Our end-of-the-week picks for June 12-14, 2026
We've gathered up some fun things to do in DC this weekend. You can also read what else is going on during the week and throughout the month.
Looking for a local perspective delivered directly to your inbox every two weeks? Sign up for our "DC on the Go-Go" Local Newsletter to stay in the know.
Friday
DC/DOX Film Festival
The annual DC/DOX Film Festival takes place at theater venues across the District. Expect four days of visionary documentaries and conversations with the talent behind dozens of innovative and acclaimed works of non-fiction storytelling. Locations have included Edlavitch Community Center, Eaton Cinema, MLK Memorial Library, the National Portrait Gallery’s Nan Tucker McEvoy Auditorium, the National Archives and the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
Capital Pride in Washington, DC
For over 50 years, the Capital Pride Alliance has been the heart of DC's LGBTQ+ celebrations. The District goes all-out with its signature parade and a packed calendar of events, block parties, shows, special exhibits and more.
Capital Pride Honors – June 7
Rooftop Pool Party – June 18
RIOT! Opening Party – June 19
Capital Pride Parade – June 20
Capital Pride Festival – June 21
Swedish Midsummer Celebration on the National Mall
Midsummer means summer solstice and the sun barely setting in Sweden, a time to celebrate life and love. The Embassy of Sweden invites one and all to the National Mall to honor the occasion on Midsummer Eve. The open-air terraced lawn of the Sylvan Theater will host an evening filled with traditional Swedish maypole dancing, live music, trivia, games, arts and crafts, a midsummer wreath-making station and much more. Admission is free.
6-9:30 p.m. | Free Admission
Sylvan Theater, Independence Avenue SW & 15th Street NW, Washington, DC 20004
D.C. United
United In Play: 2026 FIFA World Cup Watch Parties
Across consecutive weekends, D.C. United will host free watch parties for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. From June 12-14, enjoy an array of matches, including U.S.A. vs. Paraguay, at Franklin Park. The following weekend, Tingey Plaza hosts viewings, including U.S.A. vs. Australia on June 19. Sign up for free admission tickets at the link above and take in the world's game at two very cool DC locations.
More Information
June 12-14: Franklin Park, 1332 I Street NW, Washington, DC 20005
June 19-21: Tingey Plaza, 101 Tingey Street SE, Washington, DC 20003
Saturday
Vans
Vans Warped Tour
The legendary music festival returns with retro punk, rock and alternative favorites including Coheed and Cambria, Jimmy Eat World, Gwar, Gym Class Heroes, New Found Glory, Taking Back Sunday, The Used and many, many more. Warped Tour also features an array of experiences, from extreme sports to a record label row.
Tickets
Festival Grounds at RFK Campus, 2500 Independence Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20003
National Museum of Asian Art
Saodat Ismailova: Melted Into the Sun
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, East Building, 1050 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20004
Folger Theatre
How Shakespeare Saved My Life
In this one-man show, written and performed by Jacob Ming-Trent, Shakespeare speaks across time, place, age and race to help rescue its protagonist from the “slings and arrows” of his past. Calling on the Bard and a host of genius rappers, half-crazed preachers and soulful poets to throw him a lifeline, Ming-Trent takes us on a propulsive ride that reaffirms the power of language and music. The show runs from June 9 – July 5; approximately 90 minutes with no intermission.
Tickets
Folger Shakespeare Library, 201 East Capitol Street SE, Washington, DC 20003
Keegan Theatre
The Play That Goes Wrong
This 1920s whodunit has everything you never wanted in a show – an unconscious leading lady, a corpse that can’t play dead and actors who trip over everything, including their lines. Part Monty Python, part Sherlock Holmes, this Olivier Award-winning comedy is a global phenomenon that’s guaranteed to leave you aching with laughter.
Tickets
Keegan Theatre, 1742 Church Street NW, Washington, DC 20036
Arena Stage
CrazySexyCool: The TLC Musical
Creep your way to one of the coolest venues in DC for a musical based on the fascinating story behind one of the most successful female pop groups ever. CrazySexyCool follows T-Boz, Left Eye and Chilli on a riveting, mostly true, journey that includes hit songs such as “Waterfalls,” “Creep” and “No Scrubs.”
Tickets
Arena Stage, 1101 6th Street SW, Washington, DC 20024
Pride on the Pier
Throughout the two days, DC’s prime waterfront spot will feature family-friendly activities, a live DJ, plenty of dancing, a boat parade, a fireworks show and more.
More Info
District & Transit Pier, 101 District Square SW, Washington, DC 20024
Sunday
EAT250: America at the Table
Celebrate 250 years of American history through every flavor the DC region has to offer, with collaboration dinners, public talks, tastings, immersive experiences and prix-fixe menus at restaurants across the city.
Citywide
UFC Freedom 250
A major sporting event on the White House Ellipse commemorates the 250th birthday of the United States with a once-in-a-generation celebration of the American fighting spirit. The program includes seven fights in total, with a Lightweight matchup between Ilia Topouria and Justin Gaethje serving as the main event. A two-day FanFest on the Ellipse precedes the competition; those interested can submit a request for a chance to get free tickets.
More Information
White House Ellipse, 15th Street & Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20006
Smithsonian Institution
American Aspirations
Co-curated by Smithsonian Secretary Lonnie G. Bunch, American Aspirations brings together some of the Smithsonian’s most treasured objects to commemorate the Declaration of Independence and consider how founding ideals have been interpreted across generations. The special exhibit will be housed inside the majestic Smithsonian Castle, which is temporarily open through Sept. 7. Among the highlights: the desk Thomas Jefferson used while writing the Declaration, Sally Ride's in-space flight suit, a personal hymnal that belonged to Harriet Tubman and a candle stand used by George Washington.
8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Free Admission
Smithsonian Castle, 1000 Jefferson Drive SW, Washington, DC 20560
Smithsonian Institution
Reset: Abstraction Embodied in Design
Running for two years beginning on June 12, this exhibit at the National Museum of African American History and Culture takes a cerebral look at the way thoughtfully shaped furniture shapes our environments and our perspectives. Explore the ways that designers, much like visual artists, harness abstraction as both a technique and a source of inspiration.
Free Admission | Hours & Information (timed passes required)
National Museum of African American History and Culture, 1400 Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20560
Smithsonian Institution
Revelation: A Journey Into Abstraction
NMAAHC dives even deeper into abstraction with this installation which explores the profound range and depth of abstract art created by African American artists from the mid-20th century to the present. The exhibit reintroduces key works from the museum's collection and debuts new acquisitions, offering fresh contexts and perspectives.
Free Admission | Hours & Information (timed passes required)
National Museum of African American History and Culture, 1400 Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20560
FIFA World Cup 2026™ Fan Zone
Soccer’s monumental moment can be enjoyed within sight of monuments this summer. As part of Freedom 250, the National Mall will host live match-viewing of the World Cup as well as interactive exhibits, cultural showcases, food, music, family-friendly activities and youth programming throughout the tournament. Admission is free for this unique opportunity to take in the world’s most popular sport in one of the most scenic settings in the country.
More Information
Places to Stay
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
Do you know where you’ll be dining pre- or post-event? From pop-up restaurants to award-winning hot spots to laid-back food halls, our DC food guide is perfect for helping you plan a more memorable experience.
