WASHINGTON, DC
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Last Update: July 23, 2025: Nashville (TN), Flowers
Washington, D.C. is full of surprises beyond politics and monuments. Did you know that by law, no building in the city can be taller than the Capitol? That’s right—no towering skyscrapers here! It’s also not part of any U.S. state and has no voting representation in Congress, which is why the local license plates boldly state: “Taxation Without Representation.” The city’s cherry blossom trees? A gift from Japan in 1912, turning the Tidal Basin into a pink dream every spring. And while John Adams was the first president to live in the White House, rumor has it Abraham Lincoln never truly left—his ghost is said to linger in the historic halls.
Architecture buffs will love the uniquely Brutalist metro stations that look like something out of a sci-fi movie. Best of all, many of the Smithsonian museums are completely free, making it easy to soak up art, history, and science without spending a dime. Washington, D.C. isn’t just the nation’s capital—it’s a city full of character, charm, and a few well-kept secrets.
September 21, 2024
Celebrate Chuseok, Korean Thanksgiving, with NMAA! Learn about both past and current traditions of one of the biggest holidays in South Korea. Enjoy this fall harvest festival with special performances, food, crafts, programming from local community groups, and more!
This event is copresented by the Korean Cultural Center Washington, DC. Generous support provided by the National Museum of Korea.
The National Museum of Asian Art gratefully acknowledges Dr. Young Yang Chung's support for the 2024 Chuseok festival.
Georgetown, one of D.C.’s most charming neighborhoods, is actually older than the capital itself—founded in 1751, decades before Washington, D.C. came to be. It's home to the prestigious Georgetown University, the oldest Catholic and Jesuit university in the U.S., and a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike thanks to its cobblestone streets, upscale boutiques, and the scenic C&O Canal, once used for coal transport and now perfect for strolls and bike rides. The neighborhood has housed icons like JFK, Jackie Kennedy, Julia Child, and Elizabeth Taylor, and even made a spooky Hollywood appearance with the infamous Exorcist stairs. And if you’ve got a sweet tooth, you’re in luck—Georgetown is a dessert haven, featuring famous spots like Georgetown Cupcake and Thomas Sweet.
The Tidal Basin in Washington, D.C. transforms into a breathtaking sea of pink and white each spring during the iconic National Cherry Blossom Festival, celebrating the 1912 gift of cherry trees from Japan to the U.S. Framed by landmarks like the Jefferson Memorial and Washington Monument, the Tidal Basin becomes one of the most photographed spots in the city. A highlight of the season is Sakura Matsuri, a vibrant Japanese street festival that takes over Pennsylvania Avenue with traditional music, dance, food, and cultural displays—it's the largest celebration of Japanese culture in the U.S. Together, the blossoms, monuments, and festivities create a magical mix of natural beauty and cultural exchange, drawing over a million visitors to D.C. each year.
Every spring, the sky above Washington, D.C. comes alive with color during the annual Kite Festival on the National Mall. Families, friends, and kite enthusiasts from all over gather beneath the towering Washington Monument to show off their most creative and colorful kites. From giant dragons to intricate handmade designs, it’s a breezy celebration of art, culture, and the simple joy of watching something soar. The vibe is fun, laid-back, and totally picture-worthy—especially when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom.
Each spring, Washington, D.C. transforms into a vibrant celebration of Japanese culture during the Sakura Matsuri – Japanese Street Festival. As the largest event of its kind in the United States, this two-day festival draws over 40,000 visitors to Pennsylvania Avenue between 3rd and 7th Streets NW, right at the foot of Capitol Hill. Attendees can immerse themselves in more than 24 hours of cultural performances across four stages, featuring everything from J-Pop and traditional music to martial arts demonstrations. The festival also offers a culinary journey with authentic Japanese cuisine, including ramen, sushi, mochi, and a special mini sake tasting experience. Additionally, visitors can explore handmade crafts and a variety of cultural exhibits, making Sakura Matsuri a must-visit event that brings the spirit of Japan to the heart of D.C.
Sunday, August 25, 2024
The Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia is proud to announce WOW Indonesia! Festival to commemorate Indonesia and the United States’ significant milestone – 75 years of diplomatic relations.
The Textile Museum, now part of the George Washington University Museum, is a hidden gem in D.C. that weaves together art, culture, and history through fabric. Located in the historic Foggy Bottom neighborhood, it showcases stunning textiles from around the globe—ranging from ancient Egyptian linen and Persian carpets to contemporary fiber art. The museum highlights how textiles have shaped societies, told stories, and served as powerful symbols across centuries. Whether you're into fashion, design, or global traditions, the Textile Museum offers a colorful and fascinating look at the threads that connect us all.
Nestled in Potomac, Maryland, the Glenstone Museum offers a serene fusion of contemporary art, modern architecture, and natural landscapes. Founded in 2006 by Mitchell and Emily Rales, Glenstone spans over 230 acres and features a collection of approximately 1,300 post-World War II artworks from global artists . The museum's architectural highlights include the original Gallery building designed by Charles Gwathmey and the expansive Pavilions by Thomas Phifer, which seamlessly integrate with the surrounding environment . Visitors embark on a contemplative journey through rolling meadows, woodlands, and outdoor sculptures, all meticulously curated to enhance the experience of art in harmony with nature . Admission is free, but advance reservations are required to maintain an intimate and reflective atmosphere . Whether you're an art enthusiast or seeking a tranquil retreat, Glenstone provides a unique and immersive cultural experience.
Tucked away in the heart of D.C.’s Shaw neighborhood, Blagden Alley is a hidden gem where history, street art, and cutting-edge creativity collide. Once a gritty back alley, it’s now a vibrant micro-district bursting with color and character—think mural-covered brick walls, craft cocktails, artsy cafes, and award-winning restaurants all packed into a few intimate blocks. You'll stumble upon spots like the cozy La Colombe café, the ultra-cool Columbia Room, and even unexpected finds like pop-up galleries and artisan studios. Wandering Blagden Alley feels like discovering a secret city within the city—gritty, gorgeous, and always full of surprises.
The Smithsonian Institution is the world’s largest museum and research complex, often called “the nation’s attic” because of its vast and eclectic collection. With 21 museums and galleries, plus the National Zoo, all offering free admission, it’s a treasure trove of American history, science, art, and culture. From seeing the Wright brothers’ plane and the Hope Diamond, to exploring the wonders of space at the National Air and Space Museum, there’s something for everyone. The Smithsonian was established in 1846 thanks to a generous gift from British scientist James Smithson, who ironically never set foot in the U.S. Whether you're marveling at dinosaur fossils or Dorothy’s ruby slippers, every visit is a deep dive into the stories that shaped the world.
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