Picture of Blue Ball Barn

Blue Ball Barn


Blue Ball Barn

This extraordinary barn, progressive in its environmental design, is the home of the Delaware Folk Art Collection. Visit the permanent and rotating art exhibits, or tour our displays highlighting the history of the barn and surrounding landscape. Renovations have created a multifunctional conference, special event and gallery space featuring meeting rooms, a large banquet room and a secluded courtyard.


Upcoming Events

From the Parks: Temporary Exhibition

Friday, December 8, 2023

8:00 AM

Alapocas Run isn't the only Delaware State Park with works of art in its collection. The Blue Ball Barn will host a selection of pieces from Auburn Valley State Park in Yorklyn, Delaware. Auburn Valley is home to the Auburn Heights mansion, the home of three generations of the Marshall family, and their collection of antique furniture and art. Free, no need to register. Exhibition runs December 1st through January 31st during business hours.

Add to Calendar 12/8/2023 8:00:00 AM 12/8/2023 4:00:00 PM America/New_York From the Parks: Temporary Exhibition Alapocas Run isn't the only Delaware State Park with works of art in its collection. The Blue Ball Barn will host a selection of pieces from Auburn Valley State Park in Yorklyn, Delaware. Auburn Valley is home to the Auburn Heights mansion, the home of three generations of the Marshall family, and their collection of antique furniture and art. Free, no need to register. Exhibition runs December 1st through January 31st during business hours. Alapocas Run

From the Parks: Temporary Exhibition

Friday, December 15, 2023

8:00 AM

Alapocas Run isn't the only Delaware State Park with works of art in its collection. The Blue Ball Barn will host a selection of pieces from Auburn Valley State Park in Yorklyn, Delaware. Auburn Valley is home to the Auburn Heights mansion, the home of three generations of the Marshall family, and their collection of antique furniture and art. Free, no need to register. Exhibition runs December 1st through January 31st during business hours.

Add to Calendar 12/15/2023 8:00:00 AM 12/15/2023 4:00:00 PM America/New_York From the Parks: Temporary Exhibition Alapocas Run isn't the only Delaware State Park with works of art in its collection. The Blue Ball Barn will host a selection of pieces from Auburn Valley State Park in Yorklyn, Delaware. Auburn Valley is home to the Auburn Heights mansion, the home of three generations of the Marshall family, and their collection of antique furniture and art. Free, no need to register. Exhibition runs December 1st through January 31st during business hours. Alapocas Run

From the Parks: Temporary Exhibition

Friday, December 22, 2023

8:00 AM

Alapocas Run isn't the only Delaware State Park with works of art in its collection. The Blue Ball Barn will host a selection of pieces from Auburn Valley State Park in Yorklyn, Delaware. Auburn Valley is home to the Auburn Heights mansion, the home of three generations of the Marshall family, and their collection of antique furniture and art. Free, no need to register. Exhibition runs December 1st through January 31st during business hours.

Add to Calendar 12/22/2023 8:00:00 AM 12/22/2023 4:00:00 PM America/New_York From the Parks: Temporary Exhibition Alapocas Run isn't the only Delaware State Park with works of art in its collection. The Blue Ball Barn will host a selection of pieces from Auburn Valley State Park in Yorklyn, Delaware. Auburn Valley is home to the Auburn Heights mansion, the home of three generations of the Marshall family, and their collection of antique furniture and art. Free, no need to register. Exhibition runs December 1st through January 31st during business hours. Alapocas Run

From the Parks: Temporary Exhibition

Friday, December 29, 2023

8:00 AM

Alapocas Run isn't the only Delaware State Park with works of art in its collection. The Blue Ball Barn will host a selection of pieces from Auburn Valley State Park in Yorklyn, Delaware. Auburn Valley is home to the Auburn Heights mansion, the home of three generations of the Marshall family, and their collection of antique furniture and art. Free, no need to register. Exhibition runs December 1st through January 31st during business hours.

