This June in DC will be one for the books thanks to WorldPride, the Giant National BBQ Battle, Home Rule Music Festival and more.
DC was named one of the best places in the world to travel in June by AFAR and The Points Guy, so whether you’re in town for a concert, game or festival, you can take your pick of unforgettable experiences in the nation's capital.
Choose from an abundance of summer special discounts and packages, from luxurious experiences to budget-friendly options – and make sure to check out our things to do for the week and weekend, plus accessibility guides to monuments and museums on the National Mall.
Experience WorldPride in Washington, DC – Through June 8
This year marks the 50th anniversary of Pride in Washington, DC and we're celebrating by making it an all-out international experience. Join the momentous celebrations as the nation’s capital is painted with pride, featuring a variety of events to inspire, empower and connect the international LGBTQ+ community and their allies. The Fabric of Freedom theme emphasizes our community, woven together through our rich cultures, diverse identities and backgrounds.
More info | Book Your Stay
Washington Nationals Baseball: 20th Anniversary Season
The Nats, who have four National League East titles, five postseason appearances and a World Series championship since coming to DC in 2005, are one of the city's main attractions throughout the spring and summer. Head to Nationals Park to experience MLB action with an exciting schedule, plenty of home runs and, of course, Racing Presidents. The team celebrates its 20th anniversary in the nation's capital with a year filled with special events. Purchase single-game tickets now and use the code VISITDC for 10% or more off!
Tickets: Use code VISITDC for 10% off
1500 South Capitol Street SE, Washington, DC 20003
Washington Spirit
Soccer season in Washington, DC
Head to Audi Field to catch four-time MLS Cup winners D.C. United or 2021 NWSL Champion 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
Check out local theater with TodayTix
TodayTix is your ticket to the best live theatre, arts and culture in DC. You can save 40% or more on tickets to the hottest local shows at DC’s best theatres this spring and summer. You can also get unbeatable day-of deals with TodayTix Rush and Lottery programs. Earn rewards with every purchase on the TodayTix app.
Wild Kratts: Ocean Adventure! – May 24 – Sept. 7
The PBS Kids’ Wild Kratts® team takes over the National Children Museum’s Visiting Exhibit Hall. With technology from the program, kids can solve problems, complete missions, assist animals and stop villainous plans. Exhibit experiences include themed areas like The Tortuga, the Dolphin Decoder, an Amphisub and a digital aquarium.
Hours & Admission
National Children’s Museum, 1300 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20004
Frankenstein – May 27 – June 22
Mary Shelley’s gothic masterpiece comes to the stage at Klein Theatre thanks to Shakespeare Theatre Company and the writing/directing talents of Emily Burns. The foundational tale concerns Elizabeth and Victor Frankenstein and the creation of a monster that continues to resonate throughout contemporary art.
Tickets
Klein Theatre, 450 7th Street NW, Washington, DC 20004
Street Fest – May 29 – June 8
Union Market District packs consecutive weekends with art, entertainment, dance and much, much more. Street Fest includes eight specially curated art shows, the sixth annual Light Reel Film Festival, a collision of punk rock and circus arts from NY Circus Project, dance parties and classes, singalongs, live artmaking and plenty to eat and drink.
More Info
Union Market District, 1309 5th Street NE, Washington, DC 20002
Mosaic Theater: Andy Warhol in Iran – May 29 – June 29
Set in 1976, the new production from Mosaic Theater Company set to debut at the Atlas Performing Arts Center concerns the Empress Farah and her desire for iconic artist Andy Warhol to compose pop-art portraits of the royals in Tehran. The plan is disrupted when a University student takes Warhol hostage, leading to a lethal showdown.
Tickets
Atlas Performing Arts Center, 1333 H Street NE, Washington, DC 20002
Summer Films at The REACH – May 30 – Aug. 29
The REACH at the Kennedy Center presents an outdoor film series all summer long. The Millennium Stage Outdoor Film screenings presents classic and modern feature films on the REACH video wall every Friday from May 30 – Aug. 29. The lineup kicks off with The Bourne Identity.
Movies begin at dusk | Free Admission
The REACH, 2700 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20003
Armed Forces Cycling Classic – May 31 – June 1
The Armed Forces Cycling Classic includes two days of closed course biking open to enthusiasts of all abilities. Cyclists can keep it low-key with amateur, non-competitive events like the Challenge Ride and Kids Race or choose to challenge themselves at the Women’s and Men’s Pro/AM Races (including the famous Clarendon Cup). Everyone who completes more than one lap gets a medal.
More Info
Pinback – June 1
Named after a little-known character in an obscure John Carpenter film, Pinback have had their niche figured out since first forming in San Diego in 1998. The two constant members – Rob Crow and Armistead Burwell Smith IV – have managed to build a catalogue that conquers several genres, from prog rock to math rock to indie pop. Take a journey through their career during this set at Union Stage.
