Grand Reopening of the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History

After two years of architectural renovations, the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History reopens on November 21, 2008. The museum has been dramatically transformed and will engage audiences of all ages. Visitors walk into a five-story skylit atrium, surrounded by artifact displays showcasing the breadth of the museum's three million objects from the cultural, social, technological and political history of the United States. New galleries such as the Jerome and Dorothy Lemelson Hall of Invention, presenting "Invention at Play," join old favorites including "The American Presidency: A Glorious Burden" and "America on the Move." The Star-Spangled Banner, one of the most recognized symbols of the nation, has been given a new state-of-the-art gallery and fresh interpretation. The grand reopening of the National Museum of American History kicks off a year of new exhibitions and programming throughout 2009. Read more about the renovation of the American History Museum.

Grand Reopening Event Schedule

Friday, Nov. 21, 8:30-10 a.m. - Official Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony
A procession of historical characters will bring history back to the museum, kicking off a three-day festival that celebrates the new home of the Star-Spangled Banner. Visitors will be welcomed to the dramatically transformed National Museum of American History with musical entertainment, refreshments, giveaways and more.

Nov. 21 – 23, 2008 - Grand Reopening Festival
Friday, 10 a.m.-7:30 p.m., Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
The public is invited to experience the newly transformed museum with a dynamic schedule of family-friendly activities, including musical entertainment, living history and various giveaways.

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