Across the region, there are a variety of events worth attending to celebrate Independence Day, with everything from watermelon festivals and hot dog eating contests to live music, food trucks and other family-friendly activities.

Whether you’re looking for a small-town parade, a waterfront party, a suburban fireworks show or a full day of historic programming, there are plenty of ways to celebrate. Here are some Fourth of July events happening in D.C., Maryland and Virginia.

Where to celebrate Fourth of July in DC proper

The Palisades Community Association has organized a Fourth of July parade and this year is no different. The is celebrating Independence Day with a parade along MacArthur Boulevard NW, between Whitehaven Parkway and Edmunds Place. The mid-morning event includes marching groups, musicians, dancers and more. Stick around afterwards for a picnic with live music and face painting.

Another parade to anticipate is in the . For its 23rd year, the Capitol Hill Fourth of July Parade begins at 10 a.m. at 8th St. SE. Following the parade is the​​​ Barracks Row Main Street’s Watermelon Festival. For this inaugural event, expect live watermelon sculpture carving, live music, a cannoli eating contest and local vendors.

has a July Fourth block party planned with over 15 live DJs, a hot dog eating contest and several “pop-up experiences” throughout the event. Fireworks are also planned. This event is for those ages 21 and over with tickets costing approximately $23 for early bird tickets or $28 for general admission at the gate.

For more live music, hosts its “Fourth at The Wharf” event. Several country music artists and bands are expected to perform across multiple stages, with a fireworks show at the end.

Where to celebrate Fourth of July in Northern Virginia

On Thursday, a few days before Independence Day, is offering fun for the whole family at their patriotic celebration. The schedule includes live music and kids entertainment with food trucks also available.

For those looking to celebrate a day early on Friday, , is hosting the “Civic Jam” event. Festivities include a beer garden, a mechanical bull, axe-throwing, a bounce house and food vendors. There are no fireworks at this event.

The , is hosting their annual fireworks show alongside a family-friendly carnival-style midway. The “Red, White & Boom” event includes live music, food trucks, mini golf and “special guests.” General parking passes cost $35 for one spot and will raise to $40 on the day of.

In the historic downtown area of , locals and tourists can celebrate the nation with a variety of food and craft vendors and one of the largest fireworks displays in Northern Virginia.

Bready Park in , is hosting the town’s Independence Day celebration. The day promises live music, family-friendly crafts and games, plus a fireworks show at 9:30 p.m.

For a parade, consider spending the day in the downtown area of . Starting at 10 a.m., a patriotic parade is being held on King Street from Ida Lee Dr. to Fairfax St.

About a 35-minute drive from D.C., , has a full day’s worth of events for celebrating the Fourth of July. There is a Little Patriots Parade where babies through kindergartners can dress up in patriotic attire and walk or be pulled in a “ride” around the Village Centre Green. The main parade starts thereafter on Columbine St., alongside the July 4th 250 Car Show. Later, the July 4th 250 Festival features food trucks a hot dog eating contest and a reading of the “Declaration of Independence.”

While tickets to the at Mount Vernon are sold out, guests still have the chance to get tickets to a where there are patriotic events, historic demonstrations and daytime fireworks planned. Tickets cost $30 for adults and $16 for youth.

Where to celebrate Fourth of July in Maryland

, is organizing two events to celebrate Independence Day. The day before, on Friday, the “250th: Shine Together” event at Albert Einstein High School in Kensington features live music performances. On Saturday, the County is planning its Fourth of July party at South Germantown Recreational Park in Boyds with live bands set to perform. For this event, attendees are welcome to bring lawn chairs, blankets and coolers, but alcoholic beverages and pets are not permitted

’s Minor League Baseball team, The Chesapeake Baysox, are planning an Independence Day celebration at Prince George’s Stadium. Here, attendees can enjoy live music, family-friendly activities and a fireworks display. Tickets cost $15 for adults or $10 for children. Diamond View access is also available for $20 and includes entry to a climate-controlled restaurant with food available à la carte.

For an early morning Independence Day parade, head to . The event starts at 10 a.m. at the intersection of Carroll Ave. and Ethan Allen Ave. Later in the evening, guests can enjoy a street party with live music, food trucks, a beer and wine garden and family-friendly activities.

In , there are a variety of Independence Day activities planned, but on the Fourth, attendees can enjoy bike parades, a main parade in Downtown Annapolis, a food festival and, finally, fireworks over Spa Creek.

For those in , Saturday’s events include food trucks and two music performances with a fireworks display at dusk.

The Fourth of July festivities planned at , include a reading of the “Declaration of Independence,” live musical performances and art activities. Fireworks will conclude the evening.

In , those looking for holiday fun can head to Mattie J.T. Stepanek Park in King Farm for spectator viewing of live music and a 20-minute fireworks display.

Folks can also spend the day at , to celebrate the Fourth of July with live music, family-friendly activities, outdoor movies and “patriotic entertainment.” There are no fireworks at this event.

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The will include over 100 free samples throughout the festival, plus award-winning food available for sale. Competitions are also planned for top pitmasters from across the country to compete for prestigious titles.

The Giant BBQ Battle will feature live music and family-friendly fun with interactive cooking demonstrations, live art and dance battles.

Tickets cost approximately $21 for a one-day pass or $31 for a weekend pass, with kids under 12 offered free admission.

Check back every Thursday for a roundup of Things to do in the DC area.

Here’s what else is happening in the D.C. area:

DC

Great American State Fair
Through July 10, this world’s fair-scale event spans from the U.S. Capitol to the Washington Monument with live music, carnival rides and dozens of hands-on partner activations. �Ӱ�ԭ�� has details on the Great American State Fair and road closures stemming from the event.

“Taste the Tropical Magic”
A is headed to Dupont Circle this Saturday, hosted by the Embassy of India. Expect complimentary tastings of some of India’s celebrated mango varieties.

Art Supply Swap
If you have art supplies gathering dust on your shelf, consider this event on Saturday hosted by Shop Made in D.C.’s Dupont Circle location. The allows the public to supply and exchange craft supplies, creative books, paints, inks, markers and other materials that are in usable condition.

District Creates Festival
The D.C. Makers Guild is hosting a celebration of local craft, creativity and community, called the The outdoor festival at the Bridge District includes live craftsmanship demos, a curated maker market, workshops, free crafts, creative conversations, a beer garden, food trucks and live music. Tickets for Sunday’s festival cost $10 for adults or $4 for children.

“The Spirit of Japan”
The Japan Information & Culture Center is hosting a this Monday. The documentary captures the work of a distillery in Japan’s Kagoshima prefecture and the family that runs it. The screening includes a Q&A with the director. While free, RSVP’s are required.

Maryland

SummerFest
Head over to Bohrer Park at Summit Hall Farm for this free summer festival on Saturday. The Gaithersburg, Maryland, event, called , includes live music, food trucks, local breweries and family-friendly activities, plus a fireworks show and the “SummerGlo After Party.”

