National Museum of the American Indian

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ONLINE | Quilt Along: Block 1 by Lauren Good Day (Pre-Contact to the American Revolution, prior and up to 1776)

One-Time Events Reflect on the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the ever-evolving nature of the country, communities, and future we share through a Native lens by participating in a free quilt along hosted by the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian (NMAI). This five-month, mystery-style quilt along invites quilters and anyone interested in quilting to sew along. You don’t need to be an expert quilter to participate. Each month from June to October 2026, the museum will release a new block pattern, followed by a border pattern and finishing instructions, to create a commemorative wall hanging. Learn more and sign up for updates. The first block pattern is designed by Lauren Good Day. Good Day's block theme addresses the time period of Pre-Contact to the American Revolution (prior and up to 1776). The pattern will be revealed on the museum's Quilt Along web page and social media channels. Join the conversation on Facebook to share your tips and tricks or learn from… Location Icon: Online. Event Location: Online only. Cost: Participation and patterns are FREE; materials not included. Categories: Webcasts & Online. Monday, June 1, 2026. For more info visit americanindian.si.edu.

DC | Welcome to a Native Place

Ongoing Tours & Activities Enjoy tribal songs from Alaska to Florida with Dennis Zotigh (Kiowa/Isanti Dakota/Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo) in the Potomac Atrium. At the end of the 30-minute presentation, visitors are encouraged to ask questions pertaining to the museum and Indigenous culture, past and present. Presentations may be canceled without prior notice. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Potomac Atrium. Cost: Free. Categories: Performances. Wednesday, June 3, 2026, 1:00 PM – 1:30 PM.

DC | Welcome to a Native Place

Ongoing Tours & Activities Enjoy tribal songs from Alaska to Florida with Dennis Zotigh (Kiowa/Isanti Dakota/Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo) in the Potomac Atrium. At the end of the 30-minute presentation, visitors are encouraged to ask questions pertaining to the museum and Indigenous culture, past and present. Presentations may be canceled without prior notice. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Potomac Atrium. Cost: Free. Categories: Performances. Wednesday, June 10, 2026, 1:00 PM – 1:30 PM.

NY | Curator Tour: Native New York—From the Bronx to Buffalo

One-Time Events Reflect on 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence with a special curator-led tour of the ongoing exhibition, Native New York. The Revolutionary War (1775–1783) tested the bonds of the Haudenosaunee (Mohawk, Oneida, Tuscarora, Onondaga, Cayuga, and Seneca nations) Confederacy, an alliance of six nations that controlled most of the territory now known as New York State. Neighboring nations were also drawn into the conflict and all were forced to choose sides or try to remain neutral. Learn more about Indigenous history on both frontiers of the war in relation to the Mohican, Oneida, and Cayuga communities and in the war’s aftermath at Buffalo Creek. Image courtesy of C&G Partners. Venue: American Indian Museum NY. Location Icon: New York, NY. Event Location: Level 2: Exhibition Gallery. Cost: Free. Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Related Exhibition: Native New York. Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible. Friday, June 12, 2026, 11:00 AM – 11:30 AM.

NY | Curator Tour: Native New York—From the Bronx to Buffalo

One-Time Events Reflect on 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence with a special curator-led tour of our ongoing exhibition Native New York. The Revolutionary War (1775–1783) tested the bonds of the Haudenosaunee (Mohawk, Oneida, Tuscarora, Onondaga, Cayuga, and Seneca nations) Confederacy, an alliance of six nations that controlled most of the territory now known as New York State. Neighboring nations were also drawn into the conflict and all were forced to choose sides or try to remain neutral. Learn more about Indigenous history on both frontiers of the war in relation to the Mohican, Oneida, and Cayuga communities and in the war’s aftermath at Buffalo Creek. Image courtesy of C&G Partners. Venue: American Indian Museum NY. Location Icon: New York, NY. Event Location: Level 2: Exhibition Gallery. Cost: Free. Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Related Exhibition: Native New York. Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible. Friday, June 12, 2026, 1:00 PM – 1:30 PM.

