PAFA 220 Anniversary Soirée
Historic Landmark Building
PAFA 220 Anniversary Soirée
Friday Evening · April 10, 2026
Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Celebrating 220 Years of America’s First Museum and Art School
Honorary Chair
Marguerite Lenfest
Co-Chairs
Sandra Mezzanotte, Rebecca Segall,
Lindy Snider and Cordelia Dietrich Zanger
Women's Committee Liaison
Linda Aversa-Caldwell
RSVP by March 15, 2026
 | A curated evening of art, music, and dining—with an exclusive first look at A Nation of Artists. Join the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts for an unforgettable celebration marking 220 years of artistic leadership. This formal evening brings together collectors, cultural leaders, artists, and supporters for an immersive experience honoring PAFA’s past, present, and future. |
Event Overview
The PAFA 220 Anniversary Soirée is a signature evening commemorating a milestone year for America’s first museum and art school. Guests will enjoy a thoughtfully curated program that blends fine art, live music, and exceptional dining within PAFA’s historic campus.
The evening will also offer attendees an exclusive first look at A Nation of Artists, PAFA’s landmark exhibition celebrating the artists and ideas that have shaped American art across generations.
Event Details
- Date: Friday Evening, April 10, 2026
- Location: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, Historic Landmark Building, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Attire: Creative black tie or formal evening wear
Evening Schedule
6:00–7:30 PM
Exclusive First Look at A Nation of Artists | Historic Landmark Building
Cocktail Reception · Live Entertainment · Dancing | Samuel M.V. Hamilton Building7:30–11:00 PM
Dinner · Dessert · Dancing | Samuel M.V. Hamilton Building
The Experience
- What to Expect: First Look Exhibition Preview Be among the first to experience A Nation of Artists, a major exhibition presented as part of PAFA’s 220th anniversary year.
- Curated Dining & Cocktails: Elegant food and beverage offerings inspired by the evening’s themes and setting.
- Live Music & Artistic Interludes: A refined soundscape and performances enhancing the gallery experience.
- Historic Surroundings: Celebrate within PAFA’s iconic landmark building—where American art history was made.
Tickets & Sponsorships
Sponsorship levels will offer exclusive benefits, including enhanced access, recognition, and opportunities to support PAFA’s mission at a pivotal moment in its history.
About A Nation of Artists
A Nation of Artists explores PAFA’s role in shaping American art education, artistic practice, and cultural dialogue from its founding to today. The exhibition brings together historic works, contemporary voices, and rarely seen materials to tell a layered story of innovation, inclusion, and artistic excellence.
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Why It Matters
For 220 years, PAFA has championed artists, fostered creative education, and preserved the story of American art. The Anniversary Soirée is both a celebration and a call to continue this legacy—supporting artists and audiences for generations to come.
For more information, please contact Soiree220@pafa.org or 215-972-2077.
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If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us at visitorservices@pafa.org — we’d love to help!