Summer may be winding down, but warm temperatures and days bursting with long-lasting sunlight continue to prevail (at least for now, anyway). Soak up every drop of summer with a fun and unique way to explore our capital city by embarking on a scavenger hunt throughout one of DC’s most popular neighborhoods!
The attractive neighborhood of Dupont Circle was established during the Gilded Age as a home for elite and affluent Washingtonians. Over a century later, it has managed to maintain its polished image with its stately row homes, green spaces, independent bookstores and shops, and eateries and cafes. The area’s epicenter, the energetic circle itself, serves as a popular social gathering spot for locals and visitors alike.
In this sixth guest blog post of her DC Scavenger series, local author JoAnn Hill takes us on an active pursuit throughout the Dupont Circle neighborhood. Embassies, museums and galleries, and grand mansions help define this lovely enclave, further preserving its initial intent as one of the city’s most elegant showpieces. Below are four of 23 clues featured in the Dupont Circle chapter of DC Scavenger, so lace up your walking shoes and get ready to explore this delightful and expansive region. And check out JoAnn’s book to solve and discover more clues and sites around Dupont Circle and throughout the entire city.
JoAnn Hill is also the author of Secret Washington, DC: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful, and Obscure, which goes beyond the typical guidebook; it’s an interactive treasure map spanning seventeen distinct neighborhoods throughout the District. If you think you know everything there is to know about DC ― even the most weird, wonderful, and obscure parts of it ― get ready to embark on an adventurous discovery of DC’s most cherished gems.
Dupont Circle Clue #1
A writer whose words echo worldwide,
Hues of mustard and crimson on this wall’s side.
“The Hill We Climb” helped her to shine bright,
This poet works hard for what is right.
Dupont Circle Clue #2
Deep, deep, low, artworks dazzle and glow,
You must descend to witness below.
Here, artists shine in this unique space;
Come and view in this sublevel place.
Dupont Circle Clue #3
Architect of Lincoln, this one more round,
The sea, wind, and stars, where pennies are found.
A spot for friends and neighbors to meet,
The water here welcomes your wading feet.
Dupont Circle Clue #4
This museum will have you screaming OHHHH!
Over one hundred rooms to get to know.
Two roaring statues greet visitors here,
Where Rosa Parks lived in her later years.
* * *
JoAnn Hill, author of Secret Washington, DC: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful, and Obscure and DC Scavenger, has affectionately called Washington, DC, home for over 20 years.She has written extensively about DC living, its food, and her world travels. Through her writing and research, she shares stories and tips that inspire the insatiably curious traveler. When she’s not writing and exploring, you will find her teaching fitness classes and indulging in DC’s culinary and theater scenes with her husband. JoAnn is the co-founder of Capitol Teachers, a full-service tutoring company servicing the greater DC area. She is currently working on her third book, Unique Eats and Eateries ofWashington, DC, which is expected to be released in Spring 2024.
Summertime in DC calls for taking advantage of the city’s many spectacular waterfronts. The revitalized Southwest Waterfront is undoubtedly one of the District’s most vibrant areas, hosting a bevy of premiere dining, retail, and nightlife destinations. In addition to boasting an abundance of entertainment attractions, this accessible waterfront also offers countless recreational sports, festivals, and activities.
In this fifth guest blog post of her DC Scavenger series, local author JoAnn Hill takes us on an active pursuit throughout the Southwest Waterfront neighborhood. This highly visited region is largely characterized by The Wharf, as well as the nation’s longest continuously operating open-air fish market and thriving music and performing arts scenes. Below are four of 23 clues featured in the Southwest Waterfront chapter of DC Scavenger. JoAnn’s book that challenges readers to solve clues and discover sites around the Southwest Waterfront and throughout the entire city.
JoAnn Hill is the author of Secret Washington, DC: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful, and Obscure and DC Scavenger, which goes beyond the typical guidebook; it’s an interactive treasure map spanning seventeen distinct neighborhoods throughout the District. If you think you know everything there is to know about DC ― even the most weird, wonderful, and obscure parts of it ― get ready to embark on an adventurous discovery of DC’s most cherished gems.
