EVENTS National Cherry Blossom Festival March 20-April 16 | Citywide One of the season’s biggest highlights, this renowned festival features dozens of events centered on the famous blooming of thousands of cherry blossom trees along DC’s Tidal Basin, including a parade on April 8. See more on page 16. ZooFari May 18 | Smithsonian National Zoo Local restaurants serve gourmet cuisine and fine wines at this annual fundraiser. Rolling Thunder Ride for Freedom May 28 | National Mall Hundreds of thousands of motorcycles take to the National Mall for the 30th anniversary of this demonstration. National Memorial Day Parade May 29 | Constitution Avenue See more on Memorial Day on page 14. APRIL Washington Nationals Home Opener vs. Miami Marlins April 3 | Nationals Park The 2016 National League East champions begin the defense of their crown against the rival Miami Marlins . White House Easter Egg Roll April 17 | White House Ellipse Macbeth April 25 – May 28 | Sidney Harman Hall Shakespeare Theatre Company presents an innovative take on the classic play. JUNE Celebration of Pride June 8-11 | Citywide This citywide event celebrates the LGBTQ community with street festivals, concerts and a much-anticipated parade. DC Jazz Festival June 9-18 | Citywide DC Jazz Festival This annual showcase brings together some of the world’s best jazz musicians for more than a week of performances across the District. Awesome Con June 16-18 | Walter E. Washington Convention Center Pop culture lovers unite at Washington DC's Comic Con, featuring numerous celebrities, comic creators and cosplayers. Giant National Capital Barbecue Battle June 24-25 | Pennsylvania Avenue NW Bands perform as chefs compete to see who can cook the best BBQ brisket, chicken, pork, lamb, ribs and sauce. Quicken Loans National Golf Tournament June 26-July 2 | TPC Potomac at Avenel Farm MAY Passport DC May 1-31 | Citywide DC embassies open their doors as part of this month-long celebration of international cultures. Kingman Island Bluegrass Festival May 13 | Kingman Island An annual salute to bluegrass and folk music with local vendors and good vibes on the gorgeous Kingman Island along the Anacostia River. DC Bike Ride May 14 A family-friendly, 20-mile ride on two wheels through the nation’s capital. DC Bike Ride 2016 WASHINGTON.ORG | 13
Source Visitor Guide 2017 2017: Page 13
