Destination DC and 70 local tourism and hospitality organisations announced plans for a year-round 2026 celebration across the National Mall
As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary in 2026, the capital Washington DC will be the focal point of the celebration.To mark the occasion, Destination DC, the tourism promotion organisation of the city, and local tourism organisations have launched a year-long series of events across the city, starting with a launch event at the Rotunda Galleries of the National Archives Museum.
According to a press statement, a launch event was held in the Rotunda Galleries of the National Archives Museum, the place to see the Declaration of Independence and the nation’s founding documents.
It adds that Destination DC and over 70 local tourism and hospitality organisations announced plans for a year-round 2026 celebration across the National Mall and the city’s cultural institutions, museums, attractions, restaurants and hotels.
It further adds that key events will include an immersive museum beneath the Lincoln Memorial, opening in July 2026, and the National Archives’ “Road to Revolution” exhibition, running through August 6, 2026 and also the National Portrait Gallery, which will showcase America’s Presidents, and the National Gallery of Art featuring special exhibitions from August 2025 to January 2027.
The statement adds that the city’s historic and cultural venues will offer experiences related to American history, civil rights, and freedom.
It adds that the one notable project, the 51 Steps to Freedom Trail, will use augmented reality to explore DC’s hidden histories.
It adds that the Kennedy Centre will host a variety of performances, including new works by American composers and the National Mall will also feature a digital programme for visitors to explore history and engage with the nation’s civic life.
The statement adds that the celebration will extend beyond the National Mall, embracing DC’s dynamic neighbourhoods and communities.
Elliott L Ferguson II
With a record-breaking 25.95 million visitors in 2023, the city’s tourism sector has rebounded strongly post-pandemic. Visitor spending reached USD 10.2 billion, generating USD 2.065 billion in tax revenue and supporting 102,366 local jobs.
These figures highlight the crucial role tourism plays in DC’s economy, and 2026 is expected to drive further growth in visitor numbers and revenue.
“As an economic development organisation, our job is to grow visitation to Washington, DC to benefit residents and local businesses. The collective strength of the partners working together will draw visitors all year. No other city offers so many cultural experiences, many of them free. Visitors and residents alike can discover American history and appreciate DC’s local cultural identity at museums, theatres, public art institutions, restaurants, hotels, exciting sports and special events and more,” says Elliott L Ferguson II, President and CEO, Destination DC.
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