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Online Programs on Zoom FAQa

Online Programs on Zoom

Tickets and Confirmations for You and Guests

Online programs require advance registration via our website. You will need to provide a name and email address for each online program registration.

After registering for a program you will receive two emails: The first is an immediate automatic confirmation of your purchase from CustomerService@SmithsonianAssociates.org. You will then receive a second email from no-reply@zoom.us closer to the program date with a link to your online program.

If you register multiple individuals, you will be asked to supply all names and email addresses of your guests at the time of registration so they can receive their own Zoom link email as well. Please note that if there is a change in program schedule or a cancellation, we will notify you via email, and it will be your responsibility to notify other registrants in your group.


Program Cancellations


How do I install Zoom?

You can use the Zoom web client to view most of our programs. The Zoom app may give you some additional interactivity features not supported by the web client.

Download Zoom

View Zoom features by platform


Viewing an Online Program

Smithsonian Associates online programs are streamed live. To view a program, click or tap the Zoom link sent to you via email ("Click Here to Join"), or click the "Join" button for the program on your Portal dashboard. It will automatically open a web page window asking you to launch the Zoom application. Click or tap "Open Zoom Meetings." For the best viewing experience, maximize your Zoom window by clicking "Enter Full Screen" in the top right corner. Make sure your speakers are turned on and adjust your volume level as needed.

  1. Do I have to watch the program from my computer, or can I watch from a phone or tablet?

    You can access Zoom on most mobile devices. You may want to try connecting your digital device to your television to enjoy the program on a larger screen.

  2. The video and slides in the presentation look fuzzy/pixelated. Is there a way for me to "focus" them?

    A fuzzy screen can be caused by multiple factors, some of which are within our technicians' control, however many are outside of our control. If you are experiencing fuzzy or pixelated video or slides, check your internet connection, WiFi signal strength (if applicable), and that you do not have too many other programs open on your computer.

  3. If my computer or the Internet connection shuts down, is there another way that I can experience the program?

    Yes! You can dial-in from a telephone line (listed in the Zoom email) to listen to the program live. Unfortunately, you will not be able to see slides or video with this method.

  4. How many people must I register if multiple people in my home are viewing the program?

    For non-Studio Arts programs, each single program registration will grant you one "login" to the event. If multiple people are watching from one device in the same household you will only need to register one person. If you wish to show your support for our programs, consider donating the admission price of your additional viewers so that we can continue to bring quality programming to our members and audiences!

    All Studio Arts classes require a paid program registration for each participant so that the instructor can provide individual attention to every student listed on the roster.

  5. Why are some programs and classes sold out? Isn't one of digital programming's perks that audiences aren't limited by a seating capacity?

    We have restricted the size of some of our classes so that teachers can give participants individual attention to enhance their experience. For our larger programs, we still have a limit based on the software we use, as well as the technology we have available while our staff continues to work remotely.

  6. What is the deadline to register for a Smithsonian Associates online program?

    Unless otherwise noted, registration for online programs closes two hours prior to the start time on the date of the program.

  7. Are Smithsonian Associates online programs recorded for later viewing?

    View our recording policy