Long-Lead Inspiration

Major Anniversaries in 2026:

• 75th anniversary of Arena Stage
• 50th anniversary of the National Air and Space Museum
• 50th anniversary of the Art Museum of the Americas
• 10th anniversary of the National Museum of African American History and Culture

Major recent/upcoming cultural openings:

• Milken Center for Advancing the American Dream (Sept. 20, 2025) 

  A series of gallery spaces and immersive exhibits explore ingenuity, perseverance and possibility in a nation of immigrants.

• National Archives Museum (Fall TBD)

  The only place to see the Declaration of Independence is undergoing a $40 million renovation – its first in 20 years – and will feature original artifacts, documents and films, including George Washington’s original copy of the Constitution, which has never been publicly displayed at the National Archives. The permanent exhibit will also utilize AI to tailor the experience. Visitors are invited to start by choosing topics that interest them most. As they move through the galleries, they will see records and stories based on their interests.

• Reopening of the African American Civil War Memorial Museum (TBD late 2025)

  The museum honors the heroic roles of 209,145 US Colored Troops (USCT) who helped end slavery and kept America united under one flag.

• George Washington Mount Vernon's Major Overhaul (December 2025)

  After nearly two years of rotating room closures, the first and second floors of the Mansion will reopen, including the Washington bedchamber. In 2026, view a new exhibit on the life and times of George Washington. Walk through a Revolutionary War encampment and chat with soldiers to learn about life as an 18th-century soldier.

• Historic carousel on the National Mall will reopen to the public (March 2026)

  The artifact hails from a Baltimore community where a young African American child became the face of desegregation when she took her ride in 1963. It has been undergoing restoration since 2023.

• Improved Tidal Basin (Spring 2026)

  More resilient infrastructure, wider walkways and 250 freshly planted trees are in the works for cherry blossom season.

• New exhibits at the Jefferson Memorial (2026)

  New space with new state-of-the-art exhibits provide more perspectives of Thomas Jefferson’s multi-faceted story and the construction of the Jefferson Memorial.

• National Geographic Museum of Exploration (Summer 2026)

  Following a major renovation, the Museum of Exploration will provide a sustainably built destination illuminating the wonder of the world through innovative technology, immersive displays, iconic photography and artifacts. Highlights include an immersive theater experience and stunning outdoor projections with dynamic sound each night. of Independence. The event includes music performers, remarks from special guests, and concludes with the National Park Services’ National Independence Day Parade. In the evening, the National Park Service plans a spectacular fireworks show befitting the occasion.

• National Air and Space Museum expansion (July 2026)

  Following an extensive renovation that began in 2018, 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.

• Innovative museum under the Lincoln Memorial (July 2026)

  Beneath a national icon, 15,000 square feet of new exhibit space will tell a more complete story of the Lincoln Memorial and provide an in-depth look at the structure's foundations in its cavernous undercroft. New exhibits and multimedia presentations will showcase the construction history of the memorial and how the site has become the nation's foremost backdrop for civil rights demonstrations.

• Hirshhorn Sculpture Garden revitalization (Fall 2026)

  The Hirshhorn Sculpture Garden will reopen with fanfare after a three-year 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.

• Dulles International Airport Expansion (2026)

  A $580 million concourse expansion begins in 2026, adding seven new international gates to accommodate increasing global travel demand.

Major events in 2026:

• FIFA World Cup 26 | North America

  Washington, DC will serve as a gateway destination for the FIFA World Cup matches on the U.S. East Coast, with easy flight access through Dulles International Airport, Baltimore/Washington International Airport and Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. Washington is well-connected to host cities through short Amtrak train routes and will host watch parties and offer a myriad of hotel packages featuring special pricing for fans.

• DC 250 | Yearlong, 2026

  2026 Washington, DC is center stage for the nation’s yearlong celebration of America's 250th anniversary with dynamic events citywide. Museums, theaters, restaurants and iconic landmarks across the city will host special exhibitions, performances, culinary experiences and public art installations reflecting America’s rich cultural tapestry and historical evolution from 1776 to the present. Just a few of the new attractions and exhibits are listed below. For an expanded list, visit DC250.us.

