The Smithsonian is turning into a free video game arcade this Saturday
July 23, 2026 - 16:12
The Smithsonian American Art Museum is set to host SAAM Arcade this Saturday, a free event that celebrates video games as a form of artistic expression. Visitors will have the chance to play a wide range of games, from indie titles to classic arcade favorites, all while exploring how game design intersects with visual art, storytelling, and technology.
The event is designed to be interactive and family-friendly. Attendees can walk through the museum and find gaming stations set up throughout the galleries. In addition to hands-on play, there will be live performances that blend music and digital art, offering a full sensory experience. Game developers and artists will also be on hand to discuss their creative processes, giving visitors a behind-the-scenes look at how games are made.
SAAM Arcade is part of the museum's ongoing effort to broaden the definition of art and make it accessible to new audiences. By turning its halls into a temporary arcade, the Smithsonian invites people of all ages to engage with digital culture in a space usually reserved for paintings and sculptures. No tickets or reservations are needed, just a willingness to play.
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