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Kennedy Center Stops Free Tours After 50 Years

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The Kennedy Center has announced that it is halting its free public tours effective immediately, ending a tradition that has lasted for five decades. The decision follows a recent New York Times article that highlighted a volunteer tour guide who was featured in coverage of President Trump’s overhaul of the institution.

According to the statement released by the center’s leadership, the suspension is indefinite and will remain in place until further notice. Officials said the move was prompted by concerns arising from the publicity surrounding the guide’s involvement in the Times piece, which detailed the administration’s changes to programming and leadership.

The Kennedy Center, a major cultural venue in Washington, D.C., has welcomed millions of visitors through its complimentary tours since the 1970s. The pause marks a significant shift in its public engagement strategy, and the institution said it will continue to evaluate the situation as it works to align its operations with its current direction.