The Kennedy Center Honors is an annual award presented by the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C. Established in 1978, it recognizes individuals for their lifetime contributions to American culture through the performing arts. The honorees are celebrated for their achievements in fields such as music, dance, theater, and film. The ceremony typically takes place in December and includes a star-studded gala attended by notable figures from the arts and entertainment industry. Each honoree is celebrated through tributes and performances that highlight their impact on the arts, making it a prestigious event in the cultural calendar.