The Food Forest Kitchen
In Silver Spring, Maryland, the Montgomery College Food Forest is hosting a this Saturday. Expect various ingredients and preparation methods displayed, along with basic knife skills. The event is free, but RSVP’s are recommended.

Pride in the Plaza
Celebrate Pride Month this Sunday at Veterans Plaza in Silver Spring, Maryland. With the theme, “Pride As Resistance,” the event features multiple stages for live entertainment and drag performances throughout the day. Attendees can also expect a family fun zone and drag story hour, plus LGBTQ+ community resources, including free testing for HIV and sexually transmitted infections. Admission is free.

Virginia

Alexandria Pride Fair
For its ninth year, the family-friendly celebrates the LGBTQ+ community with live music, a story time, 100 exhibitors, food trucks, health services and a mobile art lab. The event is being hosted at John Carlyle Square Park in Alexandria, Virginia, on Saturday.

Pickle Fest
Great Country Farms in Bluemont, Virginia, is hosting this Saturday and Sunday, celebrating all things — you guessed it — pickled. There will be several local artisan vendors at the festival as well as farm attractions, a pickle parade and pickle-themed games. Tickets cost $13 for children and seniors and $15 for adults.

Independence Day Parade
Celebrate the Fourth of July early, this Saturday in Purcellville, Virginia. The begins at 11 a.m. at Blue Ridge Middle School.

Have an event you’d like featured in �Ӱ�ԭ��’s Things to do in the D.C. area weekly guide? Let us know!

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For years, the District has been building a reputation as a steakhouse city, though this has not always been a compliment.

The term could conjure images of power lunches, corporate dining rooms and predictable plates of creamed spinach, shrimp cocktails and oversized cuts of beef.

But three new restaurants are giving the classic steakhouse a sharper, more playful edge.

At Bully, Bazaar Meat and Ox & Olive, local chefs and owners are reimagining the format through Spanish flavors, tableside theatrics, high-end sourcing and a little humor.

Diners can expect dishes like cotton candy foie gras, steak tartare “eclairs” and a carrot cake with googly eyes.

Here’s what to know about each of D.C.’s newest steakhouses.

José Andrés’ renamed and refocused Bazaar Meat turns dinner into a performance

In March, José Andrés opened the country’s fourth in the former Bazaar space inside the Waldorf Astoria at 1100 Pennsylvania Ave. NW. While Bazaar was a Spanish tapas experience, Bazaar Meat is more straightforward as a steakhouse concept — and more theatrical.

These are dishes and experiences “you don’t have anywhere else,” Valentina Cardenas, head chef at Bazaar Meat, told �Ӱ�ԭ��.

“You have the runners come to your table, interact with you (and) make the dishes right next to you,” said Cardenas.

The menu includes ossetra caviar-topped cones, cotton candy foie gras with crispy corn nuts and a nine- to 11-pound Spanish suckling pig, which requires 24 hours’ notice and a budget that can handle the $620 it will add to the bill — or $180 for a quarter-sized portion.

While meat is the main attraction at Bazaar Meat, Cardenas recommended not sleeping on the vegetable dishes.

Highlights include the roasted leeks with a truffle vinaigrette, hazelnut praline, and goat cheese, and the beefsteak tomato tartare, which uses dehydrated tomatoes to create a flavor and texture similar to raw meat. This dish is paired with balsamic vinegar, olive oil and romaine leaves on the side.

Other unique dishes include the A5 “Philly Cheesesteak,” which is served on air bread filled with manchego espuma (or foam) and topped with Wagyu beef.

For those who’d prefer to dish on the beef, Cardenas said there is a section of the menu dedicated to Wagyu from Japan, but there are also cuts from Australia and the United States.

Ryan Ratino’s steakhouse mixes serious sourcing with playful, nostalgic touches at Ox & Olive

Chef Ryan Ratino always wanted to open a steakhouse. The Ohio native said he grew up in a “beef landscape,” so steak feels like home for him.

“I think everyone loves steak, right? So the idea of just having like a steakhouse that feels good, good vibe, good energy, but also very comfortable, and then that same intention that we would put into the cooking of our other restaurants, we do that here as well,” said Ratino.

, his Georgetown steakhouse, opened in May at 3201 Cherry Hill Lane NW.

For Ratino, who is also known for Michelin-starred restaurants Jônt and Bresca,��“ingredient-driven” American steakhouse comfort, not pretension, is the goal.

On the menu, there is no pork or chicken, only seafood and beef, plus vegetable sides like onion rings with a sour cream ranch, a wedge salad with beef bacon, Parmesan, an egg and green goddess dressing, as well as whipped potato with cultured butter and the option to load it with beef jam, comté cheese and chive.

Ratino said he wanted to bring fun and nostalgic moments to every dining experience with starters like dry-aged beef mini hot dogs on milk bread rolls with dijonnaise, relish and pickled onion. The steak tartare “eclairs” is similar to an Italian beef sandwich, with giardiniera, aged provolone and a beef fat and mustard emulsion.

Ratino also serves what he describes as “the most fun carrot cake you’ve ever seen.” The cake, flavored with cream cheese mousse, pineapple and pecan praline, is carrot-shaped and coated with a bright orange cocoa butter glaze. The finishing touch Bugs Bunny-inspired eyes.

“And then we added the little, like, Bugs Bunny eyes to it, and it’s just like really fun and playful.��Reminds me of being a kid, but still hits the notes of like delicious satiating carrot cake,” Ratino said.

On the meats found here, Ratino said the restaurant sources a wide variety of options from “about 16” farms, including Wagyu beef crossbred with Angus or Hereford cattle, and Jersey beef.

“Every time you come, you can try a different breed of cow or a cross breed of cow, or if you’re with a group of three or four people, you can have like two different two different breeds in the same dining experience while there’s still like 10 more in the ager for the next time you’re here,” he said.

He also welcomes the recent D.C. steakhouse expansion.

“I think it’s been known as a steakhouse town for a long time, maybe more like with more institutional steakhouses, like larger corporate chains versus small independent steakhouses like Ox & Olive,” Ratino said.

“The more the D.C. culinary scene continues to thrive and grow, the easier it is to get ingredients here, the better it is to source and kind of just help enhance the culinary landscape,” he said.

Pepe Moncayo brings a Spaniard’s eye to his steakhouse at Bully Spanish Steakhouse

Serving customers since December in the St. Gregory Hotel at 2033 M St. NW, is all about Spanish flavors and classic dishes.

Don’t expect creamed spinach or shrimp cocktail here. Paellas, gazpacho and pan con tomato and other tapas take the place of traditional steakhouse sides, served alongside fire-grilled meats seasoned with pimentón, a gourmet culinary salt with paprika.

The menu features locally sourced beef dishes like the chuletón, a 14-ounce rib-eye with a pimentón rub, and costillas glaseadas, Ibérico pork ribs served with a sherry almond glaze.

There are also several chicken and seafood dishes, and don’t miss out on the carpaccio with sliced aged beef, paprika oil, hazelnuts and Idiazabal cheese, a firm cheese made from sheep’s milk. The menu also highlights the various paella options, each priced at $15 during happy hour.

