EVENTS 2025
Jan 1
National Bell Festival
A New Year’s Day tradition in Washington, D.C., the National Bell Festival features coordinated bell ringing across the city and around the world. The event includes free experiences related to bell making, restoration, and appreciation. Learn more at bells.org.
Jan 18-20
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Peace Walk & Parade
Held annually in Washington, D.C., this event honors Dr. King’s legacy with a peace walk and parade featuring community leaders, bands, and local organizations. It serves as a platform for unity and reflection on civil rights. Learn more at mlkholidaydc.org.
Feb 1-28
Frederick Douglass Birthday Commemoration
Throughout February, Washington, D.C., celebrates the life of Frederick Douglass with events at his historic home, including lectures, performances, and educational programs. Learn more online at marthastable.org.
Feb 14
Cupid’s Undie Run
A fun run in Washington, D.C., where participants run in their undies to raise funds for neurofibromatosis research. The event combines charity with a festive atmosphere. Learn more at my.cupids.org.
Mar 20 - Apr 13
National Cherry Blossom Festival
Washington, D.C.’s iconic festival celebrates the blooming of cherry blossoms with events including the Blossom Kite Festival, Petalpalooza, and the National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade. Learn more at nationalcherryblossomfestival.org.
Botanero Restaurant
Bright, easygoing venue for globally inspired small plates & wine, plus popular lunch specials.
800 Pleasant Dr #160, Rockville, MD 20850
Phone: (240) 474-5461 | Web: botanerorockville.com
Dogfish Head Alehouse
Popular craft beer maker serving American pub standards & seasonal brews in casual digs.
800 W Diamond Ave, Gaithersburg, MD 20878
Phone: (301) 963-4847 | Web: dogfishalehouse.com
MoCo’s Founding Farmers
Cooperative-grower-owned spot serving farm-to-table-themed American fare in rustic digs.
12505 Park Potomac Ave, Potomac, MD 20854
Phone: (301) 340-8783 | Web: wearefoundingfarmers.com
Have a restaurant you’d like us to feature?
Send in a recommendation for your favorite restaurant to be added to our list. Be sure to mention why you think they are worthy of being featured and include a link to their website.
Cava Mezze Rockville
Branch of a chain Greek eatery serving tapas-style bites & classic eats in an industrial setting.
9713 Traville Gateway Drive, Rockville, MD
Il Pizzico
Casual, mural-filled Italian restaurant serving homemade pastas, seafood & wine since 1990.
15209 Frederick Road, Rockville, MD
Salt & Vine
This cozy Italian nook serves seasonal small & large plates, brick-oven pizzas, wines & cocktails.
3308 Olney Sandy Spring Rd, Olney, MD
Ixtapalapa Taqueria
Tacos & Mexican small plates are offered from a counter with popsicles, beer & a few cocktails.
411 N Frederick Ave, Gaithersburg, MD
Julii
Eastern Mediterranean spices find their way into French classics at this stylish restaurant.
11915 Grand Park Ave, North Bethesda, MD
Trattoria da Lina
Heirloom recipes for Italian classics with a family-friendly atmosphere.
7000 Carroll Avenue, Takoma Park, MD
Tortacos
Compact, family-owned taqueria with a menu of Los Angeles-style tacos, burritos & tortas.
13024 Middlebrook Road, Germantown, MD
Silk Road Choyhona
Plov, kebabs & other Uzbeki specialties served in a space lined with silk curtains & tapestries. 28 Bureau Dr, Gaithersburg, MD
EVENTS 2025
Mar 30
Sakura Sunday
Part of the National Cherry Blossom Festival, Sakura Sunday at National Harbor offers cultural activities, performances, a Japanese marketplace, and a Sakura Spirits Garden. Learn more at nationalharbor.com.
Apr 24-27
Alice (in Wonderland) – The Washington Ballet
The Washington Ballet presents a whimsical rendition of Alice (in Wonderland) at Capital One Hall. This family-friendly ballet features imaginative puppetry, vibrant costumes, and dynamic choreography, offering a magical journey through Lewis Carroll’s classic tale. Learn more at dc.capitolfile.com.
