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Visit one of the world's most preeminent art collections for free this Friday, including free guided tours, special exhibitions and Art After 5 with live music, drinks and food. What a way to kick off the weekend! (Photo courtesy Philadelphia Museum of Art)

UPDATE: PAFA will be free today as well in honor of International Museum Day.

The Philadelphia Museum of Art will be free to the public this Friday, May 18 from 10 a.m-8:45 p.m. in celebration of the International Council of Museums’ International Museum Day 2012.

All galleries will be open in both the main Museum building and the Perelman Building, showcasing more than 2,000 years of exceptional human work in masterpieces of painting, sculpture, decorative arts and architecture.

The free admission also includes special exhibitions, public tours and Art After 5 with Cuban-born jazz drummer Francisco Mela, which features snacks and bites catered by Stephen Starr plus an unrivaled view of the city skyline from the museum steps. For free.

More than 200 galleries will be open for visitors to explore on May 18, including the brand new Craft Spoken Here at the Perelman.

The four free tours include “American Mavericks” in 19th century art (noon), a “Perelman Building Architecture” tour (1 p.m.), the “Parthenon on the Parkway” tour of museum architecture and outdoor sculpture (6 p.m.) and “Late 19th Century Art” (7 p.m.). All tours meet in the Museum’s West Entrance, with the exception of the Perelman Building Architecture tour, which meets in the Perelman Lobby.

This year’s theme of International Museum Day, which is dedicated every year to promoting the value of museums in society, will focus on the evolving role of museum in a changing modern world.

Philadelphia Museum Of Art: International Museum Day
When: Friday, May 18, 10 a.m.-8:45 p.m.
Where: 2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Cost: Free!
More info: www.philamuseum.org