Events
Swords, Shields and Magic: The Art of Play Fighting
Led by artists, Rachel Sherk & Aaron Rourk of MAPS, kids will discover that play fighting is more than action — it's a performing art. Young crafters will design and build their very own swords, shields, and magic wands using fun, hands-on art techniques, then bring them to life in an epic (and totally safe!) play adventure.
All ages welcome. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Art Story Walk at Le Petit Ranch
Kick off the Art & Animals Summer Series collaboration between Canaan Kids Art Space and Le Petit Ranch with an immersive outdoor Art Walk at Le Petit Ranch!
Children will explore creative stations set up throughout the ranch, in the paddocks, stalls, chicken run, and sheep shed, while meeting the animals and creating their own canvases and nature-inspired artwork.
This hands-on experience blends sensory play, storytelling, creativity, and animal connection in a playful and welcoming farm environment.
This is an art and animal series in 3 sessions, we highly recommend to sign up for the 3 days if possible.
Collaborative Mural Creation
During the second session of the series, participants will gather at Canaan Kids Artspace to work together on a large collaborative wooden mural inspired by the animals of Le Petit Ranch.
Children will explore colors, textures, observation, and teamwork while contributing to a meaningful community art piece that will later be permanently displayed at the ranch.
This session is part of a 3-day series. We recommend to register to the 3 days for the full experience.
Art Gallery Reveal and Animal Summer Party at Le Petit Ranch
Celebrate the final day of the Art & Animals Summer Series with a joyful outdoor art gallery at Le Petit Ranch!
Families will discover the completed mural, view the children’s artwork displayed throughout the ranch, and enjoy a special afternoon with the animals.
This closing celebration highlights creativity, confidence, community connection, and the beautiful bond between art, nature, and animals.
This session is part of a 3-day series. We recommend to register to the 3 days for the full experience.
Community Open Studio
Open to all ages, children and adults. Bring your own art project or get inspired using our wide variety of supplies. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Community Open Studio (Lower Stimulus Version)
We’re excited to offer a low-stimulation version of our Community Open Studio. This session is designed to feel calm and comfortable, with limited slots available (to cut down on noise), no background music, and softer lighting (overhead lights off).
Always available at our events:
Flexible seating (tables, floor, or space to move freely)
Noise-reducing headphones
A variety of materials to choose from
If there are any additional accommodations that would support your family, please don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re happy to help.
Comic Book Making with Whistle Pig Books
Families are invited to a fun, drop-in comic book making workshop!
Artist, Chet Minton, will guide kids step-by-step as they create their own comics. This event is free and open to the public. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Shadowdark RPG with Whistle Pig Books
Join Thom from Whistle Pig Books for an exciting introduction to Shadowdark, a fast-paced fantasy role-playing game where imagination, teamwork, and storytelling come together. Designed especially for kids ages 9–13, this guided adventure invites players to step into the roles of brave heroes exploring mysterious worlds, solving problems, and facing unexpected challenges.
No prior experience with role-playing games is needed—Thom will guide the group through everything they need to know. Whether your child loves fantasy stories, creative thinking, or collaborative games, this is a fun and welcoming way to dive into the magic of tabletop adventures. Just bring your imagination and get ready to roll the dice!
Registration Required. Free/Pay-What-You-Can
Dog Escape Game with Le Petit Ranch
Join us for The Dog Escape Game with Le Petit Ranch
Kids will work as a team to solve puzzles, clues and little mysteries to find the right combinations and "unlock" a treats box for our dog partners, Yayi & Ronya!
This is for children ages 6-10 (accompanied by a caregiver).
Community Open Studio
Open to all ages, children and adults. Bring your own art project or get inspired using our wide variety of supplies. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Homeschoolers Art Club - Open House
Interested in joining Homeschoolers Art Club? Join us for a free open house to get to know our studio and make art together! Please register to let us know you’re coming!
Homeschoolers Art Club’s first session will be Mondays, March 30- April 19, 2026. See more!
Book Bedazzling with Whistle Pig Books
Join us for Book Bedazzling, a hands-on craft event where teens and adults can decorate and personalize a book using sparkles, gems, and creative designs- no experience necessary! We will provide all the craft supplies, bring your own book or purchase one at Whistle Pig Books.
Tickets* are limited - reserve yours at whistlepigbooks.com
*Tickets are $10 each.
This event is recommended for ages 13+. Snacks and drinks are welcome!
