More than 2,200 museum stores across the globe will offer special discounts, events and gifts with purchases on Museum Store Sunday, taking place Nov. 30.
This year marks the ninth year for Museum Store Sunday, which was first launched by the Museum Store Association. The number of participating cultural institutions has tripled since the event began, according to MSA. The global advocacy campaign’s slogan, “Shop with Purpose” conveys the organization’s mission to promote economic sustainability and cultural engagement for museums and the communities they support.
“As grant funding for cultural institutions declines nationwide, revenue from museum stores is more essential than ever,” says Elizabeth Price, executive director of MSA. “Museum Store Sunday offers dynamic ways to give back during financially challenging times for consumers and cultural institutions alike. By shopping at museum stores, consumers can discover unique gifts, contribute to their favorite museums and enjoy meaningful experiences with family and friends without breaking the bank.”
The participating museum stores will use the day to promote locally made and art-inspired souvenirs and gifts. MSA says some stores may also use the event for product launches, trunk shows, artist meet-and-greets, book signings, workshops and craft classes.
Colleen Higginbotham, president of MSA and deputy director for visitor experience at the Chrysler Museum of Art, adds that museum stores play a vital role in enriching local communities.
“People want to shop locally but often don’t know where to start,” she says. “Museum stores make it easy by offering artisan-made goods year-round, serving as a one-stop destination for intentional gifts — from birthdays to holidays and everything in between. Many museum stores also offer online shopping options, making it convenient to support creators and cultural institutions with every purchase.”
While Museum Store Sunday happens once a year, MSA says these destination retailers will be encouraging customers to shop at museum stores for any occasion and give back to the community attractions. Approximately 90% of Museum Store Sunday shoppers report that they are more likely to shop at museum stores year-round because their purchases support the educational mission of the museum, according to the Museum Store Sunday 2024 shopper survey.
A list of participating museum stores can be found at www.museumstoresunday.org/find-a-store.
