Mark Your Calendars For These Festivals and Events
Lifestyle
Craving something to look forward to beyond warmer temperatures alone? Luckily, when it comes to festive happenings, DC doesn’t disappoint.
From family-friendly outings to musical displays and themed celebrations, here’s your roundup of the best events and festivals slated to hit the DC scene this spring and summer. Our advice? Mark your calendars now so you don’t miss out!
#1 DC/DOX Film Festival: June 12-15: The annual DC/DOX Film Festival returns for four days of bold, thought-provoking documentaries and in-depth conversations with the creators behind them. Screenings and events will take place at venues across the city, including past favorites like Eaton Cinema, MLK Memorial Library, the National Archives, and the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
#2 World Pride (May 17th-June 8th): In partnership with local nonprofit Capital Pride, Washington, DC is gearing up to host WorldPride 2025 — a global celebration of diversity, equality, and love. Timed with the 50th anniversary of Pride in DC, this historic milestone will draw millions from around the world for a vibrant lineup of events, parades, and cultural celebrations. Set in the heart of the nation’s capital, WorldPride 2025 will be a powerful, joyful, and unforgettable tribute to the LGBTQ+ community.
#3 Capital Barbecue Battle (21st-22nd): Smoke, spice, and serious flavor take over Pennsylvania Avenue during the Giant National Capital Barbecue Battle. In late June, the stretch between 3rd and 7th Streets NW transforms into a high-energy street fest, packed with pit masters, local eateries, live music, cooking demos, and mouthwatering tastings. Come hungry — this celebration of all things BBQ doesn’t hold back.
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#4 Smithsonian Folklife Festival (July 2nd-July 7th): Held every summer on the National Mall, the free Smithsonian Folklife Festival celebrates global cultures through hands-on craft displays, live music, and culinary demos. Spanning multiple days around the July 4th holiday, the 2025 edition spotlights Youth and the Future of Culture, offering a dynamic look at how new generations are shaping traditions around the world.
#5 Capital Fringe Festival: During the irreverent Capital Fringe Festival, you can catch out-there performances from local creatives — including improv dramas, punk rock shows, and colorful dance shows (to name just a few). Events take place at libraries, museums, galleries, and other locations throughout the District on July 11th-21st.
#6 Citi Open (July 21st-July 27th): It’s official: The District’s signature professional tennis tournament will return to Rock Creek Park Tennis Center in July this year. Get ready for top-tier tennis talent from all over the world to converge on DC to compete for a prestigious trophy, generating powerful on-court action no sports fan would want to miss.
Looking for more ways to spend time outdoors as the weather heats up? Check out these other great summer activities around DC.
- Best Rooftop Bars in DC
- Top Public Golf Courses in the DMV
- How to Explore Your Own City Like a Tourist
#7 Summer Restaurant Week (Exact Dates TBD): Restaurant Association Metropolitan Washington hosts two annual celebrations of DC’s eclectic dining scene, one of which is a summer edition that brings just the right amount of heat. For both seasonal editions, Restaurant Week offers diners pre-fixe menus for lunch/brunch ($25) and dinner ($40 and $55)!
#8 DC JazzFest (August 27th-31st): JazzFest introduces national and local musicians to a range of venues all over the city (including The Wharf) starting August 27th. Some concerts are free; most are ticketed. A lineup stacked with talent and free performances are just two of the many reasons why you should check out the 2025 edition!
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