Memorial Day: It’s a time to honor those who have lost their lives serving our country…while signifying the (un)official start to summer at the same time. And fittingly, in our Nation’s Capitol, the celebration doesn’t disappoint.

So — whether you’re visiting from out of town or planning a festive staycation, keep reading for the hottest ways to celebrate Memorial Day in and around Washington, DC this year.

#1 The National Memorial Day Parade: Honor the sacrifice of America’s soldiers and service members at the District’s annual National Memorial Day Parade. The parade will march down Constitution Avenue, with spectators able to watch live on the street or on TV. The pre-parade show includes live music performances by the War and Treaty, Brian Kelley, and more special guests (May 27, free, Downtown).

#2 Brew At The Zoo: Spend Memorial Day weekend at the Maryland Zoo for two days of unlimited drink tastings, round-the-clock live music, trivia, and animal activities. Brew at the Zoo festival helps raise funds for the zoo’s operations, wildlife, and educational programs (Sat-Sun, $30+, Baltimore)

#3 Memorial Day Concert: The National Memorial Day Concert salutes the sacrifice made by the men and women in uniform, as well as their families. The free annual concert will be aired on PBS from the West Lawn of the US Capitol on Sunday, May 26 at 8 PM. Actors Gary Sinise and Joe Mantegna will host the proceedings, which will feature numerous other celebrity performers. The event will also be live-streamed online and will be available on-demand for two weeks after the performance!

Looking for more things to do in DC? Check out these posts next:

• Best Pools in DC for Memorial Day
• Best Public Parks in DC
• Best Barbecue in DC

#4 Clara Barton Missing Soldiers Museum: The famous Clara Barton lived at the site of this DC museum in Chinatown during and immediately after the Civil War. The building was set for demolition in 1996, until Richard Lyons (an employee of the General Services Administration) discovered artifacts that revealed the building’s incredible story. Inside, you’ll be treated to a guided tour of preserved rooms where Clara Barton helped families who tragically lost loved ones during the bloodiest war on American soil. Visit the museum’s website for hours and details.

Looking to browse the latest listings in between stops? Check out our lineup of the hottest homes live on the market today!

And if you have questions about buying or selling real estate in DC, give us a call at 202.280.2060 or email us directly at jsmira@jennsmira.com.