Washington, DC, buzzes with life this week. From a massive street festival on H Street to live jazz, Civil Rights films, and even pickleball on the National Mall, the city is showing off its best side. Whether you’re visiting for a few days or lucky enough to call the capital home, there’s something here to make every moment memorable. And with HomeExchange, it’s easy to enjoy the city with the comfort of a real home base — perfect for families or groups who want more than a hotel room.

Travel with HomeExchange

Street Parties and Festival Energy

  • H Street Festival (Sat, free): Celebrating its 20th year, this iconic street party brings more than 200 vendors, 80+ food stands, and endless live entertainment. Perfect for kids, adults, and even pets.
  • Columbia Heights Day (Sun, free): A lively community event filled with vendors, music, and local pride.
💡
HomeExchange tip: Staying in a neighborhood home makes it easier to walk to festivals and return to a quiet, cozy evening.

Culture That Inspires

  • Issa Rae Author Talk (Tues): The award-winning actor and writer shares stories from her new book I Should Be Smarter by Now.
  • March On Film Festival (Sept. 15–21): Screenings and panels highlight unsung heroes of the Civil Rights era.
  • Immigration Film Fest (Sept. 25–Oct. 4): Stories of migration and resilience, with a mix of in-person and virtual screenings.

Playful and Unexpected

  • National Mall of Pickleball (Fri–Sun, free): Pickleball courts pop up on the National Mall for three days of play. Families, friends, and curious beginners are all welcome.
  • WalkingTown DC (through Sat, free): Guided neighborhood tours bring the city’s history and hidden gems to life.
See homes in Washington

Music and Theater to Remember

  • Montclair Jazz Festival vibes in DC? Not this time, but plenty of concerts light up the week: soul singer Kendra Morris, Geordie Greep’s solo debut, and more.
  • Theatre Week (Sept. 19–Oct. 5): 20+ productions across DC at discounted prices — a chance to see theater without breaking the bank.
  • Ford’s Theatre (Sept. 20–Oct. 12): A new play, The American Five, explores pioneers of the Civil Rights Movement.

Food, Drinks, and Nighttime Fun

  • BBQ & Barrels (Fri): Whiskey, bourbon, and barbecue flavors come together at Nationals Park.
  • Garden Party at the French Embassy (Sat): Wine, baguettes, and music in a festive setting.
  • Back to the Yards (Fri, free): A throwback party with retro games, crafts, and glow-in-the-dark swag.
💡
HomeExchange tip: Staying in a home with a kitchen means you can balance indulgent food events with home-cooked family meals.

Family-Friendly Highlights

  • The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show (Wed–Oct. 12): Puppets and colorful storytelling at Imagination Stage in Bethesda.
  • Cox Farms Fall Festival (Sept. 21–Nov. 9): Rope swings, slides, farm animals, and hayrides — fall fun just outside DC.
  • Movies Outdoors: From Amélie on the Mall to The Parent Trap in Kalorama, free outdoor screenings keep evenings magical.

Why HomeExchange Is Perfect for a DC Week

Between tickets, meals, and events, a week in DC adds up quickly. With HomeExchange, families and travelers can stay in their favorite neighborhoods, enjoy more space, and save money on accommodation. A kitchen for quick breakfasts before sightseeing, a living room for winding down after festivals, and the comfort of home — all while exploring one of the most vibrant cities in the U.S.

Travel with HomeExchange