To the International Museum Day: International action “Night of Museums”

Every year, on May 18 is celebrated the International Museum Day. The purpose of the holiday is to draw public attention to the importance and role of museums in the life of the individual and society as a whole.

The decision on the establishment of this holiday was made on the initiative of the Soviet delegation at the XI General Conference of the International Council of Museums, held in Moscow and Leningrad in May 1977.

As part of the International Museum Day in many countries of the world and in Russia, including in Saint-Petersburg is held the campaign “Night of Museums”.

On this night, Petersburg museums, large and small, traditionally open their doors to visitors in the evening and at night, as well as they prepare a special program: one day exhibitions, concerts, performances, author visits, workshops, historical reconstruction.

“Night of Museums 2013” will take place on the night of 18 to 19 May. A common theme for all programs “Museum Night 2013” will be the theme “Discoveries”. Museums of St. Petersburg, will not only talk about the amazing discoveries related to museum collections, but also invite visitors to take their own discoveries in the night.

“Night of Museums” is an international project and is held annually in 42 countries in Europe. Nearly 2,000 museums do not sleep once a year, opening its doors to all who are interested to see the museum at unusual times of the day.

“Night of Museums” in St. Petersburg is supported by the Culture Committee, the Committee on Youth Policy and Cooperation with NGOs, the Committee for Investments and Strategic Projects and City Tourist Information Bureau, the Committee for press and media, the Committee on Transport, main Department of Internal Affairs in St. Petersburg and the Leningrad region.