Ring in 2025 with unparalleled theater and performing arts, thrilling sports, a presidential inauguration and much more.
Whether you’re in town for New Year's, Martin Luther King Jr. Day or any day in between, be sure to check out our special discounts and packages, from luxurious experiences to budget-friendly options.
Regardless of the season, you're sure to have an unforgettable experience in the nation's capital. After you’ve read through this list, make sure to check out our things to do for the week and weekend as well as our accessibility guides to monuments and museums on the National Mall.
Ice skate in DC
Lace up some skates and triple axel 'round the District at popular ice skating rinks at the National Gallery of Art’s Sculpture Garden, Washington Harbour in Georgetown, Canal Park in Capitol Riverfront and The Wharf. Make sure to read our detailed breakdown of each spot.
Washington Capitals
Attend a Capitals, Wizards or Go-Go game
With the winter season comes incredible indoor sports action in the District. The NHL’s Washington Capitals and the NBA’s Washington Wizards play their exciting games inside Capital One Arena, while the Capital City Go-Go, part of the NBA’s developmental G-League, take to the court inside Entertainment & Sports Arena. Discounted tickets to select games for each team are available below.
Washington Capitals Discounted Tickets
Washington Wizards Discounted Tickets
Capital City Go-Go Discounted Tickets
Celebrate Hanukkah around the District – Dec. 25 – Jan. 2
The District is shining bright for the Jewish festival of lights. Take part in menorah lightings on all eight nights at the larger-than-life National Menorah as well as at the Union Market District. Stay tuned for other pop-ups, festivals and ways to celebrate.
Sheryl Underwood & Friends – Jan. 3-5
A legend of DC comedy, Sheryl Underwood made her first appearance at the DC Improv in the 1990s. Since then, she's built a media empire, co-hosted "The Talk," a daily panel show on CBS, made regular appearances on the Steve Harvey Morning Show, hosted Sheryl Underwood Radio and serves as CEO of Pack Rat Productions. On stage, Sheryl continues to push the envelope, getting into relationships, politics, current events and culture.
Tickets
DC Improv Comedy Club & Restaurant, 1140 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20036
ZooLights – Through Jan. 4
Join the thousands of visitors who make ZooLights, powered by Pepco, a part of their annual holiday tradition. The event includes live music performances, tasty winter treats and plenty of opportunities for holiday shopping. Environmentally friendly LED lights and dozens of glowing animal lanterns transform the Smithsonian's National Zoo into a winter wonderland. Note that timed passes are required. Admission is just $6.
Hours & Admission
Smithsonian’s National Zoo, 3001 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
DowntownDC Holiday Skate Spectacular – Through Jan. 4
The DowntownDC Business Improvement District (BID), the National Building Museum and Events DC have arranged to offer a free indoor synthetic ice rink set in the museum’s Great Hall. Be there for special guest appearances, food and lots of fun family activities. Skating is free and skates can be rented for just $5. There will also be special skating sessions for toddlers and young children as well as themed skate nights. Note that the rink will be closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
More Information | Free Admission
National Building Museum, 401 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20001
Curren$y – Jan. 4
One of the most prolific artists in hip-hop, Curren$y can shine on one of his solo efforts or as a collaborator; he’s worked with a wide range of rappers and producers, including The Alchemist, Wiz Khalifa and Freddie Gibbs. The hallowed halls of DC’s historic Howard Theatre will welcome the wordsmith, making for a great Saturday night party to kick off the new year in the nation’s capital.
8 p.m. | Tickets
The Howard Theatre, 620 T Street NW, Washington, DC 20001
Free Community Days at the National Museum of Women in the Arts – Jan. 5 & 8
The recently expanded National Museum of Women in the Arts welcomes visitors with free admission twice each month. Acquaint yourself with one of the coolest art collections in the District without paying a cent. You’ll have some extra cash left over to explore the museum’s jaw-dropping gift shop.
