This fall, Free Main Floor is back! Enjoy our expansive first-floor galleries along with weekend performances and programs, all at no cost.*
About
October 1 - November 30, 2025
This fall, Free Main Floor returns with access to our expansive first-floor galleries—all for free!*
Plus, every weekend brings a fresh theme with lively pop-up performances showcasing local communities and artists, and exciting educational activities for all ages. From music and dance to crafts and cultural celebrations, every visit offers something new for everyone to enjoy.
Advance tickets are required.
To book, click the 'Book Tickets' button at the top of this webpage. Then, select the date you'd like to visit, and check the box for “Free Main Floor only.”
*Does not include the exhibition Sharks.
Weekend Activities
Live Performances:
12:00 PM - 12:30 PM and 1:30 PM - 2:00 PM
Pop-up Programs:
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Oct 25 & 26 — Chinese Arts & Culture: The Chinese Cultural Centre of Greater Toronto brings tea ceremonies, youth orchestra, and dance performances to the main floor. The Gardiner Museum will also be joining with a dragon-inspired clay workshop, exploring the symbolism of dragons in Chinese culture.
Nov 1 & 2 — Day of the Dead: Enjoy Mexican music, mariachi and dance performances, and loads of fun activities for all ages. Experience a Day of the Dead–inspired altar touch table and installation, then dive into monarch butterfly migration activities to learn how scientists tag and track these remarkable travelers on their long journey.
Nov 8 & 9 — Treaties Recognition Week: In recognition of Treaties Recognition Week, experience powerful performances by contemporary Indigenous artists and take part in hands-on activities that teach the significant meaning of treaties and the relationships they represent.
Nov 14, 15 & 16 — Climate Change: Chris McKhool returns to ROM with an interactive family-friendly performance. Plus, we're be hosting drop-in activities focused on climate change, conservation, and the natural world. Visitors will learn about ecosystems like Crawford Lake, the science behind environmental change, and the simple actions we can take to protect the planet.
