Special Events
Unmissable Events to Celebrate America’s Milestone Year
Get ready for an exciting lineup of events, activations and exhibits across DC in honor of America's 250th birthday. From live concerts to museum exhibits and much more, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Join the celebrations and be part of this unforgettable moment in history.
Explore Events:
Featured
Celebrating Community, Culture & Legacy in Adams Morgan
Our signature events highlight Adams Morgan’s vibrant culture and history. Known for its rich diversity and creative, entrepreneurial spirit, the neighborhood reflects the values that have shaped our nation. Through live performances, local art and unique flavors, join us in Adams Morgan to celebrate this iconic neighborhood’s legacy and its connection to 250 years of American progress and community.
Where Art, Biography & the History of a Nation Come Together
Just a few blocks off the National Mall, the Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery will celebrate the nation’s 250th anniversary with a year of portraiture from historic treasures to new work by contemporary artists.
July 4th Spectacular on Pennsylvania Ave 2026
The July 4th Spectacular on Penn Ave will bring the city and nation together over two days to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and celebrate the United States’ past, present, and promising future. Gather on Pennsylvania Avenue and experience interactive and immersive art and cultural activities that invite participation and connection.
2026 National Cherry Blossom Festival (March 20 – April 12)
Mark the 250th anniversary of the United States at the National Cherry Blossom Festival (March 20 – April 12) in Washington, DC, where the blossoms aren't the only thing blooming – so is the spirit of America. Join thousands of visitors from around the world to commemorate our nation’s history while surrounded by the beauty of spring’s most iconic flowers. Celebrate the semiquincentennial at the nation’s greatest springtime celebration with art, culture and spectacular events as you witness the nation’s past and future unfold.
Opening in 2026: The Lincoln Undercroft
A new experience awaits underneath the Lincoln Memorial
Celebrations in Honor of America’s 250th Anniversary
There’s only one DC … and only one place to celebrate the biggest U.S. birthday yet.
Featured
Celebrations in Honor of America’s 250th Anniversary
There’s only one DC … and only one place to celebrate the biggest U.S. birthday yet.
Celebrating Community, Culture & Legacy in Adams Morgan
Our signature events highlight Adams Morgan’s vibrant culture and history. Known for its rich diversity and creative, entrepreneurial spirit, the neighborhood reflects the values that have shaped our nation. Through live performances, local art and unique flavors, join us in Adams Morgan to celebrate this iconic neighborhood’s legacy and its connection to 250 years of American progress and community.
Where Art, Biography & the History of a Nation Come Together
Just a few blocks off the National Mall, the Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery will celebrate the nation’s 250th anniversary with a year of portraiture from historic treasures to new work by contemporary artists.
July 4th Spectacular on Pennsylvania Ave 2026
The July 4th Spectacular on Penn Ave will bring the city and nation together over two days to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and celebrate the United States’ past, present, and promising future. Gather on Pennsylvania Avenue and experience interactive and immersive art and cultural activities that invite participation and connection.
2026 National Cherry Blossom Festival (March 20 – April 12)
Mark the 250th anniversary of the United States at the National Cherry Blossom Festival (March 20 – April 12) in Washington, DC, where the blossoms aren't the only thing blooming – so is the spirit of America. Join thousands of visitors from around the world to commemorate our nation’s history while surrounded by the beauty of spring’s most iconic flowers. Celebrate the semiquincentennial at the nation’s greatest springtime celebration with art, culture and spectacular events as you witness the nation’s past and future unfold.
Opening in 2026: The Lincoln Undercroft
A new experience awaits underneath the Lincoln Memorial
Festivals & Holidays
Mar
20
2026
National Mall
National Cherry Blossom Festival 2026
The spirit of America blooms right along with the cherry blossoms in 2026, as DC welcomes visitors from around the world to commemorate U.S. history while surrounded by the beauty of spring’s most iconic flowers. The National Cherry Blossom Festival is the greatest springtime celebration and promises attendees plenty of art, culture and can’t-miss events.
As we celebrate the National Cherry Blossom Festival, 2026 also marks a momentous milestone for the nation—America's 250th anniversary. This unique convergence invites visitors to not only admire the stunning cherry blossoms but also to reflect on the rich tapestry of American history and culture over the past two and a half centuries. Events throughout the festival will be joined by special programming honoring America250, showcasing the nation’s achievements and aspirations. Together, these celebrations underscore the spirit of unity, resilience, and growth that defines the American experience.
