NMAAHC 10th Anniversary Celebration

Discover special anniversary events at the National Museum of African American History & Culture and explore the essential story of Black history in Washington, DC, throughout 2026.=

There is no American history without Black history, so it's fitting that the nation's 250th anniversary year coincides with the 10th anniversary of the National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC). We can think of no more powerful time for you to steep yourself in the rich offerings of this Smithsonian museum on the National Mall.

From Sept. 24-27, NMAAHC formally honors the milestone anniversary. "The Reunion," as the program is called, embraces the theme "Welcome Home: Our Legacy Continues" and features a series of multi-day celebrations and signature events that will reflect on the museum's journey over its first decade. Join Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution Lonnie G. Bunch III in conversation and attend The Purple Ball, an event at The Wharf that will recognize the courage of 77 freedom seekers who boarded the schooner Pearl from the same waterfront in 1848, risking everything in pursuit of freedom. Be sure to visit NMAAHC online before you go to check out dates, times, prices, locations and other important information.

To be able to visit NMAAHC at any point during 2026 is a very meaningful opportunity indeed. Don't Miss the poignant chance to deepen your understanding of Black history in America, what it has meant to struggle and to triumph here and what this country full of potential owes to the endless contributions of Black Americans.