Smithsonian Associates

Smithsonian Associates—the largest museum-based education program in the world—produces vibrant educational and cultural programming that brings the Smithsonian to life.

Smithsonian Associates hosts extraordinary guests, including world leaders, political thinkers, artists, architects, scientists, authors, athletes, poets, and celebrity chefs. Through informal and candid conversations, audiences get a close-up look at notables who share our world.

In addition to programs on a wide range of performing arts, Smithsonian Associates presents concerts by resident ensembles, including the Emerson String Quartet, the Smithsonian Chamber Music Society, and the Axelrod String Quartet (playing rare instruments from the Smithsonian collections).

Studio arts classes—taught by professional artists and teachers—are offered in a wide variety of media in workshops and multi-session classes. Smithsonian Associates also offers a Certificate in World Art History for those who complete a series of core courses and electives.

Day and overnight study tours take groups beyond the National Mall. Follow in the footsteps of history at Civil War battlefields, visit stunning exhibitions at museums along the East Coast, and explore behind the scenes at remote Smithsonian museums and research facilities.

Smithsonian Associates also offers many engaging programs for children, including performances, museum sleepovers and summer day camps.