Add to Calendar 12/29/2023 8:00:00 AM 12/29/2023 4:00:00 PM America/New_York From the Parks: Temporary Exhibition Alapocas Run isn't the only Delaware State Park with works of art in its collection. The Blue Ball Barn will host a selection of pieces from Auburn Valley State Park in Yorklyn, Delaware. Auburn Valley is home to the Auburn Heights mansion, the home of three generations of the Marshall family, and their collection of antique furniture and art. Free, no need to register. Exhibition runs December 1st through January 31st during business hours. Alapocas Run

From the Parks: Temporary Exhibition

Friday, January 5, 2024

8:00 AM

Alapocas Run isn't the only Delaware State Park with works of art in its collection. The Blue Ball Barn will host a selection of pieces from Auburn Valley State Park in Yorklyn, Delaware. Auburn Valley is home to the Auburn Heights mansion, the home of three generations of the Marshall family, and their collection of antique furniture and art. Free, no need to register. Exhibition runs December 1st through January 31st during business hours.

Add to Calendar 1/5/2024 8:00:00 AM 1/5/2024 4:00:00 PM America/New_York From the Parks: Temporary Exhibition Alapocas Run isn't the only Delaware State Park with works of art in its collection. The Blue Ball Barn will host a selection of pieces from Auburn Valley State Park in Yorklyn, Delaware. Auburn Valley is home to the Auburn Heights mansion, the home of three generations of the Marshall family, and their collection of antique furniture and art. Free, no need to register. Exhibition runs December 1st through January 31st during business hours. Alapocas Run

Winter Tavern Tales: Colonial Brewing

Wednesday, January 10, 2024

6:30 PM

Today we think of beer as a luxury item, but this was not always true! Even though the basic concepts are the same, 18th Century brewing and modern brewing are quite different. In the 18th Century they did not have the benefit of modern instruments. Instead, they had to brew using their five basic senses -- What does it feel like, how does it look, smell, taste, and sound? It’s an art. Michael Carver, The Regimental Brewmeister will bring an 18th Century brewery to the Blue Ball Barn and show how these simple tools were use in 18th Century America to brew amazing beers. He will explain the process, the ingredients, the differences from modern beer and brewing, as well as why beer was so critical to life in colonial America. Samples of 18th century beer will be provided during this program for those 21 years of age or older. Please call to pre-register at 302-577-1164.

Add to Calendar 1/10/2024 6:30:00 PM 1/10/2024 8:00:00 PM America/New_York Winter Tavern Tales: Colonial Brewing Today we think of beer as a luxury item, but this was not always true! Even though the basic concepts are the same, 18th Century brewing and modern brewing are quite different. In the 18th Century they did not have the benefit of modern instruments. Instead, they had to brew using their five basic senses -- What does it feel like, how does it look, smell, taste, and sound? It’s an art. Michael Carver, The Regimental Brewmeister will bring an 18th Century brewery to the Blue Ball Barn and show how these simple tools were use in 18th Century America to brew amazing beers. He will explain the process, the ingredients, the differences from modern beer and brewing, as well as why beer was so critical to life in colonial America. Samples of 18th century beer will be provided during this program for those 21 years of age or older. Please call to pre-register at 302-577-1164. Alapocas Run

From the Parks: Temporary Exhibition

Friday, January 12, 2024

8:00 AM

Alapocas Run isn't the only Delaware State Park with works of art in its collection. The Blue Ball Barn will host a selection of pieces from Auburn Valley State Park in Yorklyn, Delaware. Auburn Valley is home to the Auburn Heights mansion, the home of three generations of the Marshall family, and their collection of antique furniture and art. Free, no need to register. Exhibition runs December 1st through January 31st during business hours.

Add to Calendar 1/12/2024 8:00:00 AM 1/12/2024 4:00:00 PM America/New_York From the Parks: Temporary Exhibition Alapocas Run isn't the only Delaware State Park with works of art in its collection. The Blue Ball Barn will host a selection of pieces from Auburn Valley State Park in Yorklyn, Delaware. Auburn Valley is home to the Auburn Heights mansion, the home of three generations of the Marshall family, and their collection of antique furniture and art. Free, no need to register. Exhibition runs December 1st through January 31st during business hours. Alapocas Run

Art in Action: Beginner's Paper Quilling

Wednesday, January 17, 2024

6:00 PM

Learn basic quilling techniques with Kelly Martin, owner of Paper Hibiscus, while creating a Valentine's day themed card to keep or give to someone special. $15 per person.

