The Smithsonian’s 2026 America at 250 program brings two historic National Mall buildings back into public use alongside exhibitions, conversations and cultural events across the United States and three U.S. territories.
The Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute will hold EleFest Aug. 7–9, 2026, a public program focused on elephants, culture and conservation ahead of World Elephant Day.
The Smithsonian and the Federation of State Humanities Councils are coordinating community-driven programs across 46 states, Washington, D.C., and four U.S. territories through August 2026.
Executive Order 14416 directs a White House-led review of Smithsonian exhibitions, educational materials and public programming for what the administration characterizes as inappropriate ideology or political content.
The Smithsonian’s historic Arts and Industries Building opened June 16 and will host public access and cultural programming through Sept. 7, 2026.
The Smithsonian will keep its “American Aspirations” exhibition open at the Smithsonian Castle through Aug. 10, extending access through the institution’s 180th anniversary and its America 250 programming.
A July 24 executive order directs temporary signs and exhibits outside the Smithsonian history museum, but does not itself change the museum’s interior displays.
Executive Order 14416 directs agencies to pursue signs and temporary exhibits near the National Museum of American History, but not to take over its galleries.
A July 24 order directs temporary signs and exhibits outside the Smithsonian history museum, while leaving its interior exhibits and leadership unchanged for now.
On July 21, 2026, House Oversight questioned Smithsonian officials after a July 4 White House report alleged “activist ideology.” What Congress can do next.
