On February 1, U.S. President Donald Trump announced that the Kennedy Center would be temporarily closed for construction and reconstruction work.
The decision, which followed a year-long analysis of the center’s condition, was made after consultations with contractors, music experts, art institutes, and other consultants, as well as the board of directors. According to the president, continuing operations during the renovation would compromise construction quality and significantly extend the project timeline.
The Kennedy Center will shut down for approximately two years, closing on July 4, 2026—the day marking the 250th anniversary of the United States—before the simultaneous commencement of a new entertainment complex. Trump emphasized that the grand reopening would “surpass anything that has ever happened to such facilities.”
White House officials confirmed that funding for the project is fully secured. The president noted that the renovation would transform the center, which had long struggled with financial and technical challenges, into a world-class venue for art, music, and entertainment. He added that the updated facility should become a national landmark of pride for future generations.
