The Smithsonian's National Museum of American History unveiled "Wegmans Wonderplace," a gallery on the National Mall designed for the learning needs of children from infants to age six on December 9.
The gallery, made possible by a $1.5 million gift and in-kind donation from Wegmans Food Markets, allows curious children to "cook" in a kitchen inspired by Julia Child; plant and harvest pretend vegetables and sell them in a Farmer's Stand; find owls hiding in a miniature replica of the Smithsonian's castle building; and captain a tugboat based on a model from the museum's collection.
The 1,700 square-foot center will provide age-appropriate activities and experiences over the next 20 years.
Wegmans is also supporting the museum's new demonstration kitchen in the Wallace H. Coulter Performance Plaza. Part of the Food History Project, the kitchen hosts a diverse menu of programs and demonstrations that bring visitors together to discuss the history, present and future of American food.
The gallery, made possible by a $1.5 million gift and in-kind donation from Wegmans Food Markets, allows curious children to "cook" in a kitchen inspired by Julia Child; plant and harvest pretend vegetables and sell them in a Farmer's Stand; find owls hiding in a miniature replica of the Smithsonian's castle building; and captain a tugboat based on a model from the museum's collection.
The 1,700 square-foot center will provide age-appropriate activities and experiences over the next 20 years.
Wegmans is also supporting the museum's new demonstration kitchen in the Wallace H. Coulter Performance Plaza. Part of the Food History Project, the kitchen hosts a diverse menu of programs and demonstrations that bring visitors together to discuss the history, present and future of American food.