NY | Story Time

Ongoing Tours & Activities Families are invited to an interactive story time on the second Saturday of each month* featuring a children’s book by a Native author, illustrator, or created in collaboration with an Indigenous community. They will have the opportunity to engage with objects from the museum's teaching collection, such as photographs, textiles, or natural materials, which can deepen their understanding of the community represented in the story, along with a craft or other activity. All are welcome. *Recommended for visitors ages 3–9 years old accompanied by an adult caregiver. **Schedule subject to change. Venue: American Indian Museum NY. Location Icon: New York, NY. Event Location: Level 1: imagiNATIONS Activity Center Classroom. Cost: Free. Categories: Kids & Families. Saturday, June 13, 2026, 11:15 AM – 11:45 AM.

NY | Story Time

Ongoing Tours & Activities Families are invited to an interactive story time on the second Saturday of each month* featuring a children’s book by a Native author, illustrator, or created in collaboration with an Indigenous community. They will have the opportunity to engage with objects from the museum's Teaching Collection such as photographs, textiles, or natural materials that can deepen their understanding of the community represented in the story, along with a craft or other activity. All are welcome. Recommended for visitors ages 3-9 years old accompanied by an adult caregiver. *Schedule subject to change. Image: Photo by Matailong Du for the National Museum of the American Indian. Venue: American Indian Museum NY. Location Icon: New York, NY. Event Location: Level 1: imagiNATIONS Activity Center Classroom. Cost: Free. Categories: Kids & Families. Saturday, June 13, 2026, 2:15 PM – 2:45 PM.

DC | In Language There is Life: I ka ‘ōlelo nō ke ola

One-Time Events On Wednesday, June 17, the National Museum of the American Indian (NMAI) will host a special “In Language There is Life: I ka ‘ōlelo nō ke ola” Showcase. This showcase will feature middle and high school students from Hawai‘i who completed a National History Day project in ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi (Hawaiian language) and qualified at the Hawaiʻi affiliate contest. These students were invited to Washington, D.C. to share their work with a national audience. Their projects show perspectives and understanding vital to their culture and support larger community efforts that give life to Indigenous languages. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Level 1, Potomac Atrium. Cost: FREE. Categories: Demonstrations. Lectures & Discussions. Wednesday, June 17, 2026, 10:00 AM – 11:45 AM.

DC | Welcome to a Native Place

Ongoing Tours & Activities Enjoy tribal songs from Alaska to Florida with Dennis Zotigh (Kiowa/Isanti Dakota/Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo) in the Potomac Atrium. At the end of the 30-minute presentation, visitors are encouraged to ask questions pertaining to the museum and Indigenous culture, past and present. Presentations may be canceled without prior notice. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Potomac Atrium. Cost: Free. Categories: Performances. Wednesday, June 17, 2026, 1:00 PM – 1:30 PM.

DC | Closer Look: Water's Edge

One-Time Events Join Rebecca Trautmann, curator of Water’s Edge: The Art of Truman Lowe, for an in-gallery conversation with Dakota Hoska (Oglála Lakȟóta Nation, Pine Ridge, Wounded Knee), curator of Native American and Global Indigenous Art at the National Gallery of Art. Together, they’ll offer visitors a closer look at selected artworks in the exhibition.  Dakota Hoska is the curator of Native American and Global Indigenous Art at the National Gallery of Art in Washington, DC. Hoska was previously the Associate Curator of Native Arts and NAGPRA coordinator for the Denver Art Museum (DAM), after serving as a Research Assistant at the Minneapolis Institute of Art where she worked on the exhibition Hearts of Our People: Native Women Artists. She holds a MA in Art History (focus on Native American Art History) from the University of St. Thomas, St. Paul, MN (2019), a BFA in Drawing and Painting from the Minneapolis College of Art and Design (2012), and she completed two years of Dakhóta language at the University of… Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Level 3, exhibition gallery. Cost: Free. Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Related Exhibition: Water's Edge: The Art of Truman Lowe. Thursday, June 18, 2026, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM.