Bully’s executive chef and owner Pepe Moncayo, previously known for the recently closed Cranes restaurant, said he wanted to create a “steakhouse from the eyes of a Spaniard.”

When he moved to D.C. in 2018, “steakhouses got a bad reputation of bad quality, for the masses, not interesting, cut with the same mold,” Moncayo, who is��from Barcelona, told �Ӱ�ԭ��.

Now, he said, “We are not the same chefs in town, and we have a different view, a different take. … I think it’s time to actually give it the value that it deserves.”

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Fête de la Musique started in the Northwest D.C. neighborhood in 2024 and is being hosted this Saturday, June 20, across 10 locations with over 30 performances, from Georgetown Waterfront Park to Book Hill Park.

“This event is really about celebrating musicians and inviting people of all skill levels, ages, cultures, genres to make music in the neighborhood at different locations,” said Nancy Miyahira, director of arts and culture programs at Georgetown Heritage.

Fête de la Musique, otherwise known as World Music Day or Make Music Day, is hosted around the world. with the goal to be free, accessible and open to all types of music.

Find Georgetown’s event map and lineup on .

Check back every Thursday for a roundup of Things to do in the DC area.

Here’s what else is happening in the D.C. area:

DC

Japanese Wagyu Week
Get a behind-the-scenes look at one of Japan’s most celebrated wagyu producers with this event. The Cleveland Park wine bar, Little Blackbird, is hosting through June 21, featuring nightly wagyu specials and a 20-seat finale dinner with products from Japan’s Nakamura Farm. For more food-focused events, head to �Ӱ�ԭ��’s DMV Foodie Guide.

Home Rule Music Festival
This free music festival is entering its fifth year with live performances of jazz, go-go, hip-hop and soul music. The is on Saturday at The Parks at Walter Reed with headliners including Sun Ra Arkestra, the Chuck Brown Band and Trouble Funk, among others.

NoMa Pride Block Party
Head to the Northeast D.C. neighborhood, NoMa, on Saturday for the second annual . This inclusive, family-friendly gathering is free and open to the public.

Summer Jazz Celebration
With $40 tickets, the Kreeger Museum is hosting its on Saturday in their sculpture garden. Performing at the event is the Simone Baron Trio and the Elijah Jamal Balbed Quartet. Guests can bring their own canned beverages and picnic snacks along with a picnic blanket or collapsible, single-seat lawn chair.

Juneteenth Literary Jubilee & Black author Book Fest
For the fourth year, Planet Word is celebrating Black authors and language arts with their . The day’s events include Juneteenth-inspired arts and crafts, food and refreshments from SoFull Eats and a live performance by local West African Drum Ensemble Versatile Soundzz. The event is this Saturday and is free to attend.

Freedom To Flip Out
Compete in a Juneteenth pinball celebration, called , this Saturday at Lyman’s Tavern. A beginner tutorial will precede the event, followed by the Flipper Frenzy Tournament with awards and closing remarks to follow. The entry is free and games are pay-to-play.

A variety of Pride events to expect
This weekend, Pride Month is culminating in a myriad of must-see celebrations of the LGBTQ community. On Saturday is both the 17th Street Pride Block Party, the Capital Pride Family Fun Festival and the Capital Pride Parade. On Sunday, expect the Capital Pride Festival and the Capital Pride Concert. For more details on these and other events, check out �Ӱ�ԭ��’s Pride Month event guide.

Maryland

Juneteenth Celebration at Olney Theatre
The Olney Theatre in Olney, Maryland, has a family-friendly planned on Friday with free entry. The day promises local vendors, a food truck and a presentation by Reynauld Smith from the Sandy Spring Slave Museum.

Juneteenth Freedom Day Celebration at National Harbor
This Friday, National Harbor is hosting the fifth annual with live entertainment, cultural experiences, local vendors and community programming.

Annapolis Juneteenth Celebration
On Saturday, the Bates Sports Complex in Annapolis, Maryland, is hosting a with a parade and festival.

Montgomery County Juneteenth Festival
At the , expect live concerts and performances, an artisans market and food from local vendors this Saturday in celebration of Juneteenth. The event is free to attend.

Virginia

“Watermelon & Red Birds: ​A Cookbook for Juneteenth and Black Celebrations”
Arlington, Virginia’s Central Library is hosting food writer and cookbook author Nicole A. Taylor this Thursday for a discussion of her book, the first cookbook to celebrate Juneteenth. The event includes a recipe demonstration, audience Q&A, a free food tasting and a book signing. Registration is recommended with first-come-first-served seating.

Alexandria Juneteenth Celebration
Friday’s , offers live go-go music, spoken word performances, junior cheer performances, line dancing, family-friendly activities and an Inova Blood Drive. The event at Charles Houston Recreation Center is free to attend.

Broadway in the Park
Fans of musicals and show tunes can go to Wolf Trap’s Filene Center this Saturday for live performances from performers from Signature Theatre and Wolf Trap. Tickets for the sixth annual event in Vienna, Virginia, start at approximately $50 per person.

Have an event you’d like featured in �Ӱ�ԭ��’s Things to do in the D.C. area weekly guide? Let us know!

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Over 200 restaurants across the region are participating in , an initiative organized by the Restaurant Association Metropolitan Washington (RAMW) to bring citywide culinary and cultural experiences to the public. The purpose of the monthlong event is to celebrate America’s history through food.

From June 14 through 28, diners can expect America 250-themed deals like limited-time dishes and cocktails or , priced at $25 or $50.

A series of are also planned through June 30. Featured chefs include Bryan Voltaggio of Voltaggio Bros., Marcus Samuelsson and Anthony Jones of Marcus D.C., Erik Bruner-Yang of Maketto and Nicholas Stefanelli of Masseria, among others.

There is no one single style of cuisine focused on during EAT250.

“American cuisine, it’s never been one thing. It’s always evolved through people bringing different pieces of home with them to the table and sharing their traditions with us and influencing one another over an extended period of time,” said Shawn Townsend, RAMW’s president and CEO.

For diners seeking some of the most notable deals or menus in the D.C. area, �Ӱ�ԭ�� rounded up a few options worth considering for dining, sipping and celebrating.

Chef Mike Friedman’s has a $25 deal that includes a “Standard” pizza — which features the typical tomato and mozzarella toppings with Siciliana oregano and grana Padano — and an Americano cocktail.

Next door to All-Purpose in Shaw, is offering a focaccia sandwich with chips and a non-alcoholic drink for $25.

has two deals available for the semiquincentennial: a $25 bento box with crispy rice spicy tuna, tenderloin tacos, a black cod miso on skewers and a $50 bento box with a selection of sashimi and nigiri.

From July 3 through July 5, dLeña is expanding brunch service with a . The purpose is to recognize the contributions of immigrants as an integral part of the hospitality industry and the broader nation as well.

Throughout the EAT250 initiative, dLeña also plans to offer a at $50. Dishes from this experience include seafood enchiladas, carnitas pork shank and ceviche amarillo.

