Washington D.C. is an exciting city offering visitors many thrilling events. This capital of the United States, formally called the District of Columbia, is not really part of any U.S. state but under the official jurisdiction of the United States Congress. No matter what time of year you plan to visit, there are plenty of things to see and do.
In addition to the many D.C. historical sites and museums, there are some great annual festivals that you might want to experience if you’re planning a trip to this part of the world. There are many unique and popular events that are sure to appeal to you and your family. The following are the top 10 most popular events in Washington D.C.
National Cherry Blossom Festival. This is a long-standing, three-week, citywide festival that celebrates the coming spring and the gift of thousands of cherry trees to Washington by the mayor of Tokyo. There are parades, arts, crafts, food and more. You’ll see lavish floats, marching bands, vibrant costumes and lots of blossom-inspired decor. Standing along the parade route is free and open to the public, but of course you should arrive early if you want a good spot.
The International Wine and Food Festival. Sample international cuisine and premium wines from more than 100 international wineries. More than 10,000 people attend this festival, which takes place in February.
Restaurant Week Metro DC. For one week in January, and one in August, more than 200 restaurants offer three-course, fixed-price meals.
DC Jazz Fest. If you love jazz and you’d like to experience its sights and sounds, this jazz festival presents more than 100 performances at more than 40 venues in 10 days. Jazz can be heard as you’re walking around the neighborhoods and on the National Mall. Family fun days are also held during this time. The festival is held the first week of June.
White House Spring Gardens Tour. A chance to see the beautiful gardens at this famous address. See the Jacqueline Kennedy Garden, the Rose Garden, the South Lawn of the White House and Michelle Obama’s new Kitchen Garden. This has been a tradition since 1972, when Pat Nixon first opened the White House gardens to the public. This event takes place each year in mid-April.
Passport DC. Travel the world while visiting D.C. Throughout the month of May, international culture is celebrated, with tours of more than 70 embassies and hundreds of other international activities, it is easy to travel around the world without ever leaving the city! Also the Meridian International Children’s Festival and the Dragon Boat Festival are held at this time.
Capital Fringe Festival. This edgy festival breaks the boundaries of theatre and art. There will be more than 500 performances of drama, dance, music, poetry and puppetry, performed by more than 120 local, national and international artists. Look for this exciting event in mid-July.
Walkingtown DC and Bikingtown DC. These events give visitors an opportunity to see the District’s unique neighborhoods on free, guided walking and biking tours, which focus on a wide variety of themes from community heritage to the environment. This good-for-you event takes place each September.
Washington International Film Festival. At this springtime event, viewers can watch films from around the world, with more than 100 features, documentaries, short films and special programmes.
New Year’s Eve. From swanky restaurants to rooftop lounges, entertainment cruises and much more, you’ll have a wide variety of options to spend the last night of the year in the District. Also, many of the embassies throw parties. And maybe a James Bond–themed gala would interest you.
Whether or not you are able to experience the annual event you want to, there are so many things to do in D.C. Walk the National Mall, dine at some of the best restaurants in the United States, visit a few museums and go shopping.
Photo Credits
Jefferson Memorial – Wikipedia Creative Commons
Spring Garden Tours – via www.nps.gov
Frederick Douglass House – Wikipedia Public Domain
Cherry Blossoms and the Washington Monument – Wikimedia Public Domain
Guest Author Bio
Ajala Manju
Ajala Manju has visited Washington D.C. three times with friends and family. When she’s planning to leave her home, she always visits Expedia travel to find the best options.
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