Thomasville Times-Enterprise: Thomasville organizations join National Blue Star Museums program for summer 2026
Thomasville Times-Enterprise, May 18, 2026
Three Thomasville cultural organizations —Pebble Hill Plantation, Thomasville Center for the Arts, and the Thomasville History Center — are proud to announce their participation in the 2026 Blue Star Museums program, a national initiative offering free summer admission to currently serving military personnel and their families.
The participation of multiple Thomasville organizations in Blue Star Museums reflects the strength of the arts, history, and cultural life in the community. Together, these organizations offer military families the opportunity to explore a connected story of Thomasville and the Red Hills region through art, architecture, local history, creativity, landscape, and community memory.
Blue Star Museums is a partnership between the National Endowment for the Arts and Blue Star Families, in collaboration with the Department of Defense and participating museums across the country. The 2026 program begins on Armed Forces Day, Saturday, May 16, and continues through Labor Day, Monday, September 7.
“Blue Star Museums has opened doors for military families to explore, connect, and feel at home,” said Kathy Roth-Douquet, CEO of Blue Star Families. “As we approach America’s 250th anniversary, we’re proud to continue this partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts and museums nationwide—welcoming military families into the heart of our nation’s story and celebrating them every step of the way.”
Through the program, currently serving members of the United States military — including the Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marine Corps, Navy, Space Force, Reserves, National Guard, U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps, and NOAA Commissioned Officer Corps — may receive free admission for themselves and up to five family members by presenting a valid military ID.
“Having multiple Thomasville cultural institutions take part in Blue Star Museums is a testament to the strength of the arts in our community,” said the directors of Pebble Hill Plantation, Thomasville Center for the Arts, and the Thomasville History Center in a joint statement. “Together, our organizations have the opportunity to thank military families for their service and welcome them into the cultural treasures, local stories, and creative experiences that make Thomasville so special.”
Each participating organization offers a distinct experience while contributing to a broader understanding of Thomasville and the Red Hills region. Pebble Hill Plantation invites visitors to experience the history, architecture, collections, gardens, and 3,000-acre grounds of a 20th-century Southern sporting estate. Thomasville Center for the Arts connects the community through inspiring exhibitions, year-round arts education, annual festivals and hands-on art experiences for all ages. The Thomasville History Center invites guests to explore the people, places, buildings, and stories that have shaped Thomasville and the Red Hills region over time.
Together, these organizations provide military families with a meaningful way to experience Thomasville’s story from multiple perspectives through art, history, and community. Admission procedures, hours, and available experiences may vary by location. Visitors are encouraged to check with each participating organization before planning their visit.
To learn more about Blue Star Museums or to find participating museums across the country, visit arts.gov/BlueStarMuseums.
