Arts Barn x Kentlands Mansion Block Party Kicks Off Season

The City invites the community to celebrate the start of the 2026-2027 performing and visual arts and programming season at the Arts Barn x Kentlands Mansion Block Party, featuring hands on activities, live entertainment, local art, and family fun. The free, family friendly celebration takes place on Thursday, September 3, 2026, from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Arts Barn, Kentlands Mansion, and Kentlands Green.

Attendees are encouraged to pack a picnic dinner or purchase delicious bites from on site food trucks. Guests can relax on the Green or wander through both venues to explore everything the Arts Barn and Kentlands Mansion have to offer.

At the Arts Barn

• Donations Drop-Off - We support local students and teachers! Please bring new items requested by local teachers:
  Pencils; blue/black pens; colored pencils; glue sticks; rulers; scissors; 1″ binders; packages of lined paper; spiral notebooks; composition notebooks; packs of index cards; clear plastic backpacks.

• Pull Up a Chair: A Seated Perspective - Explore an interactive gallery where each piece is both artwork and a functional chair. Have a seat!

• The Shop at the Arts Barn Browse unique, handmade items from local artisans. (Shop artists' items are available for purchase September-June.)

• Upcoming Season Preview - Learn about classes, workshops, concerts, theatre productions, and special events. Tickets available for purchase.

• The Arts Bar(n) - Enjoy beer and wine and relax in the shade of our newly activated Alley between the Arts Barn and the Carriage House. Cash bar.

At Kentlands Mansion

• Montgomery Art Association: "A Closer Look" - Stroll the first and second floors to experience a juried exhibit of works by regional artists.

• Upcoming Season Preview - Hear about classes, workshops, children's activities, and special events planned for the year.

• Face Painting - Festive designs for kids of all ages. Available for purchase.

• Fairy Hair - Fairy Hair by Claire will offer decorative sparkle hair strands available for purchase.

• Kids Craft - Make a special fall-themed craft to take home.

• Live Music - Enjoy Donuts for Dinner from the Canopy Porch on the Kent Square Road side of Kentlands Mansion. Live music is sponsored by Bella Ballet.

• Permanent Jewelry - Honey Haus Jewelry will be offering permanent jewelry for purchase.

Outside on Kentlands Green & Selby Street

• Lawn Games - Friendly challenges, big laughs, and a little neighborhood rivalry.

• Food Trucks - Catalyst Hot Dogs and Kona Ice. Tasty bites and cool treats available for purchase throughout the event.

This festive open house offers a perfect blend of arts, entertainment, and community connection. Join us as we kick off an exciting new season and celebrate the creative spirit that thrives throughout Gaithersburg.