Chautauqua Institution today announced the launch of its Family Scholarship, with applications now being accepted for the 2026 Summer Assembly. Designed to make the Chautauqua experience accessible to all, this scholarship invites eligible families to apply for a fully immersive, one‑week residency on the Chautauqua grounds. 

For 2026, the Family Scholarship will support attendance during Week Eight, taking place August 15–22, 2026, themed: 

Week Eight: The Future of Food — Climate, Technology, and the Next Agricultural Revolution. 

Food is universal — it sustains us, connects us, defines us. But how we grow it, share it, and celebrate it is changing fast. As climate pressures mount, technologies advance and cultural traditions evolve, we find ourselves at the edge of a new agricultural revolution. This week Chautauqua explores the future of food systems through the lenses of sustainability, technology, culture, justice and joy. From vertical farms and climate-smart crops to food sovereignty movements and the science of flavor, we’ll meet chefs, farmers, scientists and changemakers working to reimagine what and how we eat — and what it means for our planet, our communities and our sense of connection around the table.   

The Family Scholarship is open to all families in Chautauqua County, and Chautauqua Institution strongly encourages all eligible families to apply. Whether seeking personal enrichment, professional growth, or a meaningful family experience, this scholarship offers a unique opportunity to participate in Chautauqua’s vibrant community. 

The Family Scholarship Includes: 

• On-grounds housing for the week 
• A meal allowance 
• Access to Special Studies classes (course listings available on chq.org after April 1) 
• Enrollment in Boys’ and Girls’ Club or Children’s School for youth ages 3–16 
• Tickets to Chautauqua Theater Company performances 
• Admission to popular entertainment in the Amphitheater 
• Access to lectures in the Hall of Philosophy and Amphitheater 

Preference is given to families who have not previously attended Chautauqua. Through this scholarship, families are invited to immerse themselves in Chautauqua’s longstanding tradition of learning, dialogue, and community engagement, an experience that is both intellectually enriching and deeply memorable. 

Families selected for the scholarship will also be asked to submit a proposed schedule of activities in advance of their visit to support meaningful engagement throughout the week. 

Application Deadline: April 20, 2026 

Completed applications must be submitted by April 20. Additional information and application materials are available at chq.org/family-scholarship 

Chautauqua Institution looks forward to welcoming another family to the grounds this summer and continuing the tradition of expanding access through the Family Scholarship program. 

ABOUT CHAUTAUQUA INSTITUTION 
Chautauqua Institution is a not-for-profit, 750-acre community on Chautauqua Lake in southwestern New York State where approximately 7,500 people are in residence on any day during a nine-week summer season. More than 100,000 attend scheduled public events each year and even more engage online via Chautauqua’s YouTube streaming channel. Chautauqua is dedicated to the exploration of the best in human values and the enrichment of life through a program that explores the important religious, social and political issues of our times; stimulates provocative, thoughtful involvement of individuals and families in creative response to such issues; and promotes excellence and creativity in the appreciation, performance and teaching of the arts.