Kennedy Center board votes to close immediately for renovations after monthslong back and forth

Published September 15, 2026 2:46pm ET | Updated September 15, 2026 2:46pm ET



The Kennedy Center Board of Trustees has reportedly voted to immediately close the performing arts center in Washington, citing the facility’s financial straits.

The board voted to close the facility during its meeting on Tuesday afternoon, according to multiple reports, including the Associated Press. The vote came after officials warned in an internal memo that the facility could shutter as early as Tuesday due to an impending “certain financial collapse.” According to Axios, the building will be closing for renovations that the Trump administration has publicly planned since early 2026.

Already a print subscriber? Click here to login/register your account

Trusted reporting.Unlimited access.

Subscribe for full access to Washington Examiner coverage, expert political analysis, and subscriber-only journalism.

Get Unlimited Access

Already a member? Log in

Cancel anytime.