Events in DC You Don’t Want to Miss this July
Summer is in full swing here in the District, which means there is no shortage of events to enjoy. The city is full of life and everyone is loving it! July typically brings the DC heat and humidity, so there are a variety of both indoor and outdoor events to enjoy. Festivals, Fourth of July festivities, and running races are just a few of our favorite happenings this month. Our top six favorite July events in DC are below, and there are plenty more out there to enjoy as well!
Smithsonian Folklife Festival
The Smithsonian Folklife Festival is a celebration of culture. The festival originated in 1967 and has highlighted participants from all 50 states and over 100 countries since. It is an educational festival, where visitors learn cultural traditions such as traditional recipes, song and dance, crafts, and more from a variety of cultures. Visit the Folklife Festival’s Artisan Market to support the Festival participants. At the Artisan Market, you will find jewelry, textiles, music, sculptures, and more.
When: July 1st, 4th – 8th, 2018
Where: National Mall
Cost: Free
Fun House at the National Building Museum
Fun House is an interactive exhibition, designed by Snarkitecture, that will be opening at the National Building Museum. The exhibition will be in the Museum’s Great Hall and will offer a variety of programs and special events. The focal point of the exhibit is a free-standing house featuring interactive rooms, all of which are influenced by Snarkitecture’s past work. The exhibit will have a “front yard” and “backyard” that will add to the story as well.
When: Wednesday, July 4th – September 3rd, 2018
Where: The National Building Museum
Cost: $16
National Independence Day Parade
Begin your Fourth of July celebrations with the National Independence Day Parade. You can expect festive floats, military servicemen and women, fife and drum corps, and more. The parade is an elaborate celebration for America’s birthday, and it is the biggest and best July 4th parade out there! Minimal seating is available on the steps of the National Archives Building, but most spectators stand to view the parade.
When: Wednesday, July 4th, 2018 | 11:45 AM
Where: Constitution Ave NE between 7th and 17th Streets
Cost: Free
A Capitol Fourth & Fireworks Display
Gear up for Fourth of July Fireworks at the annual A Capitol Fourth concert. Enjoy a night of celebrations hosted by John Stamos with special performances by Jimmy Buffet, The Beach Boys, Pentatonix, Andy Grammer, and more. The concert is a celebration of our Nation as well as the men and women that serve. The concert puts attendees in a prime location for watching the best fireworks in the area. Fireworks are launched over the Reflecting Pool to close out a perfect Fourth of July night.
When: Wednesday, July 4th, 2018| 8:00 – 9:30 PM
Where: West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol
Cost: Free
The Color Run
Lace up your sneakers for the “happiest 5K”, The Color Run is coming to DC! As part of All-Star Week, The Color Run is hosting a MLB 5K that will begin at Nationals Park and pass through Anacostia Park and The Yards Park. Experience double the color from their new Super Zones along the course of the run, bringing even more fun and excitement to the race. Unicorn medals and lightning bolt t-shirts make for the best participant kit. You don’t want to miss this!
When: July 14th, 2018 | 8:00 AM
Where: Washington Nationals Park
Cost: $37.99 (Individual Runner) $32.99 (Team Runner)
MLB All-Star Game
This year marks the 89th annual Major League Baseball All-Star Game and DC is lucky enough to be hosting. The game will be at Nationals Park in the Capitol Riverfront neighborhood. The entire week is packed with activities including the Color Run, Fan Fest, the Home Run Derby, and more. Throw on some Nationals gear to support our players, and head to the Capitol Riverfront to enjoy the festivities!
When: Tuesday, July 17th 2018 | 7:30 PM
Where: Washington Nationals Park
Cost: Tickets begin at $280