25th Anniversary Block Party & Grand Opening

Join us as we celebrate Sitar Arts Center’s 25th Anniversary and the grand opening of our new, state-of-the-art creative space—Sitar Next Door.

We’re hosting a free, two-part community event filled with art, music, food, and connection. We want to celebrate this milestone with everyone who has been part of Sitar’s journey over the past 25 years—students, families, volunteers, donors, teaching artists, and partners—and welcome new neighbors and friends into our growing creative community of learning and belonging.

RSVP today for all or part of the day and help us mark this incredible milestone.

All Day | Sitar Next Door Grand Opening

12:00 - 3:00 p.m. | Afternoon Festival

4:00 - 6:00 p.m. | Sitar on the Piazza Reception

Sitar Arts Center engages DC youth, from early childhood to young adulthood, in building a creative community of learning and belonging that removes financial and cultural barriers to arts education and career training.

Be among the first to step inside our new, state-of-the-art creative space as we officially open the doors to Sitar Next Door—our bold new expansion that creates more space and more opportunities for DC youth to explore the arts and prepare for creative careers.

Throughout the day, you’ll hear from students, staff, and community members about what this exciting milestone means for the future of arts education and creative workforce development in our city.

Guided tours will be available all day.

Our street will come alive with an outdoor festival full of creative fun for the whole family. This interactive experience brings Sitar’s mission to life through hands-on art, music, and moments of connection with our vibrant community. It’s the perfect opportunity to reconnect with old friends, meet new ones, and experience the joy and creativity that define Sitar.

Enjoy delicious food, including pizza from Timber Pizza Co., while taking part in a wide variety of activities for all ages, including:

• Art-making stations
• Face painting
• Community drum circle
• Community art project
• Youth performances
• Guided tours of Sitar Next Door

Please be sure to stop by our Welcome Table when you arrive to receive your food tickets, while supplies last. And be among the first 150 guests to receive a Sitar swag bag.

The festivities continue into the early evening with Sitar on the Piazza, our fifth annual end-of-summer reception for adults 21+, celebrating Sitar’s essential arts education and creative career training programs for DC youth.

Join fellow community members and supporters for an impactful evening featuring Italian-inspired food and drinks, including delicacies from Timber Pizza Co. and Don Ciccio & Figli, and:

• Live music and art
• Art auction
• Prizes
• Guided tours of Sitar Next Door

Host or Publisher Sitar Arts Center