Smithsonian Day (September 17th)

Quick facts
When is it?	Every September 17th
Tagged as:	Countries & Cultures Education Historical Interest
What's the hashtag?	#SmithsonianDay
We first published this page on:	May 18th, 2024
We last updated this page:	Aug 24th, 2025

Contents

On Smithsonian Day, also known as Museum Day, museums across the United States offer free admission to visitors with a special ticket. Hundreds of institutions take part, including science centers, history museums, art galleries, and zoos.

Each guest can visit one participating location of their choice at no cost. This event opens access to cultural spaces that some people might not usually visit.

The day encourages people to focus and explore. Visitors can see fossils, historic documents, artwork, and interactive displays. Many leave with new ideas and a stronger interest in learning.

Children often find it fun and engaging. Adults discover stories and objects they may not have expected. Smithsonian Day helps connect people to museums in a simple, welcoming way.

How to Celebrate Smithsonian Day

Make the most of Museum Day with tips that add fun, ease, and discovery to your visit.

Reserve Your Ticket Early

Grab your free Museum Day ticket as soon as reservations open online. Only one free ticket per email lets you in with a guest. This ensures you can choose your museum ahead and skip extra lines.

Pick Your Spot with Care

Visit the Museum Day site and view the full list of venues. It spans science centers, galleries, zoos, and cultural halls. Narrow down a place that fits your interests or mood.

Arrive Early to Beat Crowds

Start your visit early to explore exhibits before crowds gather. Some sites limit entry when they reach capacity. Early access gives you more time with displays.

Use Guided Tours or Maps

Bring a map or use a museum’s app to plan your path. Some sites also run free lead‑by‑guide highlight tours. Both help you find hidden gems and keep you from wandering aimlessly.

Explore Both Inside Exhibits and Outdoor Areas

Don’t skip gardens, courtyards, or outdoor spaces tied to your museum. For example, many Smithsonian venues include public gardens and lush landscapes nearby. They offer a refreshing break between displays.

Combine With Nearby Museums

Choose museums close to each other if you want more variety. Many participating sites cluster in cities or regions. You can easily hop from one to the next and see more in one outing.

Share the Day Online

Bring a friend or family member and share the experience. Museum Day spreads curiosity and connection. It’s a great way to spark conversation about art, history, or science outside the usual routines.

History of Smithsonian Day

Smithsonian Museum Day began in 2006, started by Smithsonian magazine. It was designed to give people across the country the chance to visit museums for free, just like visitors to the Smithsonian museums in Washington, D.C. could.

The event welcomed anyone who downloaded a special ticket online. Each ticket allowed free entry for the ticket holder and one guest at one participating location.

The first year saw solid interest, and the event kept growing. By 2016, more than 1,200 institutions joined in. These included science centers, art galleries, history museums, zoos, and more.

People could explore places they might not usually visit. It helped remove cost as a barrier, encouraging more curiosity and learning.

In 2014, the event adopted the name “Museum Day Live!” and drew even more attention. That year, over 400,000 people took part. The day became an annual tradition in September and continued to inspire many to explore local culture.

Although Museum Day paused after 2022, its impact remains. It helped connect millions to learning, art, and history. Even now, many hope it will return in the future. The idea behind it—opening access to everyone—still holds strong value today.

Smithsonian Day FAQs

How did the term “Indigenous Peoples’ Day” gain prominence?

The term “Indigenous Peoples’ Day” emerged from a 1977 United Nations conference on discrimination against Indigenous populations in the Americas.

Activists proposed it as a replacement for Columbus Day to honor Indigenous heritage.

Which state first recognized Indigenous Peoples’ Day statewide?

South Dakota was the first state to recognize Indigenous Peoples’ Day statewide in 1990, replacing Columbus Day to honor Native American culture and history.

How do educational institutions participate in Smithsonian Day?

Schools and universities often host lectures, workshops, and cultural events that explore Indigenous traditions, stories, and current issues, fostering greater understanding and respect for Indigenous perspectives.

Are there any international observances similar to Smithsonian Day?

Canada celebrates National Indigenous Peoples Day on June 21st, recognizing the diverse cultures and contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples.

This day includes ceremonies, performances, and educational events across the country.

How has the perception of Columbus Day changed in recent years?

In recent years, there has been a growing movement to replace Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples’ Day, reflecting a shift towards acknowledging the historical and cultural contributions of Indigenous communities and addressing past injustices.

What role do museums play in Smithsonian Day celebrations?

Museums play a significant role by hosting exhibitions, workshops, and performances that highlight Indigenous art, history, and culture, providing educational opportunities for the public.

How can individuals support Indigenous communities on Smithsonian Day?

Individuals can support Indigenous communities by attending cultural events, supporting Indigenous-owned businesses, educating themselves on Indigenous histories, and advocating for policies that protect Indigenous rights.

Are there any notable symbols associated with Indigenous Peoples’ Day?

While there isn’t a universal symbol, many celebrations feature traditional Indigenous art, music, and dance, as well as the display of tribal flags and regalia, to honor and represent the rich diversity of Indigenous cultures.

How do Indigenous communities view the transition from Columbus Day to Indigenous Peoples’ Day?

Many Indigenous communities view the transition as a positive step towards recognizing their histories and contributions, as well as addressing the historical inaccuracies and harms associated with Columbus Day.

What resources are available for educators to teach about Indigenous Peoples’ Day?

Educators can access a variety of resources, including curriculum guides, literature by Indigenous authors, and materials from museums and cultural institutions, to teach about Indigenous histories and cultures in an accurate and respectful manner.

Smithsonian Day