Community Open Studio
Open to all ages, children and adults. Bring your own art project or get inspired using our wide variety of supplies. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Valentine Making
Stop by the Artspace anytime from 1-3 and make some Valentines! A great activity for all ages, and free!
Community Open Studio
Open to all ages, children and adults. Bring your own art project or get inspired using our wide variety of supplies. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Holiday Cards - An Adult Crafting Event
Sponsored by The Douglas Library, please join us in making holiday greeting cards for our loved ones! This event is for adults. Please call the library, (860) 824-7863, to register.
Community Open Studio
Open to all ages, children and adults. Bring your own art project or get inspired using our wide variety of supplies. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Must register. Donation/Pay-what-you-can
A Night at Canaan Kids Artspace
For children of ticketed guests of A Night at The Colonial only.
Purchase your ticket to A Night at The Colonial here.
We couldn’t let the adults have all the fun!
While you’re enjoying A Night at The Colonial, let your kids have a night out too!
They’ll enjoy an evening full of crafts, creativity, and pizza!
$20 per child. Registration Required.
Early Risers
This gentle, playful session is designed for children and their caregivers, featuring simple art and creative play activities to spark curiosity and exploration. Adults must accompany children. All materials provided.
Pay what you can/Donation based.
Space is limited. Please register in advance.
Altered Books - Adult Collage Night
This one’s for you, adults. Join us for an evening of laid back collage and coloring in old books. Bring your favorite beverage and a friend, we’ll provide the rest.
Must Register, space is limited.
*Donation/Pay-What-You-Can Event
Saturday Early Risers
This gentle, playful session is designed for children and their caregivers, featuring simple art and creative play activities to spark curiosity and exploration. Adults must accompany children. All materials provided.
Pay what you can/Donation based.
Space is limited. Please register in advance.
Something From Nothing: Art Exhibition
You're invited to view pieces made by Canaan Kids Artspace’s Art Club- children 6-10, at The Douglas Library for the month of October. Each piece in this show was chosen by the artist themselves, a reflection of both their creativity and their pride in turning discarded materials into art.
Community Open Studio
Join us for a relaxed, creative two-hour session open to all ages (including adults without children)! Bring your own art project or get inspired using our wide variety of supplies. Children must be accompanied by an adult. This is a welcoming space to make, explore, and connect.
Register here. Pay what you can, $10 suggested.
Community Open Studio
Join us for a relaxed, creative two-hour session open to all ages (including adults without children)! Bring your own art project or get inspired using our wide variety of supplies. Children must be accompanied by an adult. This is a welcoming space to make, explore, and connect.
Register here. Pay what you can, $10 suggested.
Design Challenge! What can you make from your mystery box?
Must Register! Space is limited. Ages 6+
Caregivers are invited to stay or drop-off.
Donation/Pay-what-you-can, $10 suggested.
Design Challenge: What can you make from your mystery box?
Are you ready to flex your creative muscles? Join us for the Design Challenge event, where your imagination is put to the test! Get your very own mystery box filled with random items and see what masterpieces you can create. Let your creativity run wild as you craft, design, and build something unique from the contents of your box. Come showcase your innovative skills and have a blast with fellow creators. Are you up for the challenge?
Saturday Early Risers
Your kids are up anyway... come hang out with us, do some coloring and grab a coffee at Ilse or a smoothie from Homegrown.
Maybe both.
We’ll start the day together.
Must register. Pay what you can, $10 suggested.
Grand Opening Party
Please join us for a grand opening party at our new space at 27 Railroad Street in North Canaan, CT.
Potion Play!
Join us to play and make your own magic potions! Mix and match ingredients to put together whatever potion you want.
Fridays, July 11, 18, & 25 in the Pop-up
Potion Play!
Join us to play and make your own magic potions! Mix and match ingredients to put together whatever potion you want.
Fridays, July 11, 18, & 25 in the Pop-up
Potion Play!
Join us to play and make your own magic potions! Mix and match ingredients to put together whatever potion you want.
Fridays, July 11, 18, & 25 in the Pop-up
Collaborative Community Playhouse
Join us in building and decorating a playhouse made of egg cartons in the Pop-up!
Join us at Sheffield Pride
Stop by our table at Sheffield Pride to decorate your own flag!
Jewelry Making
We’ll be crafting unique necklaces, bracelets, and keychains using colorful beads and recycled materials. All materials provided.