The Smithsonian Institution and the National Gallery of Art (NGA) are set to reopen after the longest government shutdown in U.S. history. Starting on Friday, November 14, these federally funded cultural institutions will welcome visitors once again.
The reopening will be staggered, with two of the Smithsonian museums — the National Museum of American History and the National Air and Space Museum and its annex, the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center — opening on Friday. The National Zoo, National Museum of African Art, National Museum of African American History and Culture, National Museum of Asian Art, and National Museum of Natural History will follow suit on Saturday. The remaining 21 museums under the Smithsonian umbrella will gradually reopen starting on November 17.
Similarly, the NGA will open its sculpture garden and West Building on Friday, with the full campus and a highly anticipated Aboriginal art exhibition titled “The Stars We Do Not See: Australian Indigenous Art” opening on Saturday. This exhibition was originally scheduled to open on October 18 but was delayed due to the shutdown.
During the shutdown, the Smithsonian and NGA managed to keep their doors open for a few days using prior-year funds and unexpired appropriation funds, respectively. However, some activities and exhibitions had to be postponed. The Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery had to delay an exhibition associated with its triennial Outwin Boochever Portrait Competition, along with the announcement of prizes.
Both institutions had to furlough a significant number of staff members during the shutdown. The Smithsonian expected to furlough 2,594 out of its 3,860 reported employees, while the NGA planned to retain only 488 out of its 840 reported employees. The impacts of the temporary closure are still being assessed by the NGA, while the Smithsonian is focused on resuming normal operations and welcoming visitors back.
As the institutions prepare to reopen, there may be some delays or changes to programs. However, both the Smithsonian and NGA are committed to providing a safe and enjoyable experience for visitors. Stay tuned for updates on their websites and social media channels for the latest information on exhibitions, events, and operating hours.
