On this Wednesday, museums across North America rolled out their big day for the public domain. Attendance climbed after a period of disruption, and organizers celebrated a turning point that follows two years of careful discussion. The day also served as a moment to honor Ukrainian museums and the cultural exchanges that connect them to the Americas.
During the open doors event, speeches and interactive activities signaled a renewed sense of civic pride. Data released by national cultural authorities show that, in the wake of the pandemic, 16 state museums reported a total of 1,650,000 visits since 2021. The figures indicate a return to pre-pandemic levels, with a 55.8% year-over-year rise. This rebound reflects a public appetite for in-person cultural experiences and community learning.
Early in the year, more momentum followed. In the first quarter alone, visitor numbers reached 450,373, marking a 67.8% increase from the same period the previous year. The trend underscores a growing demand for museums as hubs of education, dialogue, and public life.
Still, occasional closures were a concern for a small share of visitors, accounting for about 0.05% of total attendance (269 reports). Causes varied, with staff shortages cited among the reasons for gaps in access.
And the solution came
A week ago, a joint agreement between the Ministry of Culture and the Ministry of Finance and Public Administration laid out practical steps to stabilize operations. The plan prioritized the immediate hiring of temporary staff to cover ticketing desks and to support tourist information services and guides until formal recruitment processes could fill the roles. This move aimed to keep centers open and welcoming for the public during the peak travel season and beyond.
Specific changes included recognizing the qualifications of security guards awaiting formal certification, enabling them to participate in selection processes and mobility initiatives toward a professional career. This alignment also positioned them for inclusion in broader public employment programs, strengthening the workforce for cultural institutions. The agreement also introduced a moratorium on certification requirements for guards and room managers to help professionals advance within their fields.
At the same time, the Altamira National Museum and Research Center redefined the professional classification of its staff, moving from the E2 Room Manager group to the M1 Tourist Information and Assistance Guides group. This shift reflects a broader effort to modernize staff roles and improve service delivery to visitors.
I remember Ukraine at the celebration
The commemorations featured the slogan The Power of Museums, highlighting the achievements of the past two years and the ongoing collaboration with Ukrainian cultural institutions. A national event drew participation from cultural leaders and government representatives, who underscored the importance of free access to selected exhibitions across the day to honour Ukrainian museums. The national museum network contributed to a sense of shared heritage and resilience through ongoing exhibitions and public programs.
One notable program, Sound Brushstrokes, offered visitors a chance to engage with visual arts in a new way, combining auditory and visual experiences at specific times during the afternoon. These encounters enriched the day and broadened interpretations of traditional collections.
Major venues opened their doors to the public, inviting exploration of permanent collections and contemporary shows. The Thyssen Bornemisza National Museum expanded access to its full range of works, including permanent displays and special exhibitions, with programs designed to showcase contemporary and historical perspectives alike. The Barcelona-based MACBA joined the celebration with a diverse lineup of activities for all ages, including a special marketplace-style event where visitors could purchase a curated selection of books for a fixed price, creating a communal, book-loving atmosphere.
Across North America, museums used the occasion to emphasize access, education, and community engagement. The day’s programming demonstrated how cultural institutions can serve as inclusive spaces that enrich the lives of residents and visitors, foster dialogue, and support creative economies.
From educational tours to interactive demonstrations, the open doors events reinforced the role museums play in sustaining memory, inspiring creativity, and connecting people to the broader human story. The collective effort—from curators and educators to security and visitor services staff—helped ensure a welcoming experience that could be enjoyed by families, students, and seasoned art enthusiasts alike. The day left attendees with a sense of momentum and a reminder that museums are active participants in the cultural life of cities and towns across the region.
As the programs continued into the evening, organizers highlighted ongoing collaborations with international partners, emphasizing the value of cultural exchange in today’s interconnected world. Attendees left with new ideas for exploring the collections, engaging with live performances, and supporting local cultural initiatives that make museums vibrant centers of community life.