May is here, and it’s brought beautiful weather and a bevy of fun activities along with it. In a city as expansive and diverse as D.C. the possibilities are endless, so we sorted through some of the best events the District has to offer to bring you this May roundup. Whether you’re looking for an outdoor adventure, an artistic experience, or a low-key night, there’s something here for everyone!
1-2. Grab a drink and show with friends
D.C. has more than its fair share of bars, but what about drinks and a show? Drink the District brings cocktails and fun with two unique experiences. Celebrate Cinco de Mayo May 6-7 with drinks, live lucha libre (Mexican wrestling!), mariachi bands, and more. Or, you can opt for beverages with a side of unbelievable acrobatics and cabaret. There’s no wrong decision here!
3-5. Relax to the sounds of classical music by candlelight
The Fever Originals Candlelight series is the perfect way to unwind. You can lose yourself in classical renditions of your favorite tunes amid soft candlelight. With five genres and musical themes to choose from, there’s bound to be a concert that’s perfect for you.
- Candlelight: The Best of Frank Sinatra
- Candlelight: Favorite Anime Themes at Miracle Theatre
- Candlelight: A Tribute to Stevie Wonder
6. Bring on the party with Bubbles and Burlesque
Drink specials, drag queens and kings, aerial acts, and burlesque all in one amazing show? Nothing could make for a better Sunday funday! So grab some friends and book your ultimate weekend experience! Purchase tickets here.
7. Geek out at The FRIENDS™ Experience: The One in Washington, D.C.
In the words of Janice, “Oh my gawd!” The FRIENDS™ Experience has come to the District, presenting you with the opportunity to insert yourself directly into their shoes, recreating famous scenes, snagging merch, and playing show-themed games! Tickets are available here.
8. Live life as a royal by attending The Queen’s Ball
“Dearest Readers, it’s time to gather your finest Regency-inspired attire and experience the dreamlike recreation of Shondaland’s Bridgerton at Queen’s Ball: A Bridgerton Experience.” With themed cocktails, jaw-dropping performances, and a ball full of suitors, what could be better? What a scandal!
9. Attend the Immersive Van Gogh Experience
The awe-inspiring Immersive Van Gogh Experience is a worldwide favorite, and now it’s in D.C. The exhibit uses floor-to-ceiling projections to showcase Vincent Van Gogh’s famous works, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in his art. Buy tickets here!
10. Attend D.C.’s Broccoli City Festival and Black Change Weekend
The cause and the headliners will have you clamoring for tickets! Broccoli City Festival has been occurring in Washington, D.C., since 2013 to benefit and inspire local youth and communities to create a “racially equitable” world. Held Friday, May 6 through Sunday, May 8, the 2022 festival includes a career fair, 5K fitness run, and headliners such as 21 Savage, Ari Lennox, Gunna, and more!
11. Take a stroll with Georgetown’s Garden Tour
Following a two-year pandemic hiatus, Georgetown’s Garden Club will be hosting its 92nd Georgetown Garden Tour. Held Saturday, May 7, the tour is at your own pace, offering refreshments as you take in the natural beauty of some of Georgetown’s most pristine gardens. Children 12 and under can attend for free, and funding from ticket sales go toward beautification efforts in the neighborhood!
12. Take part in the Around the World Embassy Tour
For the first two Saturdays in May, a number of embassies will open their doors to the public as part of the Around the World Embassy Tour. Participating embassies — including Costa Rica, Ethiopia, Iraq, Nepal, and Thailand, among others — will offer a number of cultural activities, such as karate and dance demonstrations, and showcase each country’s art, cuisine, music, and traditions. A full list of participating embassies can be found here.
13. Take a tiki cruise on the Potomac
The people who brought you the Potomac Paddle Club just launched the Potomac Tiki Club in Georgetown! Groups of 8-18 can set sail on the Potomac for a 90-minute cruise, taking in the sights and having a drink. The tiki cruise offers an assortment of alcoholic beverages for purchase on board, and you can bring your own bottle of wine or champagne for an $8 uncorking fee. Light snacks are also available for purchase, but the cruise is BYOF (bring your own food). You can schedule a slot for an upcoming weekend, here!
14. Catch a concert at your favorite local venue
It’s nearly peak concert-going season, and a number of genre-spanning artists will be making stops at the nation’s capital! From HAIM, Olivia Rodrigo, and Disclosure making appearances at The Anthem, to artists such as Turnstile and Beach Bunny at 9:30 Club, D.C.’s numerous venues are sure to offer something for everyone!
15. Watch a movie outdoors
What’s better than a free outdoor movie?! Just outside of D.C. at National Harbor, May commences the beginning of its Movies on the Potomac series. Fun for all ages, every 6 p.m. on Sunday features a family-friendly film, while couples and adults can come for Thursday’s 7 p.m. date night showings. Even better — each month has an overall theme! If you love animal movies, then May is the perfect month for you! Find a full calendar listing of films here.
16. Go to Jazz in the Garden
As the month ends and summer nears, D.C.’s favorite concert series Jazz in the Garden will return! Every Friday night from May 20 through July 22, the National Gallery of Art hosts an outdoor concert in its Sculpture Garden. Featuring a range of jazz, bluegrass, and Afro-Cuban music, attendees can enjoy the weather, tunes, and gorgeous views. You can register to attend at noon exactly one week prior to each concert.
17. Enjoy the Fiesta Asia festival
After two years of a virtual experience, Fiesta Asia is back in-person! Celebrating Asian Heritage Month, the festival, hosted by the Asia Heritage Foundation, features an array of fun and educational cultural experiences, including a street fair, movie showings, fashion exhibits, tastings, and more!
18. Visit Rihanna’s new Savage X Fenty store
Rihanna’s inclusive lingerie line just opened one of its five flagship stores on April 30. Located at Fashion Centre at Pentagon City, you’ll want to take advantage of the easy access to peruse the aisles and find something that celebrates your body and makes you feel empowered!