By the People Festival 2018

Thurs., June 21–Sun., June 24, 10 a.m.–6 p.m. (until midnight on Sat., June 23)

Picnic Talks on the National Mall: 12 noon–1 p.m.

By The People is Washington’s largest international arts and dialogue festival featuring performances, original art installations, important conversations, and an augmented reality art hunt—all supporting the founding principles of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. The festival will take place in every quadrant of the city; the Smithsonian’s landmark Arts and Industries Building will serve as the festival’s headquarters and central hub.

Smithsonian Associates will curate a series of short lunchtime “Picnic Talks” in the Arts and Industries Building. Each day, from 12 noon to 1 p.m., speakers will give short talks that explore the festival’s themes, covering topics in art, science, history, culture, and food, as well as local life in Washington, D.C. These talks are free to the public.