Things to Do October 2026 in Washington, DC

Take Amtrak's NextGen Acela to Washington, DC
Step into the future of summer travel. The newest premium car isn’t a car at all; it’s a train. Enjoy spacious leather seating, free 5G-enabled WiFi and one of the smoothest rides to Washington, DC on NextGen Acela. With more ways to travel, you can choose what fits your trip best. This season, make the journey part of the destination.
Powered by Amtrak
 

@wundergartendc

Celebrate Oktoberfest throughout the District
Beginning in mid-September and extending into October, DC beer enthusiasts break out their lederhosen and dirndls to observe Oktoberfest with German beer, bites and live music. Locations across the city will participate, including a few annually recurring favorites: Bluejacket serves weissbiers, schwarzbiers and helles lagers from the keg, Wunder Garten hosts its Pridetoberfest LGBTQ+ party and The Wharf goes all out with Polka on the Pier, a Stein Hosting Competition and the thrilling Dachshund Dash.
 

Washington Spirit

Last Chance for Soccer Season in Washington, DC
Head to Audi Field to catch four-time MLS Cup winners D.C. United or 2021 NWSL Champion (and 2025 Finalist) Washington Spirit, which fields some of the best women’s soccer players in the country. Whether you're a longtime fan or just looking for a high-energy night out, experiencing the electric atmosphere of professional soccer is easy in DC.
Spirit Tickets
D.C. United Tickets
 

ARTECHOUSE

SUBMERGE 
ARTECHOUSE DC resumes programming with SUBMERGE, which presents innovative digital art that utilizes technology for a wholly immersive experience. The exhibition is anchored by Beyond the Render, a 45-minute large-scale show created in collaboration with Render Network that brings together 13 artist teams — including Emmy winners Emily Yang and Maciej Kuciara — to transform the venue. A floor-to-ceiling projection canvas showcases a 280-degree, 18K-resolution digital world, a total reimagination of the possibilities of spatial storytelling.
Tickets (10% off most bookings)
ARTECHOUSE, 1238 Maryland Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20024
 

Live Nation

Weezer – Oct. 2
One of the most successful acts in the history of alternative rock visits Capital One Arena for one night only. From “Buddy Holly” to “Beverly Hills”, Weezer have remained a fixture in rock for more than three decades. Expect fan favorites and recent songs in an eclectic set.
7 p.m. |  Tickets
Capital One Arena, 601 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20004
 

Arena Stage

Nikola: A New Musical – Oct. 2 – Nov. 29
A visionary production comes to Arena Stage filled with electricity and eccentricity. Charting the course of inventor Nikola Tesla, the musical sees him go from unknown engineer to world famous rival of Thomas Edison. Tesla’s push to the brink makes for riveting theater and stunning new songs.
Tickets
Arena Stage, 1101 6th Street SW, Washington, DC 20024

 

Historic Congressional Cemetery

LGBTQ+ Historic Congressional Cemetery Tour  – Oct. 3
Explore LGBTQ+ history in the nation's capital with a guided tour through Historic Congressional Cemetery, home to one of the world's only known dedicated LGBTQ+ cemetery sections. Learn about the activists and community leaders laid to rest on the grounds while discovering the important role DC played in shaping the gay rights movement.
11 a.m | Tickets 
1801 E St SE, Washington, DC 20003
 

The Wharf

Oktoberfest at The Wharf – Oct. 3
Don a dirndi or lederhosen and make your way to The Wharf for its free annual Oktoberfest celebration. The Wiener 500 Dachschund Dash kicks off the festivities, followed by a stein-hoisting championship and Polka on the Pier, which includes a free polka dance class, live music and a best-dressed contest.
2-7 p.m. |  Free Admission
The Wharf, 760 Maine Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20024
 

DC Coffee Festival

DC Coffee Festival – Oct. 3-4
Savor the creations of dozens of the District’s top coffee roasters at the second annual DC Coffee Festival. In past years, there have been two days of festivities, with coffee roasters, tea brewers and live music filling the warehouse at Dock 5. All coffee samples are included with your ticket and additional snacks are available for purchase if you need a little something extra to ward off the jitters. 
Dock 5 at Union Market, 1309 5th Street NE, Washington, DC 20002
 