Southwest Waterfront Clue #1
Come to this stop, a literary scene,
A stunning design surrounded by green,
Haven for books within these pleasing walls,
A redesigned space that welcomes us all.
Southwest Waterfront Clue #2
Find a showpiece quite grand that takes you here;
DC arts lovers hold this place quite dear.
An architectural gem you can’t miss,
Theater lovers bask in show-stopping bliss.
Southwest Waterfront Clue #3
Moove on over to this Vermont-based treat,
Deliciousness to lick, scoop, and eat,
Chunky Monkey and Phish Food are two faves,
So many flavors to savor and crave.
Southwest Waterfront Clue #4
Swing over to this area’s last spot,
The breeze here will cool you down when it’s hot.
Revert to your childhood here in full swing,
Fun way to round out this neighborhood fling!
* * *
JoAnnHill, author of DC Scavenger and Secret Washington, DC: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful, and Obscure, has affectionately called Washington, DC, home for over 20 years. She has written extensively about DC living, its food, and her world travels on her blog dcglobejotters.org and other mediums and publications. Through her writing and research, she shares stories and tips that inspire the insatiably curious traveler. When she’s not writing and exploring, you will find her teaching yoga, barre, and group fitness classes, indulging in DC’s culinary and theater scenes, and spending as much time outside as possible being active. JoAnn is the co-founder of Capitol Teachers, a full-service tutoring company servicing the greater DC area. She lives in Washington, DC, with her husband Thalamus and dog Jackson.
What better place to celebrate Independence Day than in our nation’s capital? This is where the actual Declaration of Independence is housed (and will be read!), and celebrations take place among some of the country’s most iconic landmarks. But the excitement doesn’t stop there. From fireworks over the city and concerts at the Capitol to special events at George Washington’s house to neighborhood parades and ballpark fun, there are loads of ways to revel on July 4th. Here are details on a bunch of them. Happy Independence Day!
July 3rd Jam
Where: Yards Park | Capitol Riverfront, DC
When: July 3, 5:30-8:30pm
Admission: Free
Join a pre-Independence Day celebration at the waterfront destination! Free and open to the public, the Yards Park boardwalk will host the Capitol Riverfront BID’s first ever July 3rd Jam in conjunction with the National Museum of the United States Navy to honor America’s Birthday. Enjoy outdoor activities and live music leading up to a performance from the U.S. Navy Band Commodores at 7pm. Stick around Yards Park to watch the Washington Nationals Freedom Fireworks following the baseball game. RSVP here.
National Independence Day Parade
Where: Constitution Avenue NW, 7th-17th Streets | DC
When: July 4, 11:45am
Admission: Free
Many national holidays get a parade in DC, and July 4th is no exception. Scores of spectators always line the Constitution Avenue sidewalks to watch the procession celebrating Independence Day as it make its way from 7th to 17th Street. Marching bands, floats, giant balloons, equestrian groups, drill teams, and military units will be among the pageantry. Stake out your spot along the route early, as this event attracts hundreds of thousands of viewers every year.
Fourth of July Celebration on the Mall
Where: National Mall, DC
When: July 4, all day (and evening)
Admission: Free
After the parade (even earlier for some), the National Mall will begin filling up for a day of July 4th festivities — the Smithsonian Folklife Festival from 7th to 12th Streets, Junior Ranger activities, concerts, and more. And the grand finale of it all: Shortly after 9pm, the sky above will explode with color when the amazing iconic fireworks display begins. Fireworks will be launched from the Reflecting Pool area, so stake out a spot to watch them — on or off the Mall (see tips below for a list of places to view them).
O Say Can You Play
Where: Tudor Place | Georgetown, DC
When: Saturday, 11am – 1pm
Admission: $10-15/child, $5/adult
This family-friendly outdoor program is perfect for kiddos to celebrate Independence Day a little early. Play traditional outdoor games and make a historic toy to bring home before sneaking a peek at rarely displayed objects from the Tudor Place Collection. Make a day of it and bring a picnic to enjoy in the garden after the program.