Apr 25-26
DC Chocolate Festival
Indulge your sweet tooth at the DC Chocolate Festival, where chocolate enthusiasts can sample a variety of confections, participate in guided workshops, and engage in discussions with expert chocolatiers. This delectable event offers something for everyone, from casual fans to gourmet aficionados. Learn more at washingtonian.com.
Apr 26
Montgomery County GreenFest
Celebrating its 10th anniversary, GreenFest in Wheaton, MD, is the county’s largest environmental festival, featuring exhibitors, workshops, and family-friendly activities focused on sustainability. Learn more at montgomerycountygreenfest.org.
Apr 26
Earth Month Family Celebration
Celebrate Earth Day with Montgomery Parks’ Earth Month Family Celebration, featuring activities tailored for children and families. Enjoy educational exhibits, hands-on crafts, and interactive programs that
EVENTS 2025
promote environmental awareness and stewardship. Learn more at montgomeryparks.org.
May 17 - Jun 8
WorldPride DC 2025
Commemorating the 50th anniversary of Capital Pride, WorldPride DC features a global celebration with parades, concerts, and cultural events, drawing millions to the nation’s capital. Learn more at worldpridedc.org.
May 24-25
Hometown Holidays Music Fest
Rockville, MD’s annual festival includes live music on multiple stages, food from local vendors, artisan shopping, and family-friendly activities in Rockville Town Center. Learn more at rockvillemd.gov.
Jun 6-8
Capital Jazz Fest
Held at Merriweather Post Pavilion, this premier jazz festival features over 30 acts across three days, alongside craft vendors, food courts, and artist Q&A sessions. Learn more at capitaljazz.com.
Jun 14
Taste of the DMV Food, Music, and Cultural Festival
Located in downtown Washington, D.C., this festival showcases over 200 vendors, food trucks, live music across multiple stages, and a beer garden, celebrating the region’s diverse culture. Learn more at atasteofdmv.com.
July 2-7
Smithsonian Folklife Festival
This free cultural festival on the National Mall highlights various nations and communities with immersive exhibits, live music, cooking demonstrations, and a lively marketplace. Learn more at festival.si.edu.
EVENTS 2025
July 21-27
Mubadala Citi DC Open
Washington, D.C.’s premier professional tennis tournament returns to Rock Creek Park Tennis Center, featuring top-tier talent competing for a prestigious trophy. Learn more at dccool.org.
Aug 3
RAMMY Awards
Washington, D.C.’s prestigious annual honors for excellence in the local food and drink industry, recognizing talent, diversity, and culinary excellence across 20 categories. Learn more at therammys.org.
Aug 23
Music City Maryland Festival
Held in Catonsville, MD, this festival features a full day of music across two stages, food trucks, art vendors, and a vibrant community atmosphere. Learn more at musiccitymd.org.
Sep 26-28
All Things Go Music Festival
Taking place at Merriweather Post Pavilion, this festival features prominent artists including Noah Kahan, Doechii, Clairo, and Kesha, offering a diverse lineup across multiple genres. Learn more online at allthingsgofestival.com.
Sep 13
Adams Morgan Day
Washington, D.C.’s longest-running neighborhood festival celebrates the Adams Morgan community with live music, international cuisine, and local artisans. Learn more at admoday.com.
Oct 5
Takoma Park Street Festival
A beloved community tradition, the Takoma Park Street Festival features
EVENTS 2025
over 150 vendors, live music across multiple stages, food trucks, and family-friendly activities. Spanning Carroll Avenue in Takoma Park, MD, to Carroll Street, NW, in Takoma, D.C., the festival celebrates local artisans and businesses. Learn more at mainstreettakoma.org.
Oct 11
HFM Fall Festival
Hosted by the Hemophilia Foundation of Maryland at Summers Farm in Middletown, MD, this event offers free farm admission, a light dinner, campfire activities, vendor visits, and concludes with a fireworks display. It’s an evening of fall fun supporting a worthy cause. Learn more at hfmonline.org.
Oct (Date TBA)
Germantown Oktoberfest
Held annually in Germantown, MD, this festival celebrates German culture with traditional music, food, and family-friendly activities. Organized by the BlackRock Center for the Arts, it brings the community together for a day of festive fun. Learn more at ggchamber.org.
Nov 15-16
Norwegian Christmas Festival
Hosted by the Norwegian Church in Washington, D.C., this annual festival offers traditional Norwegian crafts, food, and holiday decorations. Visitors can enjoy authentic Scandinavian treats and shop for unique gifts. Learn more at norwaydc.org.