Capital One Arena

Olivia Rodrigo – Oct. 3-4
Global sensation, pop superstar, three-time GRAMMY Award winner, chart-topping artist. All these descriptors apply to OIivia Rodrigo, but you can’t fully appreciate her brilliance until you see her in concert. The Unraveled Tour comes to DC’s Capital One Arena for two nights as Rodrigo supports her new release, pretty sad for a girl so in love. Tickets can still be found on secondary markets.
Capital One Arena, 601 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20004
 

Club Glow

GLOW Block Party – Oct. 3 & 17
Pennsylvania Avenue offers two chances to enjoy a GLOW Block Party this October. The first edition is headlined by Diplo, Westend and Anabel Englund. On Oct. 17, The Chainsmokers are the main event, with support coming from Marc Kinchen (who will play a sunset set) as well as Lavern, Eyezic and Emmy Adelle. VIP tickets are available for both shows.
Tickets
600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20580
 

The Anthem

Indigo Girls – Oct. 4
The GRAMMY-winning folk-rock duo comes to The Anthem for a night filled with classic songs. Indigo Girls have sold more than 15 million records worldwide across a 35-year career that has seen them release 16 studio albums to endless critical acclaim. All the success and touring has not slowed them down one bit.
7 p.m. |  Tickets
The Anthem, 901 Wharf Street SW, Washington, DC 20024
 

9:30 Club

Sylvan Esso – Oct. 6
Bursting onto the scene with their 2014 self-titled debut, Sylvan Esso has gone on to become one of the most acclaimed acts in electro-pop. The duo of singer Amelia Meath and producer Nick Sanborn formed in the college town of Durham, North Carolina and now travels the globe performing some of the most danceable pop tunes in existence. Catch them at 9:30 Club and soak up the vibes.
7 p.m. |  Tickets
9:30 Club, 815 V Street NW, Washington, DC 20001
 

National Gallery of Art

National Gallery Nights: Monster Mash – Oct. 8
DC funk-pop band Oh He Dead headlines the National Gallery of Art's October edition of National Gallery Nights. Hunt for creepy art and make your own spooky piece to take home with you. Feel free to come in costume or as you are and just note that accessories larger than 17" × 26" and full-cover face masks aren’t allowed inside the museum's East or West Buildings. Also note that lottery for registration opens on Sept. 28 at 10 a.m. and closes at 12 p.m. on Oct. 1.
6-9 p.m. |  Free Admission |  Registration Required
National Gallery of Art, 4th Street & Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20565
 

Shakespeare Theatre Company

Frida…A Self Portrait – Oct. 8 – Nov. 8
The Brazilian writer and performer Vanessa Severo plays Frida Kahlo on the eve of her death as her pain and passion are laid bare. Expect incredible physicality in Severo's one-woman performance, bringing the famous Mexican painter to vivid life in a play that illuminates a fascinating journey.
Tickets
Klein Theatre, 450 7th Street NW, Washington, DC 20004
 

9:30 Club

Bright Eyes – Oct. 9
The brainchild of wunderkind Conor Oberst, Bright Eyes essentially birthed a folk music scene in Omaha, Nebraska. Oberst’s beautiful compositions and musical versatility make for the perfect pairing with producer and multi-instrumentalist Mike Mogis, leading to three decades of awesome music. 9:30 Club hosts the full band for one night only.
6:30 p.m. |  Tickets
9:30 Club, 815 V Street NW, Washington, DC 20001
 

Mount Vernon Fall Wine Festival & Sunset Tour

Mount Vernon Fall Wine Festival and Sunset Tour – Oct. 9-11
George Washington’s Mount Vernon is at its scenic best when fall rolls around, so it’s fitting that the historic estate hosts this special celebration of wine followed by a sunset tour of the property. Bring along a blanket, chill out on the east lawn and sample Virginia wines with views of the Potomac River. Fruit and cheese boxes to accompany your wine are available for purchase in advance.
Tickets
George Washington's Mount Vernon, 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway, Mount Vernon, VA 2212
 

