherman Indian Museum, has taught basket-making and native plant uses and material culture/traditions at the Sherman Indian High School and throughout Southern California for many years. Sisquoc is a descendant of the Mountain Cahuilla and a member of the Fort Sill Apache tribe. 

This activity is funded in part by the California Arts Council, a state agency.

Thank you for your interest in this workshop. We have reached capacity. If interested, please give us a call at (909) 395-2510 to be added to our waitlist. 

In Person

First Thursdays: Emerging Artist Meet-Up: Choosing and Crafting Color

Thursday, April 4, 2024

6 PM – 8 PM

Ages 12+

Color is a foundation of art making and art materials. Join Golden Artist Kathryn Elliott Duncan to learn the basics of color theory and discover how to create your own custom colors using just a few pigments. Experience First Thursdays at the Museum and enjoy extended hours from 5pm-8pm. 

‡ Reservation recommended, but not required.

In Person

Studio Saturday: Cyanotype Printing

Saturday, March 23, 2024

• Session One: 1 PM – 2:30 PM (Families with Children Ages 5+)
• Session Two: 3 PM – 4:30 PM (Ages 15+)

Reserve a spot for eco-friendly cyanotype printing with artist and creative strategist Danielle Giudici Wallis. Learn about some of the indigenous and invasive plants found in our area as we use them to create beautiful, blue-toned prints that develop in water! Space is limited; reservations required.  2 sessions: 1-2:30pm, 3:00-4:30pm.

This activity is funded in part by the California Arts Council, a state agency.

In Person

Artist Conversation with Gerald Clarke

Saturday, March 16, 2024

12 PM – 1:30 PM

All Ages

Link to join Webinar

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82727242256

Join Conduit exhibited artist Gerald Clarke and guest curator Debra Scacco for a conversation about water rights, American Indian stereotypes and the role water plays in Indigenous culture. Gerald Clarke is a visual artist, educator, tribal leader, cultural practitioner and an enrolled citizen of the Cahuilla Band of Indians.   

Gerald Clarke is currently a Professor of Ethnic Studies at the University of California Riverside where he teaches classes in Native American art, history and culture. Clarke has exhibited his work extensively and can be seen in numerous exhibitions as well as major museum collections. In 2020, the Palm Springs Art Museum hosted Gerald Clarke: Falling Rock, the first major retrospective of the artist’s work. He holds a B.A. in Art from the University of Central Arkansas and the M.A./M.F.A. degrees in Painting/Sculpture from Stephen F. Austin State University.

This activity is funded in part by the California Arts Council, a state agency.

‡ Reservation recommended, but not required.

In Person

First Thursdays: Artist Discussion: 

Conduit

Thursday, March 7, 2024

6 PM – 7:30 PM

All Ages Welcome

Link to join Live Webinar:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89675616634

Join artist Noe Montes and UC Riverside Public Humanities scholar Catherine Gudis to discuss Montes’ work focusing on Jurupa Valley Superfund site Pyrite Canyon. For more than 20 years, Montes’ award-winning artwork has documented underrepresented communities to effect change through storytelling, education and advocacy around social, economic, and environmental issues. Experience First Thursdays at the Museum and enjoy extended hours from 5p – 8pm.

About the Panelists  

Noé Montes is an award-winning artist based in Los Angeles. For more than 20 years, Montes’ work has documented underrepresented communities to effect change through storytelling, education and advocacy around social, economic, and environmental issues. 

Born in Modesto, California, Montes grew up in a family of migrant farm workers that traveled up and down California’s Central Valley following harvests. Although often experiencing challenging conditions, his family was able to survive and thrive with the help of an extended and constantly shifting community where relationships were based on empathy. It is from these early personal experiences that Montes continues to develop culturally sensitive projects as an artist.  

The themes of his work are personal and community development with a strong focus on the social issues that are shaping a new American narrative. As a facilitator, Montes has extensive experience working with educational, cultural, civic institutions and non-profit organizations both regionally in California and across the country. Montes’ list of commissions includes work for the Annenberg Foundation, the California Air Resources Board, the California Community Foundation, The Getty Foundation, L.A. Metro, Lift To Rise, The Palm Springs Art Museum and The University of Southern California among others.  

