Oratory Residency and Festival
February 3, 2026 — February 4, 2026
Honor the enduring power of words at our 18th Annual Lincoln Oratory Festival. This inspiring event celebrates Abraham Lincoln’s birthday and his remarkable ability to captivate audiences with his oratory skills. Witness talented students from local schools deliver powerful speeches from a selection of historical figures. Explore the rich tapestry of American history through speeches by Abraham Lincoln, Frederick Douglass, Chief Powhatan, Ida B. Wells, Sojourner Truth and many other great orators that have shaped our present day. Reserve free tickets at the links below.
About the Lincoln Oratory Residency and Festival Program
The Lincoln Oratory Residency and Festival program involves 3rd – 8th-grade students experiencing and exploring the power of historical speeches. Throughout the program, students will work with a Fords Teaching Artist to enhance their vocabulary, develop public speaking skills and build confidence as they bring historical speeches to life on stage at Ford’s Theatre.
