Make the most of your summer in Washington, DC by enjoying festivals, taking in live performances and catching a couple of sports games.
May
Passport DC | May 1 - 31
Passport DC presented by Events DC is a month-long festival in May that pays tribute to Washington, DC's thriving international diplomatic community and diverse culture. Visitors can use the festival as a chance to stroll Embassy Row-a stretch of Massachusetts Avenue NW that runs through Dupont Circle and Upper Northwest – and visit some of the more than 170 embassies and cultural institutions based in the nation's capital.
Capital House Music Festival | May 24
The Capital House Music Festival is a free annual celebration of local music, art and community, held in Alethia Tanner Park. Featuring an eclectic mix of live performances and food vendors, the festival brings together residents and visitors to celebrate the best of DC’s cultural scene.
National Memorial Day Parade | May 26
Our Sacred Honor tells the story of American military sacrifice from the Revolution to today. Along Constitution Avenue, the parade includes onsite historical re-enactors, veterans, and active-duty military personnel, joined by musical performances and celebrity appearances. The in-person parade takes place live in Washington and will be filmed for a television special that will air on ABC, NBC, CBS and Fox stations nationwide.
Capital Cup Sports Festival | May 30 - June 4
Washington, DC is home to one of the world’s largest and most vibrant networks of LGBTQ+ sports teams and leagues. In collaboration with Team DC, these leagues - along with their athletes, administrators and volunteers - invite athletes from across the globe to participate in the inaugural Capital Cup Sports Festival.
WorldPride Welcome Ceremony + Concert | May 31
WorldPride 2025 kicks off with a Welcome Ceremony at Nationals Park. The event begins with remarks from key dignitaries and the welcoming of the Capital Cup athletes, highlighting the rich history and contributions of the LGBTQ+ community in DC and around the world. Afterwards, global superstar Shakira will headline for her Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran World Tour at Nationals Park.
Project GLOW | May 31 - June 1
Project GLOW is the staple electronic music festival in the DC music scene. This year, the festival features three meticulously designed stages showcasing renowned artists and local talent, along with an expanded site plan and an upgraded VIP experience. Headliners include Alan Walker, Loud Luxury, Subtronics, Tiësto and many more.
Armed Forces Cycling Classic | May 31 - June 1
The Armed Forces Cycling Classic includes two days of closed course biking open to enthusiasts of all abilities. Cyclists can keep it lowkey with amateur, non-competitive events like the Challenge Ride and Kids Race or choose to challenge themselves at the Women’s and Men’s Pro/AM Races (including the famous Clarendon Cup). Everyone who completes more than one lap gets a medal.
Authentic Flamenco Presents Patricia Donn | May 31 - June 1
Join the Royal Opera of Madrid for a night of traditional Spanish flamenco in Downtown DC’s Herman Theater. The brand-new show features award-winning dancer Patricia Donn, alongside a renowned line-up of Spanish artists.
Washington Mystics 2025 Season - CareFirst Arena | Ongoing May - September
The 2019 Women’s National Basketball Association champion Washington Mystics has become one of the most exciting draws in the city. Catch a game at the CareFirst Arena, formerly the Entertainment and Sports Arena, from May through September.
Washington Nationals 2025 Season - Nationals Park | Ongoing March - September
See Major League Baseball at the state-of-the-art Nationals Park in Capitol Riverfront, celebrating 20 years of the team’s return to DC. The stadium offers magnificent views of the Capitol dome and Washington Monument along with the 2019 World Series champions. Don’t miss the famous Presidents’ Race, which happens in the middle of the fourth inning.
DC United 2025 Season - Audi Field | Ongoing February - October
Catch a match at Audi Field between February and October to see the winners of four Major League Soccer Cups. Sit in the boisterous “Screaming Eagles” fan club section for a true DC United experience.
Washington Spirit 2025 Season - Audi Field | Ongoing March - November
Don’t miss a chance to see the Washington Spirit at “Rowdy Audi.” Founded in 2012, the Spirit has a storied history, including winning the 2021 NWSL Championship and being the home to renowned talent like 2024 Olympic-gold medalist Trinity Rodman and NWSL’s 2024 Rookie of the Year Croix Bethune.
June
WorldPride Human Rights Conference | June 4 - 6
The Capital Pride Alliance (CPA) is joining forces with leading human rights organizations for the International WorldPride Human Rights Conference. Focused on inclusion, diversity and accessibility, the conference will feature guest speakers and workshops exploring topics such as queer history, erasure and visibility, and critical issues affecting our global community.
WorldPride Music Festival | June 6 - 7
The ultimate global dance party, this two-day music festival spans three stages with diverse talent, cutting-edge art, and immersive experiences. Headliners include Jennifer Lopez, Troye Sivan, Zedd, Galantis, Grimes, Kim Petras, Paris Hilton, Rita Ora, RuPaul, Sofi Tukker, Tinashe, Trisha Paytas and many more artists.
