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Deets: The National Gallery of Art announces the return of National Gallery Nights to the museum’s East Building this spring. A long-running and beloved program, National Gallery Nights welcomes visitors to the museum after-hours in a series of three celebrations that bring together art, music, and creativity. Taking place on the second Thursday in February, March, and April from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m., the free series invites audiences to experience the museum in a new way through dynamic and interactive activations.
Hint for the Average Socialite: As with all National Gallery programs, National Gallery Nights is free. Due to the popularity of the series and to provide everyone with an equal chance to attend, the National Gallery of Art offers entry through a lottery system. The lottery will take place the week before each event, opening on Monday at 10:00 a.m. and closing that Thursday at noon. All entrants will be notified of their status on Friday. A limited number of walk-up passes will also be available at the East Building entrance on the day of each event. They will be given out on a first-come, first-served basis starting at 5:30 p.m.
Art Under the Stars
Thursday, February 12, 6:00–9:00 p.m.
Lottery for registration opens Monday, February 2, at 10:00 a.m. and closes Thursday, February 5, at noon.
After the sun goes down, fall in love with art as our East Building comes alive with music, creativity, and dance. This is your chance to see a once-in-a-lifetime exhibition after hours. The Stars We Do Not See: Australian Indigenous Art—one of the largest displays of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art ever shown in North America—inspires our evening. Immerse yourself in the deep sounds and vibrations of the didgeridoo. Create your own fiber art inspired by works in the exhibition. Explore the Roof Terrace to enjoy modern masterpieces under the night sky.
Garden Party
Thursday, March 12, 6:00–9:00 p.m.
Lottery for registration opens Monday, March 2, at 10:00 a.m. and closes Thursday, March 5, at noon.
Shed the winter layers and wear your spring best for an evening in full bloom. Dance to the vibrant sounds of The String Queens. Design a floral accent to complement your best garden party look, then strike a playful pose at our photobooths. Wander through art inspired by nature and let spring’s energy guide you as we celebrate the new season.
United We Create
Thursday, April 9, 6:00–9:00 p.m.
Lottery for registration opens Monday, March 30, at 10:00 a.m. and closes Thursday, April 2 at noon.
Join us for an immersive evening where the visual soul of America meets the rhythms of American music. From the sweeping landscapes of the Hudson River School to the vibrant energy of pop art, wander our galleries to feel inspired. Then share your own stories through artmaking workshops. As a rare treat, we’ll open part of the West Building so you can explore the iconic works and stories told in the special installation Celebrating American Art.
