STORIES FROM PAFA

The Fine Art of Giving: PAFA’s Holiday Guide

It’s hard to believe the 2025 Holiday Season has arrived, and gift lists are growing fast! This season, skip the big-box stores and choose something truly unique and meaningful. By giving through the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (PAFA)—the very first art school and museum in the United States—you’re not only delighting your loved ones but also supporting a legacy of creativity.

Whether you’re shopping for an artist, an art enthusiast, or someone who treasures artful experiences, PAFA offers gifts that inspire, connect, and celebrate the joy of creativity.

Continuing Education Gift Certificates

Give the gift of creativity this holiday season! A PAFA Continuing Education gift certificate is the perfect way to inspire someone ready to grow their artistic skills. From painting and drawing to sculpture and beyond, our classes and workshops offer hands-on learning and a welcoming space for artists of every level. Spark a new passion—or deepen an existing one—with a gift that celebrates imagination and artistry.

One person is holding a paintbrush and actively applying paint to the canvas, while the other is pointing, possibly providing instruction or feedback.

 

Purchase a Gift Certificate
 

PAFA Gift Membership

Give more than a present—give an experience. A PAFA Membership is the perfect way to celebrate the season while supporting America’s first art school and museum. Members enjoy unlimited admission, including access to the highly anticipated reopening of the Historic Landmark Building (HLB) and entry to the groundbreaking exhibition A Nation of Artists.

From exclusive previews and discounts to inspiring programs and events, membership opens the door to a year filled with creativity and connection. This holiday, share the gift that lasts well beyond the season—an art-filled year at PAFA.

A visitor standing in front of a painting titled Hailing the Ferry, painted in 1888 by the American artist Daniel Ridgway Knight.

 

Purchase a Gift Membership
 

Holiday Ornaments & Decor

Add a festive touch with PAFA’s holiday ornaments. From art-inspired designs to playful shapes like donuts and cupcakes, there’s something for every personality. These ornaments make delightful gifts or cheerful accents for your own holiday décor. Pair them with seasonal housewares for a complete celebration.

A white winter holiday house decoration

 

BROWSE HOLIDAY MERCHANDISE
 

Art Books & Exhibition Catalogs

For the art lover or collector, PAFA’s selection of beautifully designed books and catalogs is the perfect gift. Explore the works of renowned artists, landmark exhibitions, and PAFA’s collections through volumes that inspire and inform. These books enrich any library and spark creativity long after the holidays.

A book of Pictures of Belonging

Exhibition catalog for Pictures of Belonging

BROWSE BOOKS & CATALOGS
 

Kids’ Toys, Books & Creative Activities

Inspire the next generation of artists with PAFA’s kids’ collection. From art-focused toys and educational games to engaging books and creative activities, these gifts nurture imagination and exploration for children of all ages.

A pink bear keychain

 

BROWSE KIDS MERCHANDISE
 

Artist Consignment: Artwork, Ceramics, Fashion, Jewelry, and More!

Give a gift that’s truly one-of-a-kind. PAFA’s artist consignment collection showcases handmade creations by local artists—ranging from ceramics and jewelry to fashion and fine art. Each piece is crafted with skill, creativity, and love, making it a meaningful treasure for years to come. Supporting local artists means your gift also supports the community.

Artwork by Constance Pappas

Artwork by Constance Pappas

BROWSE ARTIST CONSIGNMENT IN STORE

 

Celebrate the Season with PAFA: Artful Gifts for Every Art Lover on Your List

PAFA proudly champions local and emerging artists, with many of our collections and exhibitions showcasing the incredible talent rooted right here in Philadelphia. When you support PAFA, you’re investing in a thriving arts community—helping artists grow, and ensuring that creativity remains accessible to all.

From exploring our galleries and joining workshops to discovering treasures in the Museum Store, every visit connects you to a larger movement that enriches Philadelphia’s cultural landscape.

Happy Holidays from PAFA—and happy gifting!


PAFA Museum Members receive 20% in-store discount on selected items. Discount does not apply towards Artists Consignment Artworks and Sale Items. Become a PAFA Member today.

Shop + Support the Arts

Support small businesses and local artists, enliven the creative community in keeping the arts continuously growing.

HOLIDAY STORE HOURS

Friday November 28, 2025 - Sunday December 21, 2025

Wednesday - Friday: 10 AM - 6 PM
Saturday - Sunday: 11 AM - 5 PM
 

SHOP NOW
 


 

We're so excited you're planning to visit PAFA! 

Make time for art — visit us Thursday to Sunday.
Before reserving your tickets, please review helpful information about museum hours, accessibility, building access, and special admission programs

BUY TICKETS  BECOME A MEMBER

If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us at visitorservices@pafa.org — we’d love to help!

 

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About PAFA

Founded in 1805, the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts is the United States’ first school and museum of fine arts. A recipient of the National Medal of Arts, PAFA offers a world-class collection of American art, innovative exhibitions of historic and contemporary American art, and educational opportunities in the fine arts. The PAFA Museum aims to tell America's diverse story through art, expanding who has been included in the canon of art history through its collections, exhibitions, and public programs, while classes educate artists and appreciators with a deep understanding of traditions and the ability to challenge conventions. PAFA’s esteemed alumni include Mary Cassatt, Njideka Akunyili Crosby, William Glackens, Barkley L. Hendricks, Violet Oakley, Louis Kahn, David Lynch, and Henry Ossawa Tanner.