8 p.m. | Tickets
Union Stage, 740 Water Street SW, Washington, DC 20024
Tennis – June 3
The Anthem gives Tennis a proper send-off as the duo stops at the illustrious venue during their farewell tour. Seven albums into a career marked by constant travel and evolving success even though the group operated outside of traditional music industry spaces, Tennis is wrapping it up with a final sojourn across North America in support of their last LP, Face Down In The Garden.
8 p.m. | Tickets
The Anthem, 901 Wharf Street SW, Washington, DC 20024
Pride Plays – June 3-6
Guided by producers Sam Gravitte, Sammy Lopez and Ibi Owolabi and supported by original founders Michael Urie, Doug Nevin and Nick Mayo, Pride Plays at Woolly Mammoth features six in-development plays as well as community events. Attendees can encounter a rich tapestry of LGBTQIA+ experiences through the power of theatre and attend artist-audience talkbacks as well as facilitated discussions.
Tickets
Woolly Mammoth Theatre, 641 D Street NW, Washington, DC 20004
The Untitled Unauthorized Hunter S. Thompson Musical – June 3 – July 13
If you’re full of fear and loathing, boy, does Signature Theatre have a show for you this summer. A rock musical about Hunter S. Thompson promises to be a raucous, bewildering immersion into Gonzo journalism, political anarchy and drug culture. The anticipated production is directed by Tony Award winner Christopher Ashley.
Tickets
Signature Theatre, 4200 Campbell Avenue, Arlington, VA 22206
Birmingham Royal Ballet: Black Sabbath – The Ballet – June 4-8
The Birmingham Royal Ballet debuts at the Kennedy Center with the first true heavy metal ballet experience. Orchestral interpretations of the music of another legendary Birmingham group, Black Sabbath, are accompanied by dance across three acts: the songs, the band and the fans.
Tickets
The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, 2700 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20566
Grace Jones & Janelle Monáe – June 5
This official WorldPride 2025 event brings two of music’s most beloved LGBTQ+ allies to the stage at The Anthem. Grace Jones’ chameleon-like approach to pop and undeniably striking looks paved the way for the multitalented megastar that is Janelle Monáe. The vibes promise to be immaculate during one of WorldPride’s most anticipated events as the two icons perform.
8 p.m. | Tickets
The Anthem, 901 Wharf Street SW, Washington, DC 20024
2025 WorldPride Boat Parade – June 6
As part of Pride on the Pier, the inaugural WorldPride Boat Parade will traverse down the Washington Channel in celebration. Expect roughly 30 decorated boats to begin an aquatic journey at 7 p.m. sharp. The parade will be followed by a fireworks show at 10 p.m.
7 p.m. | Free Admission
District & Transit Pier, 101 District Square SW, Washington, DC 20024
Nats Postgame Summer Concert Series: Natasha Bedingfield – June 6
This UK sensation burst onto the charts in the early 2000s on the heels of “Unwritten,” one of the decade’s most infectious hits and the opening theme song to MTV’s The Hills. Since then, Natasha Bedingfield has built a career filled with R&B-flavored hits, leading to more than 20 million records sold worldwide. Nats Park will be rocking for this postgame concert. Your admission to the concert is included with your game tickets.
Tickets
Nationals Park, 1500 South Capitol Street SE, Washington, DC
We Are Them: A WorldPride Drag Race Party – June 6
With WorldPride happening in DC, you can bet there’s a major drag show going down. The Anthem hosts this extravaganza featuring more than 15 of the most dynamic, daring and dazzling drag queens around. VIP packages are offered that include chances to snap photos with the stars of the show.
8 p.m. | Tickets
The Anthem, 901 Wharf Street SW, Washington, DC 20024
Pride on the Pier – June 6-7
The Wharf and The Washington Blade have partnered to host the sixth edition of Pride on the Pier, which will align with the final weekend of WorldPride 2025. 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. Tickets are available for a VIP experience.
Friday: 3-10 p.m. | Saturday: 12-10 p.m. | More Info
District & Transit Pier, 101 District Square SW, Washington, DC 20024
Notes & Frames: Classic Film Scores – June 6-7
The National Symphony Orchestra brings timeless melodies to life during this performance that celebrates music’s power during some of cinema’s greatest moments. Led by conductor Teddy Abrams, expect to hear gems from classics like King Kong, Robin Hood, Ben Hur, Wuthering Heights, Sunset Boulevard, Now, Voyager, Vertigo, Lawrence of Arabia, Once Upon a Time in America, Taxi Driver, and E.T., among others.
Tickets
The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, 2700 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20566
Perfume Genius – June 7
Mike Hadreas, who performs as Perfume Genius, creates some of the most heartfelt and distinctive music in indie rock today, standing out as an LGBTQ+ artist unafraid to address controversial issues head on. His albums feature spellbinding and emotional songs that can come in the form of quiet ballads or Bowie-esque stompers. Perfume Genius is the perfect performer for this official WorldPride 2025 event at 9:30 Club.