Neighborhood Restaurant Group

Snallygaster – Oct. 10
Beast out with craft brews and ciders on Pennsylvania Avenue thanks to Snallygaster. Named after a mythical creature, the festival roars with a hefty lineup of 450 brews selected by Greg Engert, one of the city’s leading beer connoisseurs, including countless new breweries and rare beers. Festivalgoers can also expect two stages with live music, a makers' market by Shop Made in DC, a kids' zone and a selection of ciders, wines and cocktails. Attendees must be 21 or older.
12-6 p.m. | Tickets
Pennsylvania Avenue between 3rd and 7th Streets NW, Washington, DC
 

U.S. Soccer

U.S. Women’s National Team vs. Spain – Oct. 10
Ahead of the World Cup in 2027, watch the powerhouse that is the U.S. Women’s National Team go up against Spain, currently the no. 1 ranked team in the world. Audi Field will be packed for this spectacle that could be a preview of next year’s World Cup Final.
2:30 p.m. |  Tickets
Audi Field, 100 Potomac Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20024
 

Historic Congressional Cemetery

Dead Man's Run 2026 – Oct. 10
Lace up for a frightfully fun evening at Historic Congressional Cemetery's annual Dead Man's Run 5K. The fall fundraiser kicks off among the cemetery's historic headstones before winding onto the Anacostia Trail, with music, costumes and spooky surprises along the way. Run for a personal best, stroll with friends or assemble a team to compete for prizes, including awards for top finishers and the best individual and group costumes. 
5 pm. | Register 
1801 E St SE, Washington, DC 20003
 

Fairfax City Tourism

50th Annual Fairfax City Fall Festival – Oct. 10
Celebrate fall in historic Old Town Fairfax City at the 50th Annual Fairfax City Fall Festival, where art, food and culture combine to create one of Northern Virginia’s most popular fall traditions. More than 400 arts and crafts, food and other vendors fill the streets lined with historic buildings and charm. Enjoy live entertainment on multiple stages, children’s activities and renowned beer gardens featuring the town's local breweries.. The hometown atmosphere and bustling streets make this free festival a favorite day trip from DC.
10 a.m. – 5 p.m. |  Free Admission
Downtown Fairfax, 10415 North Street, Fairfax, VA 22030
 

The Keegan Theatre

Hundred Days – Oct. 10 – Nov. 15
Keegan Theatre brings an incredible true story to the stage in a thrill-filled new production. What would you do if you only had 100 days to live? With folk-punk music as the soundtrack, Hundred Days goes for broke and welcomes you to embrace the unknown and take risks along the way.
Tickets
Keegan Theatre, 1742 Church Street NW, Washington, DC 20036
 

Army Ten-Miler

Army Ten-Miler – Oct. 11
Now in its 40th year, the Army’s annual Army Ten-Mile Race and Expo attracts over 35,000 runners and 900 teams from around the world to celebrate the spirit of sport. Military, civilians, wheel chair athletes and wounded warrior athletes are able to participate and all are encouraged to cheer them on. 
Register
850 Army Navy Drive, Arlington, VA and 955 15th Street South, Arlington, VA

 

Historic Congressional Cemetery

American Indian Tour – Oct. 11
Discover the stories of American Indian leaders, diplomats and delegates laid to rest at historic Congressional Cemetery. Executive Director Mark Hudson leads this guided tour through the cemetery, sharing how these individuals came to Washington to negotiate treaties, advocate for their communities and represent sovereign nations during the 19th century. 
1 pm. | Tickets
1801 E St SE, Washington, DC 20003
 

Photo by Robin Groulx

Oyster Wars – Oct. 11
Hosted by popular Navy Yard spot The Salt Line, Oyster Wars gathers local chefs, breweries and oyster farms up and down the Eastern Seaboard to pack an afternoon with eating, drinking and live music. The 21-and-over event is ticketed with admission that provides access to food from every chef and oyster farm.
2-6 p.m. |  Tickets
The Salt Line, 79 Potomac Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20003
 

Theatre Week

Theatre Week – Through Oct. 11
Celebrate the theater season in the Washington, DC region with a weeks-long promotion from TheatreWashington which includes $25, $45 and $65 tickets to highly anticipated productions at venues all over the DC area. There are musicals, dramas, comedies, theater for young audiences and much more. In addition to discounted tickets, Theatre Week also includes special events (most of which are free) designed to entertain, educate and inspire, including the free Kickoff Fest. Plan your stay: Book a hotel today.
 

