DC in the Summer
Things to do | Travel | Washington DC | United States
Summer is right around the corner, which means it’s primetime to visit Washington, DC. The weather makes it perfect to enjoy the many parks and waterfronts around the city. Fair warning though, it is almost guaranteed to be humid. To escape the heat, enjoy an outdoor movie or explore the monuments at night. If you aren’t sure when to visit, try to plan around one of these summer festivals in Washington DC.
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Festivals
Capital Pride
Capital Pride celebrates the spirit and pride of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) communities in Washington DC but draws a huge crowd from all over. The main attractions over the 3 day celebration are the street festival, parade, and concert – this year Miley Cyrus headlines the concert and it’s completely free!
When: June 8-11, 2017
For more information, visit the official website.
Smithsonian Folklife Festival
The Smithsonian Folklife Festival is an exhibit that celebrates cultures from all over the world across two weekends. The festival began in 1967 and is the largest annual cultural event in Washington DC. There are plenty of activities to do during the day and programs to watch at night on the National Mall.
When: June 29-July 4 and July 6-9, 2017
For more information, visit the official website.
Independence Day Parade
The July 4th celebration in Washington DC is like no other. If you happen to be in town for July 4th, be sure to check out the parade in the morning and stick around for the amazing display of fireworks at night on the National Mall. Fair warning though, there is a massive amount of people who go to the National Mall for fireworks, but it’s still worth it! Fun fact: I’ve participated in the July 4th parade on multiple occasions.
When: July 4, 2017
For more information visit the official website.
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Are you heading to any festivals this summer?
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Actually I have none planned but this as me wanting to go to one. I think I will research what is on in my area and book up! Thanks for the great ideas
That’s a awesome list for those who are planning to visit Washington over the next few months. I’m yet to visit USA and I don’t think I’ll do this year! I’ve been to the Capital Pride in London and it was such a big event! Looking forward for the next part in the series!
The fireworks display on July 4th over the mall must be something very special! I was in Copenhagen last year and just by chance there was a similar Capital Pride Festival going on there, it was interesting seeing all the different dresses people wear during the parade! The Smithsonian Folklife Festival sounds interesting too, I’ll make note of these for my next visit to Washington DC.
I would love to join the Capital Pride. It would be so nice to feel that we are all one and preferences do not really matter. I have seen photos of this event only. I wish I can go to Washington D.C. just for this. Plus, it would be awesome to watch Miley Cyrus sing her new single "Malibu".
Washington DC has got a lot to offer, but never really visited it during summer. This is something to look forward to! I love visiting festivals – they are so much fun. I am curious about the Smithsonian Folklife Festival!
I would love to attend the Independence day festival and fireworks show . DC has such cool events. All three of these sound exciting.
The fireworks totally catch my eyes! I would love to visit DC and enjoy that. Independence day is surely a big celebration in the US., so I will not miss it either!
So much to do in DC in summers! I would love to see the Independence Day ceremonies and compare them with the ones we have in india. I totally love fireworks!
Washington is one of the most visited destinations in the world that capture the minds and hearts of the tourists from all over the world.
Summer Festivals looks fascinating. Washington is on my bucket list when I will visit US. Independence Day is really a worth watcching.
I can’t imagine how awesome 4th of July would be in DC. I feel like it’s always a bit of a disappointment in LA. There’s barely any fireworks or celebrations here.
I’d live to visit DC over summer sometime! Having only visited for a few days during the spring to see the cherry blossoms, there’s still lots more that I’d love to see there and these festivals all sound like alot of fun!