6 p.m. | Tickets
9:30 Club, 815 V Street NW, Washington, DC 20001
With Passion and Purpose: Gifts from the Collection of Larry D. and Brenda A. Thompson – June 7 – Oct. 5
A collection that spans 100 years of Black creativity comes to the National Gallery of Art’s East Building Mezzanine thanks to Larry D. and Brenda A. Thompson. The largest group of objects by Black artists to enter the museum’s collection at one time includes 175 works. These range from lyrical abstractions to intricate sculptures to well-known paintings. Featured artists include Jacob Lawrence, Archibald Motley, Vivian Browne, Mildred Thompson, Alison Saar and many others.
10 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Free Admission
National Gallery of Art, 4th Street & Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20565
CIVIC – June 11
Australia has emerged as a punk rock hub over the last decade-plus, with CIVIC now the standard-bearer for the genre Stateside. The group bristles with proto-punk energy as cascading guitars rain down from on high, the rhythm section pounds through the ground and vocalist Jim McCullough calls for political urgency in his scathing lyrics. Pearl Street Warehouse is privileged to host the punk powerhouse.
8 p.m. | Tickets
Pearl Street Warehouse, 33 Pearl Street SW, Washington, DC 20024
Les Misérables – June 11 – July 13
Back in 1986, the Kennedy Center hosted the pre-Broadway run of what has become one of the most popular musicals of all time. And in the summer of 2025, Les Mis comes home. Seen by more than 130 million people worldwide, this brilliant new interpretation of the classic production tells an epic story of love, passion, redemption and survival set in 19th-century France.
Tickets
The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, 2700 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20566
DC/DOX Film Festival – June 12-15
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.
Tickets
Arena Stage
A Wrinkle in Time – June 12 – July 20
With music and lyrics by Heather Christian, a book by Lauren Yee (the mind behind Cambodian Rock Band) and direction by Lee Sunday Evans, this highly anticipated production comes to Arena Stage next summer. Join main character Meg on an epic quest in an adventurous new musical adaptation of Madeleine L'Engle's Newbery Medal-winning novel. Prepare for a spellbinding journey through space and time.
Tickets
Arena Stage, 1101 6th Street SW, Washington, DC 20024
Nats Postgame Concert Series: Nelly – June 13
Time to learn some country grammar at Nationals Park. After the Nats’ Friday night game against the Miami Marlins, stick around to enjoy a set from one of hip-hop’s greatest hitmakers. Yes, it’s hot in herre. Your purchase of a game ticket includes your admission to the concert.
Tickets
Nationals Park, 1500 South Capitol Street SE, Washington, DC
Milk Tree: Pop-Up Art Installation – June 14-15
Blink and you'll miss it – but we suggest you don't miss it: Robin Bell's newest art installation is open and it's as sweet as it is spiky. The exhibit is called Milk Tree, after the prolific succulent species that Bell and his partner began to propagate during the COVID-19 pandemic and now have enough of to fill the windows of the Friendship Heights space that hosts the installation. All of the art – that is, the plants and the paintings – is for sale, and if you purchase, you'll take a photo and become part of the exhibit too, which focuses on the ways we are all connected. Check out the video before you stop by this thoughtful neighborhood pop-up.
More Info
5221 Wisconsin Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20015 (near Ingraham Street)
Falsettos – Through June 15
Keegan Theatre presents a modern musical that dives headlong into relationships, families, baseball, the AIDS crisis and the pains of growing up, perfectly timed for WorldPride in DC. Everyone must learn to mature when Marvin leaves his wife and son to be with his lover. Equally funny and emotionally moving, the production promises to pack a punch.
Tickets
Keegan Theatre, 1742 Church Street NW, Washington, DC 20036
We Are Gathered – Through June 15
Penned by Tarall Alvin McCraney – the screenwriter of Moonlight, one of the best films of the century so far – We Are Gathered is a can’t-miss summer show of queer love at Arena Stage. The production will be paired with a Loves Takes Center Stage immersive experience that will offer couples an incredible opportunity to exchange marriage vows on stage during select performances. The narrative follows W. Tre and Free as the two try to figure out whether they’re each other’s significant other after a chance meeting.
Tickets
Arena Stage, 1101 6th Street SW, Washington, DC 20024
Home Rule Music Festival – June 13 & 21
This DC-centric festival celebrates the rich music and cultural scene of the nation's capital. The 2025 edition includes a Youth Showcase at Woolly Mammoth and a full day of live performances at the Parks at Walter Reed. If you can't make these dates, plan ahead for part three in Oct.
