Lifelong Learning at Chautauqua​
Our mission of exploring the best in human values come to life in their most fulsome form during our nine-week summer season, on a sublime stretch of tree-covered, lakeside property in southwestern New York state. A 150-year tradition made new every year, the Chautauqua Summer Assembly is a convening of a rotating cast of world-renowned performers and speakers, curious and inquisitive patrons, and talented and ambitious students. There’s nothing like it anywhere. Join us this summer.
Explore the 2024 Weekly Themes
Eight Billion and Counting: The Future of Humankind in a Crowded World
Week Four: July 13–20
Our Greatest Challenges (That We Can Actually Do Something About)
Week Five: July 20–27
Exploring the Transformative Power of Music with Renée Fleming
Week Six: July 27–August 3
Wonder and Awe: A Week Celebrating Chautauqua’s Sesquicentennial
Week Seven: August 3–10
Water: Crisis, Beauty and Necessity – A Week in Partnership with National Geographic
Week Eight: August 10–17
Rising Together: Our Century of Creativity and Collaboration with Wynton Marsalis and the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra
Week Nine: August 17–25
All Lectures and Life Long Learning Opportunities
Chautauqua Lecture Series
Ideas and opinions are exchanged in an open, challenging atmosphere, and Chautauqua’s knowledgeable audiences have the opportunity to participate in question-and-answer sessions at the conclusion of the lectures.
Interfaith Lecture Series
This series is designed to present issues that impact the lived experience of everyday life from theological, ethical, moral, humanitarian, philosophical and religious perspectives.
Literary Arts
Building on generations of engagement, the Chautauqua Literary and Scientific Circle and other literary arts offerings at Chautauqua expose an audience of engaged readers and writers to celebrated authors and teachers.
Classes at Chautauqua
Chautauqua offers classes for youth and adults in subjects ranging from art, music, photography, culinary arts, religion and philosophy, to fitness, dance, history, literature and writing. Enjoy Chautauqua’s unique learning experience and enrich your mind, body and spirit!
Featured Lectures & Performances
Wynton Marsalis’ All Rise
Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with the Music School Festival Orchestra and Buffalo Philharmonic Chorus
Aug. 21
Wynton Marsalis’ All Rise
Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with the Music School Festival Orchestra and Buffalo Philharmonic Chorus
Aug. 22
Plan Your Experience Today
No matter how long you plan to stay, a Chautauqua Institution​ experience is one you won’t soon forget. Use our experience planner to make booking your next visit simple.​
Where to Stay
From the Athenaeum Hotel to countless private rental properties, Chautauqua offers accommodations for all needs and tastes.​
Gate Passes and Tickets
Your Gate Pass is your passport to the Chautauqua experience. All patrons need a Gate Pass during the Summer Assembly season.
Eat, Drink & Shop
Chautauqua Institution’s historic and picturesque grounds are open throughout the year for shopping, dining and exploring.
Stay Connected on Learning Opportunities
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