Along with a new America 250-inspired cocktail collection, the is also hosting This afternoon tea experience includes elevated takes on American classics like the PB&J sandwich, BBQ slider and cherry pie. The cost is approximately $120 per person.

Teaming up with Astro Doughnuts, Bar Pendry at The Wharf is also serving aafternoon tea. On Saturdays, dishes include heirloom tomato tarts, a strawberry chicken salad croissant and a mini lobster cobbler with bechamel. The experience costs $80 per guest.

Find a map of all of the participating restaurants and other businesses on .

For more culinary events to consider throughout the month of June, check out �Ӱ�ԭ��’s food-focused event guide here.

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In celebration of America’s 250th birthday, 10 ocean-racing yachts that are competing in one of the world’s toughest endurance sailing events are expected to arrive in D.C. between June 14 to 16.

The District is an official Host Port for the��, which challenges complete novices to become ocean racers. The fleet of 10 yachts are set to travel more than 40,000 nautical miles across over 11 months.

As part of this stopover at The Wharf in Southwest D.C., several events are planned. Visitors can step aboard the Clipper 70 racing yachts during public tours, meet international crews and hear firsthand stories from sailors.

A “Race Village” will also house interactive exhibits about the race, and a “Fleet Week Fan Zone” will include cultural activations, live art and family-friendly experiences.

Ella Hebron, skipper of the Team Washington, D.C. boat in the 2025-26 Clipper Round the World Racer, told �Ӱ�ԭ�� that she wanted to participate because she enjoys “the leadership aspect of the race.”

In her role, she leads a team of up to 20 people on a 70-foot boat in “some of the most extreme conditions.”

“You don’t need any experience sailing before your four weeks of training (to enter the race),” Hebron said. “Which makes it really accessible, and the general consensus from a lot of people is they learn a lot about themselves and a lot about different people when they push themselves through such a challenge like the Clipper Race.”

The fleet arrival window is from June 14 through 16 with the “Race Village” running from June 14 through 22. The public yacht tours, “Discovery Talks” and “Fleet Week Fan Zone” are hosted from June 18 to 20. Finally, the crew parade, boat departure and parade of sail is scheduled for June 22. The event is free and open to the public.

“We made history in 2024 when we welcomed the fleet for the first time and set a record for the most yacht tours at any stopover in the history of the race,” said Events D.C. President and CEO Angie M. Gates in a statement. “Clipper Round the World showcases our world-class city as an international destination for sports, culture and legacy.”

Check back every Thursday for a roundup of Things to do in the DC area.

Here’s what else is happening in the D.C. area:

DC

DC/DOX Film Festival
The fourth year of the DC/DOX Film Festival features over 100 features and short documentary films, screening across several marquee venues around the District. For more details on what to expect from now through Sunday, check out �Ӱ�ԭ��’s guide here.

United in Play Soccer Celebration
For fans of the World Cup, D.C. United is hosting , local food vendors, music and other family-friendly programming in Franklin Park this Friday through Sunday. The event is free and open to the public with advance registration. The celebration will repeat again the following weekend, from June 19 through 21 at Tingey Plaza.

Drag brunch with Tara Hoot
Local drag scene star Tara Hoot has stories, songs, puppets, bubbles, dancing and laughter in store for the this Saturday. Seating is free. For more events to celebrate Pride Month, check out �Ӱ�ԭ��’s guide here.

Rhode Island Avenue PorchFest
Local musicians are bringing this Saturday as part of PorchFest. This event allows the public to discover and enjoy new or up-and-coming artists. Tickets are free.

Vans Warped Tour
Fans of rock, metal, pop punk, emo and other musical genres are gathering at the Festival Grounds at RFK Campus for this year’s . Two-day general admission tickets cost approximately $210 per person, while VIP costs roughly $450. The event is on Saturday and Sunday.

Buy Nothing Exchange
Enjoy a lovely give-and-take exchange at the Trinidad Farmers Market this Sunday. The allows attendees to bring items they hope to give away and take items they may need at no charge. Everything provided at the event is completely free!

Maryland

Trolley Trail Day
Enjoy an all-day celebration of the this Saturday with a variety of family-friendly activities, including fun runs, bike rides, trail skates, mural tours and live music. There are at least 12 hubs of activity at this event, extending across College Park, Riverdale Park, Hyattsville, North Brentwood, Brentwood and Mount Rainier in Maryland.

Bugapalooza
If your family isn’t too creeped out by crawly critters (or if you’re open to exposure therapy for a phobia of bugs), the . This event on Saturday allows the public to learn about different varieties of bugs (some alive!), while raising awareness of research dedicated to the prevention and treatment of bug-borne illness. The event in Silver Spring, Maryland, is free and open to the public.

Stars & Smiles Foodie Festival
National Harbor is hosting top local and regional food vendors from around the D.C. region and beyond at the . The event is along the waterfront of the neighborhood this Saturday and Sunday, with tickets that start at approximately $15 per person.

“Why We Commemorate Juneteenth”
Richard Bell, a history professor at the University of Maryland, is hosting a in the U.S., known as Juneteenth. The event is this Monday at the Aspen Hill Library in Rockville, Maryland.

Virginia

Sails on the Potomac and Alexandria Jazz Fest
From Friday through Sunday, head to Alexandria, Virginia, for an immersive weekend festival that offers family activities, exhibits, music, educational programs and public art. The event will feature several tall ships along the Waterfront for America’s 250th anniversary. And the ��is free and open to the public.

Taste of Springfield Festival
For its eighth year, the returns to the Springfield Town Center in Springfield, Virginia, this Saturday. This family-friendly celebration showcases food, exhibitors and live performances. The event is free to attend, and takes place in the parking lot near Dick’s Sporting Goods.

Cajun Fest
Head to Purcellville, Virginia, this Saturday for a celebration of Cajun heritage and New Orleans cuisine. with live music, craft vendors and Cajun cuisine throughout the day. Tickets cost $20 per adult or $10 per child.

MidSummer Book Fair
Bleu Frog Vineyards in Leesburg, Virginia, is hosting the , where guests can meet and chat with authors, while purchasing bestselling books from a curated selection provided by Birch Tree Books & Plants. Along with discovering one’s next favorite read, the event also allows guests to enjoy wine from the vineyard. Tickets are free.

Have an event you’d like featured in �Ӱ�ԭ��’s Things to do in the D.C. area weekly guide? Let us know!

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While only in its fourth year, DC/DOX has grown into a major international film festival dedicated solely to documentary film.

This year, over 64 features and 49 shorts from 32 countries will screen across several marquee venues around the District, with nine world premieres, three North American premieres, five U.S. premieres, as well as numerous East Coast and D.C. premieres in store. Several of these screenings are accompanied by filmmaker Q&A’s and discussions.

The film festival has grown to be not simply a local film festival but a highly respected showcase of high-caliber films, as well as a gathering place for filmmakers, journalists, policymakers and other engaged audiences. It’s also become a gathering ground for filmmakers and other industry leaders, thanks to the , which features panels, workshops and master classes.

