As the new year begins, it’s time to look ahead and plan how to make the most of the best events in the DC Metro Area. From cultural festivals to historical celebrations, 2025 promises a packed calendar full of opportunities to explore and engage with the community.
Whether you’re making New Year’s resolutions to experience more of the region or just looking for exciting ways to fill your weekends, this DMV Events Bucket List is your guide to not-to-miss happenings throughout the year.
February: Lunar New Year Parade
Start off the year with a celebration of the Lunar New Year on February 2nd in downtown Washington, D.C. The parade features spectacular lion and dragon dances, martial arts demonstrations, and cultural performances, marking a festive start to the Year of the Snake!
March: National Cherry Blossom Festival
As spring arrives, so do the beautiful cherry blossoms that symbolize the season in D.C. From late March to April, enjoy a series of events that include parades, cultural performances, and art exhibits that celebrate the blooming of these iconic flowers.
Explore everything the festival has to offer here!
April: Annapolis Spring Sailboat Show
Take to the water in April, with a visit to Annapolis when sailing enthusiasts gather at the Spring Sailboat Show. This event showcases a wide variety of boats, nautical gear, and sailing workshops, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in maritime adventures.
May: Passport DC & Gaithersburg Book Festival
May brings Passport DC, an opportunity to travel the world without leaving the city. Numerous embassies open their doors to the public, offering a unique peek into diverse cultures through food, art, and live performances.
Also in May, book lovers can revel in the Gaithersburg Book Festival. This event gathers authors, publishers, and readers for a celebration of literature, featuring talks, signings, and panels on various literary topics.
June: The Taste of the DMV
Kick summer off right with the Taste of the DMV Food, Music, and Cultural Festival, a vibrant event that celebrates the region’s diversity. Scheduled for June 14, 2025, this festival will feature over 200 vendors including food trucks, food booths, and a beer garden, along with 40 musical acts across multiple stages.
July: Mount Vernon’s Independence Day Celebration
Celebrate the Fourth of July at George Washington’s Mount Vernon with daytime fireworks, military reenactments, and special tours, offering a historic twist to America’s birthday celebrations. There’s no better place to celebrate the height of summer than at one of our most beloved national treasures.
August: Montgomery County Agricultural Fair
Come August, the Montgomery County Agricultural Fair takes over Gaithersburg with its large-scale celebration of farm life, featuring livestock exhibits, carnival rides, and tasty food options. It’s a wonderful family-friendly event that’s perfect to send off summer before the school year starts.
September: Butler’s Orchard Pumpkin Festival
As fall approaches, Butler’s Orchard hosts its annual Pumpkin Festival. From September to October, enjoy the quintessential autumn experience with pumpkin picking, hayrides, and fun farm activities. Don’t miss this iconic festival and the other fall-themed opportunities in the area.
October: Workhouse Arts Center’s Haunted Trail
In October, get ready for a spooky adventure at the Haunted Trail hosted by the Workhouse Arts Center in Lorton. This event offers a thrilling experience, as well as multiple experiences beyond the trail to enjoy, including a DJ, specialty cocktails, food trucks, and a pop-up shop.
November: ZooLights at the National Zoo
Rounding out the year, from November to January, the National Zoo transforms into a magical winter wonderland with ZooLights. This dazzling display features thousands of environmentally-friendly lights and holiday-themed exhibits, making it a perfect outing for family and friends.
December: The Holiday Boat Parade of Lights
Get festive with the Holiday Boat Parade of Lights on the Potomac River at The Wharf. This festive celebration features a dazzling display of boats adorned with holiday lights and decorations, creating a magical waterfront experience.
It’s a wonderful opportunity for families and visitors to gather and enjoy the holiday spirit with live music, winter treats, and a fireworks finale that lights up the night sky.
A 2025 to Remember in the DMV
The DMV area is bustling with events that cater to every interest and age group, making it easy to find ways to enjoy the community and create lasting memories. Whether you’re into boats, books, or blossoms, the DMV has something special for you.
Don’t miss out on these fabulous events – mark your calendar and make 2025 a year of adventure and fun by ticking off each event on your DMV Bucket List!