Register Online

Add to Calendar 1/17/2024 6:00:00 PM 1/17/2024 8:00:00 PM America/New_York Art in Action: Beginner's Paper Quilling Learn basic quilling techniques with Kelly Martin, owner of Paper Hibiscus, while creating a Valentine's day themed card to keep or give to someone special. $15 per person. Alapocas Run

From the Parks: Temporary Exhibition

Friday, January 19, 2024

8:00 AM

Alapocas Run isn't the only Delaware State Park with works of art in its collection. The Blue Ball Barn will host a selection of pieces from Auburn Valley State Park in Yorklyn, Delaware. Auburn Valley is home to the Auburn Heights mansion, the home of three generations of the Marshall family, and their collection of antique furniture and art. Free, no need to register. Exhibition runs December 1st through January 31st during business hours.

Add to Calendar 1/19/2024 8:00:00 AM 1/19/2024 4:00:00 PM America/New_York From the Parks: Temporary Exhibition Alapocas Run isn't the only Delaware State Park with works of art in its collection. The Blue Ball Barn will host a selection of pieces from Auburn Valley State Park in Yorklyn, Delaware. Auburn Valley is home to the Auburn Heights mansion, the home of three generations of the Marshall family, and their collection of antique furniture and art. Free, no need to register. Exhibition runs December 1st through January 31st during business hours. Alapocas Run

Winter Hike

Saturday, January 20, 2024

10:00 AM

Snow or Mud? Either way, we will explore the winter woods of Alapocas Run State Park. This hike will be on a combination of paved and unpaved paths with some hills. Pre-registration is required by noon, January 26th & February 16. Call 302 577-1164. Free.

Add to Calendar 1/20/2024 10:00:00 AM 1/20/2024 12:00:00 PM America/New_York Winter Hike Snow or Mud? Either way, we will explore the winter woods of Alapocas Run State Park. This hike will be on a combination of paved and unpaved paths with some hills. Pre-registration is required by noon, January 26th & February 16. Call 302 577-1164. Free. Alapocas Run

Introduction to Seat Weaving

Sunday, January 21, 2024

9:00 AM

This class will discuss the history of the chair and the various types of traditional seat weaving: rushing, shaker tape, splinting, paper splinting, hand caning, pressed caning and French Continental caning. Students will construct a sampler of traditional hand caning. Attendance in this class is REQUIRED in order to qualify for Advanced ladderback seating (rushing, splinting etc.) that will be offered later in the year. Pre-registration required. $50 per person.

Register Online

Add to Calendar 1/21/2024 9:00:00 AM 1/21/2024 3:00:00 PM America/New_York Introduction to Seat Weaving This class will discuss the history of the chair and the various types of traditional seat weaving: rushing, shaker tape, splinting, paper splinting, hand caning, pressed caning and French Continental caning. Students will construct a sampler of traditional hand caning. Attendance in this class is REQUIRED in order to qualify for Advanced ladderback seating (rushing, splinting etc.) that will be offered later in the year. Pre-registration required. $50 per person. Alapocas Run

From the Parks: Temporary Exhibition

Friday, January 26, 2024

8:00 AM

Alapocas Run isn't the only Delaware State Park with works of art in its collection. The Blue Ball Barn will host a selection of pieces from Auburn Valley State Park in Yorklyn, Delaware. Auburn Valley is home to the Auburn Heights mansion, the home of three generations of the Marshall family, and their collection of antique furniture and art. Free, no need to register. Exhibition runs December 1st through January 31st during business hours.

Add to Calendar 1/26/2024 8:00:00 AM 1/26/2024 4:00:00 PM America/New_York From the Parks: Temporary Exhibition Alapocas Run isn't the only Delaware State Park with works of art in its collection. The Blue Ball Barn will host a selection of pieces from Auburn Valley State Park in Yorklyn, Delaware. Auburn Valley is home to the Auburn Heights mansion, the home of three generations of the Marshall family, and their collection of antique furniture and art. Free, no need to register. Exhibition runs December 1st through January 31st during business hours. Alapocas Run

From the Parks: Temporary Exhibition Closing

Wednesday, January 31, 2024

8:00 AM

Alapocas Run isn't the only Delaware State Park with works of art in its collection. The Blue Ball Barn will host a selection of pieces from Auburn Valley State Park in Yorklyn, Delaware. Auburn Valley is home to the Auburn Heights mansion, the home of three generations of the Marshall family, and their collection of antique furniture and art. Free, no need to register. Exhibition runs December 1st through January 31st during business hours.

