How to Celebrate Labor Day in Washington, DC
Lifestyle
As much as we love pumpkin spice season, we’re not ready to wave goodbye to summer just yet.
Luckily, we don’t have to part ways with our sunglasses, tans, and bathing suits until Labor Day comes and goes. In other words? The end-of-summer countdown is officially on. So — how can you make every last minute count? By soaking up every drop of sunshine-saturated fun that DC has to offer. Without further ado, here are the most festive ways to celebrate Labor Day in DC this year!
#1 Get Out on the Water
No matter what kind of nautical activity you’re looking for — be it paddle boarding, kayaking, or pedalboarding — you can do it without leaving the city behind. Fan-favorite CapitalSUP takes you out on the Anacostia River, or you can head down to the Key Bridge Boathouse in Georgetown to explore the Potomac from a new vantage point.
#2 Cool Off in the Pool
The District may be known for its sweltering summer temperatures, but at least it provides respite in the form of outdoor pools that are free to the public. While some public pools have closed early, a good number are still open for the bulk of the holiday weekend. What are you waiting for? Take advantage of this refreshing perk while you still can!
#3 Brunch in Style
Nothing says the last weekend of summer quite like an outdoor brunch spent savoring the warm weather and toasting to the months ahead. Some of our go-to spots? Brasserie Liberte, where sparkling wine flows, El Techo, a Mexican staple that goes all-in on brunch, or Primrose, a whimsical Brookland bistro.
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#4 Escape to Annapolis
Looking to get out of the city this weekend? Maryland’s Capital — just a short drive from the sights and sounds of DC — is the ultimate summertime destination. A charming colonial town anchored by its maritime roots, Annapolis is home to an impressive mix of activity that offers something for everyone. Tour the iconic Naval Academy, stroll the picturesque, water-lined streets brimming with shops and restaurants, rent a boat to explore the Chesapeake Bay, or crack crabs at Cantler’s, an iconic crab shack that first opened its doors in 1978.
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#5 Sip Spirited Drinks at Chacho Spirits
Jalapeno-infused aguardiente fuels the cocktails at this Manor Park bar and distillery, set in a transformed industrial building, which burst onto the scene earlier this year. The sugar cane spirit is similar to rum and a favorite drink in Colombia, where owner Dan Ziegler found his inspiration. His variation of the spirit, named Chacho, has a spicy kick that still manages to be surprisingly drinkable — whether served neat, on the rocks, or mixed into a proper cocktail. The bar features some simple ways to enjoy Chacho, including as a margarita or a mule, along with more intricate recipes for the daring drinker. Several of the cocktails are recreations from bars and bartenders around DC, making for a true local experience.
➤ For more ideas on how to enjoy the final days of summer read:
Looking for more ways to end your summer on the right foot? Check out our list of things to do at The Wharf!