  • 51 Steps to Freedom Trail (Through 2026) – DC becomes the largest outdoor museum in the world with this new augmented reality trail that explores DC's hidden history, pivotal events and legendary figures. From Frederick Douglass to Duke Ellington and Mrs. Rosa Parks, the 8-mile trail features 300+ stories and 51 historic stops.
  • National Archives – Washington, DC is the only place to see the charter documents: the Declaration of Independence, Constitution and Bill of Rights – admission is free.
    • In March 2026, the Archives plan to add the Emancipation Proclamation and 19th Amendment (which removed restrictions for women to vote) to its permanent display.
    • Road to Revolution (through Aug. 6, 2026) – A rotating exhibition showcases original documents that detail major milestones and give critical historical context to the American Revolution and the adoption of the Declaration of Independence.
• National Gallery of Art – One of the world’s most preeminent museums, the Gallery’s collection includes over 141,000 paintings, drawings, prints, photographs, sculpture, decorative arts and new media from the Middle Ages to the present. 2026 will bring special exhibitions like American Icon: The U.S. Flag in Art and a block party, the Gallery’s largest-ever public program where entire campus will come alive with artmaking, food, music, film screenings and more.
• National Mall – Explore the swath of land nicknamed “America’s front yard” and you’ll find inspiring monuments and memorials, museums and family fun. The free monuments and memorials honor American forefathers and heroes who paid the ultimate sacrifice in service to this country.
  • Fourth of July Celebration – Kick off the holiday by joining the National Archives for a historic reenactment of the Declaration of Independence. The event includes music performers, remarks from special guests, and concludes with the National Park Services’ National Independence Day Parade. In the evening, the National Park Service plans a spectacular fireworks show befitting the occasion.
  • National Mall A250 Signature Series (Summer 2026) – Events include America’s 250th Ball for the Mall, National Mall 250 Red, White and Blue Concert, and National Mall Civic Learning Forum.
• National Portrait Gallery – Through portraits and performances, the Portrait Gallery tells the stories of poets and presidents, visionaries and villains, actors and activists who speak American history.
  • America’s Presidents (ongoing) – This 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.
  • The Outwin 2025: American Portraiture Today (Oct. 18, 2025 – Aug. 30, 2026) – The 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.
• Smithsonian Castle Temporary Reopening (May 22, 2026 – Sept. 7, 2026) – The iconic Smithsonian Castle will pause its renovation to reopen temporarily with a cafe, shop, special exhibition and visitor’s center.
• Smithsonian National Museum of American History – The American History Museum’s collection contains more than three million historical objects—including the famed Star-Spangled Banner—and documents that explore the evolution of the American identity. A new exhibition that explores the ideals of the Declaration of Independence will open in March 2026.
• Historic and iconic restauraunts celebrate:
  • 1789 Restaurant – Six intimate dining rooms have been known to host some of DC’s most powerful figures, including President Obama and German Chancellor Angela Merkel. Business formal attire is suggested.
  • Ben’s Chili Bowl – A DC institution legendary for DC’s signature dish, the Half-Smoke, and its role in the Civil Rights movement. Family owned and operated; you'll probably see the family behind the counter at Ben's original location on U Street.
  • Martin’s Tavern – The historic corner restaurant has hosted nearly every U.S. president from Truman to George W. Bush and President Biden, as well as elected officials, foreign dignitaries, sports, music and film stars. JFK proposed to Jaqueline Bouvier here. Nestled in the heart of Georgetown, the historic architecture and furnishings will immerse you in the Washington of the 18th century, when cobblestone streets and grand rowhouses dominated the landscape.
  • Old Ebbitt Grill – DC’s oldest tavern was established in 1856. Open for breakfast, lunch, dinner and late-night dining daily, and weekend brunch. It’s located around the corner from the White House.
  • Succotash Prime – Succotash features a menu by Chef Edward Lee that draws on the recipes of the American South, influenced by his Korean roots.

December

Final Draw for the FIFA World Cup 26™ | John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts

Dec. 6, 2025

The final draw for the expanded 48-team FIFA World Cup 26™ will take place on December 5, 2025, at Washington DC’s Kennedy Center, marking a major milestone on the road to the biggest single-sport event in history. Announced jointly by U.S. President Donald J. Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino, the event will unite team delegations, media, and fans from all 16 Host Cities, with the draw broadcast worldwide.