Live Nation

Teddy Swims – Oct. 13
The chart-topping and GRAMMY-nominated songs of Teddy Swims showcase an artist who can deftly maneuver between genres, feelings and deliveries. Swims captivates audiences with electric live performances, and he only continues to add hits to his catalogue. Expect a raw and riveting performance from the singer at Capital One Arena.
7 p.m. |  Tickets
Capital One Arena, 601 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20004
 

Hirshhorn Museum & Sculpture Garden

Carlotta Corpron: Light Is a Plastic Medium – Oct. 16 – March 14, 2027
Step into the light. This exhibit at the Hirshhorn surveys work by the American abstract photographer and educator Carlotta Corpron whose investigations into the poetics of light and form and innovative use of technology supported the establishment of photography as fine art. Explore six bodies of work from Corpron’s career in Texas from the late 1930s to the early 1950s.
10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. | Free Admission
Hirshhorn Museum, Independence Avenue & 7th Street NW, Washington, DC 20560
 

Folger Shakespeare Library

To Hear Her Speak: Black Women and Shakespeare – Oct. 16 – May 2, 2027
For centuries, Black women have claimed Shakespeare, reshaping his words to assert their humanity, creativity and power.  To Hear Her Speak brings these voices into focus for the first time. Curated by Dr. Patricia Akhimie, Director of the Folger Institute, this landmark exhibition of nearly 100 objects highlights the ways in which Black women have engaged Shakespeare in performance and in writing and art. “Summer’s lease hath all too short a date,” but when fall rolls around, don’t miss this powerful exhibit.
Hours |  Free Admission
Folger Shakespeare Library, 201 East Capitol Street SE, Washington, DC 20003
 

Shuck It! Festival – Oct. 17
Celebrate the Chesapeake along the scenic Georgetown waterfront at Fish & Fire Food Group’s annual oyster and beer celebration. Hosted at Tony & Joe’s Seafood Place, visitors can enjoy bottomless local oysters, unlimited craft beer and live music, with a percentage of proceeds supporting local population restoration through the Oyster Recovery Partnership.
1-5 p.m.|  Tickets
3000 K Street NW, Washington, DC, 20007
 

Live Nation

Kathy Griffin – Oct. 17
Warner Theatre should prepare itself for Kathy Griffin, one of the most electric and controversial stand-up comedians around. Never one to shy away from the spotlight, Griffin has a fresh round of jokes for DC patrons as she embarks on a new tour.
7 p.m. |  Tickets
Warner Theatre, 513 13th Street NW, Washington, DC 20004
 

Arena Stage

Are You Now or Have You Ever Been? – Oct. 17 – Dec. 6
A new docudrama that comes straight from off-Broadway immerses audiences in the fear and paranoia caused by McCarthyism. Tony Award-winning director Anna D. Shapiro drops you into the tension of the hearings held by the House Committee on Un-American Activities in the 1940s. Only original transcripts inform the play’s dialogue, which features the words of Arthur Miller, Lillian Helman, Paul Robeson and many other artists.
Tickets
Arena Stage, 1101 6th Street SW, Washington, DC 20024
 

Ford's Theatre

Come From Away – Through Oct. 18
The Tony Award-winning masterpiece returns to Ford’s Theatre a decade after its debut at the historic venue. Come From Away concerns a small Canadian town that welcomed 6,579 airline passengers with open arms after their plane was stranded there on Sept. 11, 2001. The story of friendship and the bonds of community will warm your heart this fall.
Tickets
Ford’s Theatre, 511 10th Street NW, Washington, DC 20004
 

Photo by Manuel Harlan, Shakespeare Theatre Company

The Score – Through Oct. 18
Brian Cox, the iconic actor of stage and screen, visits Harman Hall in this production’s only American engagement. Acclaimed director Trevor Nunn is at the helm for this tale of Johann Sebastian Bach (Cox) and his visit to the court of the devious Frederick II, where he’s presented with a stirring challenge to his morality.
Tickets
Harman Hall, 610 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20004
 

Turkish Festival

Turkish Festival – Oct. 18
The community-organized Turkish Festival fills Pennsylvania Avenue with special art and photo exhibits, folk dancers and concerts ranging from Turkish rock to folk. There will also be Turkish coffee and tea demos and a bazaar touting food and artisanal goods.
More Info | Free Admission
Pennsylvania Avenue NW between 3rd Street and 6th Street
 

