In partnership with humanists and humanities organizations across the country, the National Humanities Center will stage the Being Human Festival in the United States, April 14–28, 2025. Featuring 12 to 15 public humanities events, this initiative will support the development of programming for diverse, non-academic audiences across geographic regions and subject areas.
The Center is currently entertaining proposals from prospective partners looking to stage an event as part of the Festival. Successful proposals will receive grants from the National Humanities Center to help defray costs for their events, which must be grounded in solid research methods but designed to engage the general public. Academic lectures and symposia will not be eligible for inclusion in the Festival. Walking tours, opportunities to learn a craft, historical re-enactments, communal storytelling ventures, performances, interactive exhibits, and other creative, educational options are encouraged.
The National Humanities Center will review proposals and award grants ranging from $500 to $5,000 to successful applicants.