Mar 20, 2026 - Apr 13, 2026
May
23
2026
National Mall
Memorial Day Festivities
Salute active-duty military and veterans at the Rolling to Remember honor ride and patriotic concert (May 24) as well as America’s largest Memorial Day parade (May 25). The National Mall and Memorial Parks also plan expanded programming.
As we approach America’s 250th anniversary, the Rolling to Remember honor ride and patriotic concert on May 24, along with America’s largest Memorial Day parade on May 25, serve as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by our active-duty military and veterans. These events not only celebrate our nation's heritage but also highlight the enduring spirit that binds us together. The National Mall and Memorial Parks will expand their programming to honor this significant milestone, inviting all to reflect on our past while looking forward to a united future.
May 23, 2026 - May 26, 2026
Jun
05
2026
Downtown
Spirit of Independence Festival
The 250th anniversary celebration starts at the National Archives with a three-day festival and tent at 701 Constitution Avenue NW. Expect musical performances, receptions, family-friendly events and activities for the whole family. More details to be announced.
Jun 05, 2026 - Jun 08, 2026
Jun
18
2026
National Mall
The Smithsonian 250th Summer Festival
An expanded month-long Smithsonian Festival will transform the National Mall into a living testament to the country’s remarkable cultural heritage. The 2026 event reflects the nation’s landscape and will challenge assumptions and illuminate America’s town square. Activities will highlight a wide range of communities, cultural practices, occupations and perspectives.
Jun 18, 2026 - Jul 13, 2026
Jul
03
2026
Downtown
July 4th Spectacular on Pennsylvania Avenue NW
Mark the calendar (well in advance) for a two-day celebration on the legendary street that has served as a backdrop to some of the most pivotal moments in U.S. history. Interactive and immersive art-themed and cultural activities invite participation and connection. Friday, July 3 is Arts & Culture Day: Stunning light projections transform iconic structures into vibrant canvases and large format “live” art exhibits will create a visually captivating atmosphere. Hands-on art projects inspired by local culture will allow visitors to express their creativity and celebrate the community’s spirit. Saturday, July 4 is Family Day: Families can kick back and enjoy activities and games.
Jul 03, 2026 - Jul 05, 2026
Jul
04
2026
National Mall
Fourth of July Celebration on the National Mall
The National Park Service is preparing for a spectacular celebration to mark America’s 250th birthday. The event will feature an unforgettable fireworks show that will light up the night sky with vibrant colors and breathtaking displays. In addition to the fireworks, a grand parade will showcase elaborate floats, stunning costumes, and performances celebrating the nation's rich history and diverse culture. Communities across the country are invited to join in the festivities, coming together in a spirit of patriotism and pride. This momentous occasion not only honors our past but also inspires reflection on our future as a nation, creating lasting memories for all who attend.
Jul 04, 2026 - Jul 05, 2026
Sep
02
2026
Southwest & The Wharf
DC JazzFest 2026
Get ready for the 2026 DC JazzFest, where jazz takes center stage! This exciting festival will showcase both rising stars and renowned artists across numerous venues throughout all four quadrants of the city. With a mix of intimate club performances and larger outdoor shows, there’s something for every jazz lover to enjoy.
In addition to live music, the festival will feature workshops and discussions led by experts in the field, providing insights into the rich history of jazz. Mark your calendars for this incredible celebration of talent and creativity in Washington, D.C. Don't miss out on this vibrant showcase of jazz!
Sep 02, 2026 - Sep 07, 2026
Nov
11
2026
National Mall
Veterans Day
The National Mall and Memorial Parks will host expanded programming aimed at enhancing the visitor experience. Plans for a variety of activities and events that celebrate our nation’s history and culture will be announced as details are finalized. Stay tuned for updates on upcoming events that will invite people to connect with history and engage with the community in this iconic setting.
Nov 11, 2026 - Nov 12, 2026
Historical Happenings
Jan
30
2025
Downtown
America's Presidents
The nation’s only complete collection of presidential portraits outside the White House, this exhibition lies at the heart of the Portrait Gallery’s mission to tell the American story through the individuals who have shaped it.
“America’s Presidents” is newly refurbished with improved lighting and paint, new labels, and wall texts. The new, entirely bilingual (English and Spanish) and accessible presentation includes extraordinary works of art, notably Gilbert Stuart’s “Lansdowne” portrait of President George Washington.
