The National Museum of Bermuda will open its doors to residents for free next month as it celebrates its 50th anniversary.

This year is the eleventh that the Dockyard-based museum has lifted its entrance fee for residents in the month of February with the support of sponsor Butterfield Bank.

To take advantage of the free entry offer, residents should bring proof of residency such as a driver’s licence or utility bill.

Elena Strong, the NMB executive director, said: “We are thrilled to have Butterfield’s support this year so that we can open our doors for free to all Bermuda residents during February.

“At NMB, we aim to make learning Bermuda history part of every educational journey on island. Eliminating the barrier of admission allows for increased access for residents to engage with and explore Bermuda’s complex and fascinating past.

“Also, non-profit and private partnerships like this are essential as we carry out our work as a vital community education resource. We look forward to welcoming everyone to NMB this month.”

Jody Feldman, managing director of Butterfield, added: “Supporting NMB is something we are proud to do as it aligns with our commitment to support the wider community.

“This sponsorship provides an inclusive and meaningful opportunity for us all to learn more about Bermuda’s history and culture and helps to celebrate the Museum’s 50th anniversary.

“With the Free for February initiative, which coincides with Black History Month and the other NMB programmes, we encourage everyone to get involved and to make the most of everything NMB has to offer.”

NMB’s exhibits cover a range of topics that explore Bermuda’s cultural links with the West Indies and Azores; transatlantic slavery and slavery in Bermuda; Bermuda’s defence heritage; shipwrecks and early Bermuda settlement; the building of Dockyard and much more.

NMB’s 16-acre fort also features jaw-dropping views, massive cannons, local watercraft, the stunning Hall of History mural by Graham Foster and a children’s playground and playhouse.

Families visiting the museum in February can participate in a family scavenger hunt, while the museum will also offer a digital Black History in Bermuda tour utilising the app Smartify.

Free for February visitors can also enter a weekly raffle to win a free family membership with benefits including free admission, discounts on NMB publications and savings at several Dockyard restaurants, Dolphin Quest and Keep the Flow yoga classes.

Lisa Wingood will be offering a free yoga class on February 17, in honour of Black History Month, with interested members of the public invited to e-mail wingood.lisa@gmail.com to register.

The museum will also host a free Community Day between 10am and 3pm on February 25 with food vendors, door prizes, storytelling, art activities, a family yoga class, tour of the Hall of History with artist Graham Foster and other exhibits led by NMB staff.