1. Plural of chautauqua; traveling educational and entertainment programs or assemblies, typically featuring lectures, concerts, and theatrical performances.
Usage: Historical: primarily U.S., popular in late 19th and early 20th centuries; Often capitalized when referring to the original Chautauqua Institution in New York
2. Permanent or semi-permanent cultural institutions or retreat centers offering educational courses, lectures, and performances.
Usage: Modern usage: refers to ongoing educational venues

Examples

• The chautauquas of the early 1900s brought world-class speakers and musicians to small towns across America.
• Many rural communities looked forward to the annual chautauquas that provided entertainment and education.
• The traveling chautauquas featured everything from Shakespearean readings to scientific lectures.
• Several historic chautauquas still operate today as summer retreat centers.
• The chautauquas played an important role in spreading culture and knowledge before the age of mass media.