The permanent gallery featuring the only complete collection of presidential portraits on view outside of the White House will include a newly installed portrait of President Joe Biden by 2026.
Jan 23, 2025 - Jan 01, 2028
May
26
2026
Downtown
National Scrollathon
250,000 participants from all 50 state and territories. 56 large-scale artworks made from fabric scrolls. For the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, the Kennedy Center invites the National Scrollathon® to build a collaborative visual art installation. Revealing the American story in all its beautiful complexity, the final artwork will be displayed Memorial Day to Labor Day, 2026 (May 26–September 7, 2026) across the Kennedy Center campus.
The National Scrollathon, led by artists Steven and William Ladd, returns following its successful Scrollathon during the 2019 REACH Opening Festival. The artists guide participants to make two fabric scrolls—one inscribed with a personal story, and one to be part of a larger artwork. The scrolls from the whole community are brought together into a wooden frame and affixed into place. The participants’ portraits are later incorporated into a photo mural and a souvenir brochure.
May 26, 2026 - Sep 08, 2026
Jun
06
2026
Penn Quarter/Chinatown
National Gallery Block Party
The National Gallery of Art will host its largest public program ever. The museum’s entire campus will come alive with artmaking, food vendors, live music, film screenings and lots more.
Jun 06, 2026 - Jun 07, 2026
Jul
01
2026
Downtown
Anticipated Opening: National Geographic Museum of Exploration
The groundbreaking attraction invites visitors to embark on thrilling expeditions, letting guests in on the excitement of exploration and discovery. Cutting-edge tech and interactive elements will reveal the wildlife, landscapes, communities and cultures that make up our incredible planet.
Jul 01, 2026 - Jan 01, 2028
Aug
01
2026
National Mall
Beyond Granite
The Trust for the National Mall, the National Park Service and the National Capital Planning Commission are collaborating on a 2026 exhibition that will mark the second in the Beyond Granite series. The transformative experience invites the public to commemorate and contemplate the ideals of the Declaration of Independence in contemporary society and what they mean for the future. Learn about the acclaimed inaugural exhibition from 2023.
Met by widespread critical acclaim, the inaugural exhibition of Beyond Granite in 2023 presented a dynamic series of art installations on the National Mall, creating a more inclusive, equitable, and representative commemorative landscape and bringing new stories and perspectives to the nation’s most iconic commemorative space.
Aug 01, 2026 - Jan 01, 2028
Sep
21
2026
National Mall
International Day of Peace Open House
Honor the global tradition with a visit to the U.S. Institute of Peace as it holds an open house event. As we approach America's 250th birthday, it's a wonderful opportunity to reflect on our nation's commitment to peace and diplomacy throughout its history. One way to honor this global tradition of fostering harmony is by visiting the U.S. Institute of Peace. They are hosting an open house event that invites you to explore the vital work being done to prevent conflict and promote sustainable peace around the world. This event not only highlights the significant contributions of the Institute but also encourages us to engage in meaningful discussions about the future of peacebuilding as we celebrate our nation's milestone anniversary. Join us in recognizing the values that have shaped our democracy and continue to guide us as we look forward to the next 250 years.
Sep 21, 2026 - Sep 22, 2026
Sep
24
2026
National Mall
NMAAHC 10th Anniversary Celebration
The monumental Smithsonian location honors its 10th anniversary. Programming will be announced in the coming months.2026 marks the monumental 10th anniversary of the Smithsonian location, a cultural landmark that has celebrated and preserved America’s rich history and innovation. As we reflect on this milestone, it’s an opportunity to also consider the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States. The programming for the anniversary celebrations will be announced in the coming months, and it’s expected to draw connections between the Smithsonian's mission and the nation's journey over the past two and a half centuries. The events will likely highlight the accomplishments, struggles, and stories that have shaped America, making this anniversary not just a celebration of the Smithsonian, but a pivotal moment in recognizing the legacy of our country as it approaches its 250th birthday.
Sep 24, 2026 - Jan 01, 2028
Oct
01
2026
Penn Quarter/Chinatown
Past and Future Cities
A new exhibition traces the nation's history through the development of its built urban environments. A new exhibition offers a fascinating exploration of the nation's history by tracing the intricate development of its built urban environments. Through a carefully curated selection of artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays, the exhibition highlights how cities and towns have evolved over the years, reflecting the socio-economic, cultural, and political shifts that have shaped them. From the architectural styles of bygone eras to modern urban planning initiatives, visitors can gain insight into how the physical landscapes of these urban areas tell the story of the people who inhabit them. This journey through time allows attendees to appreciate not only the artistic and historical significance of these structures but also the stories behind them, illuminating the complex relationship between society and the built environment throughout the nation’s history.
