Hundreds of community and business leaders, students, faculty, staff, trustees, alumni and neighbors gathered February 21, 2026, at the Maryland Institute College of Art to celebrate the college’s 200th anniversary at the Bicentennial Celebration, “Fête of Lights.” The event honored two centuries of MICA’s creative impact in Baltimore and beyond, while illuminating the future and what makes MICA special.

The campus was transformed into an illuminated art experience, featuring light sculptures, installations, and fireworks. Students, alumni, faculty, and staff designed and modeled their own light-inspired wearable art, which they paraded down the steps of the Main Building and into a Grand March, which led guests across Mount Royal Avenue and into the Brown Center.

MICA’s bicentennial celebration continues throughout the year, with additional events and programs planned. For more information, visit mica.edu/200.

MICA's Bicentennial: Celebrating Two Centuries

Join the festivities as MICA honors its 200-year history, recognizes its present success, and looks forward to a bright future. Throughout 2026, the College will be sharing community stories and announcing one-of-a-kind events on campus, in Baltimore, and beyond.

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