Overview
- The draw on Dec. 5 will occupy performance spaces and other areas for nearly three weeks, displacing previously scheduled programming, according to reports.
- National Symphony Orchestra concerts from Nov. 24 to Dec. 12 were postponed, with a Dec. 9 Home Alone program moved to another D.C. venue and a marquee Noseda–Nylund weekend shifted to March 2026.
- Staffers have raised concerns about preparing the Kennedy Center Honors set for two days after the draw as FIFA plans to use the Concert Hall, Eisenhower Theater and the Reach complex.
- The venue-use agreement reviewed by reporters indicates FIFA will not pay rent but will cover production costs, and the invite-only draw offers no general ticket revenue.
- Published rental rates suggest a significant foregone fee for a multiweek booking, extending financial pressure on a center already contending with donor pullback, thin ticket sales and artist boycotts.