More Info
Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company, 641 D St NW, Washington, DC 20004 & The Parks at Walter Reed, 1010 Butternut Street, NW, Washington, DC
Aimee Mann – June 15
DC welcomes one of the premier singer/songwriters in music for a one-night performance. Aimee Mann is known for her penetrating and cinematic lyrics, which she often sings beautifully over acoustic guitar. Mann also has an ear for pop melodies, with all her dynamism set to be on display during this retrospective show at the 9:30 Club.
7 p.m. | Tickets
9:30 Club, 815 V Street NW, Washington, DC 20001
Deerhoof – June 16
More than 30 years into their experiment, Deerhoof continue to blend hard rock, free-jazz, furious percussion and the inimitable voice of frontwoman Satomi Matsuzaki into a sound that literally no other band can match. Known for live shows that transcend their surroundings and for creating noise that few other acts could even dream up, Deerhoof will blow the audience away during this show at Union Stage. Bet.
8 p.m. | Tickets
Union Stage, 740 Water Street SW, Washington, DC 20024
Ain’t Too Proud: The Life and Times of The Temptations – June 17-22
If you think the music of The Temptations is fantastic, just wait until you hear their story. The National Theatre hosts the Broadway smash Ain’t Too Proud, a musical that will make you want to dance in the aisles. Five kids from Detroit are discovered by the legendary Berry Gordy, then signed to Motown, then launched into an unforgettable career filled with chart-topping hits. Along the way, both friendship and betrayal enter the story, in addition to civil rights struggles in the country at-large. Don’t miss this Tony Award-winning song-and-dance extravaganza that also offers a captivating tale.
Tickets
The National Theatre, 1321 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20004
Cults – June 18
The multiplatinum duo take to Union Stage to play their special brand of pop, which combines cinematic soundscapes with dreamy melodies and has led to some of the catchiest songs of the decade. Cults have collaborated with rapper J. Cole, filmmaker Jim Jarmusch, The Weeknd and many others, showcasing their incredible versatility. Expect a riveting set.
Tickets
Union Stage, 740 Water Street SW, Washington, DC 20024
FIFA Club World Cup
FIFA Club World Cup – June 18, 22 & 26
Audi Field will host three premier matches of the FIFA Club World Cup this summer across three separate dates. Al Ain FC takes on Juventus FC on June 18, FC Salzburg challenges Al Hilal on June 22 and Wydad AC plays Al Ain FC on June 26.
Tickets
Audi Field, 100 Potomac Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20024
From Shadow to Substance: Grand-Scale Portraits During Photography’s Formative Years – June 20 – June 7, 2026
The National Portrait Gallery displays early photographic mastery in an exhibit featuring works in the impressive whole-plate format (8.5 × 6.5 inches). Trace the evolution of the art form, from daguerreotypes to ambrotypes to tintypes. Featured icons include Daniel Webster, John C. Calhoun, Gaetano Bedini and John Frederick Kensett.
11:30 a.m. – 7 p.m. | Free Admission
National Portrait Gallery, 8th and G Streets NW, Washington, DC 20001
© Georgetown BID
Fête De La Musique – World Music Day – June 21
Faites la fête at Georgetown's iteration of the free, live music festival that has been celebrated in France for over 40 years. Listeners can catch R&B, Americana, jazz, bluegrass, spoken word or rock across the fest's locations throughout Georgetown's commercial district and at the French Embassy.
More Info | Free Admission
The Hirshhorn
Smithsonian Solstice Saturday – June 21
Celebrate the official first Saturday of summer with the Smithsonian. Institutions like the Hirshhorn, the National Zoo, the National Museum of Asian Art and the National Museum of American History will curate special projects and programs, host exciting performances and grant the rare chance to explore the museums into the evening.
More Info | Free Admission
Caamp & Whitney – June 21
Two folk-rock bonafides share a bill at The Anthem. Take note, as a first show sold out quickly. Caamp’s music will remind you of just that – campfire vibes filled with nostalgia, storytelling and gentle arrangements. Whitney turns the dial back to 1970s AM-radio with sepia-toned songs that suit quiet introspection or a peaceful drive through the countryside.
8 p.m. | Tickets
The Anthem, 901 Wharf Street SW, Washington, DC 20024
Giant National Capital Barbecue Battle – June 21-22
Rib roasters and sauce bosses show off their delicious wares during the Giant National Capital Barbecue Battle. Dozens of pit masters, local restaurants and live music shut down Pennsylvania Avenue between 3rd and 7th streets NW for a lively street party. Cooking demos and free tastings make for a delicious (and filling) experience. Tickets start at $20.
Tickets
Pennsylvania Avenue (between 3rd & 7th Streets NW), Washington, DC
Dupont Kalorama Museum Walk Weekend – June 21-22
Take two days to enjoy free admission at seven awesome DC museums. The Dupont Kalorama Museum Walk weekend includes Anderson House, Dumbarton House, Dupont Underground, the National Museum of American Jewish Military History, O Museum in The Mansion, The Phillips Collection and the Woodrow Wilson House. You will have access to new exhibits, fascinating stories and live music at each museum, an incredible free opportunity that comes only once a year.
