Guide to Washington, DC

Summer 2026: 10 FUN THINGS TO DO IN DC

1. Independence Day Fireworks – National Mall

Huge fireworks show over the Lincoln Memorial area for America 250 celebrations.

Date: July 4, 2026

Location: National Mall

Website: https://250.dc.gov⁠

2. National Archives July 4 Celebration

Live reading of the Declaration of Independence, reenactors, and kid-friendly activities.

Date: July 4, 2026

Time: Morning–evening

Website: https://visit.archives.gov⁠

3. Great American State Fair (America 250 Event)

Food from all 50 states, games, performances, and cultural exhibits.

Dates: June 25 – July 10, 2026

Location: National Mall

Website: https://250.dc.gov/events⁠

4. Mubadala Citi DC Open (Pro Tennis Tournament)

ATP & WTA tennis matches, fan zones, and family-friendly entertainment.

Dates: July 25 – August 2, 2026

Location: Rock Creek Park Tennis Center

Website: https://www.mubadalacitidcopen.com⁠

5. Jazz in the Garden (Free Outdoor Concerts)

Relaxed picnic-style music evenings.

Fridays in July

Location: National Gallery Sculpture Garden

Website: https://www.nga.gov/events/jazz-in-the-garden.html⁠

6. Smithsonian Museums (Free Entry)

Top picks:

• Air & Space Museum

• Natural History Museum

• American History Museum

Daily, all July

Website: https://www.si.edu/visit⁠

7. The Wharf & Georgetown Waterfront

Boat rides, dining, ice cream, and sunset walks.

Daily in July

Websites:

https://www.wharfdc.com⁠�

https://www.georgetowndc.com⁠

8. Washington Nationals Baseball Game

Family-friendly stadium with entertainment and fireworks nights.

All July home games

Website: https://www.mlb.com/nationals⁠

9. Rock Creek Park Outdoor Adventure

Hiking, biking, shaded trails, and picnic spots.

Daily access

Website: https://www.nps.gov/rocr⁠

10. U.S. Capitol & Library of Congress Tours

Great indoor, educational, and free activities for all ages.

Daily (reservation recommended)

Capitol: https://www.visitthecapitol.gov⁠

Library of Congress: https://www.loc.gov