Join us September 22-24, 2026 in Washington, DC and online.
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Get UpdatesFor more than 75 years, the National Trust for Historic Preservation has led the movement to save the places where America’s history happened—protecting iconic sites, amplifying the full American story, and building stronger communities rooted in our history. As the nation marks its 250th anniversary, this mission has never been more urgent.
We work nationwide with partners, friends, and champions to steward, advocate for, and revitalize the places and stories that shape our shared future. Through this work, we help drive economic growth, foster healthier environments, and strengthen a shared sense of civic duty and belonging.
The National Trust will host its premier gathering on Tuesday, September 22, and Wednesday September 23 at Washington National Cathedral, one of the most consequential and architecturally significant venues in the country, and a former grantee of the National Trust.
This National Preservation Summit will bring together leaders from the preservation community—in-person and online—alongside national, civic, business, and community figures from across the nation. With a theme of All People Are Created Equal, this convening will explore community revitalization, the interpretation of the past to foster a shared future, and unity through historic places.
Together, they will celebrate the enduring power of historic places, engage with the founding principles that shape our democracy, and chart a bold course for preservation’s next chapter. During our nation’s 250th anniversary year, this event honors innovative preservationists and invites leaders across the country to carry forward a legacy rooted in America’s most enduring ideals.
On September 24, the National Trust takes the Summit’s momentum directly to Capitol Hill, leading an Advocacy Day and hosting a closing reception.
National Cathedral and Livestreamed
The National Preservation Summit opens with an evening reception and presentation of the National Trust’s annual awards including the prestigious Driehaus and Crowninshield awards.
National Cathedral and Livestreamed
The heart of the National Preservation Summit is a full day of programming examining how historic places meet the needs of Americans today—exploring adaptive reuse, creative financing solutions through tax credits, energy efficient retrofitting, and innovative approaches to interpreting America’s complex history.
Recognized leaders across preservation, policy, business, and the arts will convene through panel discussions, keynote addresses, and opportunities to connect with figures shaping America’s future. Together, their distinct voices reveal how historic places sit at the center of thriving communities—a common ground uniting Americans across the country.
Capitol Hill
The National Preservation Summit is followed with a day of action on Capitol Hill— where attendees will meet directly with elected officials to make the case for preservation as essential infrastructure for American communities. The day concludes with a closing reception and the presentation of additional awards celebrating historic preservation leadership and advocacy.
The National Trust’s flagship event brings together the national leaders, decision makers, and philanthropists actively shaping the future of America’s historic places. Sponsorship at the National Preservation Summit offers national visibility through the National Trust’s network. Custom packages start at $5,000, including recognition at the Summit and other benefits.