July 2-7: The annual Smithsonian Folklife Festival returns, running from July 2 to 7 with a theme focused on youth from around the globe. There is a variety of free performances, workshops, demonstrations and other activities.

July 4: Fourth at The Wharf is going country for the Fourth of July! Celebrate the Fourth at The Wharf with free live country music from throughout their outdoor stages. See spectacular views of the National Park Service fireworks launched from the National Mall.

July 4: DC 4th of July Fireworks The Washington DC fireworks will launch from both sides of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool at 9:09pm on July 4 and end around 9:30pm. As with any big DC event, expect crowds and security screenings.

August 8-10: Otakon 2025 will be held again at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center from August 8-10, 2025. Founded in 1994, Otakon is an annual convention held in the summer months to celebrate Asian pop culture (anime, manga, music, movies, video games, etc) and its fandom. The event runs from Friday to Sunday and is packed with a schedule that has tons to do.

September 6: The Library of Congress National Book Festival will be held in the nation’s capital at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center on Saturday, September 6, from 9am to 8pm (doors open at 8:30am). The event is free and open to the public. A selection of programs will be livestreamed online and videos of all programs will be available shortly after the Festival.

December 6: Holiday Boat Parade & Party at The Wharf DC. Event ends in fireworks!