Washington DC Events to Attend This Summer

​We love to help Washington visitors to find the very best activities and most unique things to do in DC. Of course, everyone has different interests and preferences, so we suggest you browse through this list of our top suggestions and choose one or more of these sunny summer events to enjoy during your stay with us in Washington DC.


Giant National Capital Barbecue Battle

Instead of simply having a cookout, come to the greatest competition in the capital: The Giant National Barbeque Battle. Benefiting USO-Metro and the Capital Area Food Bank, this delicious two-day event also features 30 bands performing live on three stages – along with lots of free food samples as well as fabulous plates of freshly made food from area restaurants. The competition itself has marked the start of summer for tens of thousands of folks who’ve flocked to DC to experience the perfect BBQ for themselves. And don’t worry – there are plenty of wines and micro-brews to sample as well, along with classic Anheuser-Bush beverages and non-alcoholic options. 

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​Smithsonian Folklife Festival

Photo by Sonya Pencheva

Since 1967, the Smithsonian Folklife Festival has honored today’s living cultural traditions and celebrates all those who practice and sustain them. Produced each year by the Smithsonian Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage, the Festival brings together participants from all 50 US states and over 100 countries for a two-week, free celebration that overlaps the 4th of July. Chock full of educational presentations, master artisan demonstrations, traditional foods, cultural song and dance, craft workshops, and games, you’ll find plenty of things to enjoy. The large market features pottery, textiles, clothing, toys, sculptures, books and more – all ready to take home as lasting souvenirs of this incredible cultural exchange.


Citi Open

​Washington DC’s own signature professional tennis tournament is coming back for its 50th year at the Rock Creek Park Tennis Center. The Citi Open is one of just 13 prestigious ATP World Tour 500 tournaments, and it features top-tier tennis talent from all over the world competing for the prestigious trophy. This year, a special charitable option has been introduced, with 25% off of specially discounted tickets going to support the American Experience Foundation, which works to improve the lives of low-income students through inspirational travel and educational opportunities. 


​Capital Fringe Festival

Held along the scenic Washington DC waterfront in SW, the edgy Capital Fringe Festival offers exceptional, out-there performances from local creatives, featuring plays, improvisational performances, punk rock shows, and colorful artwork. Focused on expanding audience interest in independent theater, music, art, dance, and other unclassified forms of live performance and visual art, the Capital Fringe Festival is truly one of the most unique modern cultural experiences in the city. 

Comcast Xfinity Outdoor Film Festival

​Benefiting children’s charities for NIH, this year the 22nd outdoor film festival returns to Strathmore for four nights under the stars. With a lineup that is sure to please all ages, the free event opens with concessions at 7:30 p.m. and the film begins at dusk – around 8:30 p.m. each night. The inspiring and entertaining films this year include Coco, Black Panther, The Lion King, and Wonder Woman. Moviegoers should bring blankets or low beach chairs and plan to take advantage of the concessions for delicious food, wine, and beer in order to donate to the worthy causes while enjoying the summer nights in DC.  



​Whatever exciting Washington DC events bring you to the area, we invite you to relax and settle in to our restful, relaxing accommodations close to all the action at The Wink. We’re sure you’re going to have a fabulous stay!