DC | Hands On: Quillwork Designs

One-Time Events Indigenous peoples of the Americas have long decorated clothing and objects with porcupine quills as expressions of care, respect, and love. Quillwork is a skillful artistic tradition that has been shared across generations. Young visitors and their families are invited to the imagiNATIONS Activity Center to learn about how quills have been used in this art form and to explore quillwork‑inspired designs using colorful, contemporary materials inspired by objects in the National Museum of the American Indian collection. All ages welcome. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Level 3: imagiNATIONS Activity Center. Cost: FREE. Categories: Celebrations. Kids & Families. Friday, June 19, 2026, 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM.

DC | Curator Tour: InSight

One-Time Events Curated by the museum’s archivists, InSight: Photos and Stories from the Archives features images from the Archives Center at the National Museum of the American Indian. The photos were selected from more than a half million images stewarded by the museum. They give an intimate view of Indigenous lives across the Western Hemisphere and across time. They show everyday moments of joy and quiet reflection. In these images, people attend social gatherings, pose for family photos, and learn from relatives. Each photo has a story to tell. It is the rich insight shared by Native people that brings these stories to life. Join a guided tour of the exhibition to learn more. Image: Eva Curtis (Iñupiaq) and Sadie Vestal (Iñupiaq) picking wildflowers, Kotzebue, Alaska, June 23, 1951. Lindell and Ethel Bagley Alaska collection. 379_001. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Level 2, exhibition gallery (between elevator bank and Roanoke Museum Store). Cost: Free. Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Related Exhibition: InSight: Photos and Stories from the Archives. Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible. Friday, June 19, 2026, 1:00 PM – 1:30 PM.

DC | Hands On: Quillwork Designs

One-Time Events Indigenous peoples of the Americas have long decorated clothing and objects with porcupine quills as expressions of care, respect, and love. Quillwork is a skillful artistic tradition that has been shared across generations. Young visitors and their families are invited to the imagiNATIONS Activity Center to learn about how quills have been used in this art form and to explore quillwork‑inspired designs using colorful, contemporary materials inspired by objects in the National Museum of the American Indian collection. All ages welcome. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Level 3: imagiNATIONS Activity Center. Cost: FREE. Categories: Celebrations. Kids & Families. Friday, June 19, 2026, 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM.

DC | Touch & Hear the Universe

One-Time Events Experience the universe like never before with the premiere of NASA's Chandra Interactive Sonification Wall, a multisensory exhibit that transforms space data into a symphony of light, sound, and touch. Using spectacular imagery from the Chandra X-ray Observatory, James Webb and Hubble Space Telescopes, this installation allows you to "play" the stars. Motion-tracking sensors activate the soundscapes of iconic cosmic wonders like the Pillars of Creation. Designed for explorers of all ages, this immersive display brings the invisible reaches of deep space to life through cutting-edge astrophysics and storytelling. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Level 1: Rasmuson Theater. Cost: FREE. Categories: Celebrations. After Five. Kids & Families. Demonstrations. Friday, June 19, 2026, 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM.

DC | Amy Hānaialiʻi in Concert

One-Time Events Vocalist and songwriter Amy Hānaialiʻi has been sharing her powerful voice from an early age. Her grandmother Jennie Napua Woodd, encouraged her to pursue ha‘i, often translated as “catch” or “break” a Hawaiian vocal tradition of falsetto singing. Hānaialiʻi is known for reviving ha‘i, through her prolific recording career and sold-out performances around the world. Her success as a recording artist speaks for itself and is evidenced by a multitude of awards and acknowledgements, including 6 GRAMMY® nominations for Best Hawaiian Music Album & Best Native Roots Music Album. Amy is Native Hawaiian, Ojibwe, and of Norwegian and European English descent. Her talent emerges from disciplined classical training, fused powerhouse vocals, and honoring her family’s worldly heritage and rooted ancestral responsibility. Amy is a soul singer and sings in many different genres. Amy’s albums have garnered 18 Nā Hōkū Hanohano awards – Hawai’i’s equivalent to the GRAMMY® awards. On June 12, Hānaialiʻi will be inducted into… Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Level 1: Potomac Atrium. Cost: FREE. Categories: After Five. Celebrations. Performances. Friday, June 19, 2026, 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM.

