Lawrence Arts Center’s 50th Birthday Party

SAVE THE DATE | FRIDAY, MAY 24 & SATURDAY, MAY 25

Celebrate with us as we mark our golden milestone—50 incredible years! Join us at the Lawrence Arts Center for a weekend packed with excitement. We’re thrilled to have you party with us! Everyone’s invited to join in the festivities.

Our weekend kicks off with the Averill Awards, where we’ll honor Kari Paludan-Sorey with a Lifetime Achievement Award, share a champagne toast to commemorate the Arts Center’s 50th birthday and enjoy spectacular performances to launch the 2024 Summer Youth Theatre season. This event is free and open to the public.

WATCH CEO Margaret Weisbrod-Morris on FOX 43 AM for more on the birthday lineup of free, family-friendly events on Friday and Saturday.

Friday, May 24 | Lawrence Arts Center Day | 5-10 pm

• New Mural, 5-9 pm | Check out JT Daniel’s new mural at 10th & Mass Studios! Head to the Arts Center’s main building for a cash bar with champagne and birthday treats 🥂
• Art for All – Free Artmaking, 5-9 pm | Make some birthday art to celebrate with us 🎨
• Hang12 + Art Tougeau Block Party, 5-10 pm | Check out the art cars and shop Hang 12’s Alley Art Market…plus so much more!
• Averill Awards + 50th Birthday Toast, 6:30-10 pm | Kickoff the 2024 SYT season by honoring former SYT student, Kari Paludan-Sorey 🎭

Saturday, May 25 |10 am-3 pm

• Art for All – Free Artmaking, 10 am-2 pm | Make some birthday art to celebrate with us 🎨
• Steamroll Printing, 10 am-3 pm | Watch a full-size steamroller help print a collaborative piece of art 🚜
• Art Tougeau Parade, 10:30 am Parade Lineup, noon Parade Kickoff | See all the art cars parade down Mass St. 🚗
• Sunflower Summer – Download the app for free admission to attractions across Kansas and check in at the Arts Center to support our free programming 🌻

Mark your calendars and join us for a weekend filled with fun, laughter, and memories to cherish!

SHOW YOUR SUPPORT

Pre-order a 50th Anniversary t-shirt by Thursday, May 16! This year’s design features elements from both resident artists, Rachel Beer and Dehmie Dehmlow.

Pre-order Now