Art, Music + Theatre

Washington is bursting with art! Our town offers two state-of-the-art performing arts venues that provide a regular schedule of performances, from music to live theater. Galleries and places to create fill the need for visual arts, and instruction in art, music and dance is available, too.

Washington’s claim to fame is as home to a Guinness World Record movie theater! The State was certified in 2016 as the World’s Oldest Continually Operating Cinema Theatre. We are so proud to have this gem of a building and access to family films in our town!

The Washington Community Center and the Washington Area Performing Arts and Events Center always have something in the works. Residents and visitors enjoy their musicals and plays, and the kids get comfortable on stage at their summer camps. Plus, acts of all kinds bring their forms of entertainment to us throughout the year.

Want to learn about and create art? You’re in luck with the LET’s Center for the Healing & Creative Arts.  This nonprofit organization has a mission to give people a place to experience, practice and do art. They offer numerous classes every month, including hands-on wreath and jewelry making, chalk art, painting and more. Readings and other events also have a home here. It’s a place for adults and youth to get creative and make something you can give as a gift or keep for yourself.

Nearby communities in Washington County also offer interesting options, often in historical buildings such as opera houses. And remember, we’re the barn quilt capital, too! Color your world with art, music, movement and performance in our little corner of Iowa!