With 2026 in full swing, the capital region is brimming with wintertime fun around every corner. Whether you’re looking for showstopping theater, live music, family activities, cultural diversions, or Valentine’s Day-themed celebrations, here’s a roundup of the top events happening this February across DC, Maryland, and Virginia!

Want more of DC’s best? Check out the Lifestyle section of our blog for everything from the coolest places in DC to grab a cocktail to the latest after-school programs for kids.

Washington, DC

Black Film Festival Screenings | Every Tuesday in February | MLK Library
Free weekly movie nights all month long = easy plans and great films, no ticket required.

National Gallery Nights: “Art Under the Stars” | February 12 | National Gallery of Art
After-hours art strolls and dancing return with a season-opening party you can enter via lottery.

Phillips After 5: Valentine’s Fête | February 5 | Dupont Circle
Self-love meets happy hour with live music, crafts, and a festive singles-friendly vibe.

DC Independent Film Forum | February 11–16 | Multiple DC Locations
A full week of indie shorts and features across the city for film lovers and culture seekers alike.

Mary Cassatt Exhibition | February 14–August 30 | National Gallery of Art
Rare, vibrant impressionist works that make a museum visit feel like a winter reset.

“Star Power” Hollywood Photography Display | Opens February 13 | National Portrait Gallery
Step into old Hollywood glamour with vintage portraits from the ’30s and ’40s.

NMWA Nights | February 18 | Northwest DC
An after-hours museum party with hands-on crafts, live music, and cocktails.

DC Black History Film Festival | February 20 | Lincoln Theatre, U Street
A celebration of Black culture through film, go-go, and powerful storytelling that’s free to attend.

Lunar New Year Festival (Year of the Horse) | February 21 | Smithsonian Asian Art Museum
Lion dances, art activities, jewelry-making, and festive energy — all in a stunning setting.

John Doe (World Premiere) | February 5–22 | Keegan Theatre, Dupont Circle
A ghostly new production perfect for theater fans craving something fresh and eerie.

Story District: Sucker For Love | February 14 | U Street Corridor
Live storytellers share their own messy, funny, heartfelt love journeys to launch a Valentine’s celebration with personality.

Jim Gaffigan Live | February 26–28 | The Anthem, Wharf
Need a laugh? One of comedy’s biggest names takes over the Wharf for a multi-night run.

National Symphony Orchestra: Brahms + Radiohead | February 10–11 | Kennedy Center
A symphonic night that blends classical grandeur with modern edge.

Nine Inch Nails: Peel It Back Tour | February 11 | Capital One Arena
An iconic rock stop that’s going to be loud, epic, and unforgettable.

Dende + Melan Concert | February 12 | Wharf
Smooth R&B and local talent collide for a perfect pre-Valentine’s night out.

Galentine’s Day Party (Dress in Pink) | February 13 | Shaw
Grab your best rose-colored fit and celebrate friendship with full Venus-inspired flair.

Bollywood Situationship Dance Party at Decades | February 13 | Downtown DC
A DJ-fueled dance night for anyone who’s complicated, crushing, or just here for the vibe.

Folger Consort Love Songs Concert | February 13–15 | Capitol Hill
A concert replete with romantic music hailing from 15th-century France and Burgundy.

Miguel Live | February 15 | The Anthem, Wharf
Expect airy vocals, pop hits, and a Valentine’s weekend concert that feels like a moment in its own right.

SZN4 Live in Concert | February 19 | Howard Theatre, Shaw
Netflix’s rising soul group brings major energy to one of DC’s best venues.

Alemeda at The Atlantis | February 20 | Shaw
On-the-rise pop-rock with indie edge in an intimate, buzzworthy space.

Capital City Symphony: Hope-Themed Concert | February 21 | H Street Corridor
An uplifting night of orchestral music with a theme that fits the season.

Valen-wines Day at Lulu’s Wine Garden | February 15 | U Street Corridor
Unlimited pours, tacos, and a wine-fueled Valentine’s twist that feels properly festive.

Cupid’s Undie Run | February 21 | Union Stage, Wharf
Show up in your Valentine’s-themed best (yes, underwear counts!) and jog or dance for a good cause.

Scott Shane Virtual Talk on Thomas Smallwood | February 10 | Virtual
A gripping historical deep-dive into an enslaved person who helped others escape bondage.

Maryland

Art Song Festival | February 1 | Virtual (Baltimore-based)
A month of stunning classical vocal music from both American and European composers.

Capital Irish Film Festival | February 26–March 1 | Silver Spring
A regional favorite showcasing new Irish dramas, documentaries, and animated films.

Nothing Up My Sleeve…Simple Deceptions for Curious Humans | February 11–March 15 | Bethesda
This show is part magic, part storytelling — kind of like a live podcast with sleight-of-hand surprises.

Savor Bethesda | February 19 | Bethesda
An 11-day culinary celebration spotlighting dozens of restaurants and Maryland’s full flavor spectrum.

Trivia Night @ Caddies on Cordell | February 24 | Bethesda
Free Tuesday trivia with gift card prizes for top teams, plus happy hour specials from 3–10 PM and half-off pizza all day long.

Fire In Ice | February 6 | Downtown Frederick
A dazzling winter night of intricate ice sculptures, fiery live performances, and family-friendly fun.

Valentine’s at True Standard | February 4–28 | Frederick
A flirtatiously decorated distillery experience with Valentine’s-inspired cocktails and cozy love-filled vibes — the perfect excuse for date night, Galentine’s, or a spontaneous evening out.

Virginia

George Washington’s Birthday Celebration | February 16 | Mount Vernon
Celebrate the first president at his historic estate with a classic, immersive tribute.

George Washington Birthday Parade | February 14 | Old Town Alexandria
A charming hometown-style parade with history, pageantry, and tons of Old Town atmosphere.

Lunar New Year Celebration at Twin Lakes Golf Course | February 21 | Clifton
Experience Asian cuisine, crafts, and live performances in a festive community setting.

The Second City Comedy Show | February 25–28 | Wolf Trap, Vienna
Legendary improv on DMV winter nights makes for guaranteed laughs in a gorgeous venue.

Chocolate Lovers Festival | February 6–8 | Fairfax
Sip hot cocoa, try vendor treats, and even make your own chocolate bars at this three-day sugar dream.

Curious about more than just local events and happenings? For all your DMV real estate needs, we’re here to help! Get in touch with us by filling out the form on this page, calling us at 202.280.2060, or emailing connect@jennsmira.com.

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