What to know: SeptemberFest returns this weekend as the Museum of the Southwest celebrates its 60th anniversary. Now in its 57th year, the museum’s signature arts festival and largest annual fundraiser runs Friday through Sunday, Sept. 11–13, across its historic campus at 1705 W. Missouri Ave.

The big picture: One of Midland’s longstanding family weekends, SeptemberFest brings original art, kids’ activities and entertainment to the museum grounds, with festival admission also providing access to the museum’s galleries and planetarium.

This year’s festival is set to be larger than the past few, with more than 50 artists bringing original paintings, sculptures, textiles and other works. Beyond shopping the artist tents, visitors can watch artist demonstrations and enjoy live music, food, KinderFest activities, planetarium dome shows, and magic from Bronson Chadwick.

Visitors can also head inside the museum to see Ken Womack’s GIANT, with Womack on site during the festival, as well as J.C. Spock’s The West Reimagined and the museum’s 60th Anniversary Collection.

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Go deeper: A Friday Preview Party from 5–9 p.m. gives early shoppers the first look at the artist booths, along with food, drinks, and live music. Weekend festival hours are 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Saturday and noon–5 p.m. Sunday. The Midland County Public Libraries Bookmobile will also be on the grounds from 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Saturday.

What’s next: Weekend admission is $12 for ages 13 and older and $8 for children ages 3–12, seniors, and military. Children ages 2 and younger are free. You can buy tickets in advance or at the gate.