Register
National Museum of Women in the Arts, 1250 New York Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20005
ARTECHOUSE
Tingle Bells: An ASMR-Inspired Holiday Special – Through Jan. 5
Join ARTECHOUSE for a holiday celebration where tradition meets innovation. The warmth of the holidays is reimagined through cutting-edge digital artistry. Let Tingle Bells be your space for reflection, relaxation and the rediscovery of joy. Step into a world of serenity and sensory wonder this holiday season with an immersive digital exhibition designed to soothe your senses and warm your spirit. Use the code 'AEF10' at the link below.
Tickets
ARTECHOUSE, 1238 Maryland Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20002
DC Holiday Hunt – Through Jan. 5
This holiday season, DC’s "main streets" come alive with DC Holiday Hunt, a festive scavenger hunt. From historic sites to modern marvels, explore Columbia Heights, Mount Pleasant, Logan Circle and U Street, among other locales, while completing holiday missions and supporting local businesses to win prizes.
Season's Greenings – Through Jan. 5
Trade in your dreams of a white Christmas for something even better – a green Christmas. At this year's Season's Greenings exhibit at the U.S. Botanic Gardens, displays will feature not only holiday lights, but thousands of poinsettias, unbelievable plant-based sculptures of DC landmarks, a circuit of model trains and pollinators galore. The exhibit also includes a spectacular addition: a Blue Rooster model by designer Brian Sentman created in honor the famous Hahn/Cock sculpture located on the roof of the National Gallery of Art's Eats Building. Tickets are not required.
Free Admission
U.S. Botanic Garden, 100 Maryland Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20001
& Juliet – Dec. 17 – Jan. 5
Fresh takes on much-loved classics are in no short supply this winter. If you want to know what happens in the “happy ending” version of Romeo and Juliet (which doesn’t mean “happily ever after”!), this retelling is not to be missed. Follow Juliet in her new beginning as imagined by the Emmy Award-winning writer from Schitt’s Creek.
Tickets
The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, 2700 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20566
Life of Pi – Dec. 17 – Jan. 5
Based on Yann Martel’s beloved novel, this Tony- and Olivier-Award-winning play will leave you exhilarated. Shipwrecked in the Pacific Ocean, 16-year-old Pi must survive on a lifeboat with four hungry animal companions, Royal Bengal tiger included. A singular story of hope and perseverance, the stage adaptation uses world-class puppetry and stunning visuals.
Tickets
The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, 2700 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20566
O Tree Jubilee – Through Jan. 8
Even outside of the holiday season, the Mansion on O Street is a wonder to behold—a mind-bending, multilevel miracle that rewards repeated visits to search for its secret doors and hidden treasures. Add some of the District’s most creative Christmas trees to the mix and you’re sure to be dazzled. These trees (and wreaths and gingerbread houses) are created and donated by volunteers, landscape architects and florists, and you can try to win your favorites! Who wouldn’t want Oscar the Grouch as a tree?
Tickets
O Museum in the Mansion, 2020 O Street NW, Washington, DC 20036
Craig Robinson – Jan. 9-12
Comedian Craig Robinson started as a Chicago public school teacher and is now recognizable face to anyone that has seen "The Office." Best known for not only his stint at Dunder Mifflin but his roles in hit films and TV shows like "Killing It," "Dolemite Is My Name," "This is the End" and "Hot Tub Time Machine," Craig has hopes to help people find humor and joy in their everyday life. Beyond the screen, he delivers a standout live show, blending stand-up comedy with music for a night packed with nonstop fun.
Tickets
DC Improv Comedy Club & Restaurant, 1140 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20036
The Ford’s Theatre Legacy Commissions: A First Look – Jan. 10-11
Enjoy a free two-day festival at Ford’s Theatre that showcases exciting new plays in development with members of the Theatre’s cohort of BIPOC playwrights. There are also opportunities to converse about the work, providing even more unique access to these pieces that concern unsung heroes in the battle for equality in American life.
