Since its opening in 1971, the Kennedy Center has established this performance venue as one of the premier in the U.S., hosting not only well-known national and international performers and artists but also promising new artists. Its schedule features a wide range of presentations including theater and musicals, dance and ballet, orchestral, chamber, jazz, popular, and folk music, and multi-media performances for all ages. The Center also runs an arts education program.
The Kennedy Center is located on 17 acres overlooking the Potomac River, it acts as both a living memorial to President John F. Kennedy and a performing arts center.
Every September, the Kennedy Center puts on a Prelude Festival that features a series of events that showcase artistic talent from across the country, and includes masters as well as emerging artists. Intended as a sort of tasty, or "prelude" to the District's winter arts season, the festival includes a wide range of free events including outdoor concerts, dancing, and the annual Open House Arts Festival and 7th Page-to-Stage new play festival.
Attraction Information
- Admission:
- Free
- Guided Tours:
- Take a free tour and see the Hall of States and Hall of Nations, the Center's main theaters, and dozens of paintings, sculptures, and other artworks given to the Center by foreign countries.
- Tour Hours: Weekdays: 10am to 5pm, Weekends: 10am to 1pm
- Public Tours begin approximately every 10 minutes. Walk-ins are welcome.
- Contact:
- Location: 2700 F Street, NW Washington DC
- Phone: 800-444-1324 or 202-467-4600
- Website: www.kennedy-center.org