Sky Sitney, the co-founder and festival director of DC/DOX, told �Ӱ�ԭ�� that five films that were nominated for an Academy Award in the Best Documentary category had previously screened at DC/DOX, as well as two of the shorts.

“I think that the broader documentary community and media community see DC/DOX as a really trusted platform to showcase the most important work that’s out there in a given year,” said Sitney.

Sitney has been a major player in the city’s documentary film scene. She cocreated and co-directed Double Exposure, a film festival and symposium dedicated to the intersection of documentary film and investigative journalism.

She is also the former festival director of AFI Docs (previously known as Silverdocs), and she currently serves as an associate professor at Georgetown University in the film program.

On the DC/DOX Festival, she said, “My hope is that people come away from the festival with an expanded worldview and a sense of the ways in which we’re all part of a shared community, rather than fighting one another and different — and to more than anything, develop compassion and empathy, for people and experiences that might go beyond one’s own personal set of experiences.”

Some of this year’s films include the opening night’s screening of which is focused on global icon Billie Jean King, who will attend the post-screening discussion along with the filmmakers.

Other notable highlights include “,” about a drag and queer theater company’s debut production of “The Rocky Horror Picture Show,” set in a small town in Wyoming. There is also which is about the theft of a number of magic tricks that went on the black market. A biopic on the GRAMMY-award-winning band is also planned to screen at the festival with a post-screening discussion with the film’s director Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson, among others.

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Pierce is well-known for his roles in shows like “The Wire,” “Suits” and “Jack Ryan.” Now, he takes on one of William Shakespeare’s most enduring tragedies — which, in this production, adheres to the original text but is set in the present day.

Ben Turner, the actor who plays Iago in the play, told �Ӱ�ԭ�� that the production is “quite pared back” and “simple in many ways” in terms of stage production value.

“‘Othello’ is essentially about a Black man living in a white sort of world, climbing the ranks as a general,” said Turner. “The themes are just so strong and so special, and even though (William Shakespeare) was writing it 500, 600 years ago, it’s still so relevant today,” said Turner.

Directed by Simon Godwin, through June 28.

Check back every Thursday for a roundup of Things to do in the DC area.

Here’s what else is happening in the D.C. area:

DC

Spirit of Independence Festival
To celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, the National Archives is hosting the . This event unfolds Thursday through Saturday and includes an intimate reception and performance by Garth Brooks, historical reenactments, live performances by military bands, a curated culinary event led by award-winning chefs and a “yappy hour.” You can find out more about the event and area road closures in �Ӱ�ԭ��’s guide.

Hot Mess
At Penn Social, is hosting a storytelling show this Thursday featuring “true stories about chaos, confusion and the moments when everything goes off the rails.” General admission tickets cost roughly $39.

National Gallery of Art Block Party
Enjoy artmaking, food, music, curator talks, video screenings and family-friendly activities across the s East Building, West Building and 4th Street Plaza. The event is this Saturday and is free to attend.

Foggy Bottom Book Crawl
For a storytime stroll, head to D.C.’s this Saturday for a “book crawl” event across a variety of retail shops. Attendees will hear from three to four writers at each location and then walk to a new location for another reading. The suggested donation price for attending is $10.

D.C. Print Fair
The Eastern Market’s North Hall is hosting a variety of printmakers from around the DMV area as part of the . The event is Saturday and Sunday and is free to attend.

Kenilworth Park Cleanup
Come together to support the local community and environment this Saturday at Kenilworth Park to . All supplies are provided at the location, though attendees are advised to wear closed-toe shoes and comfortable clothing.

Maryland

“Carla Hall — Please Underestimate Me”
She’s a chef, best-selling author and beloved TV personality. Now, . At the Olney Theatre Center, Hall is part of a one-woman show called “Please Underestimate Me,” where she reveals how she learned to embrace her own authenticity. Hall has judged Food Network’s “Summer, Holiday & Halloween Baking Championships,” hosted HBO Max’s “Chasing Flavor” and was a host on all eight seasons of ABC’s “The Chew.” She’s also competed on Bravo’s “Top Chef” and “Top Chef: All Stars.” “Please Underestimate Me” runs through July 12; tickets start at $52. Find more information about Hall’s show in �Ӱ�ԭ��’s interview with her.

National Harbor Veterans Makers Market
Browse handcrafted goods, unique gifts, patriotic décor, artwork, jewelry and more on the National Harbor waterfront. The is this Saturday in Oxon Hill.

Strawberry Festival
For more family-friendly activities, head to Sandy Spring for live entertainment from two stages, hands-on cultural heritage activities, craft vendors and an animal petting zoo. As part of the at the Sandy Spring Museum, expect a strawberry spirit costume contest, strawberry-themed drinks and a strawberry shortcake-eating contest. Tickets start at $8 for kids and $12 for adults.

Virginia

Pride at Mosaic
For the fifth year, the Mosaic District in Fairfax city is hosting a . The event on Saturday features drag queen Tara Hoot for her story time show, plus live music from the band Hall Pass. For more Pride Month celebrations to consider, check out �Ӱ�ԭ��’s guide here.

DMV Asian Night Market
Enjoy a variety of Asian street foods at the this Saturday in Manassas Park. The event is free to attend. For more food-focused events to consider in the month of June, check out �Ӱ�ԭ��’s guide here.

Occoquan RiverFest
On Saturday and Sunday, the family-friendly is the ideal destination for shopping with hundreds of artisans, watching live musical performances and dining with a beer garden included. In downtown Occoquan, this festival also features boat and kayak tours, plus a mini construction zone for kids. As part of the festivities on Sunday, there’s a on the Occoquan River.

Have an event you’d like featured in �Ӱ�ԭ��’s Things to do in the D.C. area weekly guide? Let us know!

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Listed in chronological order, here are a few can’t-miss events celebrating the LGBTQ+ community in the District.

On Sunday, June 7, the Historic Congressional Cemetery is hosting a . The tour costs roughly $11 to attend and is hosted rain or shine. For another walking tour, consider the later in the month.

The annual is hosted Saturday, June 13, with a bustling array of activities and entertainment planned. The all-ages event is hosted by The Washington Blade in partnership with The Wharf. The event is free to attend, but there are available.

This year’s features Bob The Drag Queen, who is performing a special DJ set. This event is on Friday, June 19 at Echostage and is for those ages 18 and over. Ticket prices start at $39.

The official main event of Capital Pride Alliance this year is Also at Echostage for those ages 18 and up, this event features live DJs and a performance by drag superstar Alaska, the “RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars” season 2 winner. Tickets for the event on Saturday, June 20, start at approximately $65 per person.

celebrates women across all identities, cultures and communities. This event is hosted at Decades D.C. Saturday, June 20, solely for those ages 21 and over. Tickets are $35 for general admission at the door; preorders start at $20.

Other can’t-miss events that are coming up in June include the annual on Saturday, June 20. This beloved tradition stretches across several Northwest D.C. neighborhoods, including Shaw, Logan Circle, Downtown and Penn Quarter. While the event is free to attend, spectators can enjoy a front-row seat on the grandstand bleachers at Franklin Park with single tickets that start at $40.