Cathy Gudis is Associate Professor of History and Endowed Term Chair for Interdisciplinary Research and Learning in the Humanities and Social Sciences at the University of California, Riverside, where she also directs the grad program in Public History. She has worked for over twenty years with art and history museums, in historic preservation, and on multi-platform, place-based projects that focus on Southern California and explore how public space is privatized, landscapes racialized, and inequalities of access contested. She is currently an ACLS-Mellon Society & Scholars Fellow with Los Angeles Poverty Department’s Skid Row History Museum & Archive. 

This activity is funded in part by the California Arts Council, a state agency.

‡ Reservation recommended, but not required.

In Person

Ontario Art Walk & Exhibit Reception: Conduit

Saturday, February 17, 2024

6 PM – 9 PM

All Ages

Enjoy light refreshments and art-making activities throughout the evening as we also celebrate the opening of the exhibit, Conduit. Meet the guest curator and exhibiting artists inside the galleries and learn more about the exhibit. To find out more about Ontario Art Walk, visit ontarioartwalk.org   

In Person

Studio Saturdays: Valentine Paintings

Saturday, February 10, 2024

• Session One: 12pm-2pm (session full)

• Session Two: 2pm-4pm (session full)

Ages 8 +

Join teaching artist Erick Rodriguez and learn how to create your own Valentine painting with your loved ones. This is a guided painting activity; supplies are free, but space is limited. Sign up to reserve your time slot!  

‡ Reservation required.

In Person

First Thursdays: Black Art History

Thursday, February 1, 2024

5 PM – 8 PM

Ages 8 +

Experience First Thursdays at the Museum and enjoy extended hours. In celebration of Black History Month, join educator and cartoonist Duan Kellum, known as Skool Boiz, in creating mixed media artworks using materials inspired by pioneering Black artists.   

‡ Reservation recommended, but not required.

In Person

Mindful Art Making

Friday, January 19, 2024

2 PM – 4 PM

Ages 8 +

Start the New Year strong with the help of mindful art techniques. Families are invited to discover and practice grounding exercises and participate in a watercolor paint session. 

‡ Reservation recommended, but not required.

In Person

Studio Saturday: The Power of Art

Saturday, January 13, 2024

12 PM – 4 PM

Ages 8 +

Drop in for our monthly Studio Saturdays to hear artist and educator cindita discuss the history of local activism and community organizing in the region. Create your own social justice art inspired by the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and the civil rights movement.    

‡ Reservation recommended, but not required.

In Person

First Thursdays: That’s a Wrap Museum Edition

Thursday, December 7, 2023

5 PM – 7 PM

Ages 15+

Explore First Thursdays at the Museum. The Lewis Family Branch Library and Ontario Museum of History & Art invite you to deck out your holiday gifts by creating your own custom wrapping paper. Use treasured icons like our Frankish Fountain, Armstrong roses and Nugent Park horseshoes! Participants will carve their own unique linocut print block.    

‡ Reservation recommended, but not required.

In Person

Ontario Art Walk: An Evening at the Museum

Saturday, November 18, 2023

6 PM – 9 PM

Visit the Museum, shop artisan vendors and support local businesses as the Downtown Ontario Arts District hosts open studios, gallery exhibitions, and extended store hours. Interested in participating as a vendor? To learn more about the Ontario Art Walk and becoming a vendor, visit ontarioartwalk.org  

‡ Reservation recommended, but not required.

Interested in becoming a vendor? Apply here. Applications close on October 27.

In Person

In the Vault: Ontario and the Armed Forces

Saturday, November 4, 2023

1 PM – 2 PM

Veterans Day is a day to commemorate the service of all U.S. Veterans.  Explore the lives of soldiers and the support civilians provided through some of the hidden gems found in the Museum’s collection. 

‡ Reservation recommended, but not required.

In Person

First Thursdays: Paint in the Dark Día de Los Muertos

Thursday, November 2, 2023

5 PM – 8PM | Día de Los Muertos exhibition open

6PM – 8PM  | Paint Workshop

Explore First Thursdays at the Museum – celebrate Día de los Muertos  by creating your own glow-in-the-dark calavera painting. Experiment with neon paint in a UV setting with Artist Mario Solorzano. Space is limited; reserve your spot now!