Reserve
Ford’s Theatre, 511 10th Street NW, Washington, DC 20004
Mindful Drinking Festival
Mindful Drinking Fest 2025 – Jan. 10-12
Experience the largest mindful drinking event in the U.S. Join thousands to explore over 120 non-alcoholic beverages from 40+ producers, attend engaging workshops and enjoy the "NO FUN" Cocktail Competition. Highlights include a grand tasting hall, lively afterparties with DJs and dancing and wellness activities like morning yoga. The event is perfect for the sober-curious or those embracing holistic wellness.
Tickets
1309 5th Street NE, Washington, DC 20002
Suchitra Mattai: Myth from Matter – Through Jan. 12, 2025
The National Museum of Women in the Arts hosts the first solo exhibition in DC dedicated to the work of Suchitra Mattai, who explores themes of history, heritage and identity across her multidisciplinary work. The Indo-Caribbean artist examines mythology, personal narratives and colonial history through the lens of women and people of color, especially those from Southeast Asia. Visitors can see large-scale textile installations, paintings, collages and sculptures, as well as related pieces from Europe and Southeast Asia.
Hours & Admission
National Museum of Women in the Arts, 1250 New York Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20005
Gordon Parks, Husband and Wife, Sunday Morning, Detroit, Michigan (Bert Collins and Pauline Terry), 1950
Gordon Parks: Camera Portraits from the Corcoran Collection – Through Jan. 12, 2025
The National Gallery of Art honors one of the best set of eyes in American history with a 25-portrait exhibition. Gordon Parks revolutionized photography in post-World War II America, situating his subjects in their environment while also paying close attention to their expression, character and dress. You can see images of Muhammad Ali and Leonard Bernstein alongside shots of a Harlem gang leader and a Detroit couple in this moving tribute that features some of Parks’ most beloved photographs.
10 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Free Admission
National Gallery of Art, 4th Street & Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC
A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum – Through Jan. 12, 2025
Sondheim takes ancient Rome in one of the greatest musical comedies ever. This Tony Award-winning play zeroes in on three neighboring households who notice, just outside their front doors, the exploits of a rowdy gang which includes a Roman slave, a soldier, a lovesick man and a gorgeous courtesan. You’re in for some retro Broadway brilliance at Signature Theatre in Arlington, Va.
Tickets
Signature Theatre, 4200 Campbell Avenue, Arlington, VA 22206
Mo Lowda & The Humble – Jan. 17
These indie rockers from Philadelphia mix grit, soul and powerful vocals into their music to create a sound that has been selling out concerts around the country. Attendees can look forward to a high-energy performance with guitar solos to spare in one of DC's most iconic venues.
Tickets
9:30 Club, 815 V Street NW, Washington, DC 20001
Black Kinesphere
Dissonance Dance Theatre: Black Kinesphere – Jan. 18
"Kinesphere" refers to the space around the body in stillness and motion. Black Kinesphere explores this concept through an evening of dance works by Black choreographers (Shawn Short, Kareem B. Goodwin, Kameron N. Saunders, Kevin McEwen, Marcus Isaiah and Shawn Rawls), blending contemporary and classical styles. A taste of the diverse compositions include Don’t Look Back (2025), inspired by comic book battles and set to Tina Guo's Wonder Woman theme, Unsettled (2018), which plays with human wit through contemporary pointe ballet, and 12×6 (2016), which reflects on the nature of human connection between strangers in ordinary urban life.
Tickets
Atlas Performing Arts Center, 1333 H Street NE, Washington, DC 20002
Paris 1874: The Impressionist Moment – Through Jan. 19, 2025
Discover the origins of one of the most important art movements in history thanks to a new exhibit at the National Gallery of Art. The museum is replicating a legendary exhibit from Paris in 1874 that helped bring about the dawn of Impressionism. In the display, you can view beloved paintings by Claude Monet, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Paul Cézanne, Edgar Degas, Camille Pissaro and many more.
