Expert recommendations of the top events—with tips on how to best experience these celebrations.
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Duke Ellington Jazz Festival
Celebrates the music legend born and raised on the District's streets. Late summer; big-name national acts and local up-and-comers featured at venues around the city. Fee for some events. Tel. +1 202 232 3611. www.dejazzfest.org
Cherry Blossom Festival
Honors the gift of 3,000 cherry trees from Japan in 1912. First two weeks of April; features fireworks, music and dance events and a ten-mile race. "Culminates with parade and huge street party down Pennsylvania Avenue."—Eve Zibart, author, The Unofficial Guide to Washington, D.C. Tip: The circular tidal basin around the Jefferson Memorial is the best spot for taking in the trees. www.nationalcherryblossomfestival.org
Smithsonian Kite Festival
Annual festival held at the base of the Washington Monument in late March; national and international competitors take home prizes for craftsmanship and technique; offers a special children's competition; free to the public. Tel. +1 202 357 3030. www.kitefestival.org
Smithsonian Folklife Festival
Features song, dance, crafting, and cooking demonstrations of various highlighted international and domestic cultures annually; two weeks overlapping 4th of July holiday; National Mall location; free. Tel. +1 202 633 6440. www.folklife.si.edu/center/festival.html