‡ Reservation recommended, but not required.

In Person at Ontario City Library

Film Screening: Saging the World

Thursday, October 26, 2023 

6:30 PM – 7:30 PM

Saging the World spotlights the ecological and cultural issues intertwined with white sage, centering on the voices of Native advocates who have long protected and cherished this plant, a native to southern California and Baja California, Mexico. View the film and learn about the Ontario Museum of History and Art’s Built on Water exhibit.

Ontario City Library | 215 East C Street, Ontario Ca 91764 | 909- 395-2205

No reservation required.

In Person

Community Event: Ontario Arts Festival  

Saturday, October 21, 2023

10 AM – 5 PM

The Ontario Museum of History & Art and the Chaffey Community Museum of Art are excited to announce the fifth annual Ontario Arts Festival. The Festival exemplifies the City’s commitment to making Ontario the destination for arts and culture in the Inland Empire. This one-day event will feature artwork for purchase from local artists, free entry to museums, food trucks and a beer garden! For more information about the Ontario Arts Festival, e-mail [email protected] or please call (909) 395 2510.

In Person

Reception: Día de Los Muertos: Recuerdos de Sabores/Flavorful Memories  Exhibition   

Saturday, October 7, 2023

12 PM – 3 PM

Celebrate the 25th year of the Museum’s exhibition, Día de los Muertos: Recuerdos de Sabores. The reception will be filled with flavorful memories, wonderful artwork, small dishes related to the Day of the Dead holiday and artmaking activities. Join exhibiting artists and Museum staff in celebrating this milestone.    

‡ Reservation recommended, but not required.

In Person

First Thursdays: Calavera Mask-Making

Thursday, October 5, 2023

5 PM – 8 PM

Explore First Thursdays at the Museum and discover exhibitions and art activities, with extended hours. Food will be available for purchase from pop-up vendors. Experience Día de los Muertos: Recuerdos de Sabores and create your own calavera mask.

‡ Reservation recommended, but not required.

In Person at Ovitt Family Community Library

Water Wise Gardening

Thursday, September 28, 2023

6 PM – 7 PM

Saving water does not mean you have to sacrifice your garden’s health. Learn from the Master Gardeners how to have a beautiful yard while conserving our precious water. Find out more about water conservation at the Ontario Museum of History and Art’s Built on Water exhibit.

Ovitt Family Community Library | 215 East C Street, Ontario CA 91764 | 909-395-2205

No reservation required.

In Person

Studio Saturdays: Trastero Art-Making

Saturday, September 23, 2023

3 PM – 5 PM

Select your time slot for this Día de los Muertos themed art-making workshop using ceramic bisqueware to glaze your own designs. Honor and celebrate this year’s exhibit theme by decorating your own dish. A trastero is a form of shelving that holds dishware for display. Artwork created during this studio session may be selected for the trastero display in the upcoming exhibit Dia de los Muertos: Recuerdos de Sabores/Flavorful Memories.

‡ Reservation recommended, but not required.

In Person

Emerging Artist Meet-Up: Meet the Art Associations

Friday, September 22, 2023

5:30 PM – 7:30 PM

Our series for emerging artists continues. Meet members of The Arts Area, Associated Artists of Inland Empire, Chaffey Community Museum of Art, Corona Art Association, Drawing Together, Pomona Valley Art Association, Redlands Art Association, Riverside Community Arts Association, and Wrightwood Arts Center. Learn how you can gain resources, opportunities, and build community by being a member of artist-led groups. Presented in partnership with The Arts Area.  

‡ Reservation recommended, but not required.

In Person

Studio Saturdays: Mosaic Workshop

Saturday, September 9, 2023

12 PM – 2 PM

Learn about mosaic materials and techniques to create your own tile mosaic with artist Dawn Mendelson. Director of the nonprofit Piece by Piece, Dawn has been creating mosaics and building communities through art for over two decades. Space is limited; reserve your spot now!  

‡ Reservation recommended, but not required.