10 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Free Admission
National Gallery of Art, 6th Street & Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC
Breaking It Down: Conversations from the Vault – Through Jan. 19, 2025
A new exhibit offers a deep dive and new takes on several artists who are essential mainstays of the Phillips Collection, including Georges Braque, Richard Diebenkorn, Arthur Dove, Sam Gilliam, Paul Klee and Georgia O’Keeffe. Visitors can also admire a growing collection of pieces by contemporary masters, including Sean Scully, Sylvia Snowden, Renée Stout and Joyce Wellman.
Hours & Admission
The Phillips Collection, 1600 21st Street NW, Washington, DC 20009
Honor Martin Luther King Jr. Day in DC – Jan. 20
The nation's capital presents unique opportunities to reflect on the legacy of the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Walk along his moving memorial along the Tidal Basin, visit the site of the famous "I Have a Dream" speech at the Lincoln Memorial, see incredible photography and historic artifacts at the National Museum of African American History and Culture or attend a commemorative event, including the Peace Walk and Parade.
Witness history during Inauguration in the nation's capital – Jan. 20
Presidential inaugurations in Washington, DC, are some of the most exciting days in the city – and in U.S. history. Beginning with the stately swearing-in ceremony at the U.S. Capitol and continuing on with celebratory parades and balls, it's an incredible opportunity for locals and visitors alike gather and witness this powerful showcase of American democracy.
Dropout Improv – Jan. 21
Visit the Warner Theatre for a night of hilarious improvisation produced by Live Nation and hosted by Sam Reich, who also hosts Game Changer and Make Some Noise. Dropout Improv regulars will take the stage for fun games and a whole lot of shenanigans. Performers include Jacob Wysocki, Vic Michaelis, Jeremy Culhane, Kurt Maloney, Jiavani and Kimia Behpoornia.
7:30 p.m. | Tickets
Warner Theatre, 513 13th Street NW, Washington, DC 20004
Yamato: The Drummers of Japan – Jan. 23
Japanese Taiko drums are renowned for their bold, energetic sound and electric stage presence. Featuring a collection of 40 drums, this world-famous Taiko group celebrates the strength of human spirit amidst a tech-driven world. Since 1993, Yamato has delivered over 4,500 moving performances across 54 countries, showcasing the joy and power of acoustic drumming.
Tickets
Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda, MD 20852
Nick Swardson – Jan. 24
A true stand-up comic legend, Nick Swardson has also become a fixture on television and in films thanks to memorable roles in Reno 911! on Comedy Central and a variety of successful Happy Madison productions (he’s very close friends with fellow icon Adam Sandler). Swardson’s brand of hilarity will be on full display during this show at the historic Warner Theatre.
7:30 p.m. | Tickets
Warner Theatre, 513 13th Street NW, Washington, DC 20004
Warren G – Jan. 24
West Coast hip-hop gave us seemingly endless gems in the 1990s, but Warren G’s “Regulate” is right near the top. His brand of G-funk has resonated through multiple generations and now, the smooth-talking rapper honors the 30th anniversary of his classic album with a tour. Howard Theatre is the ideal venue for such a celebration.
8 p.m. | Tickets
The Howard Theatre, 620 T Street NW, Washington, DC 20001
TINA: The Tina Turner Musical – Jan. 24-26
A triumphant musical about the Queen of Rock n’ Roll returns to the National Theatre in DC. Tina Turner’s story includes overcoming domestic violence and a mountain of prejudice to become the best-selling solo performer in music history. Her best songs are featured throughout, and the acclaimed play was written by Pulitzer Prize winner Katori Hall.
Tickets
The National Theatre, 1321 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20004
Lunar New Year Celebration: Stephanie Chou – Jan. 25
Join the Kennedy Center to celebrate the Lunar New Year with a musical performance from Stephanie Chou, a Chinese American composer, saxophonist and singer who masterfully blends Western jazz and pop with her heritage to create dazzling cross-cultural music. She’ll be joined by her quintet during this free show at Millennium Stage, which will also feature lion-dancing and other Lunar New Year festivities.
