Washington knows how to mark a season properly. From cherry blossoms and embassy celebrations to holiday markets, rooftop gatherings, and cultural festivals, the District’s social calendar stays delightfully full year-round. Here are a few annual traditions worth planning your stay around.
D.C. United is Washington's professional soccer club and one of the founding members of Major League Soccer. With four MLS Cup titles to their name, the Black-and-Red have a rich history and play their home matches at Audi Field in Washington, D.C.
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DC’s signature spring tradition fills the city with blooming cherry trees, waterfront walks, parades, outdoor art, and festival energy.
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Embassies across Washington open their doors for a citywide celebration of international culture, music, art, cuisine, and diplomacy.
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Catch the Washington Nationals at Nationals Park, just minutes away one of DC's best live experiences all spring and summer long.
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Whether you're a seasoned convention-goer or a first-timer, Otakon offers something for every kind of fan. Registration and hotel blocks for 2026 are already open.
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DC's biggest LGBTQ+ celebration takes over the city every June parade, festival, concerts, parties, and a full month of community events. One of the most vibrant Pride celebrations in the country.
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Two days of world-class jazz along DC's stunning Potomac waterfront acclaimed artists, emerging talent, and the electric energy of Labor Day weekend at The Wharf. Tickets sell out fast.
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DC's legendary Fourth of July fireworks light up the sky over the monuments watch from the Mall, a rooftop bar, or the Georgetown waterfront.
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Washington celebrates America’s 250th birthday with monumental events, performances, exhibitions, fireworks.
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Free performances, crafts, and music celebrating cultures from across the U.S. one of DC's most beloved summer traditions, right on the National Mall.
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The Washington Capitals are one of D.C.'s most beloved sports franchises, bringing elite professional hockey to the nation's capital. The Caps won their first Stanley Cup Championship in 2018, and Alexander Ovechkin surpassed Wayne Gretzky's all-time goals record in 2025.
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The Washington Mystics are D.C.'s WNBA team and reigning champions of 2019, offering world-class women's basketball in an intimate arena setting. The 2026 home season opened on May 10 hosting the New York Liberty.
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The Washington Wizards are D.C.'s NBA team, playing fast-paced professional basketball in the heart of downtown. The franchise won the NBA Championship in 1978 and plays at Capital One Arena, one of the most central and accessible arenas in the city.
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The Washington Commanders are the D.C. area's NFL franchise, bringing high-octane professional football to the nation's capital every fall. The 2026 season features four primetime games and even a home game in London against the Indianapolis Colts.
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The marathon weekend includes multiple events the MCM 8K on October 24, followed by the full Marathon on October 25, plus a Kids Run and a Health & Lifestyle Expo.
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One of America's largest and most celebrated literary events bestselling authors, book signings, readings, and family activities, all free for a full day at the Washington Convention Center.
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Eight days, eight wards, 50+ free guided walking and biking tours across every corner of Washington DC history, architecture, culture, and hidden stories you won't find anywhere else.
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Georgetown's beloved annual food festival 30+ restaurants, live music, craft beer, wine, and a cook-off, all on K Street. A delicious afternoon in DC's most charming neighborhood.
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A week-long celebration of design, creativity, and community across Washington DC talks, workshops, studio tours, and more. Perfect for creatives of all levels.
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A festive outdoor holiday market in the heart of Dupont Circle 35+ local artisans, boutique brands, handcrafted gifts, and seasonal treats, running from mid-November through December 23.
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One of America's most iconic holiday traditions the National Christmas Tree lights up the Ellipse near the White House every December, surrounded by trees from all 50 states.
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Twice a year, 200+ DC-area restaurants offer special prix-fixe menus at unbeatable prices the perfect excuse to explore the city's world-class dining scene. Lunch from $25, dinner from $40.
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Seasonal shopping, festive lights, artisan gifts, live music, and warm drinks bring downtown Washington its annual holiday charm.
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