The scenic and historic Berkshire hills of western Massachusetts are alive with music, art, and theatre. Journalist Richard Selden leads a 5-day tour that offers a splendid sampling of cultural attractions in the region, from historic writers’ homes to outstanding museums to music and theatre performances.

Depart: Sunday, July 29, 2018 - 6:30 a.m.
Return: Thursday, August 2, 2018 - 9:30 p.m.

Fred Rogers, whose beloved television program invited children into his neighborhood for nearly four decades, is enjoying a resurgence in the cultural spotlight these days. Join Karen Struble Myers of the Fred Rogers Center at Saint Vincent College to examine how a small-town childhood shaped his thoughtful children's programming.

Monday, August 6, 2018 - 6:45 p.m.

Steve Forbes, editor-in-chief of Forbes, and historian and classicist John Prevas examine the connection between the final stages of the Roman Empire and the United States as a contemporary world power. Though an analysis of political and moral leadership, they compare these two versions of empire, their similarities and differences, and speculate on what that link holds for America’s future.

Thursday, September 6, 2018 - 6:45 p.m.

For Smithsonian Associates members at the Promoter ($100) level or below: Join us as we feature the National Zoo’s Asian elephant herd—and welcome its newest member, Spike—at this much-anticipated annual event. Enter the zoo before it opens to the public, enjoy breakfast, get up-close looks at the animals, and take in the memorable sights and sounds of Smithsonian’s wonderful zoo.

Saturday, September 22, 2018 - 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.