World and US

World and US honors the bilateral relations between the United States and nations around the world with events that represent the spirit of the international community and celebrate their impact on the history and creation of the United States of America.

Millennium Stage (In-Person and Livestream)

Frigg

Feb. 9, 2026

One of Finland’s hottest musical exports, the sizzling Nordic sextet have carved themselves a top notch in folk with their heart-bursting, life-affirming, feelgood tunes and immaculate precision musicianship.

Canada

Le Patin Libre: Murmuration

Feb. 17 - 22, 2026

Canadian company Le Patin Libre brings its unique blend of dance and skating to an ice rink installed on an outdoor Kennedy Center plaza.

Millennium Stage (In-Person and Livestream)

Papalca USA

Feb. 21, 2026

This show presents the rich history of the Marinera, tracing its roots from its origin with the Zamacueca the mother of the Marinera and showcasing its evolution across Perus diverse regions: the coast, highlands (sierra), and jungle (selva).

AUSTRIA

Vienna Philharmonic

Wed. Mar. 4, 2026

“Devoted to tending the fire of tradition” (The New York Times), the legendary Vienna Philharmonic returns with a magnificent program led by Grammy Award®–winning conductor Andris Nelsons. Strauss’ Also Sprach Zarathustra opens the concert—its iconic rising horns ushering in the dawn of a new world. Then, Sibelius’ majestic Symphony No. 2 brings us lush, arching melodies.

Japan Society

Hiroaki Umeda

Mar. 17 - 18, 2026

In partnership with Japan Society, this year’s presentation highlights the two latest projects of Hiroaki Umeda, one of the leading figures of the Japanese avant-garde scene.

The Magnificent Mazowsze

Sat. Apr. 25, 2026

The State Folk Song and Dance Ensemble “Mazowsze” is one of the largest artistic ensembles in the world. Founded in 1948 by the composer, symphonist, conductor, and educator Tadeusz Sygietynski, and later led by his wife, Mira Ziminska-Sygietynska, it has for nearly 80 years cultivated and fulfilled its mission of promoting Polish culture on stages around the world.

National Symphony Orchestra

Puccini: 3 One-Act Operas – Il trittico

Apr. 29 - May 1, 2026

Step into a world of passion, tragedy, and deception with Puccini’s Il trittico, a trio of one-act operas led by world-renowned opera conductor Gianandrea Noseda. Suor Angelica plunges into the depths of sacrifice behind convent walls. Il tabarro unveils a shadowy tale of love and betrayal along the Seine. Gianni Schicchi turns deception into delight in a sharp-witted comedy of intrigue. Three stories, three distinct worlds—one unforgettable evening of Opera in Concert.

These countries will be showcased with special performances, cultural exhibits, and culinary events:

Australia • Cyprus • Finland • India • Japan • Latvia
Morocco • Poland • Saudi Arabia • Spain • Turkey