Celebrating 100 Years of the Legion of Honor: A Grand Centennial Event
Celebrating 100 Years of Art and Culture at the Legion of Honor
The Legion of Honor Museum in San Francisco has stood as a beacon of art, culture, and history for a century, and on its 100th anniversary, the museum celebrated in grand style. The festivities unfolded under sunny skies in the museum’s iconic Court of Honor, where visitors gathered for an unforgettable day of music, art, and community.
A Vibrant Program Honoring Community and Heritage
The event opened with a performance by the George Washington High School Marching Band, setting a lively tone. The Ohlone welcome that followed brought a sense of reverence and connection to the land, led by Jonathan Cordero and Gregg Castro of the Association of Ramaytush Ohlone. Their words honored the museum’s place on ancestral land and underscored the importance of cultural respect and preservation.
Thomas P. Campbell, Director and CEO of the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco, extended a warm welcome to all, celebrating the Legion of Honor’s role in bringing world-class art to the Bay Area. Throughout the day, attendees enjoyed remarks from notable speakers, including Diane B. Wilsey, Chair Emerita of the Fine Arts Museums, and Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi, who presented a Congressional Certificate of Honor. San Francisco Supervisors Connie Chan and Aaron Peskin shared a special city resolution recognizing the centennial, underscoring the museum’s integral role in the community. International ties were also honored with presentations from Elizabeth Minick, Florian Cardinaux, and Army General François
Interactive Art and the Centennial “Cake Picnic”
In addition to the program, attendees could create their own piece of Legion history. ARTivate/City Studios’ mobile art bike offered a screen-printing experience, allowing visitors to create limited-edition prints inspired by the museum’s art and architecture.
The celebration continued with a unique “Cake Picnic,” where each attendee was encouraged to bring a cake. This unconventional twist transformed the picnic into a gallery of cakes that were as artistic as they were delicious, each one a tribute to the creativity and diversity of the community. The ceremonial cake-cutting concluded the day, leaving everyone inspired and united in celebration.
A Legacy of Inspiration and Community Connection
The Legion of Honor’s centennial was a day to celebrate the past, present, and future. From honoring indigenous heritage to fostering creative expression and community unity, the event embodied everything the Legion of Honor has contributed to San Francisco over the past century. Here’s to the next 100 years of art, culture, and community at this beloved museum!
Who can forget to take a photo of the scenic views atop the hill at the Legion of Honor?
