Programs and Events
Our programs and events highlight the wide range of the Avenir’s current exhibitions, as well as guest presenters on unique subjects. Join us for these free, public lectures on an intriguing array of textile topics!
Make and Mend
First Saturday of Every Month*
2026 dates: April 4, May 2, June 6, Aug.1, Sept. 5, Oct. 3, Nov. 7, Dec. 5
*No Make & Mend in January or July 2026
10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
The Linda L. Carlson Classroom, Rm 157
Avenir Museum
Does your beloved sweater have a hole? Do your jeans need a patch?
Drop in to our monthly Make & Mend Open Studio, where we welcome all textile-based projects! Whether you’re into upcycling, mending, fabric DIY, cosplay, stuffy repair, quilting, or anything else textiles, this is the perfect space to get creative.
Basic materials will be provided, but if you have specific fabric, thread, or tools you’d like to use, feel free to bring them along! Please note, this is not an alteration service; we want to help you build the skills and knowledge to mend and maintain your own clothes and accessories!
Beyond the Brooch: The History of Entomological Jewelry
Saturday, April 11
1:30 – 2:30 p.m.
The Linda L. Carlson Classroom, Rm 157
Avenir Museum
From the sunbaked tombs of Ancient Egypt to the avant-garde runways of Paris, insects have served as one of humanity’s most enduring – and surprising – fashion icons. Why have we spent three millennia pinning “creepers” to our lapels?
Join us for “Beyond the Brooch,” a deep dive into the glittering history of entomological adornment. We will trace the evolution of the insect motif, beginning with the Sacred Scarab as a symbol of eternal rebirth. Discover the eccentricities of the Victorian era, where “living jewelry” blurred the line between specimen and accessory, and marvel at the ethereal Art Nouveau masterpieces of René Lalique, who transformed dragonflies into icons of feminine mystery.
This talk explores how the iridescent biology of beetles and butterflies has provided a natural geometry that human jewelers sought to mimic for centuries. Whether you are a lover of history, a jewelry enthusiast, or a curious naturalist, come discover how the smallest creatures on Earth became our most precious treasures.
Community Sewing Day
Saturday, May 30
10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
The Linda L. Carlson Classroom, Rm 157
Avenir Museum
The Avenir Museum and the Fort Collins Chapter of The American Sewing Guild join forces once again for more community service sewing! This community sewing day, we will be making reusable grocery bags in service of Northern Colorado Loveland VA Clinic.
Everyone is welcome and you don’t need sewing skills to participate in Community Sewing Day! There will be multiple tasks available such as sewing, cutting, ironing, etc. You can expect an assembly-line style event with stations that welcome a variety of ages and skills levels to help support the sewing project.
Upcoming Events
Past Programs, Museum Hours and Contact Info
