Washington, D.C. | May 24–28
Things to Do in D.C.
Memorial Day Weekend Activities
Sunday, May 24th
National Memorial Day Concert, West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol, 8:00p.m.
The National Memorial Day Concert salutes the sacrifice made by the men and women in uniform, as well as their families. The free annual concert will be aired on PBS from the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol on Sunday, May 24 at 8 p.m. The event will also be live-streamed online and will be available on-demand for two weeks after the performance.
Monday, May 25th - Memorial Day
National Memorial Day Parade, Constitution Avenue, 10:00a.m.-12:00p.m.
An annual tradition and America’s largest Memorial Day event, the National Memorial Day Parade returns to Constitution Avenue in Washington, DC, kicking off Memorial Day commemorations in the nation's capital, Monday, May 25, 2026 at 10 AM. A 'moving timeline of American history,' the National Memorial Day Parade shares the story of service and sacrifice across the first 250 years, filled with musical performances and marching bands, uniformed service members and veterans, historical re-enactors and celebrities, along with honored families of the fallen. Join the parade in person, or watch the parade's television special nationwide on local ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox and CW stations.
While Washington, D.C. is known for its free things to do, many attractions require timed-entry tickets to ensure a smooth visitor experience. Find out which locations encourage advanced reservations and which charge admission so you can plan a seamless visit to the District.
Newly Opened Exhibits & Events
Smithsonian Castle Reopening + "American Aspirations"
Opens: May 22 | Open through September 7
A rare opportunity to step inside the iconic Smithsonian Castle during its renovation pause. The accompanying exhibit, curated by Smithsonian director Lonnie Bunch, brings together prized objects from across the Smithsonian's museums in a high-level exploration of American ambition and identity.
📍 The Mall | Free admission
In Pursuit of Life, Liberty & Happiness
National Museum of American History
Opens: May 14 | Ongoing
250 objects — including never-before-seen pieces — are scattered throughout the museum, celebrating American moments big and small and inviting exploration across the building.
📍 14th St & Constitution Ave NW | Free admission
Bison: Standing Strong
National Museum of Natural History
Opens: May 7 | Ongoing
A deep dive into America's national mammal, with a fun nod to the fact that bison once roamed the National Mall. New bison statues outside mark the occasion.
📍 10th St & Constitution Ave NW | Free admission
Ongoing Exhibits Also Running the Week of May 25th
The Spirit of 2076
Milken Center
A forward-looking exhibition asking what the next 50 years of the American dream could look like — a thought-provoking counterpoint to the anniversary's retrospective lens.
📍 736 Jackson Pl NW
Revolution in Their Words
DAR Museum
A free exhibit using diaries and letters from women, enslaved people, and Native Americans to tell the story of the Revolution beyond the Founding Fathers. Running now through 2027.
📍 1776 D St NW | Free admission
America's State Flowers
U.S. Botanic Garden
Running April 10 through October 12. A lovely spring escape spread across the gardens — a good counterpoint to a full week of conference sessions.
📍 100 Maryland Ave SW | Free admission
Dear America
National Gallery of Art
Running April 11 through September 20. A visually rich look at American identity across 250 years, exploring its diversity through the National Gallery's collection.
📍 6th St & Constitution Ave NW | Free admission
Live Music in Washington D.C.
Discover small intimate shows to stadium concerts during your time in Washington D.C. (Bruce Springsteen, Charlie Puth, Steve Earle, Lucinda Williams and Jason Mraz are just some of the artists in town during Congress week). Following are some links that may be helpful.
Ticketmaster
Songkick – search for shows by dates
If you are staying after Congress to see the sights, the Washington Nationals will be playing three home games May 29-31.