1776
Where: Kennedy Center | Foggy Bottom, DC
When: Through July 17
Admission:$45-139
Perfect timing for this musical at the Kennedy Center that brings a new take on Independence Day… This production of the Tony Award–winning musical reexamines a pivotal moment in American history with a cast that reflects multiple representations of race, gender, and ethnicity.
Fourth of July at the Archives
Where: National Archives | National Mall, DC
When: July 4, 9am – 4pm
Admission: Free
Catch the annual dramatic reading of the Declaration of Independence on the steps of the National Archives . It starts at 10am, but doors open at 9am. Get there early to get a good seat and enjoy entertainment by the Experience Band and Show. After that, celebrate like it’s 1776! There ill be lots of fun family activities,…meet the Founding Mothers and Fathers, design your own buttons, go on a scavenger hunt, help design the National Archives Building, and sign the Declaration of Independence yourself!
America’s Pastime
Where: Nationals Park | Capitol Riverfront, DC
When: July 4, 11:05am (and July 3)
Admission: Ticket prices vary
A day at the ballpark is about as all-American as it gets when it comes to sports, and you can experience it and celebrate the holiday at Nationals Park. The July 4th game against the Reds is part of the Patriotic Series, when the Nats wear their red, white, and blue, and there will be a American flag sunglasses giveaway for the first 10,000 fans. And, FYI, the evening of July 3, and there will be post-game Freedom Fireworks, plus more promos for the rest of the games. Before you purchase tickets, be sure to check this post for tips to save on a Nats game.
A Capitol Fourth
Where: West Lawn on the Capitol | Capitol Hill, DC
When: July 4, 8pm; gates open at 3pm
Admission: Free
The annual Independence Day concert at the Capitol airs live on PBS, but you can see the musical pageantry in person. Alfonso Rabiro will be hosting this year’s show, which will include performances by Boyz 2 Men, Chicago, Belinda Carlisle, Babyface, the National Symphony Orchestra, the U.S. Army Band, the Joint Armed Forces Chorus, and many more exciting acts. (KFDC Tip: Enjoy the show with less crowds at the dress rehearsal on July 3 – same time and place!)
An American Celebration
Where: Mount Vernon | Mount Vernon, VA
When: July 4, 9am – 5pm
Admission: $26/adult, $13/age 6-11, free/5 & under
The home of George Washington salutes the first commander-in-chief with a dazzling display of made-for-daytime fireworks during its annual Independence Day event. Visitors will be treated to spectacular smoke fireworks in patriotic colors fired over the Potomac River. The event also includes an inspirational naturalization ceremony for new citizens, military reenactments, a special wreathlaying ceremony, a performance by the National concert band and more live entertainment, and a chance to meet General Washington himself. See the full schedule of events here and read more about Mount Vernon here.
Fourth at the Wharf
Where: The District Wharf | Southwest DC
When: July 4, 5-10pm
Admission: Free
Enjoy the Fourth of July at The Wharf with a free celebration on District Pier. The celebration includes music, a bar for adults, and spectacular views of the annual fireworks launched from the National Mall. They also offer a VIP fireworks viewing experience benefitting the USO that gives you exclusive access to the Dockmaster Building on the tip of District Pie, complete with two complimentary drink tickets (additional beverages for purchase), all-American light fare, DJ, games, photo station, and a raffle. Read more about The Wharf in this KFDC post.
Neighborhood Parades & Celebrations
Where: Throughout the DMV
When: Most on July 4, times vary
Admission: Free
Keep it close to home at a community celebration. You likely are aware of July 4th events taking place in your neighborhood or nearby, but if you’re still looking for a hyperlocal fête, here are some that are known to be good ones: Capitol Hill (we can vouch it’s great from many years attending), Palisades, Takoma Park, College Park, Great Falls, McLean.