That same day, on June 20, is also the in D.C.’s Dupont Circle neighborhood. This annual party honors D.C.’s “Gayborhood” with local food, an adult beverage garden and various Pride Month activities, including drag performances and live DJ’s.

For a family-friendly celebration, head to Stead Park on June 20 for the . Here, children can enjoy games, crafts, glitter tattoos, story time and an inflatable obstacle course.

On June 21, celebrate all day long at the . This free event features hundreds of vibrant exhibitors, skilled artisans, delicious food and beverage gardens. Expect multiple stages along Pennsylvania Avenue NW with a variety of multicultural and multilingual performances.

The is also hosted on Sunday, June 21 at 3rd Street NW and Pennsylvania Avenue NW. This year’s concert features artists like Maren Morris, Leikeli47 and Lisa Lisa, among others. Entry is free, but registration is required for a wristband. Guests also have the option to pay for tickets to get access to the pit upfront at the Capitol Stage or VIP treatment with a private bar and a view of backstage.

For more events to consider, be sure to check out the For those who want to experience a little bit of everything, the Capital Pride Alliance sells .

�Ӱ�ԭ��’s “Things to do in the D.C. area” guide also compiles several events around the region on a weekly basis, published on Thursdays.

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Several restaurants in the District were thrown into the national spotlight after being featured on the North America’s 50 Best Restaurants list.

The list, released Thursday, includes four local restaurants: ��and .

Albi also earned the Highest Climber Award 2026, highlighting its sharp increase in ranking from 34th on the list the previous year to its current sixth place. At this level, Albi was named the Best Restaurant in Northeast USA.

Albi, whose , highlights Palestinian cuisine. The Navy Yard restaurant has earned several accolades since Chef-Owner Michael Rafidi opened it in 2020. A year after opening, Eater included Albi on its list of the . In 2022, Albi earned its first Michelin star, and in 2024, Rafidi earned the .

The debuted in September 2025. The list is a subset of the World’s 50 Best Restaurants list, with the North America list covering the U.S. Canada and the Caribbean. Mexico is not included, as it’s compiled under the Latin America’s 50 Best Restaurants list.

The North American list is compiled by 300 voters, who are deemed culinary experts . These experts can include chefs, restaurateurs, food writers and others in the food and beverage industry.

The No. 1 restaurant in North America ended up being Michelin-starred .

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Across the two days, expect to hear from more than 50 DJs, producers and other artists, including Eric Prydz, Zeds Dead, Excision, Porter Robinson and others.

The festival launched in 2022 and now experiences over 40,000 fans in attendance each year.

Currently, Saturday’s general admission tickets are sold out, but , including general admission-plus and VIP tickets, plus two-day passes. are sold separately.

Check back every Thursday for a roundup of Things to do in the DC area.

Here’s what else is happening in the D.C. area:

DC

José Andrés
Chef, restaurateur and humanitarian José Andrés is discussing his newest cookbook at the Thursday. Learn more about his book, “Spain My Way: Eat, Drink, and Cook Like a Spaniard,” in �Ӱ�ԭ��’s interview with Andrés here. Ticket prices vary.

My Body My Festival
This local music festival celebrates D.C. being a “safe haven for bodily autonomy,” with all proceeds benefiting the D.C. Abortion Fund. includes the following headliners: Bartees Strange, Cherub Tree and Deakin (of Animal Collective). General admission to the event on Thursday costs approximately $45 with VIP packages at nearly $180.

Spring Soirée
Enjoy miniature masterpieces of horticultural art at the The National Bonsai & Penjing Museum on Friday. The venue is hosting a that includes a light buffet and drinks. Tickets cost $350 for individuals, with proceeds going toward the U.S. National Arboretum.

Capital Rare Book Fair
From Friday through Sunday, thousands of rare books, maps, prints, documents and ephemera are headed to the University Club on 16th Street. The fourth annual includes a variety of local and national booksellers with items like a first edition of “Winnie the Pooh.” Ticket prices vary.

Rock the Dock
The Wharf’s live music event series, , is back starting this Friday. These free performances on Transit Pier cover a variety of genres, including R&B, rock, go-go and country. This week, the featured band is funk and soul trio, Pink PaLiSh.

Free Washington Ballet Performances
Yes, it’s possible to catch a performance by the Washington Ballet — at no cost! This Friday and Saturday, to present highlights from the 2025 to 2026 season alongside a preview of works for the upcoming season.

Petworth PorchFest
Head to Petworth on Saturday and Sunday for a massive musical community event known as . Over 150 porches across the neighborhood are set to host local artists and groups who will perform live. .

Maryland

Howard County AAPI Festival
The Chrysalis, a performing arts theater in Columbia, is hosting a this Saturday. The fifth edition of the festival is free and family-friendly, with a variety of cuisines from local restaurants and food trucks, plus live music, dance performances, martial arts demonstrations and more.

We The People
The Bowie Center for the Performing Arts in Prince George’s County is hosting a ��Saturday that commemorates the nation’s 250th anniversary. Expect performances, live music, film screenings, panel discussions, activities, games and more. The event is free to attend.

World Heritage Festival
Head to Silver Spring’s Veterans Plaza this Sunday for the . This free event includes global arts and crafts, international flavors, live musical and dance performances as well as a live DJ and dance party.

Virginia

Live Standup Comedy
Enjoy in Arlington at the Crystal City Sports Pub’s third-floor lounge this Friday. Hosting the event is New York City-based comedian Ryan Donahue with singer-songwriter Daphne London and Baltimore-based standup comic Dubray Kinney, Jr. included as well. Tickets cost approximately $18.

Bull Run Wine Festival
Adjacent to Manassas National Battlefield Park, has an artisan market, live musical performances and a wine festival planned with products from various wineries throughout the state of Virginia. Tickets for the event in Centreville cost $48 per person for general admission or $125 for VIP admission. This event is on Saturday and Sunday.

Kids’ Renaissance Festival
Huzzah! Shipgarten in Tysons is bringing a blast from the past with the . Expect knights, princesses, magic and face painting. Also expected is a full outdoor playground and moon bounces. The event is free to attend.

Have an event you’d like featured in �Ӱ�ԭ��’s Things to do in the D.C. area weekly guide? Let us know!

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Introducing the DMV Foodie Guide, �Ӱ�ԭ��’s guide for local foodies!

�Ӱ�ԭ�� has rounded up over 15 events in late May and throughout the month of June that are worth savoring.

One of these events caps off Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month with a pig roast at Hook Hall.

There are also moments of quirky culinary goodness, as seen with La Bohème’s George Lucas-themed pop-up.

For more, including rare wine dinners, barbecue battles and hot sauce tastings, check out the full list below. And be sure to grab a fork and a reservation while you still can as availability is limited.

May the forks be with you
Yes, in Georgetown.

