Highlights of Washington, DC
Summary (TL;DR)
Washington, DC keeps the summer momentum going with an exciting lineup of Broadway productions, blockbuster concerts, outdoor movies, Smithsonian experiences, FIFA World Cup watch parties, family-friendly activities, comedy shows, and culinary events taking place throughout the region.
Whether you're planning a date night, entertaining visiting family, looking for kid-friendly activities, or simply searching for something new to experience after work, this week's calendar offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy the nation's capital.
From unforgettable performances by internationally recognized artists to interactive museum experiences and waterfront events, there's something happening every day across the DMV.
Your Guide to DC This Week (July 8–12)
While Independence Day celebrations have wrapped up, Washington's summer event season is still in full swing.
This week features award-winning Broadway productions, chart-topping musicians, outdoor entertainment, community gatherings, sporting events, hands-on workshops, and unique museum programming that showcase the city's vibrant arts and culture scene.
Whether you're a longtime resident or visiting the nation's capital, these events are some of the best ways to experience Washington this week.
Here's what's happening around Washington, DC.
Major Events & Festivals
Usher & Chris Brown – Raymond and Brown Tour (July 10-11)
📍 Northwest Stadium
Two of R&B's biggest superstars share the stage for one of the largest concert events of the summer. Fans can expect an evening packed with chart-topping hits, elaborate stage production, and unforgettable performances.
👉 One of the week's biggest entertainment events.
Beetlejuice: The Musical (July 7-12)
📍 National Theatre
The hit Broadway production inspired by Tim Burton's beloved film brings its hilarious comedy, energetic performances, and spectacular stage effects to downtown Washington.
👉 A must-see for Broadway fans.
Smithsonian Sleepover
📍 National Museum of American History
Enjoy a special overnight program at one of the Smithsonian's most popular museums with exclusive after-hours access, interactive activities, and educational programming designed for families and curious explorers alike.
Arts & Culture
Hamilton Outdoor Movie Night
📍 The Wharf
Watch the award-winning musical on a giant outdoor screen while enjoying waterfront views, food vendors, and one of DC's favorite gathering places.
👉 Bring a blanket or lawn chair for a relaxing evening.
Read & Relax at The Yards
Escape the hustle of the city with a quiet afternoon dedicated to reading, community, and enjoying the scenic waterfront atmosphere at The Yards.
Theater & Shows
Star Wars: Return of the Jedi in Concert (July 9)
📍 Wolf Trap
Experience the legendary film on the big screen while a live orchestra performs John Williams' iconic score in perfect sync with the movie.
Outdoor Comedy Pop-Up (July 9)
📍 Edgewood Community Farm
Enjoy an evening of stand-up comedy beneath the summer sky as local comedians deliver laughs in one of DC's most unique outdoor venues.
Something Rotten!
📍 Keegan Theatre
This Broadway comedy follows two playwright brothers competing against William Shakespeare in a hilarious musical filled with clever humor and memorable songs.
Improvised Murder Mystery Comedy Show
Audience members become part of the investigation as performers create a brand-new murder mystery every night through improvisation and comedy.
Water Circus Under the Big Top
Featuring breathtaking acrobatics, aerial performances, theatrical storytelling, and spectacular water effects, this family-friendly production delivers a circus experience unlike any other.
Live Music & Entertainment
Lizzo with the National Symphony Orchestra
📍 Wolf Trap
Grammy Award-winning artist Lizzo joins the National Symphony Orchestra for a unique performance blending pop, soul, classical music, and powerful vocals.
American Football
📍 9:30 Club
The influential indie rock band returns to Washington for an intimate concert featuring beloved classics and newer material.
Madison Beer
📍 The Anthem
Pop star Madison Beer performs songs from her latest releases during one of the week's most anticipated concerts.
Poppy
📍 The Fillmore Silver Spring
Known for her genre-defying sound, Poppy brings an energetic performance combining rock, metal, electronic, and pop influences.
Louis Tomlinson
📍 Merriweather Post Pavilion
Former One Direction member Louis Tomlinson continues his solo tour with an evening featuring fan favorites and new music.
Jazzy Sundays
Enjoy live jazz performances in a laid-back outdoor setting as this popular summer concert series continues another weekend of great music.
Sports
FIFA World Cup Quarterfinal Watch Party
📍 The Boro, Tysons
Continue following the tournament with another exciting outdoor viewing party featuring food vendors, entertainment, and family-friendly activities.
Family-Friendly Events
Learn to Fish Aboard the Mildred Belle
Families can spend time on the water while learning basic fishing skills from experienced instructors aboard the historic Mildred Belle.
Ricitos and the Three Bears
📍 GALA Hispanic Theatre
This bilingual musical puts a fresh twist on the classic Goldilocks story through colorful performances, music, and family-friendly entertainment.
A Day at the Fair (July 11)
📍 Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library
Enjoy carnival-inspired games, crafts, educational activities, and hands-on fun for children of all ages inside one of DC's most popular libraries.
Food & Drink
Cake Decorating Class
📍 Hill's Kitchen
Learn professional decorating techniques while creating your own beautifully designed cake to bring home.
Rosé Wine Tasting
📍 The Roost
Sample a curated selection of rosé wines while learning about tasting notes, food pairings, and winemaking from experienced hosts.
Looking Ahead
Washingtonian Best of Washington Food & Cocktail Celebration (July 23)
Mark your calendar for one of the city's premier culinary events, featuring more than 65 restaurants, unlimited food tastings, cocktails, wine, beer, and live entertainment.
👉 Food lovers won't want to miss this annual celebration.
Final Thoughts
Washington, DC continues to shine as one of the country's best summer destinations, offering an incredible variety of entertainment, cultural experiences, live performances, family activities, and community events throughout the week.
Whether you're watching Broadway shows, cheering on Team USA during the FIFA World Cup, attending concerts from world-renowned artists, exploring Smithsonian museums after hours, or simply enjoying an evening by the waterfront, there's no shortage of ways to experience everything the city has to offer.
Thinking about your next move in Washington? We'd love to guide you every step of the way. Reach out to Leah Fernandez at 202.217.1652 or [email protected].
FAQs
Q1. What are the best things to do in Washington, DC this week?
A: Some of the top events taking place between July 8 and July 12 include Beetlejuice: The Musical, the Usher & Chris Brown tour, Lizzo with the National Symphony Orchestra, Smithsonian Sleepover, outdoor movie nights, FIFA World Cup watch parties, and family-friendly activities across the DC area.
Q2. Are there family-friendly events happening in Washington, DC this week?
A: Yes. Families can enjoy the Smithsonian Sleepover, Ricitos and the Three Bears, Learn to Fish aboard the Mildred Belle, A Day at the Fair, and the Water Circus Under the Big Top.
Q3. Where can I watch the FIFA World Cup in the Washington, DC area?
A: Public World Cup watch parties are taking place at The Wharf in Washington, DC and The Boro in Tysons, providing large outdoor viewing screens, food, drinks, and a lively atmosphere for soccer fans.
Q4. What concerts are happening in Washington, DC this week?
A: Concert highlights include Usher & Chris Brown, Lizzo with the National Symphony Orchestra, American Football, Madison Beer, Poppy, Louis Tomlinson, and Star Wars: Return of the Jedi in Concert at Wolf Trap.
Q5. What food and drink events are happening in Washington, DC this week?
A: Visitors can participate in a Cake Decorating Class at Hill's Kitchen, attend a Rosé Wine Tasting at The Roost, and start planning for Washingtonian's Best of Washington Food & Cocktail Celebration later this month.
