Washington DC Official Visitors Guide - Washington DC Official Visitors Guide Fall/Winter 2026
Events: What’s Happening
2026-09-15 15:37:51
Washington, DC features a robust lineup of events each fall and winter. Visit washington.org for even more.
DC 250
CELEBRATE AMERICA’S 250TH ANNIVERSARY IN THE NATION’S CAPITAL WITH A LINEUP OF EVENTS TO CLOSE OUT 2026: DC250.US
Sept. 19–26 | Citywide
Explore art, culture and history with free tours through city neighborhoods thanks to Events DC.
Late September | Citywide
Discounted tickets and special events spotlight DC’s vibrant performing arts scene.
Reopening of the Hirshhorn Museum Sculpture Garden
Fall 2026 | National Mall
The debut of the largest renovation project in the museum’s 50-year history.
October | Pennsylvania Avenue NW
The biggest celebration of craft beer on the East Coast offers live performances, food and activities.
Oktoberfest
Oct. 3 | The Wharf
The waterfront district celebrates German beer, music, food and traditions.
International Horse Show
Oct. 19–25 | Show Place Arena
Top riders and horses compete in world-class jumping, hunter and equitation events.
Marine Corps Marathon
Oct. 25 | Arlington, Va. & Washington, DC
Thousands of runners take on the legendary “People’s Marathon.”
Mamma Mia!
Oct. 27 – Nov. 15 | National Theatre
ABBA’s beloved musical returns with its feel-good story and unforgettable pop hits.
A Christmas Carol
Nov. 19 – Dec. 31 | Ford’s Theatre
The timeless tale of Ebenezer Scrooge comes to life in a cherished holiday tradition.
Doja Cat
Nov. 21 | Capital One Arena
The Grammy-winning superstar brings her chart-topping hits and high-energy performance to Downtown DC.
DowntownDC Holiday Market
Nov. 21 – Dec. 23 | F Street NW
A seasonal favorite for holiday shopping features local artisans, standout bites and festive tunes.
ZooLights
Nov. 21 – Jan. 3, 2027 | Smithsonian National Zoo
The family-favorite destination transforms into a winter wonderland with light displays and glowing lanterns. National Christmas Tree Lighting Early December | White House Ellipse The grand illumination features holiday music and pageantry to welcome the season.
The District’s Holiday Boat Parade
Dec. 5 | The Wharf’s District Pier
Dozens of boats decked out in holiday lights cruise the Washington Channel in a festive waterfront parade.
National Menorah Lighting
Dec. 6 | White House Ellipse
The world’s premier celebration of Chanukah includes a traditional lighting ceremony.
Winter Metropolitan Restaurant Week
Mid-to-late January | Citywide
Restaurants across the DC region serve up specially priced menus for brunch, lunch and dinner.
Washington Auto Show
Jan. 22–31, 2027 | Walter E. Washington Convention Center
Hundreds of new vehicles, hands-on activations and exclusive previews drive one of the nation’s top auto shows. There's still time to experience the semiquincentennial in the nation's capital.
51 Steps to Freedom Trail
Ongoing | Virtual
Using augmented reality, an immersive trail brings iconic figures and pivotal moments in DC history to life.
Dedication of the Desert Shield and Desert Storm Memorial
Oct. 24 | Constitution Avenue & 23rd Street
The nation honors those who served in Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm with a new memorial.
The Spirit of 2076
Through Dec. 31 | Milken Center for Advancing the American Dream
A thought-provoking exploration of how innovation and society could shape the United States by 2076.
Founding Fortunes: The Estate Sale of Martha Washington
Through Dec. 31 | Tudor Place
Discover the story of Martha Washington’s historic estate sale and its impact on early America.
Revolution in Their Words
Through Dec. 31 | DAR Museum
Firsthand accounts from soldiers, settlers and leaders reveal the many voices behind the American Revolution.
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