Washington, D.C. is a city where there is more going on than meets the eye. For those who have lived in or around the nation's capital for some time, most of the traditional sightseeing opportunities have been, seen, done, and seen again. Fortunately for tourists and residents alike, there is a seemingly insurmountable list of obscure and thrilling events, festivals, and fairs taking place over the course of the summer, that will keep one's appetite for adventure satiated.
The National Asian Heritage Foundation's Fiesta Asia Street Fair - May 16.
Throughout the month of May, The National Asian Heritage Foundation hosts a slew of events and festivals around D.C., aimed at bringing traditional Asian cultures to the masses. The Fiesta Asia Street Fair is one such event. Bringing together over 900 performers, exhibits, culinary demonstrations, and more over five staging areas located along Pennsylvania Avenue, there is no doubt that this cultural experience will not be forgotten.
The Source Festival - June 5 to June 28.
There is nothing subjective about the quality of theatrical performances that will be taking Washington by storm, during this year's CultureDC, hosted by Source Festival. A month-long venue to showcase innovation and creativity in the world of theatre, the Source Festival is a one-stop-shop for those seeking to keep up to speed with the beat of the performing arts. One can expect to see 18 10-minute long plays, three full length plays, talent shows, and several audience centered activities, hosted by many of the industry's biggest artists, over the course of three weeks.
D.C. Jazz Festival - June 10 to June 16.
For many, jamming out at a ragtime concert or spending a day drinking in an orchestral mix of brass, blues, and bebop ,may not be the first thing on your list of things to do in the District. However, those with open ears and an open mind will find that the D.C. Jazz Festival is the perfect way to spend a few summer nights. Featuring more than 125 performances by jazz's top performers, taking place throughout D.C., there will be no better place in the world to experience the genre in its purest form.
The Smithsonian Folklife Festival - June 24 to 28 and July 5 to 8.
The world just got a little bit smaller, thanks to the Smithsonian Folklife Festival. A completely free colloquium of international cultural heritage, this National Mall-located collection of traditions is the perfect way to travel the world, without having to leave the comfort of the best city on Earth.