Oct 01, 2026 - Jan 01, 2028
ANTICIPATED OPENINGS & RE-OPENINGS
Anticipated Re-Opening: Galleries at the National Air and Space Museum
Following an extensive renovation, the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum anticipates most of its galleries and public spaces will be open in time for the museum’s 50th anniversary, with completion of the remainder soon thereafter.
The next round of galleries to open are “Boeing Milestones of Flight Hall” and “Barron Hilton Pioneers of Flight.” These two galleries will open in spring 2025, along with the Lockheed Martin IMAX Theater and the museum’s entrance on Jefferson Drive along the National Mall. Additional galleries will open in phases. The museum expects that most of the remaining galleries and public spaces in the building will be open in time for the museum’s 50th anniversary, and the United States’ 250th anniversary in July 2026, with completion of the remainder soon thereafter.
Anticipated Opening of the Hirshhorn Sculpture Garden Revitalization
The Hirshhorn Sculpture Garden, the only Smithsonian galleries embedded on (and in) the National Mall, will reopen with fanfare in the fall of 2026 after a three-year, mission-driven revitalization. The $68 million project is expected to increase visitation to the national museum of modern and contemporary art threefold. The 1.4-acre art park will reopen as the easiest-to-access American space for the presentation of outdoor sculpture, time-based artwork and performances, large-scale commissions, public education, dining and reflection.
Anticipated Opening: National Geographic Museum of Exploration
The groundbreaking attraction invites visitors to embark on thrilling expeditions, letting guests in on the excitement of exploration and discovery. Cutting-edge tech and interactive elements will reveal the wildlife, landscapes, communities and cultures that make up our incredible planet.
ANTICIPATED OPENINGS & RE-OPENINGS
Anticipated Opening: National Geographic Museum of Exploration
The groundbreaking attraction invites visitors to embark on thrilling expeditions, letting guests in on the excitement of exploration and discovery. Cutting-edge tech and interactive elements will reveal the wildlife, landscapes, communities and cultures that make up our incredible planet.
Anticipated Re-Opening: Galleries at the National Air and Space Museum
Following an extensive renovation, the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum anticipates most of its galleries and public spaces will be open in time for the museum’s 50th anniversary, with completion of the remainder soon thereafter.
The next round of galleries to open are “Boeing Milestones of Flight Hall” and “Barron Hilton Pioneers of Flight.” These two galleries will open in spring 2025, along with the Lockheed Martin IMAX Theater and the museum’s entrance on Jefferson Drive along the National Mall. Additional galleries will open in phases. The museum expects that most of the remaining galleries and public spaces in the building will be open in time for the museum’s 50th anniversary, and the United States’ 250th anniversary in July 2026, with completion of the remainder soon thereafter.
Anticipated Opening of the Hirshhorn Sculpture Garden Revitalization
The Hirshhorn Sculpture Garden, the only Smithsonian galleries embedded on (and in) the National Mall, will reopen with fanfare in the fall of 2026 after a three-year, mission-driven revitalization. The $68 million project is expected to increase visitation to the national museum of modern and contemporary art threefold. The 1.4-acre art park will reopen as the easiest-to-access American space for the presentation of outdoor sculpture, time-based artwork and performances, large-scale commissions, public education, dining and reflection.
More Only-in-DC Events
Jan
30
2025
Penn Quarter/Chinatown
Road to Revolution
The rotating exhibition series showcases original documents in the Rotunda Gallery, telling stories from 1775 through the creation of the Declaration of Independence. Collectively, it reveals that the journey from colonial resistance to American independence is not composed of a single narrative but many intersecting (and diverging) paths.
Augmenting the well-known sequence of events in the two years preceding July 4, 1776, are displays that focus on the diverse experiences and perspectives for members of the Founding generation whose stories are less well known—including Native Americans, free and enslaved African Americans, and women.
Collectively Road to Revolution reveals that the journey from colonial resistance and rebellion to American revolution and independence is not composed of a single narrative but a story of many intersecting (and diverging) paths in the universal pursuit of life, liberty and happiness.
