It’s officially the first weekend of summer in the District, and Secret D.C. has rounded up all the best ways to celebrate! Whether you want to beat the heat indoors or enjoy the gorgeous weather, there’s something for everyone!
1. Live life as a royal by attending The Queen’s Ball
“Dearest Readers, it’s time to gather your finest Regency-inspired attire and experience the dreamlike recreation of Shondaland’s Bridgerton at Queen’s Ball: A Bridgerton Experience.” With themed cocktails, jaw-dropping performances, and a ball full of suitors, what could be better? What a scandal!
2. Immerse yourself in renowned art
What could be more awe-inspiring than immersing yourself in your favorite art? The Immersive Van Gogh Experience can help you do just that! The exhibits use floor-to-ceiling projections to showcase the artist’s famous works, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in his art. Buy tickets to Van Gogh here.
3. Pig out at the Giant National Capital Barbecue Battle
Summer is famous for BBQ’s, and one of epic proportions is coming to the District! Hosted by Giant, the National Capital Barbecue Battle will bring entertainment, barbecue contests, tastings, and more to Pennsylvania Avenue on June 25-26. Here’s to pigging out!
4. Experience the return of the Smithsonian Folklife Festival
Following a two-year hiatus, the 2022 Smithsonian Folklife Festival has returned to the National Mall for two separate runs, June 22–27 and June 30–July 4 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Presented by the Smithsonian’s Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage in partnership with the National Park Service, this year the free festival is hosting two programs: one exploring the cultural traditions of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the other focused on “highlighting the importance of culture and community in creating a sustainable future.” The 2022 Smithsonian Folklife Festival will include workshops, discussions, concerts and performances, and family-friendly activities!
5. Par-take in a fun-filled round of mini golf
Fun for all ages, mini golf is always a hole-in-one! Luckily, the D.C.-area has a variety of options, from the beloved chain Swingers to Tyson Corner’s Perch Putt, and from the classic East Potomac Mini Golf to the newly-opened Puttery, grab a drink and putt away!
6. Enjoy a drink and warm weather at one of these rooftop bars
Warm weather and drinks while taking in a view of D.C. is virtually unbeatable! The District has a number of rooftop bars with gorgeous city views — including the newly-opened Takoda Navy Yard — just waiting for you!
7. Take a tiki cruise on the Potomac
The people who brought you the Potomac Paddle Club just launched the Potomac Tiki Club in Georgetown! Groups of 8-18 can set sail on the Potomac for a 90-minute cruise, taking in the sights and having a drink. The tiki cruise offers an assortment of alcoholic beverages for purchase on board, and you can bring your own bottle of wine or champagne for an $8 uncorking fee. Light snacks are also available for purchase, but the cruise is BYOF (bring your own food). You can schedule a slot for an upcoming weekend here!