WorldPride Parade | June 7
The beloved Capital Pride parade tradition will transform into the WorldPride Parade. This event honors LGBTQ+ history while respecting the origins and importance of the fight for equality. The parade will begin at 1 p.m.
International March on Washington & Rally | June 8
Inspired by the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr., Marian Anderson, and countless other trailblazers who have fought for freedom, the march will feature prominent LGBTQ+ activists and leaders from around the world.
Les Misérables | June 11 - July 13
Since its pre-Broadway run at the Kennedy Center in 1986, Les Misérables has changed the world of musical theater. Now, the acclaimed production returns to the Opera House after its sold-out run in 2023. Set against the backdrop of 19th-century France, the musical tells an enthralling story of broken dreams and unrequited love, passion, sacrifice and redemption.
DC/DOX Film Festival | June 12 - 15
Expect four days of visionary documentaries and conversations with the talent behind dozens of innovative and acclaimed works of non-fiction storytelling. Catch a showing at locations all across the city such as Edlavitch Community Center, Eaton Cinema, MLK Memorial Library and the National Archives.
Home Rule Music Festival | June 13 and 21
This DC-centric festival celebrates the rich music and cultural scene of the nation's capital. The 2025 edition includes a Youth Showcase at Woolly Mammoth and a full day of live performances at the Parks at Walter Reed. If you can't make these dates, plan ahead for part three in Oct.
U.S. Army Anniversary Parade | June 14
The U.S. Army and President Trump are planning an extensive celebration in the nation’s capital, featuring a fireworks display, concert and parade to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army. Organizers anticipate more than 6,000 soldiers, along with dozens of vehicles and aircraft. The concert will take place at 8 p.m. at the Ellipse with fireworks to follow.
Protests are also planned that day, including one by the National Protest Against Trump and the War Machine. The National Park Services is expecting thousands of participants according to the permit.
FIFA Club World Cup 2025 | June 14 - July 23
Local and international soccer fans will flock to stadiums around the U.S. to witness their favorite club teams perform on American soil. The nation’s capital will host three matches of FIFA Club World Cup 2025 at Audi Field from June 18 to June 26. Fans can witness top-tier clashes, including Al Ain (UAE) vs. Juventus (Italy) on June 18, FC Salzburg (Austria) vs. Al Hilal (Saudi Arabia) on June 22, and Wydad AC (Morocco) vs. Al Ain on June 26.
Emancipation Proclamation & General Order No. 3 | June 19 - 22
In honor of Juneteenth, the National Archives will place the original Emancipation Proclamation, the document proclaiming the freedom of all enslaved people, on display in the Archives Rotunda Galleries. The document will be shown alongside General Order No. 3, which U.S. Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger issued two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation informing the people of Texas that all enslaved people were free.
District Cup | June 21
The game of Polo has been played on the National Mall for more than 100 years. Thousands of guests from around the world—including young professionals, diplomats, members of Congress, executives, and more will gather on the National Mall to experience world-class horsemanship to raise money to support educational and Polo scholarships for underserved Washington, DC-area youth. This is a ticketed event.
Fête De La Musique – World Music Day | June 21
Faites la fête at Georgetown's iteration of the free, live music festival that has been celebrated in France for over 40 years. Listeners can catch R&B, Americana, jazz, bluegrass, spoken word or rock across the fest's locations throughout Georgetown's commercial district and at the French Embassy.
Smithsonian Solstice Saturday | June 21
Celebrate the official first Saturday of summer with the Smithsonian. Institutions like the Hirshhorn, the National Zoo, the National Museum of Asian Art and the National Museum of American History will curate special projects and programs, host exciting performances and grant the rare chance to explore the museums into the evening.
Giant National Capital Barbecue Battle | June 21- 22
Rib roasters and sauce bosses show off their delicious wares during the Giant National Capital Barbecue Battle. Dozens of pit masters, local restaurants and live music shut down Pennsylvania Avenue between 3rd and 7th streets NW for a lively street party. Cooking demos and free tastings make for a delicious (and filling) experience. Tickets start at $20.
Dupont Kalorama Museum Walk Weekend | June 21 - 22
Take two days to enjoy free admission at seven awesome DC museums. The Dupont Kalorama Museum Walk weekend includes Anderson House, Dumbarton House, Dupont Underground, the National Museum of American Jewish Military History, O Museum in The Mansion, The Phillips Collection and the Woodrow Wilson House. You will have access to new exhibits, fascinating stories and live music at each museum, an incredible free opportunity that comes only once a year.
