The 2026 Smithsonian Craft Show is a premier event that celebrates American artistry and skill of artisans from all corners of the country.
Preview night events are the single biggest contributor to the Smithsonian Women’s Committee’s ability to award grants to the Smithsonian.
WHERE: National Building Museum, 401 F St NW, Washington, DC 20001
Visionary Artist Reception and Award Presentations
WHEN: Wednesday, 4:45 p.m. — 6:00 p.m.
WHAT: The Smithsonian Visionary Award will be presented to ceramic artist Wayne Higby, and the Smithsonian Women's Committee Delphi Award will be presented to ceramic artist Cristina Córdova. following a sparkling wine and hors d’oeuvres reception.
Preview Night Benefit Party
WHEN: Wednesday, 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
WHAT: Enjoy drinks, live music, and cocktail buffet as you chat with this year’s exhibiting artists and special guests Wayne Higby and Cristina Córdova.
COST:
Preview Night Benefit Party: $300.
Patron level ticket: $550. A Patron level ticket includes the Visionary reception and award presentations to Wayne Higby and Cristina Córdova.
Valet parking on opening night is available for $25 per car purchased online and $30 at the door.
WHEN: April 23 - 25: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m, April 26: 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
WHERE: National Building Museum, 401 F St NW, Washington, DC 20001
WHAT: The Smithsonian Craft Show is the country's premier showcase for the finest in hand-crafted, American artisanal works. This year's theme is American Artistry. A highlight of the 2026 Craft Show will be the presentation of the Smithsonian Visionary Award to ceramic artist, Wayne Higby.
COST: $25. per person. $20. per person for groups of 10 or more and students.
A multiday ticket is available for $40.
WHEN: Thursday, April 23, 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.
WHERE: National Building Museum, 401 F St NW, Washington, DC 20001
WHAT: Enjoy a lively conversation featuring ceramic artist Wayne Higby, the 2026 Smithsonian Visionary Award recipient, and Cristina Córdova, the 2026 Smithsonian Women's Committee Delphi Award recipient.
COST: $50 per person. Craft Show general admission is included.
WHEN: Friday, April 24, 1:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
WHERE: National Building Museum, 401 F St NW, Washington, DC 20001
WHAT: A presentation featuring Craft in America’s forthcoming book, Handwork: Handcrafted Objects That Made America (Phaidon, Summer 2026) with editor Emily Zaiden and contributing writers Barry Bergey, former NEA folk and traditional arts director, and acclaimed furniture designer Mira Nakashima. Moderated by Carol Sauvion, founder and former executive director of Craft in America. Join us in this landmark year in the history of America as we reflect on how craft built the nation and how it continues to embody the values of our country today.
COST: Free, with Craft Show ticket for Friday, April 24