For most of its history, the Smithsonian Folklife Festival has meant one thing: a trip to the National Mall in Washington, D.C. This year it means something different. For America's 250th birthday, the Smithsonian is taking the festival on the road, partnering with more than 30 local festivals in communities across the country and three U.S. territories, from March through November 2026.
The traveling initiative, called "Of the People: The Smithsonian Festival of Festivals," is the first time in the festival's history that it has gone national. Stops this summer include the Blackfoot Ranch Rodeo and Indian Relay Races in Idaho on June 25-27, with additional events running through the fall.
Back in Washington, the Smithsonian is marking the anniversary in a big way. The National Museum of American History opened "In Pursuit of Life, Liberty & Happiness" on May 14, a sweeping exhibition spanning all three floors and featuring 250 significant objects, including the desk Thomas Jefferson used to draft the Declaration of Independence.
The landmark Smithsonian Castle, currently undergoing its first major renovation in more than 50 years, is pausing construction to reopen from Memorial Day through Labor Day. The special exhibition inside, "American Aspirations," includes Harriet Tubman's hymnal among its featured artifacts.
The Smithsonian's theme for the year, "Our Shared Future: 250", calls on Americans to reflect on the nation's history and commit to its ideals going forward.