April

National Cherry Blossom Festival | Citywide

March 20 – April 12, 2026

In 2026, the spirit of America will blossom alongside DC’s iconic cherry trees as visitors from around the globe gather to honor U.S. history amid the beauty of spring. The National Cherry Blossom Festival, the nation’s premier springtime celebration, will offer abundant art, culture and unforgettable events — all naturally woven into the 250th anniversary commemoration.

Georgetown French market | Georgetown

April 24-26, 2026

This popular open-air market - originally inspired by those often seen in France - will feature sidewalk sales and specials from more than 35 locally owned boutiques, cafés, and galleries along Wisconsin Avenue from O St to Reservoir Rd. Neighborhood restaurants will offer food and drink specials featuring French cuisine and beyond - from pastries, croissants and macarons, to lunch items grilled outside and wine discounts.

May

Passport DC | Embassy Row 

May 1-31, 2026

Only in DC can you travel the world while staying in the same city. Passport DC is a month-long journey around the world highlighting DC’s thriving international diplomatic community and its lively and varied culture. Thousands of people enjoy the popular embassy open houses, street festivals, performances, exhibitions, workshops and more. Popular events include the Fiesta Asia Street Fair, Flower Mart and EU Open House. Taste the world through select restaurants in the city with the Savor the Flavors list.

Photographic Memory: Fifty Years of Photography | National Portrait Gallery

May 15, 2026 – Feb. 28, 2027

To mark the 50th anniversary of its photographs collection, the National Portrait Gallery will showcase more than 100 landmark works. Highlights include the earliest known photograph of a U.S. First Lady and Alexander Gardner’s original “cracked plate” portrait of Abraham Lincoln.

Memorial Day Festivities | Citywide

May 23-25, 2026

Honor active-duty service members and veterans during the Rolling to Remember tribute ride and patriotic concert (May 24), followed by the nation’s largest Memorial Day parade (May 25). Expanded programming is also planned throughout the National Mall and Memorial Parks.

National Scrollathon | The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts

May 26 – Sept. 7, 2026

The Kennedy Center has commissioned artists Steven and William Ladd to bring this remarkable visual art project to life. The National Scrollathon will invite more than 250,000 participants from all 50 states and territories to contribute to a collective portrait of the American story representing diverse social, ethnic and economic backgrounds. Once complete, over 50 large-scale textile artworks will be exhibited across the Kennedy Center campus, accompanied by photographic portraits of the thousands who helped create them.

June

National Gallery Block Party | National Gallery of Art

Weekend of June 6, 2026

As the National Gallery of Art’s largest public program to date, the full campus will burst into life with artmaking activities, food, music, film screenings and more.

Capital Pride Celebration | Citywide

June 8 -14, 2026

Amidst the historic monuments and tree-lined avenues of Washington, DC, Capital Pride emerges each year as a brilliant spectacle of love, acceptance and unity. The vibrant celebration of the LGBTQ+ community paints the U.S. capital in rainbows, with a roster of events from a parade to drag performances.

Smithsonian Folklife Festival | National Mall

TBA

The Smithsonian Folklife Festival is an international exposition of living cultural heritage annually produced outdoors on the National Mall by the Smithsonian Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage. The theme for 2026 is “Nation’s 250th”.

2027 + Beyond

NFL Draft 2027 | April 2027

Washington, DC was chosen to host the 2027 National Football League Draft across iconic landmarks like the National Mall and Pennsylvania Avenue. The three-day event will include a concert series and a free fan festival.

11th Street Bridge Park | 2027

The city’s first elevated public park over the Anacostia River; visitors can expect an amphitheater, picnic gardens, interactive art and waterfalls among other attractions and events.

Washington Commanders Move to RFK Stadium | Ongoing

DC Mayor Muriel Bowser and the DC Council announced a deal to bring DC’s professional football team back to Washington, DC’s RFK campus. The campus will be revitalized with a state-of-the-art domed stadium and the transformation will include new hotels, restaurants, retail and neighborhood amenities.