
This season, the Rothko Chapel celebrates its 55th anniversary as the United States of America marks 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence, beginning our nation’s experiment in organizing imperfect governance through democratic representation. This new multi-year programmatic initiative invites us to activate democracy as a living practice shaped by contemplation, creativity, and collective action with a shared responsibility to one another.
Reflecting on this critical moment in American culture and politics, the Chapel explores the roles of arts and culture, faith and spirituality in expanding democracy, citizenship and civic engagement. Through performances, contemplative practices, and interfaith dialogues, our public programs cultivate spaces where diverse voices can meet with curiosity, compassion, and courage. Join us in fostering creative leadership, interfaith solidarity, spiritual resilience, and a renewed commitment to the sacred work of building a more just and inclusive pluralistic democracy.
All programs are Pay What You Can with a suggested value. Programs followed by a reception will be noted on the event listing. Read more on Rothko Chapel Event FAQs.
“Recommitting to Democracy” Program Season Kick-off Festival
Sunday, September 13 2026, 1 PM
Join us as we open a new programmatic year focused on the roles of art and faith in American democracy with a festival and ceremony rooted in sacred connection.
The Truth Booth: Pop-up Public Art Installation | Sept 29 - Oct 3
Tuesday, September 29 2026, 10 AM
Amplifying American voices during the 250th anniversary of the United States, we invite you to record a two-minute video about your truth.
“The New Americans”: Our Shared Struggle for Democracy Panel
Wednesday, September 30 2026, 6 PM
Explore The New Americans with Vincent Valdez and Lonnie Ali in a conversation on identity, resistance, and hope.
Music & Poetry for Peace & Democracy Presented with Jaipur Literature Festival Houston
Sunday, October 4 2026, 9 AM
Come together in community as we celebrate the Jaipur Literature Festival Houston with a morning of music, poetry, and reflection.
Revisiting the Rothko Chapel at 55: Book Talk & Signing
Thursday, October 15 2026, 6 PM
Join us for an illuminating conversation with Dr. Annie Cohen-Solal and David N. Myers as they delve into Revisiting the Rothko Chapel (2024), exploring the profound intersections of democracy, art, and sacred space.
5th Annual Interfaith Time of Remembrance
Thursday, October 29 2026, 6 PM
Gather in community as we contemplate the universal cycles of life, death, and remembrance through music, poetry, and personal reflections in observance of Día de Los Muertos and All Saints’ Day.
Traces of Encounter: The Rothko Chapel and Its Visitors
Thursday, November 19 2026, 11 AM
Join us for a scholarly presentation on visitor experience from an international perspective, a panel discussion, and open visitation of the Rothko Chapel Archives.
Red: A Multidisciplinary World AIDS Day Experience
Sunday, November 29 2026, 2 PM
Experience heART&SOUL, one of the longest-running Queer-centered multidisciplinary open mic experiences in the country
“Visions of Light” presented with Ars Lyrica
Sunday, December 6 2026, 12 PM
A multicultural musical journey for winter solstice curated by Cecilia Duarte and Jesús Pacheco, celebrating peace, unity, and shared belonging.
13th Annual Silent Nights Meditation
Thursday, December 10 2026, 6 PM
Join us for mindfulness practices from diverse traditions to find peace, grounding, and spiritual renewal during the holiday season.