As the days grow shorter and the weather turns chilly, finding engaging indoor activities for children becomes essential. Museums offer a treasure trove of experiences that captivate young minds, making them ideal destinations during the colder months. From interactive exhibits to creative workshops, Geneva’s museums provide a warm and educational refuge for families.
Since my daughter was little, we’ve explored various museums together, discovering that these cultural spaces are not only educational but also incredibly fun for children. The collective known as Musées de Genève encompasses 14 institutions, each offering unique activities and workshops tailored for families and children.
Below you will find a selection of family-friendly events happening in December 2024.
To view all family-friendly activities happening in Musees de Geneve in December, check this link.
Musée Ariana
L’art pour tous, tous pour l’art (Art for All, All for Art)
Dates: November 30 and December 1.
Admission: free, no reservations required.
Following the success of its inaugural edition, this festive weekend returns to Musée Ariana, celebrating inclusion and diversity. Activities include dance, theater, tactile tours, singing, and immersive workshops, inviting everyone to explore the museum’s collections through various sensory experiences.
You can see the whole program of this festival here.
Musée de la Réforme (MIR)
La Mère Royaume à l’honneur (La Mère Royaume Highlight)
Thematic Visits:
– Wednesday, December 11 at 3:00 PM
– Saturday, December 14 at 3:30 PM
– Sunday, December 15 at 10:00 AM
Delve into the story of La Mère Royaume, a key figure in Geneva’s history, through engaging thematic tours suitable for families.
The guided tour is included in the museum entry fee (standard rates apply). Each session is limited to 20 participants, so early registration is highly recommended. You can sign up for your preferred date directly on the museum’s website.
Fondation Baur
Baur en famille – Visite contée (Storytelling Tour)
Date: Sunday, December 15 at 3:00 PM
Discover the origins of silk and the world’s most skilled weaving animal through captivating stories told by a guide. This 45-minute session is designed for children aged 5 to 8, accompanied by an adult.
Practical Info: The activity is free, but registration is required. You can secure your spot by signing up on the museum’s website.
Maison Tavel
Où se cache le griffon? (Where is the Griffin Hiding?)
Date: Wednesday, December 4 at 3:00 PM
Description: Embark on a journey through two Old Town museums, Maison Tavel and Musée Tatiana Zoubov, uncovering the secrets of legendary creatures like the griffin. This guided tour is suitable for children aged 6 and above, accompanied by an adult.
Practical Info: The activity is free, but registration is required. You can register directly on the museum’s website.
Musée d’Art et d’Histoire
Ce fut en 1602 (It Happened in 1602)
Date: Wednesday, December 11 at 3:00 PM
Relive the events of 1602 when Charles Emmanuel, Duke of Savoy, attempted to invade Geneva. Join this interactive session at Maison Tavel, designed for children aged 6 and above, accompanied by an adult.
Practical Info: The activity is free, but registration is required. Sign up here reserve your spot.
Première neige (First Snow)
Date: Wednesday, December 18 at 10:30 AM and 3:30 PM
Engage in a gentle exploration of the museum’s halls, perfect for curious little ones aged 3 to 5, accompanied by an adult. Each month offers a new adventure tailored for young explorers.
Musée d’Ethnographie de Genève (MEG)
Mémoire chocolatée (Chocolate Memories)
Date: Sunday, December 1 at 10:15 AM and 11:15 AM
Dive into the rich history of chocolate through interactive sessions suitable for families with kids ages 2-7. This event is free and does require reservations.
Des histoires qui prennent soin de l’environnement (Stories That Care for the Environment)
Date: Sunday, December 1 at 11:00 AM
Enjoy storytelling sessions focused on our relationship with the environment, fostering ecological awareness among listeners of all ages. This event is free and does require reservations.
Atelier en famille : semelle au vent (Family Workshop: Wind Soles)
Date: Sunday, December 15 at 10:00 AM
Participate in a creative workshop designed for families to explore cultural themes together.
Practical Info: The activity is free, but registration is required. Sign up here reserve your spot.
Un objet, un son, une histoire (An Object, a Sound, a Story)
Date: Wednesday, December 18 at 3:00 PM
Engage with unique objects and their stories through interactive sessions that blend sound and narrative, suitable for all ages.
Practical Info: The activity is free, but spaces are limited, and reservations are required. To register, email [email protected] with your name, phone number, and the number of participants.
These activities not only provide educational value but also create lasting memories for families. Before attending, it’s advisable to visit the respective museum websites to confirm event details, registration requirements, and any associated costs. Embrace the warmth and wonder of Geneva’s museums this December, and let your family’s curiosity lead the way.