Gaithersburg Book Festival
Bohrer Park
May 16 | 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
A vibrant literary festival set in a scenic park, featuring award-winning authors, poets, and songwriters from across the country. Free and open to all, it offers engaging programming for all ages, supported by the City of Gaithersburg and a dedicated community of volunteers.gaithersburgbookfestival.org
German International School - WunderbarTogether Gala
The Schuyler Room | Hamilton Hotel | Washington, D.C.
May 1 | 6 p.m. Mark your calendars for an unforgettable evening at the flagship fundraising event of the German International School Washington D.C. Join us as we proudly honor GateGroup with the Global Unity Award and celebrate the enduring partnership between global industry and international education. We look forward to celebrating this special evening with you!
Potomac Lifestyle Palm Royale Fashion Show and Soirée
Venue TBD, Potomac, MD
May 2 | 5 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Potomac Lifestyle hosts an elegant spring fashion presentation in collaboration with TBD, showcasing seasonal style, community, and creativity. Guests will enjoy an evening celebrating fashion, connection, and local flair.
evite.com
Muskaan Smiles Forever Gala
Avenel Country Club, 10000 Oaklyn Dr, Potomac, MD
May 2 | 5pm Evening
Celebrate over four decades of Muskaan’s work empowering individuals with intellectual disabilities through education, employment, and inclusion. The evening supports the Smiles Forever Fund and honors a legacy of dignity, opportunity, and independence.
muskaan-paepid.org
Flower Mart
Washington National Cathedral, 3101 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC
May 2–3 | Various times
A beloved spring tradition featuring vibrant floral displays, plant sales, artisan vendors, family activities, and a historic carousel set against the stunning backdrop of the National Cathedral.
allhallowsguild.org/flower-mart
Around the World Embassy Tour
Various embassies across Washington, DC
May 2 | Various times
Step inside dozens of embassies during this signature Passport DC event, offering rare cultural access, performances, cuisine, and exhibitions from countries around the globe.
eventsdc.com/passportdc
International City Food Festival
The Square, 1875 I St NW, Washington, DC
May 2–4 | Various times
Discover global cuisine during this three-day celebration of culinary diplomacy featuring international food, cultural experiences, and vibrant programming welcoming guests of all ages.
internationalcityfest.com
Capital Harvest on the Plaza
Ronald Reagan Building & International Trade Center, 1300 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Wednesdays in May | 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
Browse fresh produce, artisanal goods, and seasonal specialties at this popular farmers market celebrating local farms, healthy living, and the pleasures of springtime shopping.
rrbitc.com/capital-harvest
Fiesta Asia!
Pennsylvania Ave NW between 3rd & 6th Streets NW
May 10 | Various times
Celebrate Asian Heritage Month with vibrant performances, cultural displays, artisan markets, and flavorful street food along Pennsylvania Avenue.
fiestaasia.org
M3 Rock Festival
Merriweather Post Pavilion, 10475 Little Patuxent Pkwy, Columbia, MD
May 2–3 | Various times
Experience the full spectacle of classic arena rock with legendary performers and electrifying sets during this two-day festival celebrating iconic ‘80s rock.
m3rockfest.com
Friday Evening Parades at the Marine Barracks
Marine Barracks, 8th & I Streets SE, Washington, DC
Fridays in May | Evening
This iconic 75-minute ceremony features the precision of the Silent Drill Platoon, stirring performances by the Marine Band, and a patriotic pageantry honoring Marine Corps tradition.
barracks.marines.mil
Jazz in the Garden
National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden, 6th St & Constitution Ave NW
Fridays in May | 6–8:30 p.m.
One of Washington’s most beloved summer traditions returns with live jazz performances in the Sculpture Garden, where guests gather around the fountain to enjoy music and evening ambiance.
nga.gov/jazz
Sunday Serenade Concert Series
Cabin John Regional Park Amphitheater, Bethesda, MD
Sundays in May | Morning
Enjoy relaxed Sunday mornings filled with live music in the park as local performers provide a welcoming soundtrack for families and neighbors.
montgomeryparks.org
National Memorial Day Concert
West Lawn, U.S. Capitol, Washington, DC
May 24 | Evening
This nationally broadcast tribute honors the sacrifice of America’s service members through moving musical performances and heartfelt storytelling.
pbs.org/memorialdayconcert
National Memorial Day Parade
Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC
May 25 | Various times
A powerful patriotic procession featuring veterans, active-duty service members, historical reenactors, and musical performances honoring American sacrifice from the Revolutionary War to today.
nationalmemorialdayparade.com