Jan 23, 2025 - Aug 07, 2026
Jan
30
2025
Downtown
America's Presidents
The nation’s only complete collection of presidential portraits outside the White House, this exhibition lies at the heart of the Portrait Gallery’s mission to tell the American story through the individuals who have shaped it.
“America’s Presidents” is newly refurbished with improved lighting and paint, new labels, and wall texts. The new, entirely bilingual (English and Spanish) and accessible presentation includes extraordinary works of art, notably Gilbert Stuart’s “Lansdowne” portrait of President George Washington.
The permanent gallery featuring the only complete collection of presidential portraits on view outside of the White House will include a newly installed portrait of President Joe Biden by 2026.
Jan 23, 2025 - Jan 01, 2028
Jan
30
2025
Petworth
Crafting Connection at President Lincoln's Cottage
What message would you share with a stranger? As we look to the future of our nation, we believe connecting with our communities, whether that be on a small or large scale, is more important than ever. Join us on January 30th as we launch a new interactive visitor experience that encourages this connection. Paint, draw, collage, and design a card for future visitors to the Cottage to share a message with them. There will be light refreshments during the event, as well as other creative outlets to participate in. Materials will be provided, but participants may bring their own craft supplies.
While crafting there will be opportunities to learn about our initiative Empathy and Connection: A Vision for America at 250 with brief remarks and conversation at 7pm to discuss this project. We can’t wait to host you in Lincoln’s historic home for a cozy evening of craft, community, and conversation!
About Empathy and Connection: A Vision for America at 250
At President Lincoln’s Cottage, we believe in an America that reflects our common humanity, cultivates belonging, and honors the complexity in our nation’s history. We are committed to telling more complete stories that capture the full breadth of the American experience and leading our peers and community in doing the same. Through our human-centered programming, thoughtful resources, and convocations for our fellow history practitioners, we’re building a 250th commemoration that meets audiences where they are and makes room for both grief and joy at once.
Join us to cultivate and lift up the brave ideas of all who are taking on Lincoln’s “unfinished work” in pursuit of a more perfect union. Click here to learn more about upcoming programs related to this initiative.
Members of Team Lincoln attend for free!
While everyone is welcome to attend this event, it was designed with Team Lincoln members in mind! . For information about your membership, click here, or contact our Membership Coordinator Emma at etanner@lincolncottage.org to receive your member access code.
Jan 30, 2025 - Jan 31, 2025
Feb
08
2025
Petworth
Lincoln: A National Treasure
President Lincoln's Cottage is pleased to welcome National Treasure Hunt podcast hosts and authors Aubrey Paris and Emily Black for an interactive lecture connecting the dots between President Lincoln and the beloved National Treasure film franchise, which celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2024. Learn the history behind the films' infamous historical plotlines, understand the science underpinning the characters' heists, and discover behind-the-scenes secrets from filming throughout Washington, D.C. Following the lecture, audiences will engage in National Treasure-themed activities, and Paris and Black will be on-hand to sign copies of their book, National Treasure Hunt: One Step Short of Crazy, which will be available for purchase.
Team Lincoln members receive discounts on this event and many others. Learn more about becoming a member here.
ABOUT NATIONAL TREASURE HUNT
Follow on social media: @NTHuntPodcast on X, Instagram, and LinkedIn
Listen to President Lincoln's Cottage CEO and Executive Director, Callie Hawkins on the National Treasure Hunt podcast here.
Feb 08, 2025 - Feb 08, 2025
Mar
01
2025
Downtown
Fighting for Freedom: Black Craftspeople and the Pursuit of Independence
Visitors can explore the creations, contributions and legacies of African Americans who fought for freedom during the American Revolution and beyond.
The Revolutionary War serves as a testament to the forging of the United States of America and the embodiment of ideas and principles pertaining to liberation and sovereignty. While often overshadowed, African Americans played a central role in attaining such values as realities in America. Their participation during the Revolutionary War serves as a perfect vignette to observe the long journey towards a unified and independent nation. The purpose of this exhibition is to highlight the creations, contributions, and legacies of African Americans as they fought for freedom during the midst of the American Revolution and beyond. At times the war was unified and inseparable. In contrast, other vignettes display people struggling to break free from oppression while their oppressors also wrestled with ideas of liberty.
