Explore DC’s neighborhoods, culture and history during this 26th annual celebration — September 13–20
WalkingTown is back for its 26th year, inviting residents and visitors to step into the stories, history and culture that make Washington, DC one of the most vibrant and diverse cities in the country. Presented by Events DC, this annual community celebration offers more than 60 free guided biking and walking tours across all eight wards, spotlighting the people, landmarks and experiences that define the District.
Running from September 13 through September 20, WalkingTown offers participants the opportunity to explore Washington, DC’s past, present and future alongside expert guides, historians and passionate local storytellers. Attendees will uncover hidden gems, learn untold stories and gain a deeper appreciation for the District’s layered history and thriving communities.
“Events DC WalkingTown is an extraordinary initiative that invites everyone to discover the heart and soul of our nation’s capital,” said Events DC President and CEO Angie M. Gates. “Each September, we showcase the vibrant art, culture and history that define Washington, DC. Join us for eight inspiring days as we uncover the hidden gems and rich narratives that make our city an unforgettable place to experience.”
This year’s program features a wide variety of tours designed to appeal to history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, culture seekers and curious explorers alike. Visit HERE for a detailed list of dates, times, locations and how to register for each of the tours. If you are interested in serving as a volunteer, please visit here.
What to Expect
WalkingTown offers tours for every interest — whether you’re a history buff, architecture lover, outdoor explorer or simply curious about DC’s untold stories. Passionate guides, historians and local storytellers lead the way, offering an insider’s perspective on the city’s rich past and dynamic present.
This year’s highlights include:
Walk, Snap & Discover: Penn Quarter in Arabic
Explore Penn Quarter on a guided walking tour offered entirely in Arabic. Visit landmarks like the Friendship Arch, National Portrait Gallery, Ford’s Theatre, the US Navy Memorial and Capital One Arena — blending history, culture and modern energy in one unique experience.
Biking Tour: A Tale of Two Canals
Ride along the paths of the historic Washington City Canal and the C&O Canal, connecting the Potomac and Anacostia Rivers. Stops include Canal Park, Freedom Plaza, Lockkeeper’s House, the Navy Yard Terminus and the Georgetown Terminus of the C&O Canal.
Birds from the Greco-Roman Times to the Present
A birding and architectural history walk from Union Station to the US Capitol, exploring neoclassical design inspired by ancient Greece and Rome — and spotting birds both real and sculpted along the way. Bring binoculars for the best experience.
Brushstrokes & Backstreets: Murals in NoMa
Discover why NoMa is known as the District’s Mural Capital. View more than 20 vibrant works created during the “NoMa in Color” festival, celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2025 with a decade of creativity, color and community.
Event Details
Dates: September 13 – September 20
Location: Across all eight wards of Washington, DC
Cost: Free & open to the public
Full Schedule & Registration (required): visit here
Media Resources
Press photos can be found here. Please credit all photos courtesy of Events DC. If you are interested in speaking to a WalkingTown representative, please contact Lauren at lauren@lindarothpr.com.
About Events DC WalkingTown
WalkingTown is a beloved annual event that celebrates Washington, DC’s diverse neighborhoods, historic landmarks and cultural richness through a series of free guided biking and walking tours. Over the past 26 years, the program has connected thousands of residents and visitors with the stories that shape the nation’s capital — past, present and future.