In Person

First Thursdays: Zentangle

Thursday, September 7, 2023

5 PM – 8 PM

Explore First Thursdays at the Museum and discover exhibitions and art activities, as well as enjoy food and drinks from local eateries – with extended hours, every first Thursday. Food will be available for purchase from Special Needz Coffee. In our premiere session, learn how to create unique letter image art using the Zentangle Method with artist Annie Toliver. Register now to reserve your spot. 

‡ Reservation recommended, but not required.

In Person

Studio Saturdays: Trastero Art-Making

Saturday, September 2, 2023

12 PM – 4 PM

Select your time slot for this Día de los Muertos themed art-making workshop using ceramic bisqueware to glaze your own designs. Honor and celebrate this year’s exhibit theme by decorating your own dish. A trastero is a form of shelving that holds dishware for display. Artwork created during this studio session may be selected for the trastero display in the upcoming exhibit Dia de los Muertos: Recuerdos de Sabores/Flavorful Memories.

‡ Reservation recommended, but not required.

In Person

Community Voices on Water: A Panel Discussion

Thursday, August 31, 2023

6 PM – 7 PM

Hear the stories of contributors to the Community Voices on Water feature in the Built on Water: Ontario and Inland Southern California exhibition. These stories captured in the exhibit display invite community members to share about their experiences with water use in their communities, professions and lifestyles. Discuss with community members why water is important to us all. 

‡ Reservation recommended, but not required.

Zoom and In Person

Creative Strategist Info Session

Thursday, August 17, 2023 from 5PM – 6 PM | ZOOM

Thursday, August 31, 2023 from 4:30 PM – 5:30 PM | IN PERSON

Interested in applying but want to learn more?

Join our museum information sessions to speak with museum staff and ask questions about the Creative Strategist role and application materials. The Creative Strategist will collaborate with Museum staff to develop a project that focuses on community engagement through environmental education, and that may include creative and artistic approaches, museum staff engagement and participation, collaboration with the City’s Community, Life & Culture Agency, and other City departments to meet the project’s established goals.

In Person

Docent Info Session

Saturday, August 26, 2023

12 PM – 1 PM

Come learn what a docent does and how you can help the Museum’s Education Division welcome school learners and community groups!  Volunteers have always been an integral part of the Ontario Museum of History & Art, helping forge bonds between the Museum and the community.   

Join us to learn how you can help provide essential group learning experiences through museum tours, educational programs and public events. No background in art or history is necessary, just your passion for learning and interacting with visitors. 

In Person

Grand Opening: Built on Water

Saturday, August 19, 2023

6 PM – 9 PM

The Ontario Museum of History & Art invites the community to an evening celebration commemorating the opening of the Museum’s newest permanent history exhibit, Built on Water. Enjoy music, food and presentations from local organizations. The free family-friendly and educational exhibit is now open with a Community Reception taking place Saturday, August 19, in conjunction with the quarterly Ontario Art Walk.   

Featured Vendors: 

Ontario City Libraries | Integrated Waste  | City of Ontario Engineering Department | Contech Engineered Solutions LLC | Ontario Museum of History & Art, Associates | Chino Basin Water Conservation District | Huerta del Valle | Casa Colina Aquatic Therapy | Ontario Municipal Utilities Company | Caramel Connections, Seeds of Joy Community Garden | Blue Triton 

‡ Reservation recommended, but not required.

In Person

Emerging Artist Meet-Up: Setting up your Artist Booth

Thursday, August 3, 2023

5:30 PM – 6:30 PM

Our recurring series for local emerging artist series continues, offering more networking opportunities and resources. Learn about setting up an artist booth to showcase your work at art fairs and community events.  

‡ Reservation recommended, but not required.

In Person

Exhibit Reception: Ontario Open

Saturday, July 22, 2023

5 PM – 7 PM

Celebrate the creativity of both emerging and established artists as they display paintings, sculptures, prints, photos and more. Refreshments provided by the Ontario Museum of History & Art, Associates.  

‡ Reservation recommended, but not required.

In Person

Film Screening: Saging the World

Thursday, July 13, 2023

6:30 PM – 7:30 PM

Experience this award-winning documentary produced by Rose Ramirez, Deborah Small and California Native Plant Society (CNPS) to foster understanding and inspire action for white sage. Learn about the role of white sage in indigenous cultural traditions and discuss the film, conservation and native plants with museum staff and Tribal Council Member John R. Preckwinkle III. Light refreshments provided.

