Dear Journalists,
Think Washington, DC for travel stories this summer and beyond. Here’s why:
• Summer is highlighted by iconic festivals and events, particularly over holiday weekends. Following WorldPride DC 2025 (May 17-June 8), the annual Smithsonian Folklife Festival takes place July 2-7 on the National Mall. Fireworks on the fourth of July are a can’t-miss experience, particularly as DC prepares to serve as center stage for America’s 250th in 2026. DC JazzFest is Aug. 27-31 at venues across the city.
• The warmer months are the perfect time to explore buzzworthy new additions to the city’s globally acclaimed dining scene. The Wharf welcomes the world’s second location of Fish Shop, the splashy dining destination in the Scottish Highlands, and Willowsong, from touted west coast chef Jeffrey Williams. Across the city, Stephen Starr adds to his acclaimed DC portfolio with the glamourous reincarnation of The Occidental; Hakan Ilhan launched his newest venture in Georgetown, Alara; and Food Network star Eric Adjepong opened his first brick-and-mortar restaurant, Elmina. The new Sixty DC Hotel, opening in June, boasts Toronto-based Hanif Harji’s Casamara and Reynold’s, a cocktail lounge.
• DC offers more than 30 new or renovated rooftop experiences since 2020, including Marcus Samuelsson’s Sly at the Morrow Hotel in NoMa, ART DC at the Arlo DC and the fully immersive Dome at Hi-Lawn experience atop Union Market. The popular Ciel Social Club opened its second location at the Washington Marriott Capitol Hill and Sixty DC will offer a stunning rooftop space opening this summer. Thanks to the city’s unique height restrictions, each offers awe-inspiring views of iconic landmarks.
Go deeper: Each section below has more reasons to visit DC. Our team is ready to assist with your stories. Contact us today.
Warm regards,
Danielle Davis
Vice President of Communications
