Bush Center Exclusive donor presale

Thank you for your continued support of the George W. Bush Presidential Center's work. Donors must log in to register during the presale period.

Please contact guestservices@bushcenter.org if you need assistance.

Live Strategerist Podcast Recording with Dirk Nowitzki

Saturday, January 24, 2026 | 2:00 pm CT

The Bush Center welcomes Dallas Mavericks legend and NBA Hall of Fame inductee, Dirk Nowitzki. Dirk will join us for a live recording of The Strategerist podcast and share with us memorable stories from the court, his new role as an NBA analyst, and his foundation’s work to provide positive experiences for children around the world.

Registration is required. Space is limited.

To visit the Bush Museum before or after the podcast recording get tickets here. Donors and members must log in to receive free admission to the Bush Museum.

Also happening at the Bush Center

Game Changer: United by Sports

Visit the Bush Museum’s special exhibit Game Changer: United by Sports, presented by Garry Weber.

This family-friendly exhibition celebrates the power of sports to bridge divides and bring people together. Explore rare artifacts, unforgettable sports moments that united the nation, and inspiring stories, including how figures like Jackie Robinson drove meaningful change beyond the game.

Donors and members must log in to receive free admission to the Bush Museum.

A Nation Begins: A Conversation with Ken Burns and Rick Atkinson

Wednesday, February 11, 2026 | 6:30 pm CT

Engage at the Bush Center, presented by NexPoint

In celebration of America’s 250th anniversary, the Bush Center is honored to host an evening of reflection and revelation with two of the nation’s most compelling chroniclers of its founding. Acclaimed filmmaker Ken Burns, co-director of the forthcoming documentary The American Revolution, joins Pulitzer Prize-winning historian and author of the #1 New York Times bestseller, THE FATE OF THE DAY, Rick Atkinson for a wide-ranging conversation on the dreams, dilemmas and defining choices of our founding.

Together, they’ll explore how the Revolution shaped our national identity, the stories still untold, and what it means to commemorate a beginning that continues to challenge and inspire. Moderated by Bush Center CEO Shilo Brooks, this event invites audiences to consider not just where we came from — but where we’re headed.

Please note: Auditorium seating is sold out, but overflow seating is still available.

Donors and members must log in to receive a discounted rate on ticket purchases.

Laura Bush Book Club with Author Allison Pataki

Thursday, May 14, 2026 | 6:30 pm CT

Engage at the Bush Center, presented by NexPoint

This year’s Laura Bush Book Club featured guest is acclaimed author Allison Pataki, whose richly drawn historical fiction has captivated readers around the globe.

Pataki is the multiple New York Times bestselling author of 11 books, including The Traitor’s Wife and The Magnificent Lives of Marjorie Post, with her latest novel It Girl set to be published in March 2026. Translated into more than 24 languages, Pataki’s writing brings overlooked women and pivotal moments in history vividly to life.

Pataki will share insights into her creative process, the power of historical fiction to illuminate truth, and the stories behind the stories that continue to shape our understanding of the past — and ourselves. As we mark America’s 250th birthday, Pataki’s work offers a timely reminder of the individuals, ideals, and complexities that have defined our national journey — and the enduring importance of storytelling in shaping our collective memory.

Donors and members must log in to receive a discounted rate on ticket purchases.

About the George W. Bush Presidential Center

Located on the SMU campus in Dallas, Texas, the George W. Bush Presidential Center is a nonpartisan institution advancing the timeless values of freedom, opportunity, accountability, and compassion. The Bush Center comprises the George W. Bush Presidential Museum and the George W. Bush Institute, a solution-oriented policy organization focused on ensuring opportunity for all, strengthening democracy, and advancing free societies through policy solutions and public engagement. The Bush Center also houses the George W. Bush Presidential Library, operated by the National Archives and Records Administration, which provides access to official documents and artifacts from the George W. Bush Administration. Learn more about the Bush Center at www.bushcenter.org

George W. Bush Presidential Center
2943 SMU Boulevard
Dallas, Texas 75205