Think of Washington, DC for special fall festivals, exhibitions and sports.
September
DC JazzFest - Cityside | Aug. 31 - Sept. 1
DC JazzFest celebrates its 20th anniversary with its most star-studded lineup to date. Various performances will take place at venues throughout the city. Performers include three-time Grammy Award winner Samara Joy, Stanley Clarke, Kenny Barron and Dianne Reeves.
DC Magic Festival – Capital Hilton | Aug. 30–Sept. 1
The Capital Hilton hosts some of the best magicians from across the country during a three-day event over Labor Day Weekend. Back for its fourth year, headliners include the award-winning Eric DeCamps, one of the modern masters of sleight of hand.
DC State Fair – Franklin Park | Sept. 7
Enjoy a free showcase of the District’s agricultural, culinary and creative talents with a one-day celebration of all things homegrown. Competitions include the best photographer, best mumbo sauce (DC’s signature condiment) and the most creative use of space in a micro-garden.
Adams Morgan Day | Sept. 8
Celebrate the vibrant spirit of the Adams Morgan neighborhood with DC’s longest running street festival. Diverse cultures, music and flavors take centerstage in one of DC’s most eclectic and energetic neighborhoods.
WalkingTown DC | Sept. 14-21
Celebrating 25 years, WalkingTown DC features eight days of guided walking tours through all eight wards of the city. A closing reception is scheduled for Sept. 22 to honor the tour guides, volunteers and everyone that has contributed to the program’s impactful quarter century.
DC Half – Citywide | Sept. 15
Get ready to lace up for a half marathon with a scenic route through the heart of the city. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or a first timer, join the race for a day of fitness, fun and community spirit.
H Street Festival | Sept. 21
A high-energy block party along DC’s H Street corridor stretches 11 blocks with 14 stages. Featuring live music, dance performances, family-friendly activities, contests and plenty of local food vendors to celebrate the neighborhood.
HFStival – Nationals Park | Sept. 21
The legendary music festival is back. Nationals Park hosts the one-day, one-stage concert, first launched by alt-rock radio station WHFS in 1990. Headliners include Death Cab for Cutie and The Postal Service.
Washington Nationals 2024 Season – Nationals Park | Ongoing March – September
The Washington Nationals, with some of the brightest young stars in baseball, wrap up their 2024 campaign in September. The team will celebrate the 1924 Championship Centennial (Sept. 13-15), marking a century since the Washington Senators’ World Series victory. The Nats will honor the city’s rich baseball heritage with special events and throwback merchandise.
Washington Spirit – Audi Field | Ongoing March – November
Captivated by the USWNT after winning Olympic gold? Gold medalists and Spirit stars Trinity Rodman and Casey Krueger return to DC to finish their dominant 2024 season.
Washington Mystics – Entertainment & Sports Arena and Capital One Arena | Ongoing May – September
Catch the Washington Mystics in action against the WNBA’s best. With key matchups to end the season and the debut of promising new draft picks, this is an exciting time to be a fan.
Washington Commanders – Commanders Field | September – January 2025
Get ready for a promising season, led by rookie Jayden Daniels, the second overall pick and Heisman-winning quarterback.
Art All Night – Citywide | Sept. 27-28
Immerse yourself in the city’s artistic spirit and discover hidden gems. The free two-night event will celebrate artistic talent across all eight wards from 8 p.m.-3 a.m.
Because They’re Funny – The Wharf | Sept. 27-29
Head to The Wharf for a weekend full of humor, wit and laughter, plus headliners including Leslie Jones. This festival, produced by NICE CROWD and presented in partnership with Events DC, serves to uncover fresh new BIPOC stand-up comedy talent.
October
DC Coffee Festival – Dock 5 at Union Market | Oct. 5-6
Sample the best of DC’s coffee culture in Union Market, where espresso lovers can taste an array of brews and discover artisanal roasters from over 50 local and national brands. Enjoy workshops, live demonstrations and a vibrant community atmosphere.
Snallygaster – Pennsylvania Ave. NW | Oct. 12
Brought to you by the minds behind Bluejacket, ChuchKey and The Sovereign, festivalgoers can expect a mind-boggling selection of no fewer than 450 highly sought-after draft beers, casks, gravity kegs and bottle pours from more than 175 of the finest American and international producers.
Theatre Week | Sept. 26–Oct. 13
There’s no better time to explore the city’s world-class theater community than Theatre Week, when Theatre Washington and #dctheatre join together to offer $20, $40 and $60 tickets (including fees) to over 30 productions.
Washington Wizards – Capital One Arena | October – April 2025
With rising rookie talent, don’t miss the chance to experience the excitement of Wizards basketball at Capital One Arena downtown.
DC United – Audi Field | February – October 2024
Catch a DC United match at Audi Field this season, winners of four MLS Cups. Enjoy a great view of the game from any seat in this spectacular venue located in Capitol Riverfront.
Home Rule Music Festival – Alethia Tanner Park | Oct. 26
Now in its third year, the Home Rule Music Festival captures the best of DC’s local music and culture. Experience the city’s iconic local bands, including Rare Essence and Dupont Brass Band.
November
Trabants Parade – L’Enfant Plaza | Nov. 2
Celebrate the anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall at the 18th Annual Parade of Trabants. This festival will showcase vintage Cold War automobiles and scooters around the International Spy Museum.
DC Beer Fest – Nationals Park | Nov. 2
Raise a glass at the DC Beer Fest, where craft beer fans and casual sippers can indulge in a variety of pours from local and national breweries. Enjoy live music, delicious food and a vibrant atmosphere at Nationals Park.
Double Exposure Film Festival – MLK, Jr. Memorial Library and US Naval Heritage Center | Nov. 7-10
Double Exposure is the United States’ first and only film festival dedicated to investigative reporting on film. It pairs four days of film screenings with a professional symposium that brings together watchdog journalists and filmmakers venturing into investigative storytelling.
Downtown Holiday Market | Nov. 22-Dec. 23
Celebrating 20 years with an expanded footprint. Enjoy an elevated festive and immersive market experience. Local vendors. Good eats.
photo credit - Daniel Radar