Celebrate Four Seasons in Washington, D.C.

Free Seasonal Activities in the Nation’s Capital

Nov 4, 2009

If you love getting into the spirit of different seasons but don't want to spend a bundle, Washington, D.C. is a great place to visit.

Due to it’s Mid-Atlantic location, Washington, D.C. is home to four distinct seasons. Whether you prefer hot or cold weather, or the comfortable temperatures of spring and fall, D.C. has a time of year that is perfect for everyone in the family.

Afraid that the Capital is too expensive to visit? You simply have to know what there is to do and when it happens. Anytime of the year, there is something unique to see … with a price tag of zero dollars.

Spring

One of the most spectacular sights in D.C. is the annual blooming of the Cherry Blossoms along the Tidal Basin. The trees were given to the United States from Japan in 1912. While exact peak time is not always available, the trees typically bloom toward the end of March or beginning of April, with a decent estimate found on the official Cherry Blossom Festival website.

Besides a walk around the Tidal Basin, basking in the wonder of these magnificent trees, the Cherry Blossom Festival offers many free things to do. From traditional dancing to art displays to parades, the Festival marks the beginning of spring and a lovely time to visit the city. Don’t forget your camera.

Summer

Summertime brings in a wave of heat and humidity but enjoy the fresh night air by watching a movie on the National Mall. Set between 4th and 7th Streets, with the National Monuments and the U.S. Capitol as a stunning backdrop, this annual film festival is a favorite for D.C. natives and tourists alike.

Screen on the Green is a four-to-five week long viewing of movies that occurs every Monday night. The movie starts around dusk but viewers show up as soon as work lets out. Bring a picnic and a blanket and enjoy the night. Showing anything from Casablanca to Rocky, Screen on the Green is a great way to enjoy outdoor D.C. for minimal dollars. Even dogs attend Screen on the Green.

Fall

People often come to D.C. for a bit of culture, and what better place to go than the stretch of mansions on Massachusetts Avenue known as Embassy Row. Extending from Dupont Circle to the National Cathedral, Embassy Row includes many, but not all, of the foreign diplomatic houses.

On Halloween, costume wearers of all ages partake in the annual Trick-or-Treating on Embassy Row. Those Embassies participating give out candy to revelers of all ages.

- Go early. This trick-or-treating happens during the day before the Embassies close.

Winter

Washington comes alive during the holiday season. One of the most beloved staples during that time is the lighting of the National Christmas Tree. Since 1923, the President and First Lady indulge the country with this spectacular event. Located on the Ellipse, a grassy area south of the White House, the annual lighting is a free event, although tickets must be obtained prior.

Besides the official lighting, the National Tree stays up through January 1st. Since 1954, the “Christmas Pathway of Peace” surrounds the National Tree with fifty-six smaller trees representing the fifty states, five territories and the District of Columbia. Sponsoring organizations from each state provide decorations for those smaller trees.

Visitors will also find a Yule log and a large-scale model train. Musical performances occur every night by volunteer choirs and dancers. And Santa likes to visit too. He has set up a temporary workshop, open during select times for children to visit.

Besides the White House Christmas tree, the Capitol also puts up a magnificent rival. The Capitol Christmas Tree is situated on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol. A tradition since 1964, this tree is lit by the Speaker of the House and uses environmentally friendly LED lights.

The hotels may cost a pretty penny in Washington, D.C., but the lack of cost of many activities more than makes up for it. You don’t have to pay for experiences that will last a lifetime, in any season of the year.

The copyright of the article Celebrate Four Seasons in Washington, D.C. in Washington DC Travel is owned by Kerri Carpenter. Permission to republish Celebrate Four Seasons in Washington, D.C. in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.