July 4th Celebration
Where: Armed Forces Retirement Home | Petworth, DC
When: July 4, 4-9:30pm
Admission: Free
All are welcome to join the 10th annual July 4th Celebration at the Armed Forces Retirement Home. Enjoy live entertainment, bouncy fun, a kids’ scooter parade and contest, activities for all ages, and views of the evening fireworks on the National Mall. Concessions will also be for sale and plentiful.
Great Meadow Independence Day Celebration
Where: Great Meadow | The Plains, VA
When: July 2, 5pm
Admission: $50/car
Great Meadow, a 74-acre park and home of the Virginia Gold Cup races, is bringing back its famous fireworks show and activities for the 34th year a couple of days ahead of the 4th. Join for family games like cornhole toss, sack races, face painting, tug-of war, and more. The Flying Circus will provide an exciting air show, and there will be polo exhibitions along with hat and tailgate competitions with prizes for the most creative. Bring a picnic or purchase food on site — there will be food trucks and a beer garden. A spectacular fireworks display gets underway at dusk. BYO blankets and chairs for comfortable viewing (no umbrellas or tents, unless in reserved tailgate spaces.)
July 4th Fest
Where: Six Flags | Bowie, MD
When: July 2-4
Admission: Starts at $35
With amusement park fun thrown into the mix, Six Flags’ celebration will be pretty epic for kids. Along with all of the ongoing fun throughout the venue, there will also be fireworks, music, and lots of Coca Cola (sponsors of the event) on Independence Day and two days leading up to the holiday.
Celebrate Juneteenth with an array of festivities at the NMAAHC
Marking the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas, on June 19, 1965, Juneteenth officially became a federal holiday in 2021 — though it’s been celebrated at some places around the area for many years. While the actual day is June 19, there are events to celebrate it all weekend long leading up to the day. Here’s a round-up of the best ones for families — both annual commemorations and new events — in 2023.
One Life: Frederick Douglass
Where: National Portrait Gallery | Penn Quarter, DC
When: Opens June 16
Admission: Free
The National Portrait Gallery is opening an exhibit on abolitionist Frederick Douglass during Juneteenth weekend. “One Life: Frederick Douglass” illuminates the legacy of one of the 19th century’s most influential writers, speakers and intellectuals through prints, photographs and ephemera. While there is a not a specific event happening, a visit to see the exhibit is a great way to mark the occasion.
What’s Going On NOW
Where: Kennedy Center | Foggy Bottom, DC
When: June 16 & 17
Admission: $39-99
In celebration of the 50th anniversary of Marvin Gaye’s iconic album What’s Going On at this star-studded, the NSO presents a star-studded concert featuring the Prince of Motown’s greatest hits performed by some of today’s finest artists, including Michelle Williams, Joshua Henry, Cory Henry, Luke James, Emily King, and Bilal.
Juneteenth Community Day
Where: NMAAHC | National Mall, DC
When: June 17
Admission: Free
In celebration of Juneteenth 2023, the NMAAHC returns to its perennial theme, “Senses of Freedom: The Taste, Sound, and Experience of an African American Celebration.” During thisJuneteenth Community Day visitors can explore the gifts of gardening and the culinary arts, hear stories, listen to music, and discover their inner artist with crafts for all ages. The public is invited to visit the Museum’s galleries, grounds, and Sweet Home Cafe to create memories and learn more about this historic holiday both inside and outside the museum. Outdoor festivities do not require tickets, but be sure to reserve free passes to go inside.
Juneteenth Festival
Where: Watkins Regional Park | Upper Marlboro, MD
When: June 17, 12-5pm
Admission: Free
Bring blankets and lawn chairs to hang out and enjoy this joyous day of celebration of African American history and culture. Juneteenth is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States. Marking the date that the last enslaved people learned of their freedom, the month of June and the nineteenth day were combined to form the word Juneteenth. This annual countywide festival features live entertainment, food, vendors, arts and history activities, and a wide range of activities for all ages.
Juneteenth Family Day Where: National Archives | National Mall, DC When: June 17, 11am – 2:30pm Admission: Free
Celebrate Juneteenth—the annual holiday commemorating the end of legal slavery in the United States—with family-friendly art-making and activities in the Boeing Learning Center. Come see the official handwritten General Order No. 3 and learn about Arlington’s Freedman’s Village with educators from the National Archives Museum and Arlington National Cemetery. All ages are welcome!
