Enjoy Four Seasons of Fun in America's Capital Region

Spring Events

One of the quintessential Washington, DC experiences occurs each year from late March to mid-April, as the Tidal Basin explodes with the pink blooms of cherry trees — a gift from Tokyo’s mayor in 1912. The National Cherry Blossom Festival celebrates the occasion with free events, or you can book a tour to view the flowers by land or water.

Witness a northern Maryland tradition that goes back 100-plus years during steeplechase races on select weekends in April and May. Riders on horseback make their way through courses at various venues, up and over a series of timber fences, whilst spectators cheer them on at tailgate picnics.

Dubbed “America’s Largest Open House,” Virginia’s Historic Garden week is a chance to see more than 250 gardens, homes and historic landmarks during peak springtime colour. Spanning the state, the eight-day event takes place in April each year.

Summer Celebrations

Virginia’s Kings Dominion theme park in Doswell and Busch Gardens Williamsburg provide endless amusement with stomach-dropping roller coasters as well as family-friendly attractions.

There are fireworks displays, and then there’s the National Mall Fourth of July Celebration — a dazzling spectacle in honour of US Independence Day. Other festivities like a parade and concert lead up to the big show, which launches over the Reflecting Pool and can be seen throughout Washington, DC and northern Virginia.

It wouldn’t be summer in Maryland without visitors and residents alike flocking to the coast in search of blue crabs — the prime bounty of Chesapeake Bay — especially in the height of crab season, June through August. Grab a mallet and dig in at one of the many food festivals that celebrate the crustaceans. 

Want to make a splash while you're here? Check out these top 5 beaches near DC for summer fun.

Autumn Adventures

As the days grow shorter and the leaves change colour, it can only mean one thing: Autumn has arrived. Embark on a driving tour around Oakland, Maryland, to see spectacular autumn foliage, or attend the Catoctin Colorfest in mid-October.

Embrace the spirit of Halloween with a spooky walking excursion. Friday and Saturday evenings in October, Washington Walks in DC hosts The Most Haunted Houses tour. Hear stories about turbulent events, ghost-filled residences and other eerie hauntings.

Numerous farms in Virginia transform into harvest-time playgrounds throughout the season. Pick pumpkins and apples, explore corn mazes, take a hay ride and more, from northern Virginia to the heart of Appalachia.

Ready for more? Check out these top 5 autumn activities in the Capital Region!

Winter Wonderland

Glide amongst large-scale contemporary works of art in the National Gallery of Art’s Sculpture Garden in Washington, DC, the site of an ice-skating rink from mid-November to mid-March. Then, warm up with a hot tea or cup of cocoa at a local café.

As humpback, fin and minke whales migrate to warmer waters, winter is an ideal time for a whale-watching expedition in Virginia Beach. Bring your camera and don’t miss the opportunity to spot these majestic creatures up close.

Tucked away in the mountains of western Maryland is Wisp Resort, a golf resort that becomes a ski and snowboard haven in the winter, with beginner to expert slopes and a terrain park for all skill levels.

But why stop there? There are countless winter activities near DC to enjoy throughout your holiday!

For additional things to see and do every season of the year, check out our guide to four-season fun in the Capital Region and explore our events calendar for more travel-planning inspiration.