Celebrate the National Gallery’s 200th birthday with Jools Holland and friends, light shows, and a weekend of activities.

The National Gallery is gearing up for an extraordinary celebration as it marks its 200th anniversary with a grand Big Birthday Weekend in May. This milestone event promises an unparalleled blend of art and music, featuring a special performance by Jools Holland and a lineup of musical talents such as Ruby Turner MBE, Louise Marshall, and Sumudu. Visitors can immerse themselves in an array of activities, from DJ sets to creative workshops, set against the backdrop of the Gallery's beautiful collection.

As part of the festivities, the Gallery will come alive with a light show illuminating Trafalgar Square, showcasing projections of iconic paintings and narrating the institution's rich history. Audiences will have the opportunity to engage with art in innovative ways, including sculptural postcard making and Renaissance Selfies.

The weekend celebration extends beyond London, with twelve cherished paintings from the Gallery's collection on loan to museums and galleries across the UK. This initiative, known as National Treasures, ensures that art enthusiasts nationwide can partake in commemorating the Gallery's bicentenary. Gabriele Finaldi, Director of the National Gallery, expresses excitement about welcoming people to celebrate this momentous occasion, highlighting the diverse range of free activities designed to engage both existing and new audiences.

Date: 10 - 12 May 2024. Time: Friday Late 6pm to 9pm, Saturday - Sunday, 10am -6pm. Location: National Gallery, Trafalgar Square, London WC2N 5DN. Price: Admission free, booking required on Friday and advised on Saturday - Sunday. Book now.