Art in Embassies

Passport to Patriotism – Through Oct. 18
The Art Museum of the Americas hosts a once-in-a-lifetime exhibition thanks to Art in Embassies. Passport to Patriotism showcases the work of more than 30 American artists. The pieces reflect how the American story transcends boundaries and politics and how the country’s ideals and values have been formed. The exhibit is free and open to the public.
Free Admission
Art Museum of the Americas, 201 18th Street NW, Washington, DC 20006
 

Signature Theatre

All the World’s A Stage – Oct. 20 – Dec. 20
The story of a closeted math teacher and his mentorship of a student as they explore the classic play Angels in America is a humanistic tale sure to strike your soul at Signature Theatre. The two outsiders turn their small town on its head as a powerful score soundtracks this tribute to the power of teaching and expressing yourself.
Tickets
Signature Theatre, 4200 Campbell Avenue, Arlington, VA 22206
 

Stumped – Through Oct. 24
DC is well known for its "political theater" but Washington Improv Theater (WIT) takes things to another level this fall with its new comedy, Stumped! The 75-minute show invites audiences on a fun-filled, satirical romp on the improvised campaign trails of two fictional candidates (and their hapless but hilarious staff) as they do battle to come out on top in the [fake] midterms. It’s highly interactive, as audiences play a role in the determination of many of the surprise elements, including who wins in the end! Because there’s no script, each show is unique.
Tickets
Studio Theatre, 1501 14th St. NW, Washington, DC 20009
 

Adams Morgan BID

Adams Morgan Apple Festival – Oct. 24
The annual Apple Festival brings neighbors and visitors together to celebrate the season with heirloom apple varieties from the Adams Morgan Farmers’ Market and a spirited apple pie-baking contest judged by local food personalities. Guests can sample apples, cheer on the bakers and purchase slices of freshly made pies.
Free Admission
In front of The Line DC, 1770 Euclid Street NW, Washington, DC 20009
 

Air & Scare – Oct. 24
The National Air and Space Museum's Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center hosts this annual Halloween event that offers free and family-friendly fun in Chantilly, Va. Expect trick-or-treat stations with free candy and snacks, creepy crafts and spooky experiments, special story times and puppet shows for the youngest kids, photo opportunities and a new Air & Scare Runway costume fashion show. Note that free tickets are required for the outdoor portion of the event and parking costs $15.
10 a.m. – 3 p.m. |  More Info |  Register |  Free Admission
National Air and Space Museum, Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center, 14390 Air and Space Museum Parkway, Chantilly, VA 20151
 

Live Nation

Jerry Seinfeld – Oct. 24
For five decades, Jerry Seinfeld has left audiences cackling in his wake. First emerging as a stand-up star, his eponymous sitcom (created alongside Larry David) became one of the most popular shows of all-time. Seinfeld can still bring it on stage, so get your tickets quick to his show at The Anthem.
8 p.m. |  Tickets
The Anthem, 901 Wharf Street SW, Washington, DC 20024
 

Mount Vernon

Fall Harvest Festival – Oct. 24-25
Experience what harvest season looked like in the 18th century with activities and demonstrations at the Farm at George Washington’s Mount Vernon. Navigate the corn maze, sample fresh breads or farm products and witness centuries-old techniques for wheat treading, cooking, candle-making, spinning, textile-making and horseshoeing.
Tickets
George Washington's Mount Vernon, 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway, Mount Vernon, VA 2212
 

The Phillips Collection

Avery, Gottlieb & Rothko: By the Sea – Oct. 24 – Jan. 24, 2027
For three months this fall and winter, you can savor a lovely moment of summer. This exhibition will tell the story of the lifelong friendship between three towering figures in American art: Milton Avery (1885–1965), Adolph Gottlieb (1903–1974) and Mark Rothko (1903–1970). Approximately 90 works of art will highlight the inspiration they derived from summers in Gloucester, Massachusetts, on Cape Ann, and from each other. Many have never been on public view.
Hours & Admission
The Phillips Collection, 1600 21st Street NW, Washington, DC 20009
 