The space above Apéro, the cafe and Champagne bar in the La Bohème restaurant, is decked out in decor focused on the films written, directed by or produced by George Lucas. Some of the references on the cocktail and food menu are obvious (as seen with the “It’s a Trap!” and “Jar Jar Drinks” cocktails), while others can be more obscure (like an amuse-bouche of crispy shiso with a yuzu gelee at the start of the meal — a reference to “The Land Before Time,” executive produced by Lucas and Steven Spielberg). Tongue-in-cheek and ambitious, the pop-up runs through July 4.

Aw, shucks!
The offers unlimited oysters, craft drinks and live music from eight of Chevy Chase, Maryland’s top restaurants. Each ticket allows for a two-hour session, costing $99. A bottomless alcohol add-on can be applied for an additional $50 per person. The event is at Chevy Chase Lake on May 30.

Feast mode
The “Boodle Fight,” a treasured Filipino custom, is a feast often including a pig roast and served along a communal table topped with banana leaves. Chef Patrick Tanyag is hosting a to celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. The event is May 31. Tickets cost $75 per person.

Wok this way
Canton Disco chef Timothy Yu is teaming up with Yume Hospitality Group chef Saran “Peter” Kannasute for a menu collaboration that allows for a ” The one-day-only event on May 31 features a la carte options from Kyojin, Rimtang and Canton Disco restaurants.

Thai one on
The in Manassas, Virginia, spans several dates through October. Two upcoming events are May 31 and June 14. Guests can enjoy authentic Thai street food, cultural demonstrations and traditional music and dance performances. Admission is free.

Six hands, one carrot
The culinary teams behind Elcielo, Jônt and Sushi Nakazawa are joining together to celebrate one humble ingredient: the carrot. On June 3, these restaurants are coming to Elcielo to collaborate on a across several forms and textures. The courses are paired with four Éditions of Krug Grande Cuvée and Krug Rosé, guided by Louis Henrion of Maison Krug. Tickets cost $595 per person.

A beer-inspired scavenger hunt
From June 4 through June 7, Neighborhood Restaurant Group is organizing the hosted by ChurchKey and Rustico. Guests can visit up to eight participating restaurants to discover “secret beers,” collect points and win prizes. Those who complete at least four stops can earn a limited-edition Keg Hunt hat. Every finisher is entered into a for special beer and food experiences, exclusive membership clubs and VIP tickets to the Snallygaster festival. .

It’s getting hot in herre
If you’re a fan of all things hot and spicy, consider going to the on June 5. Several local hot sauce vendors will be at Lost Generation Brewing Company in Northeast D.C. to help attendees discover new favorites. The event also includes a live DJ and beer from Lost Generation Brewing Company. General admission is free, but guests can pay approximately $7 for beer specials and to be eligible for giveaways.

Time for a pig roast
Atlas Brew Works is hosting an at its Bridge District Brewery & Tap Room on June 6. Expect tropical cocktails by Owen Thomson of Archipelago, live music and, of course, a traditional pig roast from Mecho’s Dominican Kitchen.

Meals with a mission
Food & Friends delivers medically tailored meals and provides medical nutrition therapy to neighbors living with cancer, HIV/AIDS and other serious illnesses. On June 8, the organization is hosting the at the Marriott Marquis in D.C. The event brings together more than 30 of the region’s top chefs for an evening of tastings, signature cocktails and a live auction to support the Food & Friends mission. Tickets cost $500 with sponsorships starting at $1,500.

Wine not?
On June 10, for a special dinner featuring a lineup of rare library selections, including wines from the 2012 vintage. Margerum is one of the pioneering figures of Santa Barbara wine. The price, $185 per guest, includes the menu and wine pairings.

Rosé all day
For National Rosé Day on June 13, enjoy a at The Parks at Walter Reed. The full-day outdoor experience includes live music, food, and rosé bars, plus specialty cocktails and other “Instagrammable activations.” Tickets cost roughly $45 per person or nearly $80 for two.

Feast from the diaspora
at the Maryland African Restaurant Week Festival. On June 13, this event includes food from across the diaspora, plus a marketplace with local vendors, a live DJ and live performances. The exact location is still TBD. Admission is free.

Barolo and behold
One of the top Barolo producers, Chiara Boschis, is joining The Liberty Tavern for a . The event on June 16 costs $125 per person.

Tuna-tastic!
Celebrate International Sushi Day at Love, Makoto’s Love on the Run on June 18. This one-night-only evening includes alongside sushi tastings, a Japanese cocktail demonstration, a sake toast and a dessert bar. Cocktails and food will be available for purchase at adjoining Hiya Izakaya, as will additional food and drinks from the fast casual Love on the Run. Tickets cost $102 per person.

Barking up the right tree
Bark Barbecue is teaming up with The Wildset hotel in Saint Michaels, Maryland, for a one-night . On June 20, guests will learn how to build a proper fire, butcher and season the perfect brisket, and more. The $125 admission includes instruction, ingredients, sides, one batched cocktail and non-alcoholic beverages.

Grill seekers
The returns on June 27 and 28 along Pennsylvania Avenue Northwest. At this festival, world-class pitmasters from around the country come together to compete for $50,000 in prizes. The event also features several stages for live music. Tickets start at $21 for a one-day pass, $31 for a weekend pass or $68 for a family four-pack.

Let’s taco about it
As part of their “Trompo Takeover” event series, the Popal family restaurant group and Chefs Matt Conroy and Isabel Coss are welcoming several of D.C.’s top chefs to Pascual to create limited-time tacos. Chef Rob Rubba of Oyster Oyster will be there June 28. within 30 days of the event.

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For chef, restaurateur and humanitarian José Andrés, his latest cookbook is more than a collection of recipes. It’s a deeply personal love letter to the people, places and flavors that shaped him.

In Andrés offers recipes that are both rooted in tradition and shaped by his own memories of Spain.

“More than any other book, it’s a book written in the markets, written in the restaurants, written in the little fishing villages next to the shepherds. This book has been written in Spanish soil,” Andrés told �Ӱ�ԭ��.

Andrés said he hopes the book speaks to all kinds of home cooks: those from Spain, those who have visited and those who may be discovering Spanish cooking for the first time. Some recipes, he said, are simple enough for almost anyone to try, including gazpacho, which he called a “no-brainer.”

“Being an immigrant, I know where I come from, but I know where I belong, and recipes like gazpacho allow me to be building bridges,” he said.

Another recipe that Andrés said is worth trying is his gambas al ajillo, which is a Spanish tapas dish composed of shrimp simmering in olive oil, garlic and spices.

“In less than four minutes, you’re going to have a delicious dish that everybody’s going to be able to enjoy and think that you are the greatest of chefs,” he said.

Andrés is heading to ��Thursday to speak about the making of “Spain My Way.” Along with discussion about the stories behind the recipes, live music is also expected.

Andrés has deep roots in the D.C. restaurant scene, with seven restaurants and concepts in the city and more than 20 across the country. His local restaurants include Jaleo, Zaytinya, Bazaar Meat inside the Waldorf Astoria hotel and the Michelin-starred Minibar.

As for whether he has more local projects in the works, Andrés left the door open.