More Info | Free Admission
Cut + Paste: Experimental Japanese Prints and Photographs – June 21 – Nov. 20
The National Museum of Asian Art showcases 17 Japanese artists who have pushed boundaries in printmaking and photography. The exhibit features multilayered images that challenge distinctions between mediums, traditions and notions of fine art and commercial design.
10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. | Free Admission
National Museum of Asian Art, 1050 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20560
We Gather at the Edge: Contemporary Quilts by Black Women Artists – Through June 22
Two years ago, the Smithsonian American Art Museum acquired 35 quilts from Dr. Carolyn Mazloomi, who holds a doctorate in aerospace engineering and is also a prolific artist, curator and scholar. The scope of the quilts featured is remarkable and groundbreaking in its representation of Black history and culture.
11:30 a.m. – 7 p.m. | Free Admission
Smithsonian American Art Museum, 8th & G Streets NW, Washington, DC 20004
Twelfth Night – Through June 22
Audiences should prepare themselves for a night filled with hilarious mistaken identity mix-ups at Folger Theatre thanks to what is considered Shakespeare’s funniest play. After losing her twin brother in a shipwreck, Viola must pass as that brother in the world of Duke Orsino, leading to a hilarious tale that addresses gender fluidity and the discovery of true love.
Tickets
Folger Theatre, 201 East Capitol Street SE, Washington, DC 20003
Hedwig & The Angry Inch – Through June 22
Get ready for glam, grit, glitter and plenty of heart from the classic rock-n-roll romp when the Signature Theatre stages Hedwig & The Angry Inch this spring in its ARK Theatre. The story entails a song-stealing ex-lover, a childhood in Communist East Germany, a botched sex change operation and some of the most unforgettable songs in the history of musicals.
Tickets
Signature Theatre, 4200 Campbell Avenue, Arlington, VA 22206
Dolly Parton’s Threads: My Songs in Symphony – June 26-27
Although Dolly Parton will not be performing during this National Symphony Orchestra Pops event, you’ll get to know the legendary singer/songwriter/actress much better along the way. Dolly will be on screen for the visual-musical journey as the Orchestra performs innovative takes on classic songs such as “Jolene,” “Coat of Many Colors,” “I Will Always Love You” and additional personal favorites of Dolly’s.
8 p.m. | Tickets
The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, 2700 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20566
The Savannah Bananas – June 27-28
Combining on-field entertainment, hijinks, crazy uniforms, dancing and a whole lot of other funny stuff … including, well, baseball, the Savannah Bananas come to Nationals Park for consecutive nights later this month (Friday and Saturday). This traveling roadshow attracts a lot of attention, so grab tickets as soon as you can, as a sellout is expected.
Tickets
Nationals Park, 1500 South Capitol Street SE, Washington, DC
Picturing the Presidents: Daguerreotypes and Ambrotypes from the National Portrait Gallery’s Collection – Through June 28
In honor of the upcoming presidential election, the National Portrait Gallery displays daguerreotype and ambrotype portraits of eight commanders-in-chief who held the office in the 19th century. The collection includes a rare ambrotype pin from Abraham Lincoln’s first presidential campaign credited with contributing to Lincoln’s 1860 victory. Visitors can also check out a modern daguerreotype that depicts the 2009 inauguration of President Barack Obama.
11:30 a.m. – 7 p.m. | Free Admission
National Portrait Gallery, 8th and G Streets NW, Washington, DC 20001
Forensic Science on Trial – Through June 2025
The National Museum of American History explores historic courtroom cases and how forensic science has come to be used in the pursuit of justice. Artifacts from more than 150 years of trials showcase at least 12 forensic science techniques; three items can claim to come from “the trial of the century.”
10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. | Free Admission
Smithsonian National Museum of American History, 1300 Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20560
Open Streets Capitol Hill – June 28
Mayor Bowser and DDOT invite you to enjoy the Capitol Hill neighborhood through their Open Streets initiative for the first time. A full mile of streets will be closed to vehicles to allow for safe walking, biking and playing. Expect hourly programmed classes and performances that will include live music, yoga and dancing. The event is free and suitable for all ages and abilities.
9 a.m. – 3 p.m. | Free Admission
North Carolina Avenue SE, East Capitol Street & Massachusetts Avenue SE from 6th Street SE to 17th Street SE
Broadway in the Park – June 28
Visit Wolf Trap in Vienna, Va. as the performing arts hub partners with Signature Theatre for the fifth edition of Broadway in the Park. Broadway stars Lindsay Mendez and Jessie Mueller join Signature performers for a night of renditions of classic songs.
