Today, May 18th, is Art Museum Day. Across the US and Canada, over 120 institutions are offering free admission—including the Detroit Institute of Arts. An initiative of the Association of Art Museum Directors (AAMD), Art Museum Day coincides with International Museum Day, an annual event organized by the International Council of Museums. Both events emphasize the importance museums have in society, while at the same time showing appreciation to patrons and visitors.

“Art museums create opportunities for the public to engage directly with works of art in new and meaningful ways—from transformative educational initiatives to innovative public partnerships,” said Chris Anagnos, Executive Director of AAMD. “AAMD believes that art should be accessible and relevant to all, and we are pleased to bring together over 120 art museums to celebrate the power of art and to encourage visitors to share their museum experiences.”

This year, Art Museum Day has taken a more interactive approach with the general public. Museum lovers are encouraged to spread the word about their local art institutions under the hashtag #ArtMuseumDay. In response, many participating museums are re-tweeting their followers’ messages.

Today’s events at the DIA include the 75th Annual Detroit Public Schools Student Exhibition, free drawing classes for youths and adults, and a children’s craft activity of scroll making. And at The Detroit Film Theatre, the Mosaic Youth Theatre will give a live performance of Now That I Can Dance, a musical production celebrating Motown Music. The show is not included in the DIA’s free admission; tickets are $20 for adults and $12 for students and seniors. Showtime is at 8:00 p.m.

Elsewhere in Michigan, the Flint Institute of Arts and the Grand Rapids Art Museum are both participating in Art Museum Day. The FIA is offering free admission, and the GRAM has a discounted admission of $5 today, and free admission on May 22nd.