This district is the undisputed epicenter of Bangladeshi arts and culture.
* **Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy:** The principal state-sponsored national cultural center for fine arts and performing arts. * **Charukola (Faculty of Fine Arts):** Located near the National Museum, it is the home of the country's prominent artists and the birthplace of the UNESCO-recognized Mangal Shobhajatra procession. * **Chhayanaut:** A premier institution for Bengali classical music, dance, and cultural preservation. * **Festivals:** The area is the primary host for *Pohela Boishakh* (Bengali New Year) and the massive Dhaka Art Summit.