Secretary Lonnie G. Bunch III, alongside other curators, has developed the exhibition “American Aspirations” at the Smithsonian Institution. The exhibition emerges as the Smithsonian faces federal examination. According to Bunch, “This is not a rebuttal.”
As of May 29, 2026, activity is buzzing outside the Smithsonian Castle. Workers are busily constructing a pavilion for the celebratory event known as America 250 on the National Mall. The project proceeds with the Smithsonian Castle serving as its backdrop.
Construction crews are laboring to set up an event proposed by President Donald Trump. This event, described as the Great American State Fair, aims to commemorate a version of American history on the National Mall. Envisioned as a 16-day event, it will contain concerts, carnival attractions, and exhibits themed by individual states. The fair intends to honor “AMERICAN GREATNESS,” celebrating values like “our heritage, our flag, and our glorious American freedom.”