Live Nation

Beck – Oct. 25
From his early sample-filled, hip-hop inspired tracks to acoustic medleys to floor-shaking dance beats to funk to punk and everything in between, Beck has done it all across a stunningly eclectic career. The musical savant releases his first album in seven years on Sept. 18, so you’ll be catching him at the perfect time when he brings his tour to The Anthem.
7:30 p.m. |  Tickets
The Anthem, 901 Wharf Street SW, Washington, DC 20024

National Air and Space Museum

At Home in Space – Opens Oct. 30
Discover the challenges and benefits of a permanent human presence in low Earth orbit. The knowledge gained from the Space Shuttle and Space Station programs informs where we go next and what we do there. If you’ve ever wondered how it might be possible that humans live and work in space, this immersive, highly interactive exhibit is for you. Space out and explore it during the Museum’s 50th anniversary year.
10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. |  Free Admission |  Reserve Timed Passes
National Air and Space Museum, 650 Jefferson Drive SW, Washington, DC 20560
 

Hirshhorn Museum

The Hirshhorn Sculpture Garden Reopens – Oct. 31
Art lovers, rejoice. The Hirshhorn's sculpture garden returns with double the amount of works on display, a widened entryway from the National Mall and an underground passageway from the museum, a new feature that adds a whole new element to the experience. No longer will visitors have to cross Jefferson Drive to take in the 60 monumental sculptures showcased in the garden. The west lawn will now serve as a rotating exhibition space, with three works by Yoshitomo Nara serving as the inaugural display.
More Information
 

@korofina

Celebrate Spooky Season in DC
The nation's capital has a frightful amount of options for spook-tacular festivities. Themed parties, specialty cocktails, family arts and crafts and ghost tours are just a few of the ways to have spirited Halloween and Día de los Muertos in the District.
 

Mount Vernon

Trick-or-Treating at Mount Vernon – Oct. 31
George Washington’s former estate welcomes the entire family to enjoy Halloween fun. Festivities include candy-collecting in special Mount Vernon treat bags, a costume parade, Halloween-themed Punch & Judy shows, an 18th-century baking demonstration, a straw bale selfie station, musical entertainment and much more. 
2-5 p.m. | Tickets
George Washington's Mount Vernon, 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway, Mount Vernon, VA 22121
 

Fever Originals

Smithsonian Starstruck: An Immersive Experience – Through Nov. 1
This first-of-its-kind virtual reality adventure doesn't just show you the universe but places you inside of it. Created in collaboration between Fever Originals and the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory, the experience takes visitors on a breathtaking journey through the cosmos, from dazzling galaxies to the edge of a black hole.
Tickets
Fever Hub Washington DC, 926 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20004
 

Arena Stage

The Fruits of Our Labor – Through Nov. 1
Legendary DC dance company Step Afrika! honors America’s 250th anniversary with a new show set to premiere at Arena Stage. The Fruits of Our Labor uses percussion, stepping, moving visual imagery and a bold red, white and blue color palette to explore the American experience.
Tickets
Arena Stage, 1101 6th Street SW, Washington, DC 20024
 

Measure for Measure – Through Nov. 1
Psalmayene 24, Helen Hayes Award winner, directs this rare staging of a Shakespeare comedy. The story of societal upheaval, which concerns a corrupt official and a young nun, will make the audience wonder whose voices are elevated and whose are silenced.
Tickets
Folger Theatre, 201 East Capitol Street SE, Washington, DC 20003
 

National Museum of Asian Art

Saodat Ismailova: Melted Into the Sun – Through Nov. 29
The first major solo museum presentation in the U.S. by film and installation artist Saodat Ismailova highlights her ongoing interest in Central Asia’s traditions, oral histories and landscapes. A unique blend of images, sounds and textures, Ismailova’s work creates a space between dream and reality.
10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. |  Free Admission
National Museum of Asian Art, 1050 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20004
 

©Jasper Johns and ULAE, National Gallery of Art

American Icon: The US Flag in Art – Through Dec. 6
The exhibition spotlights more than 30 works from the late-1800s to today, each illustrating the changing uses and interpretations of the American flag. Paintings, prints and photographs from seminal artists such as Gordon Parks, Dorothea Lange, Jasper Johns and Faith Ringgold examine the ever-evolving symbolism of the Stars and Stripes.
10 a.m. – 5 p.m. |  Free Admission
National Gallery of Art, 6th Street & Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20565
 

