CBS 8 collaborates on centennial celebration by sharing archive footage of Queen Elizabeth’s visit, Star Wars and Muppets exhibitions.

SAN DIEGO — The San Diego Museum of Art is marking a historic milestone in 2026, celebrating its centennial with free admission on its 100th anniversary on Feb. 28 and a year-long series of exhibitions and community events.

“Absolutely excited and proud. Proud to be here at this moment,” said Roxana Velásquez, Executive Director and CEO of the San Diego Museum of Art.


The museum, which first opened its doors on Feb. 28, 1926, will host an all-day birthday party on its anniversary date featuring free admission from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. The celebration will also include a ticketed “Cake Party” offering unlimited birthday cake, live music and activities. Visitors can explore centennial merchandise, including T-shirts and keychains, available in the gift shop.

“This is the place that belongs to San Diegans. This is the place that everybody should feel it’s their home,” said Velásquez.


The centennial celebration extends throughout 2026 and aims to honor the museum’s rich history while looking toward the future. 

“How can we pay homage to those who are here before us? How can we remind the community by inviting them why this museum was created?” said Velásquez.

The museum houses 40,000 works of art dating back to 3000 BC, including pieces by renowned artists such as Claude Monet. 

“Who doesn’t know Monet? Monet is probably the most famous artist in the world,” said Velásquez.


CBS 8 is collaborating with the centennial celebration by sharing more than 75 years of archive footage documenting the museum’s history, including footage from significant events such as visits from the Queen of England in 1983, the Muppets exhibition in 1979, and the Star Wars exhibition in 1999.

Velásquez extended an invitation to the community.

“I would like to invite everybody to come and visit the San Diego Museum of Art. This has been for you for the last 100 years, but also it will be open for you and your kids and your grandkids and next generations.”

For more information, visit the museum’s website by clicking here.