Register
The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, 2700 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20566
Monster Jam at Capital One Arena – Jan. 25-26
Roaring back to Penn Quarter is Monster Jam, two days packed with monster truck freestyle stunts, top-notch competitions and races. The family-friendly event is a chance to see some of the best drivers in the world. Be sure to check out the Pit Party, where fans get the chance to meet the drivers.
Tickets
601 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20004
Guac – Jan. 25 – Feb. 16
The Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company hosts a one-man tour-de-force theatrical performance from Manuel Oliver, the father of Parkland shooting victim Joaquin Oliver. Totally fearless and remarkably funny, the father-turned-activist speaks to his undying love for his son and how his family has navigated an unspeakable and uniquely American tragedy.
Tickets
Woolly Mammoth Theatre, 641 D Street NW, Washington, DC 20004
Blind Pilot – Jan. 26
To celebrate their first album in eight years, Blind Pilot’s tour is taking their signature indie folk sound across the country. The Portland-based band attracts audiences with rock melodies that explore love, loss and self-discovery, particularly some favorites from "3 Rounds and a Sound," delivered with the heartfelt energy that defines their live shows.
Tickets
9:30 Club, 815 V Street NW, Washington, DC 20001
Bar Japonais © Nina Palazzolo
Metropolitan Washington Restaurant Week – Jan. 27 – Feb. 2
Washington, DC's Winter Restaurant Week returns every January with the promise of high-quality dining, excellent deals and relief to the winter blues. Savor every last bite while taking advantage of special menus and pricing, including to-go options and cocktail and wine pairings, courtesy of the Restaurant Association of Metropolitan Washington and 200+ participating eateries.
Job – Jan. 28 – Mar. 16
Opening this January at Signature Theatre is Job, a psychological thriller that explores the dark side of corporate work, social media and technology. An Off-Broadway sensation and New York Times Critic’s Pick, the show is sure so leave the audience feeling haunted, pensive and on the edge of your seat.
Tickets
Signature Theatre, 200 Campbell Avenue, Arlington, VA 22206
Celebrate Lunar New Year in the District – Jan. 29 – Feb. 12
Locations all over the city ring in the Year of the Snake with colorful celebrations, including performances, educational talks, special tours and hands-on activities. Be sure to check out the festive Downtown Parade (Feb. 2), events at the Smithsonian's free National Museum of Asian Art and the Smithsonian American Art Museum (Feb. 1), the National Ballet of China at the Kennedy Center and more.
More Info
The Anderson Brothers present Duke Ellington at 125 – Jan. 29
It’s not often that you can watch a musical duo perform who just so happen to be identical twins and Grammy®-winning Juilliard graduates. Peter and Will Anderson, along with their quintet, will play the works of DC legend Duke Ellington, including “Caravan,” “Don’t Get Around Much Anymore,” “It Don’t Mean a Thing,” and “Mood Indigo” during this special performance at the Kennedy Center.
Tickets
The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, 2700 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20566
National Ballet of China: Chinese New Year (A Ballet in Two Acts) – Jan. 29 – Feb. 2
With its acclaimed combination of western ballet and Chinese culture, the National Ballet of China is world-renowned and will return to the Kennedy Center to thrill DC audiences with this new ballet set to Tchaikovsky’s treasured Nutcracker score. A young Chinese girl celebrates the New Year and goes on a mystical journey through a world of festive Chinese customs and folklore.
Tickets
The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, 2700 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20566
Jamie xx – Jan. 30
Rising to prominence as part of the dynamic British musical trio known as The xx, Jamie xx has captivated listeners around the world as a composer, performer and producer. The artist recently released his second LP, In Waves, a highly anticipated follow-up to the widely acclaimed mastery of his solo debut, 2015’s In Colour. See Jamie in all his splendor as a DJ/live performer at The Anthem.
