Welcome to Smithsonian Associates In-Person Programs

Learn the foundational skills needed to create a naturalistic figure painting from a live model. The class covers basic proportion, anatomical structure, and color mixing from a limited palette.

Explore the way a simple trip to the store was, in fact, so much more for women in the mid-20th century. Stroll between Pennsylvania Avenue NW and Metro Center with your guide from A Tour of Her Own, stopping along the way to hear stories of the iconic buildings of yesteryear like those housing Hecht’s and Garfinkel’s and the stores’ role in advancing consumerism and civil rights.

Smithsonian Chamber Music Society audiences are privy to the unparalleled experience of being able to hear two magnificent quartets of instruments—one made by Antonio Stradivari, the other by his teacher Nicoló Amati—in this popular three-concert series on Saturdays. The concert features music composed by Florence Price, Ludwig van Beethoven, and Franz Schubert.

Explore the way a simple trip to the store was, in fact, so much more for women in the mid-20th century. Stroll between Pennsylvania Avenue NW and Metro Center with your guide from A Tour of Her Own, stopping along the way to hear stories of the iconic buildings of yesteryear like those housing Hecht’s and Garfinkel’s and the stores’ role in advancing consumerism and civil rights.

Smithsonian Chamber Music Society audiences are privy to the unparalleled experience of being able to hear two magnificent quartets of instruments—one made by Antonio Stradivari, the other by his teacher Nicoló Amati—in this popular three-concert series on Sundays. The concert features music composed by Florence Price, Ludwig van Beethoven, and Franz Schubert.

There’s no more iconic holiday performance in New York than Radio City Music Hall’s famed Christmas Spectacular. And there’s no better way to see the precision dancing of the Rockettes than from prime orchestra seats in the fabulous Art Deco theater where the show has been a tradition since 1933. Before the theatrical magic begins at a matinee performance, get a special behind-the-scenes VIP tour of the Music Hall, covering the stunning 1930s interiors and art, the Great Stage, and Mighty Wurlitzer Organ—with an opportunity to meet a Rockette along the way.

For over 200 years, Cape May, New Jersey, has welcomed travelers to its beachfront. But Cape May isn’t just a summer destination: During the winter season, this shore town transforms into a storybook holiday town. A two-day tour offers the opportunity to experience historic Cape May during a magical time of year.

Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of holiday treats and traditions with food historian and author Francine Segan. Join her for a delightful evening in which she explores the intriguing stories behind America's cherished Christmas sweets and spotlights scrumptious desserts from holidays celebrated worldwide. Following the program, enjoy a reception with an array of treats and take home recipes for baking your own holiday-inspired desserts.

Art historian Ursula Rehn Wolfman leads an art-filled weekend escape to Manhattan that highlights early 20th-century Modernist artists and their works. You’ll have plenty of time to take in several of the most intriguing exhibitions at three cultural powerhouses—and a night on the town to enjoy as you like. (World Art History Certificate elective, 1 credit)

This introductory course teaches the basic skills needed for drawing. Working with a variety of materials and techniques, including charcoal and pencils, students explore the rendering of geometric forms, volume, and perspective, with an emphasis on personal gesture marks.