Family Day at the Capital Jewish Museum: Building the Next 150 Years

Did you know that America’s 250th birthday is also the 150th anniversary of the Capital Jewish Museum’s historic synagogue? Bring the whole family to learn about the past, build on the present, and imagine the future with the help of our friends from the National Building Museum. Drop in any time between 11am and 3pm. Activities include:
Tactile learning and play in a pop-up Hands On Room! Be the first to interact with the Capital Jewish Museum’s brand-new Brodie-Brill Education Collection. Plus, build with vintage Legos, Lincoln Logs, and other architecture themed pieces from the National Building Museum’s Auxiliary Collection.
Discover the new lobby displays featuring stories of Jewish Washington from 1876, 1926, and 1976. A scavenger hunt will help young learners drop into Jewish life in Washington, reflecting on changes, expansions, and relocations over the past 150 years. Prizes for complete scavenger hunts!
Making art and writing reflections to add to the Museums’ 2076 Time Capsule Project
The Slogans and Stickers contest: win the chance to have your quips featured on new Gewirz Museum Shop merchandise!
Snap a family picture in the Commemorative Photobooth, then use supplies in the craft room to create a custom frame or scrapbook page so that future generations can learn about 2026
Explore CJM’s Map Table and then add your memories, hopes, and ideas to the National Building Museum’s collaborative Future Cities Initiative
Cool down with a cool story or two! We’ll have a cozy Book Nook with books for all ages about Jewish American history, community, and values, led by our friends from PJ Library.
And what would a summer day be without sidewalk chalk, hula hoops, bubbles, and more? The third floor terrace will be open for outdoor activities as long as weather permits.
Families of all ages and backgrounds are welcome; best appreciated by children between the ages of 5 and 13. Presented in partnership with the National Building Museum and PJ Library.