Add to Calendar 1/31/2024 8:00:00 AM 1/31/2024 4:00:00 PM America/New_York From the Parks: Temporary Exhibition Closing Alapocas Run isn't the only Delaware State Park with works of art in its collection. The Blue Ball Barn will host a selection of pieces from Auburn Valley State Park in Yorklyn, Delaware. Auburn Valley is home to the Auburn Heights mansion, the home of three generations of the Marshall family, and their collection of antique furniture and art. Free, no need to register. Exhibition runs December 1st through January 31st during business hours. Alapocas Run

Alexander Gamble: Temporary Exhibition Opening

Thursday, February 1, 2024

8:00 AM

'The BLACK & WHTE REDactEd Coloring Book' This experience consists of a variety of pieces collected as a result of an active and retro active examination of experiences. The works are inclusive of a black and white series of paintings, prints, and photographs. This collection is a visual representation of the otherwise unseen. Free, no need to register. Exhibition runs February `1st through February 29th during business hours.

Add to Calendar 2/1/2024 8:00:00 AM 2/1/2024 9:00:00 AM America/New_York Alexander Gamble: Temporary Exhibition Opening 'The BLACK & WHTE REDactEd Coloring Book' This experience consists of a variety of pieces collected as a result of an active and retro active examination of experiences. The works are inclusive of a black and white series of paintings, prints, and photographs. This collection is a visual representation of the otherwise unseen. Free, no need to register. Exhibition runs February `1st through February 29th during business hours. Alapocas Run

Alexander Gamble: Temporary Exhibition

Thursday, February 8, 2024

8:00 AM

'The BLACK & WHTE REDactEd Coloring Book' This experience consists of a variety of pieces collected as a result of an active and retro active examination of experiences. The works are inclusive of a black and white series of paintings, prints, and photographs. This collection is a visual representation of the otherwise unseen. Free, no need to register. Exhibition runs February `1st through February 29th during business hours.

Add to Calendar 2/8/2024 8:00:00 AM 2/8/2024 9:00:00 AM America/New_York Alexander Gamble: Temporary Exhibition 'The BLACK & WHTE REDactEd Coloring Book' This experience consists of a variety of pieces collected as a result of an active and retro active examination of experiences. The works are inclusive of a black and white series of paintings, prints, and photographs. This collection is a visual representation of the otherwise unseen. Free, no need to register. Exhibition runs February `1st through February 29th during business hours. Alapocas Run

Basket Weaving

Sunday, February 11, 2024

9:00 AM

Apple baskets are old in origin and got it's name because it has a 'bump' inside on the bottom that allows the produce to sit without being squished and allows air circulation. Students will learn continuous weaving, how to make the 'bump' as well as attaching a swing handle.

Register Online

Add to Calendar 2/11/2024 9:00:00 AM 2/11/2024 3:00:00 PM America/New_York Basket Weaving Apple baskets are old in origin and got it's name because it has a 'bump' inside on the bottom that allows the produce to sit without being squished and allows air circulation. Students will learn continuous weaving, how to make the 'bump' as well as attaching a swing handle. Alapocas Run

Alexander Gamble: Temporary Exhibition

Thursday, February 15, 2024

8:00 AM

'The BLACK & WHTE REDactEd Coloring Book' This experience consists of a variety of pieces collected as a result of an active and retro active examination of experiences. The works are inclusive of a black and white series of paintings, prints, and photographs. This collection is a visual representation of the otherwise unseen. Free, no need to register. Exhibition runs February `1st through February 29th during business hours.

Add to Calendar 2/15/2024 8:00:00 AM 2/15/2024 9:00:00 AM America/New_York Alexander Gamble: Temporary Exhibition 'The BLACK & WHTE REDactEd Coloring Book' This experience consists of a variety of pieces collected as a result of an active and retro active examination of experiences. The works are inclusive of a black and white series of paintings, prints, and photographs. This collection is a visual representation of the otherwise unseen. Free, no need to register. Exhibition runs February `1st through February 29th during business hours. Alapocas Run

Winter Hike

Saturday, February 17, 2024

10:00 AM

Snow or Mud? Either way, we will explore the winter woods of Alapocas Run State Park. This hike will be on a combination of paved and unpaved paths with some hills. Pre-registration is required by noon, January 26th & February 16. Call 302 577-1164. Free.

