National Gallery of Art Block Party

National Gallery of Art Block Party

This is the National Gallery's biggest public event ever, a full-campus block party spanning both buildings and the Sculpture Garden. Kids can build with LEGOs alongside a master builder in the Rotunda (get there early, this draws a crowd). There's an art and poetry lab where kids make collage quilts, and the Racing Presidents mascots show up for photos.

The event runs all day with music, food trucks, and curator-led gallery talks sized for families. The East Building has hands-on artmaking stations, and the Sculpture Garden has a DJ and open space where kids can run around between activities. It's a lot of ground to cover, so pick your must-dos ahead of time.

Parent Tips 💡

• ✓Arrive early for the LEGO station: The Rotunda LEGO build is the most popular activity and fills up fast. Get there close to 10am if this is a priority for your kids.
• ✓Bring a stroller for younger kids: There's a lot of walking between the West Building, East Building, and Sculpture Garden. Little legs get tired quickly on this campus.
• ✓The Sculpture Garden fountain is great for toddlers: Even if they're not into art yet, the open space and water feature keep them happy while you enjoy the DJ and food.
• ✓Pack snacks: Food trucks will be there but lines can get long, especially around lunch. Having something in your bag avoids hangry meltdowns.
• ✓The East Building courtyard has AC: If June heat hits, duck inside. The courtyard is cool and spacious, and the artmaking stations are there too.
• ✓Wear comfortable shoes: You'll be on your feet all day across multiple buildings. This is not a flip-flops kind of outing.