8 p.m. | Tickets
Filene Center at Wolf Trap, 1551 Trap Road, Vienna, VA 22182
Car Seat Headrest – June 28
What began as solo pop songs crafted and recorded in the Leesburg, Va. bedroom of frontman Will Toledo has blossomed into a full-blown band that can release rock operas entitled The Scholars. Car Seat Headrest’s music is laced with raw emotion and loud guitars, weaving tales full of angst and humor, anthemic and relatable to all.
8 p.m. | Tickets
The Anthem, 901 Wharf Street SW, Washington, DC 20024
Vivian Browne: My Kind of Protest – June 28 – Sept. 28
The Phillips Collection uncovers previously unknown pieces and archival findings to showcase the depth of three decades of work by Vivian Browne. The exhibition features paintings, prints, works on paper and additional ephemera, highlighting Browne’s incredible career as an artist, activist, teacher and founder of one of the first women’s art cooperatives in Manhattan. Her approach to color and form continues to challenge concepts of figuration and abstraction.
Hours & Admission
The Phillips Collection, 1600 21st Street NW, Washington, DC 20009
Jazz in the Garden – Fridays through July 11
Kick back and groove to the music with sangria in hand at Jazz in the Garden throughout the summer, held in the National Gallery of Art’s Sculpture Garden. An eclectic mix of DC-area jazz musicians lend a soundtrack to one of the city’s most idyllic scenes set around the sculpture garden’s central fountain. This is a free seasonal tradition that you do not want to miss. Due to high demand, the museum has instituted a lottery system; visit the Gallery’s website for more information.
6-8:30 p.m. | Free Admission | Register
National Gallery of Art, 6th Street and Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20565
The Artist’s Experience: From Brotherman to Batman – Through July 24
Visit Phillips@THEARC for a distinctive exhibition of the vitality of comic book art. From Brotherman to Batman focuses on 20 Black artists from across the spectrum of comic books, including Dawud Anyabwile (creator of Brotherman), Denys Cowan (co-founder of Milestone Media and legendary Batman illustrator for DC Comics) and many others. Dive deep into how each panel of a comic book page tells a story as well as how these fascinating creatives break the confines of the art form.
Wednesday & Thursday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Free Admission
Phillips@THEARC, 1801 Mississippi Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20020
How to Be A Power Player: Tudor Edition – Through July 2025
The Folger Shakespeare Library exhibit features more than 60 objects from the collection to demonstrate the dos and don’ts for how to be a successful courtier in 16th-century England. Social climbing was a sport in Tudor England and visitors can engage with the entire playbook and even create their own with a 21st-century spin. You can also draw your portrait, design a dinner menu and make your own rules.
Hours | Free Admission
Folger Shakespeare Library, 201 East Capitol Street SE, Washington, DC 20003
OSGEMEOS: Endless Story – Through Aug. 3
Gustavo and Otavio Pandolfo are the identical twin brothers that comprise OSGEMEOS, which is Portuguese for “the twins.” The Hirshhorn Museum presents the first U.S. survey and the largest American exhibition of work by the duo to date. In total, the full-floor exhibit features roughly 1,000 artworks, photos and archival materials that detail OSGEMEOS’ unique artistic voice that combines heritage, urban art, graffiti and magical elements.
10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. | Free Admission
Hirshhorn Museum & Sculpture Garden, Independence Avenue & 7th Street NW, Washington, DC 20560
In the Tower: Chakaia Booker – Treading New Ground – Through Aug. 3
The National Gallery of Art presents three extraordinary sculptures from visionary artist Chakaia Booker in its East Building this spring. Booker transforms tires – cutting, coiling and contorting them – to sculpt industrial waste into awe-inspiring abstract forms. The environmentally conscious work inspires visitors to ponder the effect of materials on the natural world.
10 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Free Admission
National Gallery of Art, 6th Street & Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20565
Uncanny – Through Aug. 10
The National Museum of Women in the Arts invites visitors to an exploration of unease across a range of surreal media. The only museum solely dedicated to championing women artists treads into new territory with Uncanny, which reveals women’s authorship of surreal narratives, revealing how the concept is used by these artists to regain agency and dissect feelings of revulsion, fear and discomfort.
Hours & Admission
National Museum of Women in the Arts, 1250 New York Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20005
Pictures of Belonging: Miki Hayakawa, Hisako Hibi and Miné Okubo – Through Aug. 17
The Smithsonian American Art Museum honors three of the most important female American artists of Japanese descent in the years leading up to World War II. Across eight decades, the careers of Miki Hayakawa, Hisako Hibi and Miné Okubo helped shape modern American art. This exhibit examines the three trailblazers like never before, tracing their artistic evolution before, during and after the internment and displacement of Japanese Americans during World War II.
