Here are some answers to questions you might have about the REACH Opening Festival:
Do I need a pass to enter?
Yes, timed-entry passes are required for all participants regardless of age. If you arrive without a pass, you will be placed in a stand-by line to acquire one. There is a 6 pass limit per order. Passes can be obtained through the REACH Fest app, online at Kennedy-Center.org/REACH, by phone at 202-467-4600, or in person at the Box Office. Passes can either be printed at home or displayed on your mobile device. If you need your pass re-printed, please visit the Kennedy Center Box Office in the Hall of Nations.
What does my timed-entry pass get me?
Your pass grants timed entry into the REACH campus at the Kennedy Center—to explore and enjoy the outdoor and indoor spaces. However entry is based on space availability. We recommend arriving 30 minutes prior to your scheduled time slot. If capacity has been reached for your time slot before you arrive, you may have to wait in a stand-by line. In addition, passes do not guarantee entry to specific performances or events.
When should I arrive for the Festival?
The suggested arrival time is 30 minutes before the time printed on your pass. There may be enhanced security for this free festival so please allow extra time to arrive for your entry slot. Timed entry is valid from 30 minutes before through the end of the slot. Timed entry passes are required for all participants, regardless of age. If you arrive without a pass, you will be placed in a standby line to acquire one.
Do I need to pre-register for any events?
Select activities may require additional advanced registration. For more information, please refer to the schedule of events.
Where do I enter?
The festival entry points are at the southeast corner of the Kennedy Center past the Hall of Nations entrance, the southwest corner of the River Plaza, and the Bridge access across Rock Creek Parkway.
If you leave the REACH campus after entry, you will need to wait in the standby line for re-entry based on capacity.
What about food and drinks?
Food and beverages will be available for purchase throughout the REACH campus. Outside food and drinks are allowed (see below for prohibited items).
What items are prohibited?
Due to space constraints during the Opening Festival and other safety hazards, prohibited items include:
hard coolers
bags larger than 16 x 16 x 8 inches
Backpacks larger than 15 x 22 inches
glass bottles
outside alcohol of any kind
drones and selfie sticks
pets
All bags are subject to inspection. Guests are prohibited from bringing hard containers into the REACH.
Can I smoke?
The REACH Opening Festival is a smoke-free event (including e-cigarettes or vapes).
What are the seating options?
Seating options will vary—some venues will have seats and others will be primarily standing.
You may bring chairs or personal seating for the outdoor spaces; however, due to space constraints, chairs will not be allowed in the indoor spaces. There will be an area in which you may store your personal chairs while visiting the indoor spaces. Some limited outdoor seating options will also be available.
Can I bring my bike?
Bicycle and stroller parking are available at the Kennedy Center, however due to space constraints, bicycles will not be allowed inside the REACH campus for the Opening Festival.
What if I need an accommodation?
The Kennedy Center welcomes guests with disabilities. For information about accessibility or to request an accommodation, please contact the Accessibility Office by phone at (202) 416-8727 or send an email to access@kennedy-center.org.
Where do I park?
The Center will experience a high volume of patrons for the Festival. We encourage using mass transit, taxi, or rideshare. Catch our free Shuttle from the Foggy Bottom–GWU–Kennedy Center Metro. Parking is available in our garage, however standard parking rates apply when attending free events. Weekend satellite parking will be available at Columbia Plaza (2400 Virginia Ave., NW) from Fridays after 5 p.m. through Sundays at a rate of $12. The Kennedy Center will provide shuttle service from there to the REACH.
