The Kennedy Center

About The Kennedy Center

The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, commonly known as the Kennedy Center, is the United States' national cultural center, located on the eastern bank of the Potomac River in Washington, D.C., and serves as a living memorial to President John F. Kennedy. Opened on September 8, 1971, and designed by architect Edward Durell Stone, the Kennedy Center features multiple theaters, concert halls, and artistic spaces that host over 2,000 performances annually, ranging from theater, dance, and classical music to jazz, pop, folk, and experimental genres. The Center is home to the National Symphony Orchestra and presents the prestigious Kennedy Center Honors, celebrating lifetime contributions to American culture in the performing arts. Beyond performances, the Kennedy Center offers art tours, educational programs, and dining experiences, making it both a cultural hub and a major tourist destination in Washington, D.C. Operated under the auspices of the U.S. government, the Kennedy Center blends architectural grandeur, diverse artistic programming, and community engagement, fostering appreciation for the arts and providing a space where audiences can experience world-class performances while honoring the legacy of President Kennedy.