11:30 a.m. – 7 p.m. | Free Admission
Smithsonian American Art Museum, 8th & G Streets NW, Washington, DC 20004
Photo by Cpl. Chloe McAfee
Friday Evening Parades at the Marine Barracks – Through Aug. 22
This breathtaking 75-minute ceremony showcases the precision and pride of the Marine Corps with spectacular performances by "The President's Own" Marine Band, "The Commandant's Own" Drum & Bugle Corps and the renowned Silent Drill Platoon. Held every Friday from May through August at the historic "Oldest Post of the Corps," the free event has captivated audiences for decades.
Marine Barracks, 8th & I Streets SE, Washington, DC 20390
Delighting Krishna: Paintings of the Child-God – Through Aug. 24
A new exhibit at the Smithsonian National Museum of Asian Art puts the Pushtimarg tradition front-and-center and showcases 14 “pichwais,” which are monumental paintings of Krishna on cotton cloth. The pieces have not been displayed to the public since the 1970s. Museum visitors can encounter the larger-than-life creations and learn about how the Hindu Pushtimarg community engages with the spiritual.
10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. | Free Admission
National Museum of Asian Art, 1050 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20560
Essex Hemphill: Take Care of Your Blessings – Through Aug. 31
The Phillips Collection showcases the relationship between the trailblazing work of poet and activist Essex Hemphill and contemporary visual art in a new exhibit. Hemphill was born in Chicago and raised in DC, where he became one of the most outspoken LGBTQ+ advocates of his time, both through his poetry and the spoken word. Hemphill tragically died of an AIDS-related illness in 1995 at the age of 38, but his work powerfully lives on, as can be observed in Take Care of Your Blessings, which puts him in dialogue with artists of his time and the present.
Hours & Admission
The Phillips Collection, 1600 21st Street NW, Washington, DC 20009
Capital Harvest on the Plaza – Wednesdays through October
Located at the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center, Capital Harvest on the Plaza is open from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. on Wednesdays from May through October. During your visit, you’ll find plenty of farm-fresh deliciousness and artisanal crafts, as well as recipes and tips for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Check out the full list of vendors to start planning your haul.
10 a.m. – 2 p.m. on Wednesdays | Free Admission
Ronald Reagan Building & International Trade Center, 1300 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20004
The Shape of Power: Stories of Race and American Sculpture – Through Sept. 14
The Smithsonian American Museum’s new exhibit examines sculpture’s role in understanding and constructing race in the United States. Across 82 sculptures created between 1792 and 2023 by 70 different artists, visitors can observe historical and modern works that inspire conversation and reflections on how power, identity and race are intertwined.
11:30 a.m. – 7 p.m. | Free Admission
Smithsonian American Art Museum, 8th & G Streets NW, Washington, DC 20004
Guerrilla Girls: Making Trouble – Through Sept. 28
An artist collective that continues to make its mark today, Guerrilla Girls celebrate their 40th anniversary in 2025. The National Museum of Women in the Arts honor the attention-grabbing group known for their provocative, text and graphic-based prints that denounce discrimination. Their work uses bold and eye-catching aesthetics to call out gender disparity and other important social injustices across billboards, banners, buildings and other sites. The museum’s extensive collection informs the exhibit that features an expansive and enthralling chronology of Guerrilla Girls’ vital work.
Hours & Admission
National Museum of Women in the Arts, 1250 New York Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20005
A Radical Alteration: Women’s Studio Workshop as a Sustainable Model for Art Making – Through Sept. 28
The National Museum of Women in the Arts celebrates the Women’s Studio Workshop (WSW) with a special exhibit that examines the organization’s history as a proponent of the book arts in marginalized communities across the U.S. Founded in 1974 by four women, WSW emerged at the vanguard of second-wave feminism and has published more than 240 artists’ books thanks to its Artist-in-Residence program. The display showcases more than 40 objects, including artists’ books, zines, ephemera and archival materials.
Hours & Admission
National Museum of Women in the Arts, 1250 New York Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20005
Little Beasts: Art, Wonder and the Natural World – Through Nov. 2
Art and nature lovers young and old will be delighted by this new display at the National Gallery of Art. Across more than 70 paintings, prints and drawings, visitors can see how nature has inspired art since the dawn of European natural history in the 16th and 17th centuries. Specimens and taxidermy from the National Museum of Natural History will also be showcased along with a new film by artist Dario Robleto.
10 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Free Admission
National Gallery of Art, 6th Street & Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC
Bond In Motion – Through September
Across more than six decades of films, James Bond has become the on-screen embodiment of spies for millions. The International Spy Museum pays homage to the fictional character, along with his allies and adversaries, with a breathtaking display of iconic vehicles from the movies. In total, visitors can fix their eyes on 17 pieces, including cars, motorcycles, submarines and even more from the Q Branch Garage.
