US President Donald Trump announced on Sunday that the Kennedy Center will close for two years starting July 4, 2026, America's 250th anniversary. The shutdown is for major renovations to transform it into what Trump calls the world’s finest performing arts facility. Trump, who recently became chairman and added his name to the building, made the decision amid falling ticket sales and performer boycotts. He posted on Truth Social that all entertainment operations must stop so construction can proceed without interruption. Trump said, “After a one year review ... I have determined that The Trump Kennedy Center, if temporarily closed for Construction, Revitalization, and Complete Rebuilding, can be, without question, the finest Performing Arts Facility of its kind, anywhere in the World.” He added the closure would speed up work and improve quality, saying, “The temporary closure will produce a much faster and higher quality result!” Trump also announced the closure was subject to board approval but planned a grand reopening after two years that will “rival and surpass anything” before. Trump claimed, “Financing is completed, and fully in place!” He called the center “tired, broken, and dilapidated” and promised to make it a “World Class Bastion of Arts, Music, and Entertainment.” The announcement sparked speculation about the center’s struggles. Maria Shriver, of the Kennedy family, said many artists refuse to perform there, with notable cancellations including “Hamilton,” Renee Fleming, and Philip Glass. The Washington National Opera also plans to leave after 50 years. The controversial addition of Trump's name without congressional approval caused backlash, and the center's leadership is unstable, with new Senior Vice President Kevin Couch resigning soon after appointment. Recent data shows ticket sales at their lowest since the pandemic. The Kennedy Center awards TV ceremony ratings fell by 25 percent from 2024 to a record low, according to Nielsen.