DC | Ande the Llama Photobooth

One-Time Events Snap a solstice selfie with Ande the Llama! Pose with our giant plush llama and add some flair with fun photo props provided by museum staff. A great stop for laughs and memorable photos. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Level 1: Potomac Atrium. Cost: FREE. Categories: After Five. Celebrations. Kids & Families. Friday, June 19, 2026, 7:30 PM – 10:00 PM.

DC | Glow & Create: Sling Braided Keychains

One-Time Events The Quechua people celebrate their culture through daily life—wearing beautiful textiles, sharing music, and gathering for lively festivals that honor the sun and the seasons. In this hands‑on activity, participants will explore the idea of traditional sling braiding by creating their own glowing keychain using bright, glow‑in‑the‑dark yarn. It’s a fun way to learn how weaving and braiding can tell stories and bring people together—all with a little extra sparkle! *Recommended for ages 8 and up. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Level 1: Potomac Atrium. Cost: FREE. Categories: Kids & Families. Celebrations. Friday, June 19, 2026, 7:30 PM – 10:00 PM.

DC | Touch & Hear the Universe

One-Time Events Experience the universe like never before with the premiere of NASA's Chandra Interactive Sonification Wall, a multisensory exhibit that transforms space data into a symphony of light, sound, and touch. Using spectacular imagery from the Chandra X-ray Observatory, James Webb and Hubble Space Telescopes, this installation allows you to "play" the stars. Motion-tracking sensors activate the soundscapes of iconic cosmic wonders like the Pillars of Creation. Designed for explorers of all ages, this immersive display brings the invisible reaches of deep space to life through cutting-edge astrophysics and storytelling. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Level 1: Rasmuson Theater. Cost: FREE. Categories: Celebrations. After Five. Kids & Families. Demonstrations. Saturday, June 20, 2026, 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM.

DC | Hands On: Paper Strawberry

One-Time Events Many Native communities of the Northeast celebrate the spring harvest of strawberries in June and July. The celebration often coincides with the full moon. Learn about the significance and cultural traditions surrounding the strawberry for Indigenous communities and then create a paper strawberry to take home. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Level 3: imagiNATIONS Activity Center. Cost: FREE. Categories: Celebrations. Kids & Families. Saturday, June 20, 2026, 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM.

DC | Closer Look: National Native American Veterans Memorial

One-Time Events Join museum specialist Rachelle B. Pablo (Diné) for a closer look at the National Native American Veterans Memorial, designed by artist and U.S. Marine Corps veteran, Harvey Pratt (Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes of Oklahoma, 1941-2025). Pablo will share with visitors about the creation and design elements of the memorial, and the legacy of Native service in the United States Armed Forces. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Outdoors, National Native American Veterans Memorial. Cost: FREE. Categories: Celebrations. Gallery Talks & Tours. Related Exhibition: National Native American Veterans Memorial. Saturday, June 20, 2026, 1:00 PM – 1:30 PM.

DC | Hands On: Paper Strawberry

One-Time Events Many Native communities of the Northeast celebrate the spring harvest of strawberries in June and July. The celebration often coincides with the full moon. Learn about the significance and cultural traditions surrounding the strawberry for Indigenous communities and then create a paper strawberry to take home. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Level 3: imagiNATIONS Activity Center. Cost: FREE. Categories: Celebrations. Kids & Families. Saturday, June 20, 2026, 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM.

DC | Touch & Hear the Universe

One-Time Events Experience the universe like never before with the premiere of NASA's Chandra Interactive Sonification Wall, a multisensory exhibit that transforms space data into a symphony of light, sound, and touch. Using spectacular imagery from the Chandra X-ray Observatory, James Webb and Hubble Space Telescopes, this installation allows you to "play" the stars. Motion-tracking sensors activate the soundscapes of iconic cosmic wonders like the Pillars of Creation. Designed for explorers of all ages, this immersive display brings the invisible reaches of deep space to life through cutting-edge astrophysics and storytelling. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Level 1: Rasmuson Theater. Cost: FREE. Categories: Celebrations. After Five. Kids & Families. Demonstrations. Saturday, June 20, 2026, 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM.

