MUSEUM EVENTS
Museum Events and the Opening Reception of Exhibits are free of charge to the public.
Lamar Brass Quintet
November 22nd, 6pm to 8pm
Join us for an evening of music with Lamar University's renowned Lamar Brass Quintet. November 22nd, Reception at 6:00PM. Performance at 6:30PM.
Memories of Zydeco: Past and Present
On display through December 28th
The Museum of the Gulf Coast is exhibiting the photographs of Port Arthur resident Rita Colligan Manuel from October 5th to December 28th. The exhibit will feature photographic memories of some of the greatest Zydeco musicians of all time. The exhibit will be available for viewing through December 28th.
This exhibit is generously sponsored by The Port Arthur Convention and Visitors Bureau, Joyce James Consulting, and Pete and Rita's Zydeco Show.
Rita Colligan Manuel was born in Opelousas, Louisiana. Her Creole culture inspired her to pick up a camera 45 years ago and preserve the extraordinary history she was witnessing. Rita and her husband, Pete Manuel, were popular Zydeco DJs on radio stations in Port Arthur and Beaumont. They continue to promote and support Zydeco musicians in the area. Rita says, "I danced my way across the border of two states to take these photographs."
The photographs include images of Boozoo Chavis, John Delafose, Beau Jocque, Buckwheat, Clifton Chenier, C.J. Chenier, Willis Prudhomme, and Roy Carrier. Zydeco bands often included family members, and Rita's photographs captured today's well-known performers in their earliest appearances. These include Keith Frank, Geno Delafose, Chubby, Big Nate and Lil Nate, Rob Pitre, Lady D, Step Rideau, Brian Jack, Noonie, and J-Paul. They are a testament to the enduring popularity of Zydeco music and our region's Creole culture. C.J. Chenier is a native of Port Arthur.
Christmas Family Fun Day
December 7th, 10am - 1pm
Come to the Museum of the Gulf Coast on Saturday, December 7 from 10:00AM-1:00PM for a FREE Family Fun Day Holiday event! Join Santa, the Grinch, and a whole sleigh full of activities for the family. There will be fun crafts and games for the kids, free entertainment, and plenty of holiday photo opportunities! But WATCH OUT for the Grinch!!!
Tenth Annual Art and Photography Contest Entry Deadline, January 17th
Hall of Fame Inductions
Saturday, January 18th
Inductees to be announced!
Tenth Annual Art and Photography Contest
Opening Reception, Friday, February 14, 2025
Spring Family Fun Day
Saturday, February 22nd from 10am to 1pm
Children and adults of all ages are welcome to come to our annual Spring Family Fun Day. Admission is free, and there will be a wide variety of activities for the kids.
Gala Kick-Off at the Museum
January 30th, 2025
Join us for an evening of fun as we kick-off and celebrate our Gala event in April. Free of charge.
Gala Event at the Carl Parker Center
April 26th, 2025
2025's Gala Event will feature The Three Tenors and feature an exciting update of the evening's preconcert festivities. Call 409-982-7000 for tickets.
May Family Fun Day
Saturday, May 8th from 10am to 1pm
Children and adults of all ages are welcome to our annual May Family Fun Day. Admission is free, and there will be a wide variety of activities for the kids.