Dolly Parton’s Threads: My Songs in Symphony | June 26 - 27
Join the National Symphony Orchestra for a vivid, visual-musical journey through the music, life, and legacy of Dolly Parton, featuring the Southern icon on screen. Accompanied by guest vocalists and musicians, Steven Reineke conducts new and innovative orchestrations by David Hamilton of Dolly’s hit songs, including “Jolene,” “Coat of Many Colors” and “I Will Always Love You,” plus some of her own personal favorites.
July
Smithsonian Folklife Festival | July 2 - 7
The free festival salutes different international cultures every year on the National Mall with craft exhibits, live music and cooking demos. The 2025 edition focuses on "Youth and the Future of Culture" and is the largest annual cultural event in the U.S. capital.
Daytime Baseball at Nationals Park | July 4
The Washington Nationals annually play at home on Independence Day, holding a daytime game to accommodate the activities throughout the city the rest of the day.
July 4th Fireworks | July 4
Watching the fireworks is one of the highlights of Independence Day in Washington, DC and fortunately, the city and the surrounding area offer a plethora of scenic viewing options. July 4th is a great time to be in DC and it’s a great time to find hotel deals.
The International Colombian Festival | July 19
This growing event celebrates Colombia and Latino culture with live music, dance performances and lots of food at the Catholic University of America. This year, Puerto Rico will be featured as the “guest country” and all proceeds gained go to non-profit organizations that work in Colombia or other parts of Latin America.
Mubadala Citi DC Open | July 21 - 27
The District’s signature professional tennis tournament returns to Rock Creek Park Tennis Center. Top-tier talent from all over the world will compete for a prestigious trophy, leading to action that you do not want to miss.
August
Broccoli City Festival | Aug. 8 - 10
This beloved festival focused on celebrating music, culture and community takes on a new format this year with a full weekend of collaborations at Nationals Park and around Southwest neighborhood: hosting Trap Karaoke, throwing a massive Block Party and sponsoring Breezy Bowl XX with headliner Chris Brown.
Otakon | Aug. 8 - 10
Held at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center each year, Otakon might just be the dedicated event space’s liveliest function (emphasis on FUN) all year long. The family-friendly convention is run by and dedicated to fans of Asian media, entertainment and pop culture, including anime, manga, music, movies and video games. The festivities range from cosplay contests, skits and live music to panel discussions with comic book (super)heroes, for-sale artworks and much more.
DC Bachata Congress | Aug. 14 - 18
Ranked as the best Latin dance festival in the U.S. five times, DCBX17 takes over the nation’s capital for five days each summer. Veterans and newbies of dancing bachata, the sexier-than-salsa dancing style from the Dominican Republic, will have plenty of chances to strut their stuff, from concerts to contests to workshops.
Restaurant Week | Aug. 15 - 21
The Restaurant Association of Metropolitan Washington’s (RAMW) Summer Restaurant Week returns, where foodies can enjoy deals from over 200 eateries in DC, Maryland and Virginia. Restaurants offer three-course, prix-fixe meals for brunch, lunch and dinner.
DC JazzFest | Aug. 29 - Sept. 1
One of DC’s ultimate summer traditions brings national and local musicians to a range of venues all over the city, including The Wharf. Some concerts are free; most are ticketed. A lineup stacked with talent and free performances are just some of the many reasons why you should check out this year's edition of DC JazzFest.
DC Festival of Magic | Aug. 30 - Sept. 1
Back at the Capital Hilton for a fourth year, the DC Festival of Magic brings together the best magicians in the Mid-Atlantic region for three nights of Labor Day weekend entertainment that will make your head spin.
September
National Symphony Orchestra's Free Labor Day Concert | Sept. 1
The National Symphony Orchestra's free annual Labor Day weekend concert returns to the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol. The performance is free to attend and tickets are not required. Seating is first-come, first-served.
DC Bike Ride | Sept. 6
If you’re looking for fun activities in the District this fall, you’ve found a gem with DC Bike Ride. With a family-friendly course, the event is one of the biggest celebrations of cycling in DC and offers a unique experience to its participants, winding riders through city streets and by monuments and memorials. The 20-mile excursion welcomes riders over the age of three and includes a Finish Festival with food, music and fun activities.
2025 National Book Festival | Sept. 6
The 25th annual Library of Congress National Book Festival will be held at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. The free event includes a book sale, panels with renowned authors and engaging exhibits.
Washington Commanders Season Starts | Sept. 7
Washington, DC’s official professional football team, the Commanders, compete in the National Football League as a member of the National Football Conference East division. With a successful run in the playoffs in 2024, fans are looking forward to cheering on their team on opening day against the New York Giants.
The Shape of Power: Stories of Race and American Sculpture | Through Sept. 14
The Smithsonian American Museum’s new exhibit examines sculpture’s role in understanding and constructing race in the United States. Across 82 sculptures created between 1792 and 2023 by 70 different artists, visitors can observe historical and modern works that inspire conversation and reflections on how power, identity and race are intertwined.