DC | Closer Look: National Native American Veterans Memorial

One-Time Events Join museum specialist Rachelle B. Pablo (Diné) for a closer look at the National Native American Veterans Memorial, designed by artist and U.S. Marine Corps veteran, Harvey Pratt (Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes of Oklahoma, 1941-2025). Pablo will share with visitors about the creation and design elements of the memorial, and the legacy of Native service in the United States Armed Forces. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Outdoors, National Native American Veterans Memorial. Cost: FREE. Categories: Celebrations. Gallery Talks & Tours. Related Exhibition: National Native American Veterans Memorial. Saturday, June 20, 2026, 3:00 PM – 3:30 PM.

DC | Closer Look: Making a Statement

One-Time Events Curator Anya Montiel (Mestiza/Tohono O'odham descent) offers a closer look at the museum’s special installation Making a Statement, which demonstrates how Native women combine traditional design elements with modern military symbolism to demonstrate cultural pride and honor military service. The installation features a historical Lakota beaded dress decorated with elaborate patriotic American imagery and a jingle dress made by members of the Native American Women Warriors to show pride in their Indigenous heritage and to emphasize the role of Native women in the military. Get hands-on to learn more about beadwork, jingle cones, and other design elements related to Native dressmaking in the museum’s Teaching Collection. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Level 3: Making a Statement special installation. Cost: Free. Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Related Exhibition: Making a Statement. Saturday, June 20, 2026, 4:00 PM – 4:30 PM.

DC | Curator Tour: Stretching the Canvas

One-Time Events Curator Anya Montiel (Mestiza/Tohono O'odham descent) will provide a brief guided tour of Stretching the Canvas: Ten Decades of Native Painting, which tells the story of how American Indian art expanded after World War I and how Native painters began to advocate for themselves in a world that often ignored their talent. The wide range of subjects in the featured artworks offers an opportunity for visitors to engage more deeply with the content of the exhibition. Challenge your friends or family to be the first to complete your Find-It activity for bragging rights! Image: Gerónima Cruz Montoya (Ohkay Owingeh, 1915–2015), Spring, 1961. Casein on paper. Museum purchase, 1966. (23/6420). Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Level 4. Cost: Free. Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Celebrations. Related Exhibition: Stretching the Canvas: Ten Decades of Native Painting. Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible. Saturday, June 20, 2026, 6:00 PM – 6:30 PM.

DC | Ande the Llama Photobooth

One-Time Events Snap a solstice selfie with Ande the Llama! Pose with our giant plush llama and add some flair with fun photo props provided by museum staff. A great stop for laughs and memorable photos. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Level 1: Potomac Atrium. Cost: FREE. Categories: After Five. Celebrations. Kids & Families. Saturday, June 20, 2026, 7:30 PM – 10:00 PM.

DC | Glow & Create: Beaded Keychains

One-Time Events Beadwork has long been an important art form among Indigenous peoples of the Americas, used to decorate clothing and objects with meaning, care, and skill. Among the Assiniboine, beadwork traditions are passed down through generations, connecting art, identity, and community. In this activity, visitors can explore basic beading techniques while creating a glow‑in‑the‑dark keychain that blends tradition with contemporary materials. *Recommended for ages 12 and up. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Level 1: Potomac Atrium. Cost: FREE. Categories: Kids & Families. Celebrations. Saturday, June 20, 2026, 7:30 PM – 10:00 PM.

DC | Shub's PowWow-Step Dance Party

One-Time Events For over a decade, Shub has been on the forefront of a movement that reshaped Indigenous Electronic Music. Shub grew up in Fort Erie, on the border between Ontario and Buffalo, New York, as a Mohawk and a member of the Turtle Clan of the Six Nations of the Grand River. When Shub realized that the typical tempo of a dubstep track, 140 BPM, mirrored that of the grass dance songs he'd heard at community gatherings, he combined the two to create a new sound— PowWow Step. A trailblazer and a founding member of A Tribe Called Red, Shub brings his award-winning and genre-defining sound to the museum along with dancers to energize the crowd. Show off your moves solo or bring a friend to join you on the dance floor! Image credit: Francesco Giorgio. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Level 1: Potomac Atrium. Cost: FREE. Categories: After Five. Celebrations. Performances. Saturday, June 20, 2026, 8:00 PM – 9:30 PM.