7 p.m. | Tickets
The Anthem, 901 Wharf Street SW, Washington, DC 20024
The Reading Room Festival – Jan. 30 – Feb. 2
Folger Theatre celebrates a new year with a showcase of new plays, all inspired by and in conversation with Shakespeare. In-depth readings of four new plays will be followed by conversations with playwrights, directors, scholars and press members. Receptions featuring live music will conclude the evenings, allowing for gathering and celebrating. Multiple ticket options are available.
Tickets
Folger Theatre, 201 East Capitol Street SE, Washington, DC 20003
Nashville Emerging Artists Night – Jan. 31 – Feb. 1
Rising stars from "Music City" bring a taste of the vibrant Tennessee music scene to the DC area: Randall Fowler, a rock-turned-country storyteller; genre-blending artist Jimmy Woods; country-pop performers and former American Idol contestants Emily Brooke and Tristan McIntosh; heartfelt singer-songwriter Emily Ortego; and CMA Festival standout Landon Wall.
Tickets
Wolf Trap, 1635 Trap Road, Vienna, VA 22182
The Washington Auto Show – Jan. 31 – Feb. 9
Cars have always held a special allure, captivating the American imagination from the early days of the Model T. Witness the evolution of the vehicle firsthand by attending the Washington, DC Auto Show, which takes place at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. Even if you don't consider yourself a devoted car enthusiast, there are still plenty of reasons to check out the city's largest annual indoor event.
Tickets
Walter E. Washington Convention Center, 801 Mt. Vernon Place NW, Washington, DC 20001
Broadway Center Stage: Schmigadoon! – Jan. 31 – Feb. 9
Don't miss your chance to see the world premiere of the Emmy Award®–winning hit show Schmigadoon!, based on AppleTV's whimsical, musical comedy series. When New York couple Josh and Melissa venture out to the mountains, they hope to save their relationship. Instead, they find themselves trapped in the 1940s-era singing town of Schmigadoon.
Tickets
The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, 2700 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20566
The Bedwetter: A Musical – Jan. 31 – March 16
The best-selling memoir from iconic comedian Sarah Silverman becomes a hilarious musical production with songs from the late great Adam Schlesinger. The tale follows 10-year-old Sarah as she navigates a new school, her parents’ divorce and a secret she’s desperate to keep (check the title).
Tickets
Arena Stage, 1101 6th Street SW, Washington, DC 20024
Anacostia Community Museum
A Bold and Beautiful Vision: A Century of Black Arts Education in Washington, DC, 1900-2000 – Through March 2
The Anacostia Community Museum sheds light on fascinating local history with an exhibit featuring captivating original artworks, rare video footage and can't-miss artifacts including Alma Thomas’s paintbrushes and watercolor paint set, an early 20th-century lifelike marionette that William Buckner made with his local high school students, original Elizabeth Catlett prints that once hung in the halls of her DC high school and Sam Gilliam pieces from his tenure as a teacher at McKinley Technical High School. Experience the influence, power and creativity of the Black artist-educators who empowered generations of DC students.
10 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Free Admission
Smithsonian's Anacostia Community Museum, 1901 Fort Place SE, Washington, DC 20020
JewCE: The Jewish Comics Experience – Through March 23
A hero is a hero, but which iconic comic book character(s) can be called a real mensch? Find the answer and learn some fascinating trivia at the Capital Jewish Museum, which explores the theme of superheroes from the 1930s to the 1960s with Jewish backgrounds. Whether these well-loved protagonists had Jewish creators or celebrated their own bar mitzvahs in the comic’s pages, fun facts and a history of chutzpah await. Contemporary graphic novels and DC-focused lore are also included.
