This Saturday—Sept. 27, 2025—the Minnesota History Center will throw open the doors on a feast for the senses: “Julia Child: A Recipe for Life.” Running through May 31, 2026, this traveling, immersive exhibition invites visitors to step into the world of the woman who made America fall in love with French cooking—and with cooking itself.
Julia wasn’t just a chef. She was a trailblazer, a storyteller, and a curious spirit who believed mistakes were proof of learning. Her perseverance in a male-dominated industry, her zest for adventure, her authenticity in defying expectations, and her deep appreciation for relationships all shaped a legacy that went far beyond the kitchen.
The exhibit traces her journey from a California childhood to her groundbreaking training at Le Cordon Bleu in Paris, her bestselling “Mastering the Art of French Cooking,” and her revolutionary television career that brought joy (and plenty of butter) into American homes. Visitors can step into interactive spaces such as “The French Chef” WGBH studio—operating a vintage video camera or testing their skills on camera—then peek into Julia’s creative process through handwritten recipes, personal letters, and photographs. Plus, see her cooking implements in action and immerse yourself in the humor, warmth, and tenacity that made her a household name.
Courtesy of Flying Fish Exhibits
The exhibition also features a Minnesota-flavored side dish: “Minnesota Cooks: Small Bites from the Collections.” This section showcases vintage cookbooks and ephemera from the Minnesota Historical Society archives, reminding us that food is never just about what’s on the plate—it’s about who we are, where we’ve been, and how we gather.
Whether you’re a lifelong fan who can quote Julia’s quips or you’re discovering her for the first time, this exhibit offers a celebration of food, culture, and joy that feels timeless—and timely. After all, what better way to head into fall than with a little inspiration from America’s original culinary icon?
So, sharpen your knives, bring your curiosity, and maybe whisper Julia’s favorite mantra: “People who love to eat are always the best people.” Bon appétit, Minnesota.
Courtesy of Flying Fish Exhibits, The Schlesinger Library, Harvard Radcliffe Institute & Harvard University
Mastering the Art of French Cooking in Minnesota
On Wednesday, Oct. 22, 2025, the Minnesota History Center will host an evening event celebrating Julia Child’s legacy and Minnesota’s food scene. Moderated by James Norton of the Heavy Table, the program features chefs Russell Klein (Meritage) and Jamie Malone (Paris Dining Club) alongside cookbook author and TV host Zoë François. Guests will enjoy conversation, appetizers and desserts, live music, one drink ticket, and exclusive access to the “Julia Child: A Recipe for Life” exhibit. Ticket price is $75 per person.
Courtesy of Flying Fish Exhibits, The Schlesinger Library, Harvard Radcliffe Institute & Harvard University
Behind the Exhibit
“Julia Child: A Recipe for Life” is a traveling exhibition produced and toured internationally by Flying Fish, in collaboration with the Napa Valley Museum. Rights were granted by The Julia Child Foundation for Gastronomy and the Culinary Arts and The Schlesinger Library at the Radcliffe Institute, Harvard University, with generous sponsorship from Oceania Cruises.
Plan Your Visit
Minnesota History Center, 345 W. Kellogg Blvd. St. Paul, MN 55102, mnhs.org/historycenter
Dining and Cooking