“When we find the right location, why not to have another José Andrés restaurant in Washington in a year or two? That’s always a possibility,” he said.

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After his mother died in January 2025, Morgan told �Ӱ�ԭ�� he was “kind of in a rut” and considered leaving the restaurant industry entirely. But the invitation to enter the reality TV cooking competition reinvigorated him.

“I also knew that my mother, if she were with me, would want me to go on the show,” Morgan said. “So I took the leap, and I’m happy I did.”

Running from March through May 2026, “America’s Culinary Cup” featured 16 chefs from around the U.S. who competed to win a $1 million cash prize, the largest in history for a culinary show, according to a CBS news release.

Padma Lakshmi, former host of Bravo’s “Top Chef,” created “America’s Culinary Cup” and served as a co-judge alongside chefs and restaurant owners Michael Cimarusti and Wylie Dufresne.

Morgan, the executive chef of the Persian and Middle Eastern-inspired restaurant became a finalist.

Despite not winning “America’s Culinary Cup,” Morgan told �Ӱ�ԭ�� that being on the show was a “wonderful experience.”

But the journey to the finale wasn’t easy for Morgan. He said his progress was “very up and down,” noting that he had “high anxiety,” especially in the beginning.

Some days required up to 14 hours of filming. Though Morgan said long hours are “not unfamiliar to us as chefs,” it was often unclear to the competitors whether certain days of filming would be dedicated to interviews, cooking or eliminations.

“I went home to my wife crying because I was like, ‘I don’t think I should have done this.’ And I didn’t perform incredibly well in the beginning,” he said. “I think I would get in my own head about the people I was up against, the caliber of the judges, and ‘Oh, am I doing enough?’”

At one point in the show, the competitors were tasked with voting for who was most or least likely to win “America’s Culinary Cup,” with Morgan being voted least likely.

For the D.C.-area chef, the vote “lit a fire” inside of him.

“I started to realize that I was overthinking things in the first half of the season,” Morgan said. “That was my Achilles’ heel.”

By the end of the show, Morgan said he left with more confidence in himself.

“I think most of us carry a little bit of impostor syndrome, and I’ve definitely had that throughout my career, regardless of how well I’ve done or any rewards or accolades I’ve received, just because you don’t know how you stack up against other people,” Morgan said. “So being able to do as well as I did in a setting like that gives you a ton of confidence.”

In the end, representing the D.C. region was a point of pride for Morgan.

“We have an insanely talented restaurant scene in D.C. and the DMV, and to be able to go on the show and perform well, and bring home the silver is pretty awesome,” he said. “I don’t think people realize how high of a caliber of chefs we have here. So I was honored to hold it down for us.”

On whether or not Morgan plans to enter additional cooking competitions, he said his focus for now is on making Joon “the best restaurant I possibly can … but we’ll see.”

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First, some of the large-scale events occurring include the on Monday. Along Constitution Avenue in D.C., attendees can see this parade live in person or online via livestream.

The is hosted Sunday evening, starting at 8 p.m. This year’s performers include the National Symphony Orchestra and celebrities, such as Joe Mantegna, Noah Wyle and Andy Grammer, among others.

On Thursday, At this event, approximately 250,000 small American flags are placed at grave sites for service members at the cemetery and the in Washington. The flags remain in place over Memorial Day weekend.

At the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the Sentinels, who are members of the Old Guard, place flags to honor the Unknowns, or unidentified service members who died in battle.

The Memorial Amphitheater at Arlington National Cemetery is also expected to host a that is free and open to the public. This program includes a parade of colors by veterans’ organizations and remarks from dignitaries.

Thousands of motorcyclists plan to ride through the D.C. area as part of . This annual motorcycle demonstration is hosted on Saturday through Monday, beginning at the Pentagon parking lots and then riding through the National Mall area of D.C. The purpose of this event is to bring awareness to and demand accountability for prisoners of war and those missing in action.

For more events across the D.C. region, consider the following concerts, festivals and ceremonies:

• ‘s Memorial Day activities (May 22-25 in Fort Belvoir, Virginia)
• (May 23 in Bowie, Maryland)
• ��(May 23 at the American Indian Museum in D.C.)
• (May 24 in Falls Church, Virginia)
• (May 25 in Rockville, Maryland)
• (May 25 in Annapolis, Maryland)
• at Alexandria National Cemetery (May 25 in Alexandria, Virginia)
• (May 25 in La Plata, Maryland)

Check back every Thursday for a roundup of Things to do in the DC area.

Here’s what else is happening in the D.C. area:

DC

Jazz in the Garden

is back — and this year, the theme is “American Sounds,” a nod to the nation’s 250th anniversary. Starting this Friday, the series features Appalachian, Creole jazz, Hill Country blues and more, on Fridays, from May 22 through Aug. 14, except June 5 and July 3. To attend, guests must enter a lottery, which takes place the week before each event.

DC Black Pride

This year, is hosted from Friday through Monday, with a variety of events to bring together community, culture and celebration in one place. Expect rooftop happy hours, workshops, comedy shows, film screenings, block parties and more.

Paws and Pour

The District Candle Lab is hosting a with coffee, crepes, and on-site collar engraving. The event this Sunday is hosted in Northeast D.C. with free general admission.

Maryland

Del Fest

In Cumberland, this is running from Thursday through Sunday. Del Fest is hosted at Allegany County Fairgrounds with ticket prices that vary.

Asia on the Creek

Head to the Carroll Creek Outdoor Amphitheater this Saturday for . The Frederick event is free to attend, offering lively cultural performances, delicious Asian cuisine and exciting, family-friendly activities.

Maryland Plant Festival

If foliage is your vibe, don’t miss the third annual on Saturday through Monday. The event features a variety of plant vendors, a makers’ market, food, live music and a book signing by plant and interior stylist Hilton Carter for his newest book, “Unfurled: Designing a Living Home.” The event is free to attend.

Hometown Holidays

In Rockville Town Center, expect a lineup of live performances across multiple musical genres this Saturday and Sunday as part of the event. Families can also enjoy kids’ activities, including yard games, crafts and kid-friendly performances.

Virginia

Strawberry Jubilee Fest

This Saturday and Sunday mark the launch of the annual in Loudoun County. This event celebrates all things strawberry with live music, farm contests, wagon rides and games included. Tickets do not automatically include strawberries from the farm market. Can’t make it this weekend? The event continues the following weekend on May 30 and 31.

ViVa! Vienna!

For more than four decades, has been hosted in the Town of Vienna as a family-friendly event with amusement rides, food, crafts, vendors and entertainment perfect for all ages. Proceeds from the event support more than 70 local organizations. The event is Saturday through Monday.

Blast Off!

, the longest standing professional music organization in the U.S., is performing at the Filene Center at Wolf Trap in Vienna this Sunday. The free event includes songs from popular musicals and marching standards from the Armed Forces’ distinguished songbook, as well as a fireworks display as the finale.

Have an event you’d like featured in �Ӱ�ԭ��’s Things to do in the D.C. area weekly guide? Let us know!

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