The Museum of Fine Arts Is Hosting an All-Night Party

The Clock, 2010, Christian Marclay / Photo courtesy of Museum of Fine Arts, Boston

The Museum of Fine Arts is offering a rare opportunity for visitors to hang out in new exhibits overnight this weekend. The all-night party, to be filled with art, music, food, drinks, and events, will celebrate #mfaNOW, a season honoring contemporary arts and artists.

The mfaNOW overnight is not a museum sleepover—it’s a 15 hour-long free party that begins just after the museum closes on Saturday, September 17. Three brand-new exhibits will be open to explore: bold works by Frances Stark, abstract prints by Terry Winters, and the 24-hour video collage The Clock by Christian Marclay. (The Clock is even cooler than usual because late-night visitors can see after-hours footage.)

This huge, art-filled extravaganza will take place in the Linde Family Wing for Contemporary Art, where other contemporary exhibits will be open for viewing. Meanwhile, food trucks and lawn games will be stationed outside. Graffiti artist MerkThose plans to paint a huge mural in the museum’s parking lot and MIT Hacking Arts is set to host an art and technology-themed “play table,” complete with robots and a virtual reality headset.

Those feeling antsy after stargazing in the courtyard can go for a run around the museum with Heartbreak Hill Running Company or dance to live music from Substructure, a local DJ collective.

For nourishment, the food truck lineup includes Bonetown Burgers, Indulge India, North East of the Border and Sheherazad. Plus, beer, wine, and cocktails will be served in three locations around the museum. There will also be performance art, lectures, and other events. For the sleepy-eyed guests in the morning (or those who choose to arrive bright and early on Sunday) the museum is offering coffee, yoga sessions, art-making, and a children’s story hour.

The MFA plans to host three more overnight parties during the mfaNOW season. Special features haven’t been announced yet, but there will be a College Edition on October 14, a “State of the Party” on November 4, and a “Last Call” on December 9. Tickets to this weekend’s overnight party are available day-of, and are first come, first served.

Free, September 17 to September 18, 6 p.m. to 9 a.m., Museum of Fine Arts, 465 Huntington Ave., mfa.org.