While covering the Revolutionary period, Fighting for Freedom spans beyond those war years of the Revolution, as African Americans sought explicit realities of liberty through craft well into the 19th and early 20th centuries with the underpinning idea of African American craft as a catalyst for freedom-seeking which displays itself in a host of ways. This exhibition intends to encompass African American crafts of furniture, metals (silver), paintings, textiles, tools, and the assortment of other objects connected to African American craft.
Mar 01, 2025 - Jan 02, 2026
May
03
2025
National Mall
The Sky Tonight: Live Planetarium Show
Are you curious about the night sky? Come to the planetarium at the Museum in DC for a live, guided tour of what you can see after sunset. The facilitator will answer questions and customize the program based on audience interests. This planetarium show is free to attend and runs 25 minutes.
The Sky Tonight generally takes place on the first and third Saturday of each month.
May 04, 2024 - May 04, 2047
Sep
19
2025
Penn Quarter/Chinatown
Amy Sherald: American Sublime
The Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery will present Amy Sherald: American Sublime, the largest, most comprehensive exhibition of the artist’s work to date. Organized by the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA), “American Sublime” is the artist’s first major museum survey, bringing together paintings made from 2007 to the present. New and rarely seen works will be joined by the artist’s now iconic portrait of former First Lady Michelle Obama (2018), commissioned by the Portrait Gallery for its collection, and her powerful portrait of Breonna Taylor (2020). The exhibition will also mark the return of “Miss Everything (Unsuppressed Deliverance)” (2014) to Washington, where the painting garnered first prize in the Portrait Gallery’s 2016 Outwin Boochever Portrait Competition. The Washington presentation of “American Sublime” will be on view Sept. 19, 2025, through Feb. 22, 2026. Sherald is the first contemporary Black artist to receive a solo exhibition at the National Portrait Gallery.
“Amy Sherald: American Sublime” is organized by the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) and curated by Sarah Roberts, former Andrew W. Mellon Curator and Head of Painting and Sculpture at SFMOMA. The Washington, D.C., presentation of “American Sublime” is curated by Rhea L. Combs, director of curatorial affairs for the National Portrait Gallery.
The National Portrait Gallery is grateful to the Ford Foundation, whose support has made the Washington, D.C., presentation of this exhibition possible.
Sep 19, 2025 - Feb 23, 2026
Oct
02
2025
Mount Vernon Square
Coming Together
Enjoy programs, activations and an exhibition all about the past, present and future of American cities. See how places all over the U.S. have reimagined and reshaped their downtown districts in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Oct 02, 2025 - Jan 02, 2027
Oct
18
2025
Penn Quarter/Chinatown
The Outwin 2025: American Portraiture Today
The Portrait Gallery showcases a juried selection of 35 portraits by 36 artists sourced from the museum’s seventh Outwin Boochever Portrait Competition. Held every three years, the competition has accelerated the careers of nearly 300 contemporary artists in portraiture today. The upcoming display spotlight contributions from 14 states, Washington, DC and Puerto Rico.
Oct 18, 2025 - Aug 31, 2026
Jan
01
2026
Mount Vernon Square
The Promise of Us
Across campus in 2026, the Kennedy Center will celebrate American choreographers, explore American stories through a cycle of works from the Washington National Opera, welcome back Hamilton and uplift the American musical theater tradition. New works by American composers across all musical genres will also be commissioned for the National Symphony Orchestra. A new choral piece, A Song for US will capture the spirit of the promise, culminating in a grand community sing. Last but certainly not least, Sounds of US at the REACH will invite artists to curate free events and activations in response to the question, “What does America sound like?”
Jan 01, 2026 - Jan 01, 2027
Jan
01
2026
Foggy Bottom
Our Nation on the Millennium Stage
The series of free performances will lift American voices by featuring artists, companies, independent filmmakers and writers from all 50 states, DC and the U.S. territories.The upcoming series of free performances aims to lift American voices by showcasing a diverse array of talent, featuring artists, performing companies, independent filmmakers, and writers from all 50 states, Washington, DC, and the U.S. territories. This initiative not only highlights the rich tapestry of creative expression across the nation but also provides a platform for underrepresented voices to share their stories and perspectives. Through these performances, audiences will experience a vibrant celebration of culture and artistry that reflects the unique narratives and experiences of individuals from every corner of the country. It promises to be an enriching experience for all involved, fostering a sense of unity and appreciation for the diverse talents that make up the American landscape.
