Fact checked by

Michelai Graham

Although approximately 3,000 events are held on the National Mall in Washington, DC each year, surprisingly few, less than a dozen major festivals are held annually. Most of the events on the National Mall are small gatherings, such as sporting events, protests, rallies, and other group activities. A wide range of non-profit organizations host charity walks along the Mall throughout the year to raise money and encourage health and wellness.

Note: A permit is required to host a public event on the National Mall to ensure that activities will not conflict with each other. For details, contact the Office of Park Programs at (202) 619-7225.

National Cherry Blossom Festival

Late March-Early April. Washington, DC welcomes the arrival of spring with an annual two-week, city-wide event featuring more than 200 international cultural performances and over 90 other special events. The annual kite festival, stage performances, and many other events take place on the National Mall.

Earth Day

April. Washington, DC hosts one of the largest Earth Day gatherings in the U.S., a major day-long event on the National Mall to rally for climate and clean energy legislation. The event includes speeches by public officials and musical performances by national talent.

Cinco de Mayo

May. The annual celebration features live music and dance, children’s arts and crafts workshops, food, games, and activities for the entire family. Although originally of Mexican origin, the Cinco de Mayo Festival has become a larger “Latin American Family Reunion” on the National Mall.

Memorial Day

May. This is a poignant time to honor our veterans and notable Americans by visiting the monuments and memorials in Washington, DC. Special programs, wreath-laying ceremonies, and other events are held at the memorials in remembrance of fallen heroes.

Rolling Thunder

May. The annual motorcycle rally held in Washington, DC during Memorial Day weekend is a call for the government’s recognition and protection of Prisoners of War (POWs) and those Missing in Action (MIAs). Approximately 400,000 veterans will roar across the National Mall on their motorcycles as a tribute to American war heroes.

Smithsonian Folklife Festival

June – July. The annual event sponsored by the Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage celebrates cultural traditions around the globe with daily and evening music and dance performances, crafts and cooking demonstrations, storytelling, and discussions of cultural issues. Each year, three themes are embraced.

4th of July Fireworks

July. Washington DC is a spectacular location to celebrate July 4th! The National Mall, with its monuments and the U.S. Capitol in the background, forms a beautiful and patriotic backdrop to America’s Independence Day celebrations. This all-day event in the nation’s capital begins with a parade along Constitution Avenue and culminates with a breathtaking display of fireworks over the Washington Monument.

Veterans Day

November. Many memorials on the National Mall host special events in honor of America’s armed forces. Veterans Day is an ideal time to visit Washington DC and pay tribute to those who have dedicated their lives to defending our country.