Freedom Before Emancipation: Family Day for Juneteenth
Where: Mount Vernon Estate | Mount Vernon, VA
When: June 17
Admission: $26/age 12+, $13/age 6-11, free/5 & under
This program will be part of a visit to George Washington’s estate this weekend. Learn about Ona Judge, Christopher Sheels, and Mount Vernon’s many enslaved people who resisted enslavement and sought freedom before the Emancipation Proclamation — their characters will be on the grounds to meet visitors. You can also join a special tour about enslaved people and a slave memorial commemoration ceremony. Read more about Mount Vernon here.
Juneteenth Celebration
Where: Frying Pan Farm Park | Centreville, VA
When: June 17, 1pm
Admission: Free
Join Frying Pan to celebrate African American stories, food traditions, music, and contributions to American spiritual life. Activities will include a special guest storyteller, live music, crafts, history, and food trucks offering African American cuisine. Be sure to sign up – space is limited!
Community Festival: Celebrate Juneteenth
Where: Brookland Arts Walk | Brookland, DC
When: June 18, 11am – 5pm
Admission: Free
There will be special activities to celebrate the day at Brookland Arts Walk this weekend. Enjoy cultural performances, browse the market of good from Black-owned businesses, take kiddos to a story time with the author, do some art activities, attend a session with the movement coach and drummer from the Marvel Black Panther films, and more.
Juneteenth for the City
Where: 700 Good Hope Rd SE | Anacosia, DC
When: June 17, 1-5pm
Admission: Free
Join Bread for the City and Mema’s Popups for a Juneteenth celebration featuring music, performances, and presentations. Plus, you can dine and shop at various Black-owned businesses throughout the day.
Scotland Juneteenth Heritage Festival
Where: Various locations in Montgomery County, MD
When: June 17-19
Admission: Varies by event
Celebrate the past and present of the first places African-Americans owned land in Montgomery County. Featuring a children’s carnival and music performance, as well as art exhibitions, food, sports, and presentations on Black history in this region, the events for the federal holiday on Monday, June 19, will be spread across the Cabin John Regional Park, Cabin John Village, and the Scotland community on Seven Locks Road.
Hike the Underground Railroad Experience Trail
Where: Woodlawn Manor Cultural Park | Sandy Spring, MD
When: Daily, sunrise to sunset
Admission: Free
A great outing anytime, but particularly meaningful for Juneteenth, this hike offers insight into the experience of enslaved peoples’ escape to freedom. The walk through woods and along edges of fields (with a map and explanation of the hike) is interesting and enlightening as well as an active way to spend time outdoors. On February 18, Woodlawn Manor will be hosting a special Black History Month Family Day, when you ca stop in the Visitors Center to pick up take-home activities for kids as well as a trail map (though you can also print that out at home if you go a different day).
Visit BLM Plaza
Where: 16th Street NW | Downtown DC
When: Ongoing
Admission: Free
The two blocks along 16th Street NW, between K Street and Lafayette Park just across from the White House, was emboldened with the giant yellow BLACK LIVES MATTER statement in the summer of 2020 as the BLM movement began to swell after the murder of George Floyd. It’s since been repainted and become permanent. The pedestrian area is now a site of historic significance in DC, a meeting place and focal point of protests and other events, and a place for reflection on the words emblazoned on the street
Juneteenth Freedom Celebration
Where: Anacostia Community Museum | Anacostia, DC
When: June 19, 11am – 4pm
Admission: Free
Join the Anacostia Community Museum for a day-long celebration and gather with family, friends, and neighbors to honor the present and reflect on shared tradition and history. The event will include performances from local musicians, a double dutch contest, and urban gardening workshop.
