Skanzen is a Family-Friendly Museum

We received the title on 28 September at the National Museum Education Opening Ceremony, held in conjunction with the opening event of the Autumn Festival of Museums.

The Family-Friendly Museum title was established in 2020 by the Museum Education and Methodology Centre (MOKK) to encourage museums to develop high-quality services that take the needs of families into account.

The Hungarian Open Air Museum provides an ideal setting for families to spend meaningful time together. Covering more than 75 hectares, Skanzen offers active recreation for visitors of all ages while providing an engaging introduction to the rich cultural heritage, everyday life and traditions of Hungarian rural communities.

However, the Family-Friendly Museum title is about much more than programmes designed for families. Museums must meet at least 25 of the 32 criteria defined for the award. The criteria cover the museum’s operations as a whole, including services and facilities directly experienced by visitors, as well as aspects relating to staff and the museum’s internal operations.

The criteria were developed with the involvement of museum professionals, kindergarten and school teachers, university lecturers, as well as parents of young children and large families.

What can families expect when they visit Skanzen?

Visitors may not be familiar with the professional framework behind the Family-Friendly Museum title, but they can experience its results throughout their visit.

Getting around Skanzen’s extensive grounds is made easier by the Skanzen Train, as well as bicycle and handcart rental. The museum’s paths are also accessible with pushchairs. Children can explore playful venues such as the Fairy Tale Garden playground, Children’s Farm, Wonder Barn and Play Yard.

The museum’s interactive exhibitions and museum education programmes present knowledge in an engaging and playful way adapted to different age groups, while giving families the opportunity to enjoy shared experiences.

At Skanzen, a family-friendly approach also plays an important role in the development of programmes, exhibitions and themed events. The title therefore recognises this long-term commitment while also encouraging us to continue developing our services and programmes for families in the future.