Today, Mayor Muriel Bowser is highlighting a vibrant lineup of summer events taking place throughout Washington, DC, inviting residents and visitors alike to experience the cultural vibrancy, community, and amenities that make DC a world-class summer destination. Events include the Downtown DC Summer Concert Series, Majic Wednesdays at Sycamore and Oak, DC JazzFest at The Wharf, DC/DOX Film Festival, the National Capital BBQ Battle, the Downtown CNN 4th of July Concert on Pennsylvania Avenue, and more. Additionally, this weekend, thousands of attendees are expected to visit DC for the Army 250th Birthday Festival and Parade; learn about road closures and more at nsse.dc.gov.
“Our city comes alive with events and festivals in the summer, and this year we’re celebrating everything that makes Washington, DC special — our culture, music, stories, and our people,” said Mayor Bowser. “These events aren’t just about fun and games; they’re about dollars and cents. From boosting small businesses to increasing foot traffic Downtown, our summer programming is generating real economic impact for residents and attracting tourists from around the world — and we’re very happy to welcome them.”
The award-winning Mayor’s Office of Cable Television, Film, Music, and Entertainment (OCTFME) is proud to partner with community organizers, cultural institutions, and creative entrepreneurs to promote and support summer events that showcase DC’s diverse talent and rich cultural heritage. The Downtown Summer Concert Series, in partnership with the DowntownDC Business Improvement District, will serve as a major draw for residents and visitors, helping to sustain the vibrancy of the downtown corridor and drive foot traffic to local businesses during Capital One Arena’s summer closure. Coupled with other marquee festivals, these events are expected to inject millions into the local economy throughout the season.
“At OCTFME, we believe that when we invest in arts and entertainment, we invest in our city’s growth,” said Director LaToya Foster. “Whether you are enjoying live music downtown, an inte0rnational film screening, or jazz on the waterfront, these events and activations drive revenue, diversify our economy, and support jobs and opportunities for local businesses.”
Earlier this spring, as part of the District’s broader investment in cultural and economic development, Mayor Bowser and Events DC, the official convention and sports authority for Washington, DC, announced 11 events that received a total of $3.5 million as part of the Large Event Grant Program. Managed by Events DC, the Large Event Grant Program supports the District’s cultural and economic vitality by providing grant funding to nonprofit organizations hosting events with more than 10,000 people in attendance.
“Nothing compares to summertime in Washington, DC and Events DC is thrilled about the incredible lineup of festivals and events that will showcase the rich cultural diversity of our city,” said Events DC President and CEO Angie M. Gates. “These gatherings not only provide unforgettable experiences for attendees but also play a crucial role in bolstering our local economy. By investing in initiatives like the Large Event Grant Program, we’re committed to fostering community spirit, delivering significant economic impact, and highlighting the unique vibrancy that our city has to offer.”
Featured Summer Events in Washington, DC:
Majic Wednesdays at Sycamore & Oak
A soulful, weekly music series celebrating Black music and culture, in partnership with Radio One and Majic 102.3 FM
- When: Every Wednesday, June 11 through August 13 at 6:30 p.m.
- Where: Sycamore & Oak, 1110 Oak Drive SE
- More info here
DC/DOX Film Festival
An international documentary film festival exploring truth, creativity, and change through the power of nonfiction storytelling
- When: Thursday, June 12 to Sunday, June 15
- Where: Various venues across DC
- More info here
National Capital BBQ Battle
One of the largest food and music festivals in the country, featuring top BBQ chefs, live entertainment, and family-friendly fun
- When: Saturday, June 21 from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. & Sunday, June 22 from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
- Where: Pennsylvania Avenue NW between 3rd and 7th Streets
- More info here
Home Rule Music Festival at The Parks at Walter Reed
A vibrant celebration of DC music and culture at The Parks at Walter Reed—live performances, food vendors, community orgs, and activations
- When: Saturday, June 21 from 1:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. (doors at 12:30 p.m.)
- Where: The Parks at Walter Reed, 1010 Butternut Street NW
- More info here
Downtown CNN 4th of July Concert on Pennsylvania Avenue
A star-studded Independence Day celebration, televised nationwide from America’s front yard and featuring the United States Air Force Band with War & Treaty, and more
- When: Friday, July 4 at 5:30 p.m.
- Where: 12th and Pennsylvania Avenue NW
- More info coming soon
Downtown DC Summer Concert Series
Enjoy free weekly outdoor concerts featuring local and national talent in the heart of Downtown
- When: Begins mid-July (schedule to be announced)
- Where: Various locations in Downtown DC
- More info coming soon
Broccoli City Festival
The ultimate fusion of music, wellness, and culture featuring Grammy Award-winner Chris Brown, and an array of talent, panels, and activations
- When: Friday, August 8 to Sunday, August 10
- Where: Nationals Park, 1500 S Capitol Street SE
- More info here
DC JazzFest at The Wharf
A five-day celebration featuring global jazz legends and local talent along the scenic waterfront
- When: Wednesday, August 27 to Sunday, August 31
- Where: The Wharf
- More info here
Putt Across America
A traveling pop-up mini golf experience with creative obstacles, music, and family fun
- When: Through September 1
- Where: The Wharf
- More info here
For a full list of summer events in Washington, DC, visit summer.dc.gov/page/summer-events. Stay connected to year-round city events at entertainment.dc.gov, and join us as we make this a summer to remember across all eight wards.
Mayor Bowser’s FY26 Budget: Grow DC continues investments in live entertainment that make events like these possible, including $6 million to support the historic National Theatre, Lincoln Theatre, and Howard Theatre and $171 million for Capital One Arena improvements.
