Labor Day Weekend marks the unofficial end of Summer, and while that might be sad news for some, this long weekend will be an opportunity to finish off the Summer season with a few fun events and plans that might just end up being the highlight of your year!
1. Check out the new Bubble Planet exhibit to release your inner child
Bubble Planet is officially open in D.C., so if you love museums that double as photo ops, you’re going to love it!
This interactive exhibit has 10 different rooms, all with different themes, colors, and sights. Bubbles ranging from soapy baths to smoke-filled orbs to balloons will allow you to float through a magical story that you likely haven’t experienced before.
2. Check out the DC Jazz Fest before it ends
Taking place over Labor Day Weekend will be the 2025 D.C. Jazz Fest, which will be spread out across the district with multiple events taking place at different venues from August 27th to the 31st!
Tickets are on sale now for specific events, but some of them are already selling out!
So, if you want to go, take a look at the D.C. Jazz Fest schedule and get tickets to whichever event you want (if it isn’t already sold out)!
3. See the National Symphony Orchestra perform live for free on the Capitol lawn
The National Symphony Orchestra’s annual free-to-attend Labor Day Weekend show is taking place once again on the West Lawn of the Capitol on Sunday, August 31st.
This is an incredible event for all audiences and something every Washingtonian should experience at least once, but while no tickets are required to attend, be warned that all seating is first-come-first-served basis.
4. Snag discounted tickets to D.C.’s delightful Dopamine Land experience
This Labor Day weekend, step into a world of joy and wonder with 20% off all tickets to Dopamine Land. The multi-sensory experience is home to 10 interactive rooms, each thoughtfully designed to activate the happiness hormone. Try meditation, draw all over the walls, have a pillow fight, and more! The discount will be live from Friday, August 29, to Monday, September 1, so plan your long weekend visit here.
5. Enjoy some good family fun at the Maryland State Fair
Just about an hour drive from D.C., the Maryland State Fair is running three separate weekends: August 22nd – 25th, August 29th – September 2nd, and September 5th – 8th. The nostalgia-filled experience will feature rides, games, animals, and all of the fair food you can eat!
Did we mention live music, including from Baltimore’s own All Time Low?!
6. Take a trip out of the city to soak up the last bit of Summer
If you’re looking for a little relief from the chaos of the city this Labor Day Weekend, then a quick day trip out of the city might be just what you need!
Whether you plan to turn it into a multi-day trip or just bounce around to a few different destinations each day, there are plenty of options, whether it be D.C. area beaches or just pretty towns within driving distance.