DC | Touch & Hear the Universe

One-Time Events Experience the universe like never before with the premiere of NASA's Chandra Interactive Sonification Wall, a multisensory exhibit that transforms space data into a symphony of light, sound, and touch. Using spectacular imagery from the Chandra X-ray Observatory, James Webb and Hubble Space Telescopes, this installation allows you to "play" the stars. Motion-tracking sensors activate the soundscapes of iconic cosmic wonders like the Pillars of Creation. Designed for explorers of all ages, this immersive display brings the invisible reaches of deep space to life through cutting-edge astrophysics and storytelling. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Level 1: Rasmuson Theater. Cost: FREE. Categories: Celebrations. After Five. Kids & Families. Demonstrations. Sunday, June 21, 2026, 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM.

DC | Hands On: Cornhusk Dragonfly

One-Time Events Corn, also known as maize, has been a vital crop for Native peoples of the Americas for thousands of years, providing food, materials, and cultural meaning. Every part of the corn plant has a purpose—even the husks. In this hands‑on activity, visitors will learn about the history and importance of corn while transforming dried cornhusks into a colorful dragonfly to take home. A fun way to explore creativity and discover new respect for this important plant. All ages welcome. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Level 3: imagiNATIONS Activity Center. Cost: FREE. Categories: Celebrations. Kids & Families. Sunday, June 21, 2026, 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM.

DC | Chef Alex Cooks with Corn

One-Time Events Executive Chef Alex Strong of the museum’s Mitsitam Native Foods Cafe will demonstrate two dishes using corn. Also known as maize, corn has been a vital crop for Native peoples of the Americas for thousands of years, providing food, materials, and cultural meaning. Hear Chef Alex’s tips and tricks for working with this versatile food in the kitchen, and enjoy samples while they last! Don’t forget to make time to enjoy lunch or a snack at Mitsitam before you conclude your visit. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Level 1: Potomac Atrium. Cost: FREE. Categories: Celebrations. Demonstrations. Kids & Families. Culinary Arts. Sunday, June 21, 2026, 12:00 PM – 12:30 PM.

DC | Chef Alex Cooks with Corn

One-Time Events Executive Chef Alex Strong of the museum’s Mitsitam Native Foods Cafe will demonstrate two dishes using corn. Also known as maize, corn has been a vital crop for Native peoples of the Americas for thousands of years, providing food, materials, and cultural meaning. Hear Chef Alex’s tips and tricks for working with this versatile food in the kitchen, and enjoy samples while they last! Don’t forget to make time to enjoy lunch or a snack at Mitsitam before you conclude your visit. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Level 1: Potomac Atrium. Cost: FREE. Categories: Celebrations. Demonstrations. Kids & Families. Culinary Arts. Sunday, June 21, 2026, 2:00 PM – 2:30 PM.

DC | Hands On: Cornhusk Dragonfly

One-Time Events Corn, also known as maize, has been a vital crop for Native peoples of the Americas for thousands of years, providing food, materials, and cultural meaning. Every part of the corn plant has a purpose—even the husks. In this hands‑on activity, visitors will learn about the history and importance of corn while transforming dried cornhusks into a colorful dragonfly to take home. A fun way to explore creativity and discover new respect for this important plant. All ages welcome. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Level 3: imagiNATIONS Activity Center. Cost: FREE. Categories: Celebrations. Kids & Families. Sunday, June 21, 2026, 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM.

DC | Touch & Hear the Universe

One-Time Events Experience the universe like never before with the premiere of NASA's Chandra Interactive Sonification Wall, a multisensory exhibit that transforms space data into a symphony of light, sound, and touch. Using spectacular imagery from the Chandra X-ray Observatory, James Webb and Hubble Space Telescopes, this installation allows you to "play" the stars. Motion-tracking sensors activate the soundscapes of iconic cosmic wonders like the Pillars of Creation. Designed for explorers of all ages, this immersive display brings the invisible reaches of deep space to life through cutting-edge astrophysics and storytelling. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Level 1: Rasmuson Theater. Cost: FREE. Categories: Celebrations. After Five. Kids & Families. Demonstrations. Sunday, June 21, 2026, 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM.

