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Free Events
The Folger offers a wide range of free events for audiences of all ages, including our monthly book club discussions and our annual celebration of Shakespeare’s birthday.
Little Books, Big Gifts: The Artistry of Esther Inglis
Little Books, Big Gifts: The Artistry of Esther Inglis
Explore Esther Inglis's life and work as an early modern influencer and as the first woman in Britain to preface her works with selfies, in this exhibition 400 years after her death.
Through Sun, Feb 9, 2025
Imprints in Time
Imprints in Time
This special exhibition at the Folger features rare books from the collection of Stuart and Mimi Rose that present literary, cultural, and historical high points.
Through Sun, Jan 5, 2025
Folger Salon with Shaul Bassi and Sylvia Korman
Folger Salon with Shaul Bassi and Sylvia Korman
Learn about research happening at the Folger in real time! Each month, Folger Institute scholar and artist fellows will share their most exciting finds and thought-provoking challenges, followed by casual open conversation.
Thu, Jan 16, 2025 at 4:30pm
Author Talk and Reading: "The Girls of Godzilla, Illinois" with Jami Nakamura Lin
Author Talk and Reading: "The Girls of Godzilla, Illinois" with Jami Nakamura Lin
How do we live with the things that haunt us? Join us online for a virtual talk with Jami Nakamura Lin and a reading from her current book project, which sets folklore—from both Edo period Japan and early modern Europe—against a suburban Chicago community.
Thu, Jan 16, 2025 at 6:30pm ET
Edmond Dédé and Morgiane
Edmond Dédé and Morgiane
Join us for a free talk exploring the music of Edmond Dédé (1827—1903), accompanied by selections from his opera Morgiane. The manuscript of Morgiane, the first known opera by a Black composer, is on display Jan 13 - Feb 28.
Thu, Jan 16, 2025, 6:30pm
Shakespeare Exhibition
Our Shakespeare Exhibition
See the Folger First Folios, learn more about Shakespeare and his plays, and explore the complexities of his cultural legacy.
Ongoing
Workshop and Community Read: "Sweet Blood" with Camille Simone Thomas
Workshop and Community Read: "Sweet Blood" with Camille Simone Thomas
Join Whose Democracy? Artist Fellow Camille Simone Thomas for a workshop and community read of her speculative historical fiction play "Sweet Blood," set in 1727 Jamaica.
Sat, Feb 8, 2025 at 3:30pm
Folger Salon with Alex Baines, Rob Clines, and Anandi Rao
Folger Salon with Alex Baines, Rob Clines, and Anandi Rao
Learn about research happening at the Folger in real time! Each month, Folger Institute scholar and artist fellows will share their most exciting finds and thought-provoking challenges, followed by casual open conversation.
Thu, Feb 20, 2025 at 4:30pm
Cocktails and Conversation with Luis Carazo
Cocktails and Conversation with Luis Carazo
Engage your imagination and take a walk along the hero’s path with Luis Carazo! Learn about the world of role-playing games, its place within the broader spectrum of storytelling, and its impact as a community and empathy building tool.
Thu, Feb 27, 2025 at 7pm
Power on Parade
Power on Parade
With Mardi Gras on the horizon, the Folger considers how the pageantry of parades has led to participation in our democratic process.
Sat, Mar 1, 2025 at 6pm
Out of the Vault: Into the Heart of the Folger
Out of the Vault
Encounter remarkable books and manuscripts that connect with the multifaceted work of the Folger in this ongoing exhibition.
Ongoing