Washington, DC Events and Festivals
Cherry blossoms, national celebrations on the Mall and neighborhood festivals through the year.
Because so many events happen on federal land, a remarkable share of Washington's calendar is free: the cherry blossom parade route, the Folklife Festival, the Independence Day fireworks over the Mall and the National Christmas Tree are all open to the public, though some require free tickets or security screening. The big ticketed events are cultural, from the Kennedy Center Honors to the summer concert seasons.
Spring and fall are the busiest seasons for visitors as well as events, so book hotels early if you plan around the cherry blossoms or a marathon. Exact dates change every year, especially the blossom peak, which the National Park Service forecasts only a few weeks out. Check each organizer before you commit.
Annual Festivals and Events
Several weeks of events celebrating the gift of cherry trees from Tokyo in 1912, including a parade on Constitution Avenue and a kite festival near the Washington Monument.
Bands, Irish dancers and community groups march along Constitution Avenue on the Sunday before St. Patrick's Day.
Billed as the largest parade honoring Washington's birthday, held in the town where he kept his business ties.
A parade and a large street festival on Pennsylvania Avenue, plus events around the city through the month.
An outdoor festival of music, crafts, food and demonstrations focused on different cultures and communities each year. Free.
The National Independence Day Parade along Constitution Avenue by day and fireworks over the Mall at night; arrive early for security screening.
The Library of Congress's free festival of author talks and book signings, held in recent years at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center.
A ten-mile race starting and finishing near the Pentagon and passing the monuments, organized by the U.S. Army.
Known as the People's Marathon, it winds past the monuments and finishes at the Marine Corps War Memorial in Arlington.
A tradition since 1923: the tree on the Ellipse is lit in a televised ceremony and stays up through the holidays, surrounded by smaller trees from every state. Lighting tickets are free by lottery.
The annual gala honoring performing artists for lifetime achievement, held at the Kennedy Center and broadcast later.
Dates move from year to year — confirm on the organizer’s site before you plan around an event.
Official Event Calendars
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Get free trip quotes »Washington, DC Events — FAQ
When do the cherry blossoms bloom in Washington?
Peak bloom around the Tidal Basin usually falls between late March and early April, but it changes with the weather each year. The National Park Service publishes a forecast in early March and updates it as the buds develop.
Are Washington's big festivals free?
Many are. The Folklife Festival, the July 4th parade and fireworks, the National Book Festival and most cherry blossom events on the Mall are free. The National Christmas Tree lighting uses free tickets distributed by lottery.
Where is the best place to watch July 4th fireworks in DC?
The National Mall is the classic spot, with security checkpoints at entry points. Other popular viewing areas include the Lincoln Memorial steps, the Georgetown waterfront and the hills near the Marine Corps War Memorial in Arlington.