Free!

The Smithsonian Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage is taking over the historic Arts and Industries Building this June and July with a completely free, vibrant summer program for kids and families! It is the ultimate weekend cultural hub, seamlessly combining thought-provoking panels with hands-on creativity right on the National Mall.

 Here is what you can explore inside this fully wheelchair-accessible venue:

The Folklife Marketplace: A bustling pop-up gift shop showcasing unique, artisan-made goods.

Interactive Workshops: Hands-on activities and live creative sessions with artists and resident radio DJs.

Pop-Up Exhibition: A look back at history through curated objects and stories from past Folklife Festivals.

Lectures & Discussions: The powerful conversation series “For the Common Good: Smithsonian Voices on Our Shared Future 250.”

#SmithsonianFolklife #WashingtonDC #FreeFamilyFun #DCArts #NationalMall #Summer2026