Hillwood Museum

Interwoven: A Tradition of Textiles – Through Jan. 3, 2027
Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens, the sumptuous estate of Marjorie Merriweather Post, presents myriad treasures literally in every corner – this year they’ve rounded up their rich holding of fabrics for their first ever textile-focused exhibition. The offering invites visitors to consider the enduring power of textiles, not only as decorative or domestic objects but also as expressions of identity, devotion, innovation and exquisite craftsmanship.
No tickets required; suggested $20 donation for adults
Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens, 4155 Linnean Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
 

National Museum of Women in the Arts

Routed West: Twentieth-Century African American Quilts in California – Through Jan. 17, 2027
The National Museum of Women in the Arts' new exhibit  traces the flow and flourishing of quilts in the context of the Second Great Migration, a mass movement of approximately five million African Americans from the rural South to cities in the North and West between 1940 and 1970 in search of a more equitable life. Many of the hundreds of thousands of migrants who arrived in California carried quilts for warmth and protection, as containers for ancestral memory and as emblems of cultural survival. America itself has always been a quilt of many cultures; come celebrate the art form in the country’s 250th year.
Hours & Admission
National Museum of Women in the Arts, 1250 New York Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20005
 

Smithsonian National Museum of Asian Art

From the Louvre: Masterpieces of Islamic Art – Through Jan. 18, 2027
In its only U.S. stop, this exhibition comes to DC with 26 works from the Musée du Louvre in Paris. Some of the pieces, which showcase Islamic art from Spain to India, date back to the 7th century. The collection explores the evolution of artistic styles and reveals how art shaped cultural exchange, trade and diplomacy across centuries.
Free Admission
Smithsonian National Museum of Asian Art, 1050 Independence Ave SW, Washington, DC 20013
 

Fever Originals

Candlelight: The Best of Hans Zimmer – Select dates through Feb. 27, 2027
Experience Hans Zimmer's most iconic film scores in an entirely new way inside the architectural marvel that is DC's National City Christian Church. Surrounded by the warm glow of thousands of candles, live musicians bring indelible melodies from Inception, Interstellar, The Lion King, Gladiator and more to life in a breathtaking concert.
Tickets
National City Christian Church, 5 Thomas Circle NW, Washington, DC 20005
 

Smithsonian American Art Museum

Much Here Is Beautiful: Photography Surveys of the U.S. Bicentennial – Through April 18, 2027 
From the California coast to the Kansas heartland to the streets of New York City, the photographs in this exhibit (which takes its name from Robert Hayden’s poem “American Journal”) offer an expansive and evocative portrait of America in the 1970s and early 1980s. Explore selected images from photography surveys that document people and places in the United States from the 19th century to the years before and after the U.S. Bicentennial in 1976.
11:30 a.m. – 7 p.m. | Free Admission
Smithsonian American Art Museum, 8th and G Streets NW, Washington, DC 20004
 

Homelands – Through Aug. 1, 2027
Discover how people and places relate to each other in a new exhibit at the National Gallery of Art’s East Building. Across 20 pieces, see the ways in which artists consider ancestral links, pressures that caused them to move from one place to the next and the larger histories to be found all across the United States.
10 a.m. – 5 p.m. |  Free Admission
National Gallery of Art, 4th Street & Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20565
 

Library of Congress

Alive in Many Hands – Through Jan. 8, 2028
The Library of Congress debuts a new exhibit that explores how the American Folklife Center has preserved and shared cultural traditions across generations. The Center's collections are the source for the in-depth display that includes more than 150 items; standout treasures include a performance by Go-Go legend Chuck Brown of "Bustin' Loose" at the 2002 American Folklife Center Homegrown concert, a Diné (Navajo) rug that blends traditional and contemporary imagery (pictured above) and a banjo signed by Woody Guthrie, Pete Seeger and other folk music legends.
Hours & Admission (free; timed-entry required)
Library of Congress, 101 Independence Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20540
 

Places to Stay

Hotel Nell

Need some inspiration for a place to stay in between events? Washington, DC is filled with a multitude of hotels to fit your needs. Whether you are looking for that specialty boutique hotel or booking at your favorite hotel brand, Washington, DC's booking engine has it all. Find your stay today!