Tickets
Lillian and Albert Small Capital Jewish Museum, 575 3rd Street NW, Washington, DC 20001
Samantha Box: Confluences – Through March 23
The National Museum of Women in the Arts presents stunning documentary and studio-based photographs from Bronx-based artist Samantha Box in her first solo exhibition in the nation’s capital. Box’s two major bodies of work are seen together for the first time, revealing complex conversations around nationality, race, class, gender and sexual orientation.
Hours & Admission
National Museum of Women in the Arts, 1250 New York Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20005
The ‘70s Lens: Reimagining Documentary Photography – Through April 6
Across a wondrous collection of roughly 100 works by more than 80 artists, the National Gallery of Art gives visitors a chance to explore the dramatic shift in documentary photography that played out during the turmoil-filled decade of the 1970s. As Americans faced the Watergate scandal, inflation, energy crises and a host of other developments, documentary photographers shifted their collective perspective, leading to brilliant images that depict vibrant communities, suburban sprawl, conceptual art, nature and much more.
10 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Free Admission
National Gallery of Art, 6th Street & Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC
This Morning, This Evening, So Soon: James Baldwin and the Voices of Queer Resistance – Through April 20
Guest curated by Pulitzer Prize-winning author Hilton Als, the National Portrait Gallery’s new exhibit focuses on one of the most important American writers of the 20th century. James Baldwin beautifully spoke out against injustice throughout his stirring career. He and other queer artists had to keep their sexuality hidden even while speaking up for civil rights. In addition to portraits of Baldwin, the exhibit also highlights many of his contemporaries including Lorraine Hansberry, Barbara Jordan, Bayard Rustin, Essex Hemphill and Marlon Riggs.
11:30 a.m. – 7 p.m. | Free Admission
National Portrait Gallery, 8th and G Streets NW, Washington, DC 20001
Bond In Motion – Through April 25
Across more than six decades of films, James Bond has become the on-screen embodiment of spies for millions. The International Spy Museum pays homage to the fictional character, along with his allies and adversaries, with a breathtaking display of iconic vehicles from the movies. In total, visitors can fix their eyes on 17 pieces, including cars, motorcycles, submarines and even more from the Q Branch Garage.
Hours & Admission
International Spy Museum, 700 L’Enfant Plaza SW, Washington, DC 20024
The Print Generation – Through April 27
Early in the 20th century, a new generation of Japanese print artists took hold of the entire process of creation, from designing to carving to printing. The new approach, known as “sōsaku hanga”, led to raw and unique works throughout a period of turmoil in Japan. Many of these fascinating pieces are on display in this exhibit at the National Museum of Asian Art.
10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. | Free Admission
National Museum of Asian Art, 1050 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20560
Harry Benson: Washington D.C.
For the duration of the 2024-25 NBA and NHL seasons, Monumental Sports & Entertainment, Ted and Lynn Leonsis and Jeff Skoll present a landmark exhibit featuring more than 150 photographs by legendary photojournalist Harry Benson, renowned for his chronicles of culture, politics, music, movies, television and sports. The gallery, produced by Ted Leonsis and Jeff Skoll, is located next door to Capital One Arena at 707-709 7th Street NW and spans two floors across 10,000 square feet. The free exhibit includes photographs of every President and First Lady since Dwight Eisenhower, iconic images of legendary athletes and musicians, a behind-the-scenes look at The Beatles' arrival to the United States, stunning moments from the Civil Rights Movement and much more.
Wednesday-Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. | Free Admission | Reserve Tickets
707-709 7th Street NW, Washington, DC 20004
National Museum of African American History and Culture
In Slavery's Wake – Through June 8
The National Museum of African American History and Culture's new exhibit offers a dynamic mix of history, art and media. Visitors can observe connections between Black freedom-makers across time and join in a global conversation on the continued impacts of slavery and colonialism. The multi-lingual experience features 100 objects, 250 images and 10 multi-media interactives and films.
