Be among the first to lay eyes on the newest, coolest museum in town!

Join us for First Night, and get a swanky sneak peek of the new M at an exclusive preview party on Saturday evening – the night before our free, public Grand Opening festivities on Sunday, December 2.

Lumina. Photo courtesy of the artists.

Savor plentiful small-plates of modern American fare, artfully crafted by the chefs of Crave Catering, and decadent confections by Legacy Chocolates. Ethereal music by Lumina in the Pioneer Building’s incredible 16-story light court. Plus, signature cocktails by Twin Spirits Distillery and a taste of 12welve Eyes Brewing’s new beer, inspired by Paul Manship’s Group of Bears. It’s the first in 12welve Eyes’ new series of craft beers, made especially to pair with exhibitions at the M.

You’ll be able to renew your acquaintance with beloved art in the M’s collection in 100 Years and Counting and mingle with featured artists, like Ta-Coumba Aiken, Hazel Belvo, Teo Nguyen, and Judy Onofrio. Meet New York-based artist Sheila Pepe and Minnesota artist David Bowen, whose works will be featured in the M’s new, two-story sculpture court and street-facing window gallery.

The evening begins with a toast to the new M at 7 p.m., and continues with music, pop-up performances, artist demonstrations, and art activities.  Try your hand at a giant paint-by-number of a work from the M’s collection. Play in the Warhol-inspired balloon room. You can even Adopt an Artwork!

Formal and creative attire encouraged. Hosted bar and valet provided. Hotel accommodations are also available at a discounted rate at the nearby InterContinental St. Paul Riverfront Hotel.

The event has sold out – registration is now closed.

Thank you to our host committee:

Nancy and Steve Apfelbacher, Jo and Gordon Bailey, Mike Birt, Christine Durand, Sue and Tom Focke, Bonnie and Peter Kramer, Kristin Makholm, Robyne Robinson, Jim Rustad and Kay Thomas, Michael and John Sammler-Jones, and Helen Wagner.

Proceeds from this event support the ongoing artistic and educational programming at the M. Fair market value of a First Night ticket is $75; the tax deductible amount is $225.