DC | Welcome to a Native Place

Ongoing Tours & Activities Enjoy tribal songs from Alaska to Florida with Dennis Zotigh (Kiowa/Isanti Dakota/Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo) in the Potomac Atrium. At the end of the 30-minute presentation, visitors are encouraged to ask questions pertaining to the museum and Indigenous culture, past and present. Presentations may be canceled without prior notice. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Potomac Atrium. Cost: Free. Categories: Performances. Wednesday, June 24, 2026, 1:00 PM – 1:30 PM.

DC | Welcome to a Native Place

Ongoing Tours & Activities Enjoy tribal songs from Alaska to Florida with Dennis Zotigh (Kiowa/Isanti Dakota/Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo) in the Potomac Atrium. At the end of the 30-minute presentation, visitors are encouraged to ask questions pertaining to the museum and Indigenous culture, past and present. Presentations may be canceled without prior notice. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Potomac Atrium. Cost: Free. Categories: Performances. Wednesday, July 1, 2026, 1:00 PM – 1:30 PM.

DC | Welcome to a Native Place

Ongoing Tours & Activities Enjoy tribal songs from Alaska to Florida with Dennis Zotigh (Kiowa/Isanti Dakota/Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo) in the Potomac Atrium. At the end of the 30-minute presentation, visitors are encouraged to ask questions pertaining to the museum and Indigenous culture, past and present. Presentations may be canceled without prior notice. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Potomac Atrium. Cost: Free. Categories: Performances. Wednesday, July 8, 2026, 1:00 PM – 1:30 PM.

NY | Story Time

Ongoing Tours & Activities Families are invited to an interactive story time on the second Saturday of each month* featuring a children’s book by a Native author, illustrator, or created in collaboration with an Indigenous community. They will have the opportunity to engage with objects from the museum's teaching collection, such as photographs, textiles, or natural materials, which can deepen their understanding of the community represented in the story, along with a craft or other activity. All are welcome. *Recommended for visitors ages 3–9 years old accompanied by an adult caregiver. **Schedule subject to change. Venue: American Indian Museum NY. Location Icon: New York, NY. Event Location: Level 1: imagiNATIONS Activity Center Classroom. Cost: Free. Categories: Kids & Families. Saturday, July 11, 2026, 11:15 AM – 11:45 AM.

NY | Story Time

Ongoing Tours & Activities Families are invited to an interactive story time on the second Saturday of each month* featuring a children’s book by a Native author, illustrator, or created in collaboration with an Indigenous community. They will have the opportunity to engage with objects from the museum's Teaching Collection such as photographs, textiles, or natural materials that can deepen their understanding of the community represented in the story, along with a craft or other activity. All are welcome. Recommended for visitors ages 3-9 years old accompanied by an adult caregiver. *Schedule subject to change. Image: Photo by Matailong Du for the National Museum of the American Indian. Venue: American Indian Museum NY. Location Icon: New York, NY. Event Location: Level 1: imagiNATIONS Activity Center Classroom. Cost: Free. Categories: Kids & Families. Saturday, July 11, 2026, 2:15 PM – 2:45 PM.

DC | Welcome to a Native Place

Ongoing Tours & Activities Enjoy tribal songs from Alaska to Florida with Dennis Zotigh (Kiowa/Isanti Dakota/Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo) in the Potomac Atrium. At the end of the 30-minute presentation, visitors are encouraged to ask questions pertaining to the museum and Indigenous culture, past and present. Presentations may be canceled without prior notice. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Potomac Atrium. Cost: Free. Categories: Performances. Wednesday, July 15, 2026, 1:00 PM – 1:30 PM.

DC | Welcome to a Native Place

Ongoing Tours & Activities Enjoy tribal songs from Alaska to Florida with Dennis Zotigh (Kiowa/Isanti Dakota/Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo) in the Potomac Atrium. At the end of the 30-minute presentation, visitors are encouraged to ask questions pertaining to the museum and Indigenous culture, past and present. Presentations may be canceled without prior notice. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Potomac Atrium. Cost: Free. Categories: Performances. Wednesday, July 22, 2026, 1:00 PM – 1:30 PM.