Jan 01, 2026 - Jan 01, 2027
Jan
17
2026
Downtown
Community Engagement Space
Launching with a day of service on Jan. 17, 2026—the Saturday of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day weekend—the National Gallery of Art will host a community engagement space dedicated to exploring the intersection of art and civic engagement. Located in the former Art Information Room adjacent to the West Building Rotunda, this reimagined space will host drop-in art making facilitated by partner artists and community groups, guest talks and community meetings. All visitors are welcome to create art and reflect during general operating hours.
Jan 17, 2026 - Jan 01, 2027
Mar
01
2026
Capitol Hill
In Pursuit of Life, Liberty & Happiness
A bold exhibition explores the ideals of the Declaration of Independence. Across three floors and 300,000 square feet, visitors can encounter 250 significant objects, including the portable desk used by Thomas Jefferson to draft the Declaration of Independence. Another noteworthy artifact is the only surviving ship of the early U.S. Navy, the gunboat Philadelphia. This National Historic Landmark helped stall British forces and now undergoes an on-site conservation to preserve it for future generations.
Mar 01, 2026 - Jan 01, 2028
Mar
01
2026
Downtown
Revolution in Their Words: How the Cause Became the Revolution
The DAR Museum exhibit illustrates the inexorable movement from outrage to war. Documentary sources and artifacts will provide the context of the cause and how it irrevocably led to the War for Independence.
Mar 01, 2026 - Jan 02, 2027
Mar
01
2026
Penn Quarter/Chinatown
19th Amendment & Emancipation Proclamation
New encasements will be added to the Rotunda of the National Archives Building to permanently house the 19th Amendment (which removed restrictions on women's voting) and the Emancipation Proclamation alongside the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution and the Bill of Rights.
Mar 01, 2026 - Jan 01, 2028
Mar
01
2026
Dupont Circle
American Apparitions: A Psychogeographies Project
Explore the physical and psychological landscape that defines a nation in the Rorshcach Theatre’s immersive, self-guided experience. Each month, participants will receive a map and instructions to travel to a curated location in the DC area. They’ll also receive a box of artifacts to engage all five senses while exploring each site with story elements such as letters, music, souvenirs or photos. Each monthly box reveals a new location and a new chapter in the ongoing story.
Mar 01, 2026 - Sep 01, 2026
Mar
06
2026
Penn Quarter/Chinatown
Wendy Red Star: Whispering Spirit
Red Star will make all new work, inspired by research conducted in collections across several Smithsonian units and other institutions based in DC.
Mar 06, 2026 - Jan 11, 2027
Mar
20
2026
National Mall
National Cherry Blossom Festival 2026
The spirit of America blooms right along with the cherry blossoms in 2026, as DC welcomes visitors from around the world to commemorate U.S. history while surrounded by the beauty of spring’s most iconic flowers. The National Cherry Blossom Festival is the greatest springtime celebration and promises attendees plenty of art, culture and can’t-miss events.
As we celebrate the National Cherry Blossom Festival, 2026 also marks a momentous milestone for the nation—America's 250th anniversary. This unique convergence invites visitors to not only admire the stunning cherry blossoms but also to reflect on the rich tapestry of American history and culture over the past two and a half centuries. Events throughout the festival will be joined by special programming honoring America250, showcasing the nation’s achievements and aspirations. Together, these celebrations underscore the spirit of unity, resilience, and growth that defines the American experience.
Mar 20, 2026 - Apr 13, 2026
May
15
2026
Penn Quarter/Chinatown
Photographic Memory: Fifty Years of Photography
In recognition of the 50th anniversary of the founding of its photographs collection, the National Portrait Gallery presents more than 100 seminal works. Among the gems: the earliest known photograph of a U.S. First Lady and Alexander Gardner’s original “cracked-plate” portrait of Abraham Lincoln.
May 15, 2026 - Mar 01, 2027
May
23
2026
National Mall
Memorial Day Festivities
Salute active-duty military and veterans at the Rolling to Remember honor ride and patriotic concert (May 24) as well as America’s largest Memorial Day parade (May 25). The National Mall and Memorial Parks also plan expanded programming.
As we approach America’s 250th anniversary, the Rolling to Remember honor ride and patriotic concert on May 24, along with America’s largest Memorial Day parade on May 25, serve as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by our active-duty military and veterans. These events not only celebrate our nation's heritage but also highlight the enduring spirit that binds us together. The National Mall and Memorial Parks will expand their programming to honor this significant milestone, inviting all to reflect on our past while looking forward to a united future.
May 23, 2026 - May 26, 2026