Add to Calendar 2/17/2024 10:00:00 AM 2/17/2024 12:00:00 PM America/New_York Winter Hike Snow or Mud? Either way, we will explore the winter woods of Alapocas Run State Park. This hike will be on a combination of paved and unpaved paths with some hills. Pre-registration is required by noon, January 26th & February 16. Call 302 577-1164. Free. Alapocas Run

Winter Tavern Tales: Keystone Species for Pollinator Gardens

Wednesday, February 21, 2024

6:30 PM

Do you want to bring more butterflies, birds, and bees into your garden? Join Leah Brooks of Mt. Cuba Center to find out which plants will give you the most bang for your buck. Bring a list of your favorites to the nursery this spring and create the ultimate pollinator-friendly garden. Light refreshments will be served. Please call to pre-register at 302-577-1164. Free.

Add to Calendar 2/21/2024 6:30:00 PM 2/21/2024 8:00:00 PM America/New_York Winter Tavern Tales: Keystone Species for Pollinator Gardens Do you want to bring more butterflies, birds, and bees into your garden? Join Leah Brooks of Mt. Cuba Center to find out which plants will give you the most bang for your buck. Bring a list of your favorites to the nursery this spring and create the ultimate pollinator-friendly garden. Light refreshments will be served. Please call to pre-register at 302-577-1164. Free. Alapocas Run

Alexander Gamble: Temporary Exhibition

Thursday, February 22, 2024

8:00 AM

'The BLACK & WHTE REDactEd Coloring Book' This experience consists of a variety of pieces collected as a result of an active and retro active examination of experiences. The works are inclusive of a black and white series of paintings, prints, and photographs. This collection is a visual representation of the otherwise unseen. Free, no need to register. Exhibition runs February `1st through February 29th during business hours.

Add to Calendar 2/22/2024 8:00:00 AM 2/22/2024 9:00:00 AM America/New_York Alexander Gamble: Temporary Exhibition 'The BLACK & WHTE REDactEd Coloring Book' This experience consists of a variety of pieces collected as a result of an active and retro active examination of experiences. The works are inclusive of a black and white series of paintings, prints, and photographs. This collection is a visual representation of the otherwise unseen. Free, no need to register. Exhibition runs February `1st through February 29th during business hours. Alapocas Run

Art in Action:Water Color and Collage

Saturday, February 24, 2024

1:00 PM

Bring your love of nature and color to this workshop exploring mixed media methods combining traditional watercolor paints, calligraphy inks, and collage with artist Stephanie Przybylek. Learn how to work with these materials to create bold, expressive artworks and create your own designs on paper to turn into collage elements. All materials included and no experience necessary. Just arrive with your enthusiasm and willingness to experiment! $15 per person.

Register Online

Add to Calendar 2/24/2024 1:00:00 PM 2/24/2024 3:00:00 PM America/New_York Art in Action:Water Color and Collage Bring your love of nature and color to this workshop exploring mixed media methods combining traditional watercolor paints, calligraphy inks, and collage with artist Stephanie Przybylek. Learn how to work with these materials to create bold, expressive artworks and create your own designs on paper to turn into collage elements. All materials included and no experience necessary. Just arrive with your enthusiasm and willingness to experiment! $15 per person. Alapocas Run

Alexander Gamble: Temporary Exhibition Closing

Thursday, February 29, 2024

8:00 AM

'The BLACK & WHTE REDactEd Coloring Book' This experience consists of a variety of pieces collected as a result of an active and retro active examination of experiences. The works are inclusive of a black and white series of paintings, prints, and photographs. This collection is a visual representation of the otherwise unseen. Free, no need to register. Exhibition runs February `1st through February 29th during business hours.

Add to Calendar 2/29/2024 8:00:00 AM 2/29/2024 9:00:00 AM America/New_York Alexander Gamble: Temporary Exhibition Closing 'The BLACK & WHTE REDactEd Coloring Book' This experience consists of a variety of pieces collected as a result of an active and retro active examination of experiences. The works are inclusive of a black and white series of paintings, prints, and photographs. This collection is a visual representation of the otherwise unseen. Free, no need to register. Exhibition runs February `1st through February 29th during business hours. Alapocas Run