10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily | Reserve Timed Passes
Smithsonian National Museum of African American History & Culture, 1400 Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20560
OSGEMEOS: Endless Story – Through July 6
Gustavo and Otavio Pandolfo are the identical twin brothers that comprise OSGEMEOS, which is Portuguese for “the twins.” The Hirshhorn Museum presents the first U.S. survey and the largest American exhibition of work by the duo to date. In total, the full-floor exhibit features roughly 1,000 artworks, photos and archival materials that detail OSGEMEOS’ unique artistic voice that combines heritage, urban art, graffiti and magical elements.
10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. | Free Admission
Hirshhorn Museum & Sculpture Garden, Independence Avenue & 7th Street NW, Washington, DC 20560
Felix Gonzalez-Torres: Always to Return – Through July 6
The National Portrait Gallery and the Archives of American Art present an exhibition that goes in-depth on artist Felix Gonzalez-Torres’ engagement with portraiture, identity and history. Gonzalez-Torres’ groundbreaking work revolutionized the artform, elevating the notion of what a portrait could be.
11:30 a.m. – 7 p.m. | Free Admission
Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery, 8th and G Streets NW, Washington, DC 20004
Sublime Light: Tapestry Art of DY Begay – Through Summer 2025
In honor of one of the great fiber artists, the National Museum of the American Indian showcases 48 works by DY Begay. Across these dozens of tapestries, Begay explores her homeland and heritage through a divine sense of color, stirring innovation and sharp eye for design. Her pieces effectively illustrate a non-Western way of being to contemporary audiences.
10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. | Free Admission
National Museum of the American Indian, 4th Street & Independence Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20560
Pictures of Belonging: Miki Hayakawa, Hisako Hibi and Miné Okubo – Through Aug. 17
The Smithsonian American Art Museum honors three of the most important female American artists of Japanese descent in the years leading up to World War II. Across eight decades, the careers of Miki Hayakawa, Hisako Hibi and Miné Okubo helped shape modern American art. This exhibit examines the three trailblazers like never before, tracing their artistic evolution before, during and after the internment and displacement of Japanese Americans during World War II.
11:30 a.m. – 7 p.m. | Free Admission
Smithsonian American Art Museum, 8th & G Streets NW, Washington, DC 20004
The Shape of Power: Stories of Race and American Sculpture – Through Sept. 14
The Smithsonian American Museum’s new exhibit examines sculpture’s role in understanding and constructing race in the United States. Across 82 sculptures created between 1792 and 2023 by 70 different artists, visitors can observe historical and modern works that inspire conversation and reflections on how power, identity and race are intertwined.
11:30 a.m. – 7 p.m. | Free Admission
Smithsonian American Art Museum, 8th & G Streets NW, Washington, DC 20004
Collecting Memories – Through Dec. 2025
The Library of Congress opens its new David M. Rubenstein Treasures Gallery with a brand-new exhibit filled to the brim with fascinating artifacts across its 120 items. Collecting Memories includes Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address, a map from the Lewis and Clark Expedition, lyrics from The Sound of Music and much more in its examination of how cultures preserve the past.
Hours | Free Admission
Library of Congress, 101 Independence Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20540
Martin E. Red Bear / National Museum of the American Indian
Unbound: Narrative Art of the Plains – Through Jan. 20, 2026
The National Museum of the American Indian celebrates narrative art among Native nations of the Great Plains with an exciting new exhibition. You'll see historical works alongside contemporary commissions, from battle records to ledger books to pop culture takes.
More info | Free Admission
National Museum of the American Indian, 4th Street & Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20560
Fierce Flora: Tales of Survival and Demise – Ongoing
The U.S. Botanic Garden invites you to see the ferocious side of flora and fauna at its special new exhibit. Many plants have evolved defenses against infection, herbivores and their plant competition. The multisensory display will showcase this evolution and also pinpoint how these plants can be both harmful and helpful to humans.
10 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Free Admission
U.S. Botanic Garden, 100 Maryland Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20001
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Hedy's Rooftop / Hotel Zena
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