Student's Guide to Washington D.C.: Festivals & Events

Protest or Celebrate in D.C.

Washington, D.C. is a virtual circus of annual celebrations, conferences, and festivals. Impromptu political protests are planned in reaction to current events whi

Protest or Celebrate in D.C.

Washington, D.C. is a virtual circus of annual celebrations, conferences, and festivals. Impromptu political protests are planned in reaction to current events while large-scale conferences for political and social groups are organized years in advance and hosted by one of the largest conference centers in the world. International leaders, unions, religious groups, and academic giants meet in Washington, D.C. to make decisions and exert a political presence.

Take Time to Reflect in Your Nation's Capital

For the administrative center of the United States, each and every holiday is a cause for fanfare, commemoration, and reflection. Independence Day in Washington, D.C. is a dramatic affair with a parade of thousands of military personnel, large-scale concerts, a massive fireworks display, and a reading of the Declaration of Independence. On Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, crowds gather at the Lincoln Memorial to hear King's "I have a dream" speech recited aloud.

See the City for its Trees (And More!)

The annual Cherry Blossom Festival celebrates the arrival of spring and the fragrant cherry blossoms that decorate the city. In June, the Smithsonian hosts the Festival of American Folk Life, recognizing American cultural traditions. Other historical traditions include the White House Easter Egg Roll in the spring, an event for young children hosted by the First Lady.

Among the more spirited gatherings, Adam-Morgans Day in September is an internationally-themed party that transforms one D.C. neighborhood into a musical and artistic playground. September is also host to the National Frisbee Festival and the D.C. Blues Festival, which organizes free concerts throughout the city. For nearly every occasion, there is a meeting or celebration set in the nation's capitol.