The Kennedy Center will close for two years starting late 2026 for a $257 million renovation, pending final approval.

The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, governed by a board appointed during Donald Trump’s presidency, has approved a two-year closure starting in late 2026 to undergo a $257 million renovation. The project aims to modernize infrastructure, improve accessibility, and enhance performance spaces, with officials citing long-term sustainability and visitor experience. The move, while supported by some as essential for preservation, has drawn criticism over lost programming, transparency, and political influence. A new president has also been named, and final funding and approval remain pending.