Freedom Day Celebration
Where: National Harbor | Oxon Hill, MD
When: June 19, 1-7pm
Admission: Free
Celebrate Juneteenth at National Harbor and visit the Freedom Day Black-Owned Marketplace in the Capital Canopy. Support the community and check out a variety of businesses, food vendors and stick around for the cultural performances starting at 5pm on the Plaza Stage.
Step Afrika! Step Xplosion
Where: Strathmore | Bethesda, MD
When: June 19, 7pm
Admission: $35-75
Strathmore is marking Juneteenth with Step Xplosion, a celebration of the art form of stepping by Step Afrika! Honoring its rich roots in the African American fraternity and sorority experience, this show emphasizes the presence of stepping in the daily and future lives of students. This year’s collaborative production will feature the local premiere of The Movement, a new work choreographed by longstanding Step Afrika! performer Conrad Kelly II.
Swing, Batter Batter, Swing! The arrival of spring also means the arrival of America’s favorite pastime. Baseball has played a major role throughout American history and its heavy-hitter impact is no different here in our nation’s capital! While the Nationals may not have a winning record at the moment, the District’s love and energy surrounding them continues to radiate throughout the city.
In this fourth guest blog post of her DC Scavenger series, local author JoAnn Hill takes us on an active pursuit throughout Navy Yard, the neighborhood home of our beloved Nationals and one of the city’s most vibrant areas. This highly visited region is mostly known for its lively stadium, picturesque waterfront, verdant parks, and abundance of eateries, shops, and outdoor events.
JoAnn Hill is the author of Secret Washington, DC: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful, and Obscure and DC Scavenger which goes beyond the typical guidebook; it’s an interactive treasure map spanning 17 distinct neighborhoods throughout the District. If you think you know everything there is to know about DC ― even the most weird, wonderful, and obscure parts of it ― get ready to embark on an adventurous discovery of DC’s most cherished gems.
Here are four of 23 clues featured in the Navy Yard chapter of DC Scavenger (and note that the photos show the general location, not the answer to the clue). Check out JoAnn’s book to solve and discover even more clues and sites around the Navy Yard and throughout the entire city!
Navy Yard Clue #1
A yell of play “this,” and known as a dance,
Grab seats near a plate, if given a chance.
These metal spheres hang, shiny and bright,
In twenty-nineteen, they won the hard fight.
Navy Yard Clue #2
The Village folks start their spelling with this,
This namesake piece of wood is hard to miss,
Come find this letter, no need to ask “why”,
A sign of the ‘hood as you walk by.
Navy Yard Clue #3
At this gift shop, support makers of DC,
So much in store: have a shopping spree!
Buy books, art, and cards or treats for your pet,
Discover local wares, here you’re all set!
Navy Yard Clue #4
On the boardwalk, the letter after B,
Happiness comes in waves, jubilant glee,
This window looks out to the river blue,
Where boats are joined by their wonderful crew.
* * *
JoAnnHill, author of DC Scavenger and Secret Washington, DC: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful, and Obscure, has affectionately called Washington, DC, home for over 20 years. She has written extensively about DC living, its food, and her world travels on her blog dcglobejotters.org and other mediums and publications. Through her writing and research, she shares stories and tips that inspire the insatiably curious traveler. When she’s not writing and exploring, you will find her teaching yoga, barre, and group fitness classes, indulging in DC’s culinary and theater scenes, and spending as much time outside as possible being active. JoAnn is the co-founder of Capitol Teachers, a full-service tutoring company servicing the greater DC area. She lives in Washington, DC, with her husband Thalamus and dog Jackson.
JoAnn Hill, author of Secret Washington, DC: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful, and Obscure and DC Scavenger, has affectionately called Washington, DC, home for over 20 years. She has written extensively about DC living, its food, and her world travels. Through her writing and research, she shares stories and tips that inspire the insatiably curious traveler. When she’s not writing and exploring, you will find her teaching fitness classes and indulging in DC’s culinary and theater scenes with her husband. JoAnn is the co-founder of Capitol Teachers, a full-service tutoring company servicing the greater DC area. She is currently working on her third book, Unique Eats and Eateries of Washington, DC, which is expected to be released in Spring 2024.