DC | Welcome to a Native Place

Ongoing Tours & Activities Enjoy tribal songs from Alaska to Florida with Dennis Zotigh (Kiowa/Isanti Dakota/Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo) in the Potomac Atrium. At the end of the 30-minute presentation, visitors are encouraged to ask questions pertaining to the museum and Indigenous culture, past and present. Presentations may be canceled without prior notice. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Potomac Atrium. Cost: Free. Categories: Performances. Wednesday, July 29, 2026, 1:00 PM – 1:30 PM.

DC | Welcome to a Native Place

Ongoing Tours & Activities Enjoy tribal songs from Alaska to Florida with Dennis Zotigh (Kiowa/Isanti Dakota/Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo) in the Potomac Atrium. At the end of the 30-minute presentation, visitors are encouraged to ask questions pertaining to the museum and Indigenous culture, past and present. Presentations may be canceled without prior notice. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Potomac Atrium. Cost: Free. Categories: Performances. Wednesday, August 5, 2026, 1:00 PM – 1:30 PM.

NY | Story Time

Ongoing Tours & Activities Families are invited to an interactive story time on the second Saturday of each month* featuring a children’s book by a Native author, illustrator, or created in collaboration with an Indigenous community. They will have the opportunity to engage with objects from the museum's teaching collection, such as photographs, textiles, or natural materials, which can deepen their understanding of the community represented in the story, along with a craft or other activity. All are welcome. *Recommended for visitors ages 3–9 years old accompanied by an adult caregiver. **Schedule subject to change. Venue: American Indian Museum NY. Location Icon: New York, NY. Event Location: Level 1: imagiNATIONS Activity Center Classroom. Cost: Free. Categories: Kids & Families. Saturday, August 8, 2026, 11:15 AM – 11:45 AM.

NY | Story Time

Ongoing Tours & Activities Families are invited to an interactive story time on the second Saturday of each month* featuring a children’s book by a Native author, illustrator, or created in collaboration with an Indigenous community. They will have the opportunity to engage with objects from the museum's Teaching Collection such as photographs, textiles, or natural materials that can deepen their understanding of the community represented in the story, along with a craft or other activity. All are welcome. Recommended for visitors ages 3-9 years old accompanied by an adult caregiver. *Schedule subject to change. Image: Photo by Matailong Du for the National Museum of the American Indian. Venue: American Indian Museum NY. Location Icon: New York, NY. Event Location: Level 1: imagiNATIONS Activity Center Classroom. Cost: Free. Categories: Kids & Families. Saturday, August 8, 2026, 2:15 PM – 2:45 PM.

DC | Welcome to a Native Place

Ongoing Tours & Activities Enjoy tribal songs from Alaska to Florida with Dennis Zotigh (Kiowa/Isanti Dakota/Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo) in the Potomac Atrium. At the end of the 30-minute presentation, visitors are encouraged to ask questions pertaining to the museum and Indigenous culture, past and present. Presentations may be canceled without prior notice. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Potomac Atrium. Cost: Free. Categories: Performances. Wednesday, August 12, 2026, 1:00 PM – 1:30 PM.

DC | Welcome to a Native Place

Ongoing Tours & Activities Enjoy tribal songs from Alaska to Florida with Dennis Zotigh (Kiowa/Isanti Dakota/Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo) in the Potomac Atrium. At the end of the 30-minute presentation, visitors are encouraged to ask questions pertaining to the museum and Indigenous culture, past and present. Presentations may be canceled without prior notice. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Potomac Atrium. Cost: Free. Categories: Performances. Wednesday, August 19, 2026, 1:00 PM – 1:30 PM.

DC | Welcome to a Native Place

Ongoing Tours & Activities Enjoy tribal songs from Alaska to Florida with Dennis Zotigh (Kiowa/Isanti Dakota/Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo) in the Potomac Atrium. At the end of the 30-minute presentation, visitors are encouraged to ask questions pertaining to the museum and Indigenous culture, past and present. Presentations may be canceled without prior notice. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Potomac Atrium. Cost: Free. Categories: Performances. Wednesday, August 26, 2026, 1:00 PM – 1:30 PM.