Nov 22 - Dec 23
Downtown Holiday Market
Located along F Street NW in Washington, D.C., this open-air market features over 70 exhibitors, offering a variety of gifts, crafts, and seasonal treats. Live entertainment and festive decorations make it a holiday favorite. Learn more at downtowndcholidaymarket.com.
Be Flexible: Travel during off-peak seasons for cheaper flights and accommodations. Midweek flights are often more affordable than weekend ones.
Stay Smart: Skip pricey hotels and opt for hostels, vacation rentals, or even house-sitting gigs.
Eat Local: Ditch the tourist traps and try street food or local markets for authentic, wallet-friendly meals.
Use Freebies: Many cities offer free walking tours, museums with free days, and parks brimming with charm.
Plan Ahead: Book tickets early to snag the best deals.
Traveling on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing fun. With these tips, you can make memories that are priceless—without spending a fortune! Where will your next adventure take you?
EVENTS 2025
Dec
6
Bethesda’s Winter Wonderland
This annual event in Bethesda, MD, features live ice sculpting, choral performances, and a visit from Santa Claus. Downtown Bethesda transforms into a winter wonderland, bringing holiday cheer to all ages. Learn more at bethesda.org.
Dec 13
Holiday Boat Parade of Lights
A festive parade of illuminated boats sails along the Potomac River, visible from Washington, D.C., and Alexandria, VA. The event includes dockside festivities, music, and holiday cheer. Learn more at wharfdc.com.
Dec 20 - Jan 1
ZooLights at the National Zoo
The Smithsonian’s National Zoo in Washington, D.C., hosts ZooLights, featuring thousands of LED lights, live music, winter treats, and holiday shopping. It’s a family-friendly way to celebrate the season. Learn more at nationalzoo.si.edu.
MOCO PRIDE CENTER
Through advocacy and outreach activities, we work to build, support, and advocate for a stronger and more diverse LGBTQ community in Montgomery County, MD.
MOCOPRIDECENTER.COM | (240) 542-8772
MONTGOMERY COUNTY PRIDE
Find resources, events, and meet the team working to address issues facing LGBTQ+ communities in Montgomery County, MD. MONTGOMERYCOUNTYPRIDE.ORG
THE DC CENTER FOR THE LGBT COMMUNITY
The DC Center for the LGBT Community educates, empowers, celebrates, and connects the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender communities. We envision communities where LGBT people feel healthy, safe, and affirmed.
THEDCCENTER.ORG | 202-682-2245
NATIONAL LGBTQ TASK FORCE
The National LGBTQ Task Force advances full freedom, justice and equality for LGBTQ people. We’re building a future where everyone is free to be themselves in every aspect of their lives. THETASKFORCE.ORG | 202-393-5177
RAINBOW FAMILIES
Rainbow Families supports, educates and connects lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) families, parents and prospective parents by offering a wide variety of education programs, support groups, opportunities to connect and more. Rainbow Families is a volunteer led non-profit organization supported by members, community sponsors, private and public grants and foundations.
RAINBOWFAMILIES.ORG | (202) 845-6913
PFLAG METRO DC
Founded in 1983, Metro DC PFLAG, a non profit, non-partisan, volunteer organization, provides opportunity for dialogue about sexual orientation, and acts to create a society that is healthy and respectful of human diversity. Our family values stress education, understanding, acceptance, and support, but most of all love, thereby empowering our children — straight and gay — to lead happy and productive lives. WWW.PFLAGDC.ORG | 202-638-3852
Feeling drained by endless notifications and screen time? A digital detox might be just what you need to reclaim your energy and focus!
Start small—try unplugging for an hour a day. Use this time to read, journal, or simply relax. Gradually extend your tech-free periods to rediscover what life feels like offline.
Create phone-free zones, like your bedroom or dinner table, to reconnect with yourself and loved ones. Replace mindless scrolling with meaningful hobbies, like painting, yoga, or gardening.
You’ll notice big changes: better sleep, improved concentration, and more time for what truly matters. It’s not about ditching tech completely—it’s about finding balance.
So, go ahead! Power down to power up your life. What will you do with your reclaimed time?