Hours & Admission
International Spy Museum, 700 L’Enfant Plaza SW, Washington, DC 20024
Niki de Saint Phalle In Print – Through Nov. 30
The National Museum of Women in the Arts displays 20 of multimedia artist Niki de Saint Phalle’s large-scale prints. Although primarily known for performances and sculptures, Saint Phalle showcases mastery as a printmaker as well, using striking colors, a whimsical and animated drawing style and looping handwriting to stamp a style all her own.
Hours & Admission
National Museum of Women in the Arts, 1250 New York Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20005
Collecting Memories – Through Dec. 2025
The Library of Congress opens its new David M. Rubenstein Treasures Gallery with a brand-new exhibit filled to the brim with fascinating artifacts across its 120 items. Collecting Memories includes Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address, a map from the Lewis and Clark Expedition, lyrics from The Sound of Music and much more in its examination of how cultures preserve the past.
Hours | Free Admission
Library of Congress, 101 Independence Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20540
Martin E. Red Bear / National Museum of the American Indian
Unbound: Narrative Art of the Plains – Through Jan. 20, 2026
The National Museum of the American Indian celebrates narrative art among Native nations of the Great Plains with an exciting new exhibition. You'll see historical works alongside contemporary commissions, from battle records to ledger books to pop culture takes.
More Info | Free Admission
National Museum of the American Indian, 4th Street & Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20560
The Two Georges: Parallel Lives in an Age of Revolution – Through March 21, 2026
The Library of Congress brings together letters, ledgers, diaries, maps, drawings and other artifacts to illuminate the similarities and differences between two iconic figures of the Revolutionary War: George Washington and King George III. Although the two never met, visitors can envision where they would clash and where they would compromise in this stirring exhibit that features items from a wide range of collections, including the Royal Archives at Windsor Castle, London’s Science Museum and George Washington’s Mount Vernon.
Hours | Free Admission
Library of Congress, 101 Independence Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20540
Smithsonian Institution
Making a Statement – Through March 2026
The Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian displays two gowns worn by Oscar-nominated actor Lily Gladstone (Siksikaitsitapi [Blackfeet]/Nimiipuu [Nez Perce]) in a special installation. Four public programs are planned for Women's History Month as well. Both gowns were designed by Gucci and Indigenous artist Joe Big Mountain (Mohawk/Cree/Comanche) of Ironhorse Quillwork and were worn by Gladstone the evening of March 10, 2024, to the 96th Academy Awards and the Vanity Fair Oscars party. Gladstone was the first Native American nominated for best actress for her work in the film Killers of the Flower Moon.
10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. | Free Admission
National Museum of the American Indian, 4th Street & Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20560
Back and Forth: Rozeal., Titian, Cezanne – Through April 25, 2026
Four stunning art works across six centuries are in conversation in a new exhibit at the National Gallery of Art. Through a recent piece by Rozeal., Titian’s Venus with a Mirror and Ranuccio Farnese and Cezanne’s Boy in a Red Waistcoat, visitors can find unexpected connections and visual similarities that draw the 16th, 19th and 21st centuries together.
10 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Free Admission
National Gallery of Art, 6th Street & Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC
Reasons to Gather: Japanese Tea Practice Unwrapped – Through April 26, 2026
The Japanese tea practice of chanoyu revolves around the appreciation of utensils that assist in the preparation and consumption of matcha (powdered green tea). This new exhibit at the National Museum of Asian Art presents 11 historic tea utensils and accessories, including ceramics, hanging scrolls, boxes and wrapping cloths. All the objects tell a story of trade and exchange across Asia and reveal a vast network of tea practitioners.
10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. | Free Admission
National Museum of Asian Art, 1050 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20560
Here: Pride and Belonging in African Art – Through Summer 2026
The National Museum of African Art has assembled a powerful showcase of works that marks the first continental and diasporic survey of its scale outside of Africa. LGBTQ+ identities and experiences are the focus of the exhibit, with many of the pieces serving as challenges to legacies of homophobia and bigotry.
10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. | Free Admission
National Museum of African Art, 950 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20560
Adam Pendleton: Love, Queen – Through Jan. 3, 2027
Known for his rigorous work in creating jaw-dropping paintings, Adam Pendleton will showcase new and recent pieces as well as single-channel video in this landmark exhibition at the Hirshhorn Museum. Pendleton’s first solo showcase will highlight his contributions to contemporary American painting and utilize the architecture of the Hirshhorn and the vast history of DC’s National Mall.
10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. | Free Admission
Hirshhorn Museum & Sculpture Garden, Independence Avenue & 7th Street NW, Washington, DC 20560
InSight: Photos and Stories from the Archives – Opened May 23
Peer into Indigenous lives from across the Western hemisphere over time thanks to a new exhibit at the National Museum of the American Indian. Through this special selection picked from more than 500,000 images, the museum highlights moments of everyday joy, education and familial bonding. Each photo has its own story to tell.
10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. | Free Admission
National Museum of the American Indian, 4th Street & Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20560
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