Family Day: America 250

Smithsonian Family Day transforms the Arts and Industries Building into a lively hub for America’s 250th birthday, filling its grand halls with interactive zones and creative workshops. The event spills into the Haupt Garden, where families can catch live performances and join outdoor games beneath the summer sky. Kids can get hands-on with history, piecing together stories from the nation’s past while discovering new ideas that hint at the country’s future. The building’s storied architecture sets the stage for a day that feels both festive and reflective, inviting visitors to wander, play, and learn in equal measure. With activities designed to spark curiosity at every turn, the celebration weaves together tradition and innovation in a way that feels distinctly Smithsonian.