About the Speaker: Bird singer and culture keeper John R. Preckwinkle III currently serves as a Tribal Council Member of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. A former leader and member on multiple Tribal committees, Mr. Preckwinkle will share his knowledge and experience with the role that nature and stewardship play in cultural traditions. Full biography can be found here.

‡ Reservation recommended, but not required.

In Person

Noche de los Niños / Night of the Children

Thursday, June 22, 2023

5 PM – 7 PM

¡Celebra Noche de los Niños en el Museo, este programa celebrara y festejara todo los que es ser niño! Niños tendrán la oportunidad de pintar y ser creativos en el museo. ¡Inscribirse hoy mismo!

Celebrate Night of the Children and embrace all that it is to be a child! Children will have the opportunity to paint and be creative in the Museum.

‡ Reservation recommended, but not required.

In Person

Historical Talk: The Royal Tahitian

Saturday, June 10, 2023

1 PM – 2 PM

In its heyday, the Royal Tahitian at Ontario’s Whispering Lakes Golf Course showcased regular performances by jazz luminaries Louis Armstrong, Pearl Bailey, Ray Charles, Dorothy Dandridge, Duke Ellington, Ella Fitzgerald and Eartha Kitt. Other performers included James Brown, the Four Tops, Odetta, the Platters, and Martha Reeves and the Vandellas. Parks and Recreation Commissioner and local historian Joe Caskey will present the brief, but blazing history behind the prominent entertainment venue that brought diverse, A-list talent to Ontario for half a decade in the 1960s. The lecture will be followed by a Q&A.

‡ Reservation recommended, but not required.

In Person

Emerging Artist Meet-Up: Mixed Media

Saturday, June 3, 2023

12 PM – 2 PM

Our recurring series for local emerging artists continues, offering more networking opportunities and resources. Learn about mixed media artmaking and techniques from Golden Artist Kathryn Elliot Duncan. Explore art materials like graphite, colored pencil, oil and chalk pastel, and applications like gold leaf and sculptural styling with acrylic paint. 

‡ Reservation recommended, but not required.

In Person

Emerging Artist Meet-Up: Exhibit Submissions

Thursday, June 1, 2023

5:30 PM – 6:30 PM

Calling all local artists! Join us for this recurring series that offers emerging artists networking opportunities and resources, presented in partnership with The Arts Area. In this session, learn how to submit your artwork for exhibition consideration using online submission platforms.  

‡ Reservation recommended, but not required.

In Person

Culture Fest

Saturday, May 20, 2023 

6 PM – 9 PM

In conjunction with the quarterly Ontario Art Walk and the Chaffey Community Museum of Art, the Ontario Museum of History & Art is excited to present Culture Fest 2023, an evening-long celebration through the arts of the different way of life that exist within Ontario’s diverse community.

Experience:

• Live performances
• An interactive public art installation by Los Angeles-based artist Luciana Abait
• Artist vendors
• Food trucks
• Art-making activities
• Exhibitions, and more.

In Person

Mindful Art: Paint With Us

Friday, April 7, 2023 

3 PM – 4 PM

Join museum staff for a mindful tour in the galleries and experience this introduction to mindfulness and well-being at the museum. Learn how museums can be a space for curiosity and slowing down by exercising mindfulness through reflection and painting.

‡ Reservation recommended, but not required.

In Person

Art Cart Takeover: We the People Collage Workshop

Sunday, April 16, 2023 

2 PM – 3:30 PM

Join us for an Art Cart activity inspired by our current exhibition We the People: Yesterday, Today, & Tomorrow. Explore making collage art using paper, paint, and stamp- printing techniques with We the People featured artist cindita.  

‡ Reservation recommended, but not required.

In Person

Workshop: Native Plant Cookie Decorating Class

Saturday, May 13, 2023 

1 PM – 3 PM

The museum and Dolce Vida by Lised present this sugar cookie decorating class. Come be inspired by our California Native Plant Garden and decorate sugar cookies using colored icing and piping techniques. A local business in the Inland Empire, Dolce Vida by Lised specializes in custom edible art. Cookies and supplies are included, but space is limited.  

‡ Reservation recommended, but not required.