October highlights: DC's must-attend events

According to the Washington website, this fall, explore a range of exciting events, from wine tastings and architectural tours to harvest festivals and family-friendly Halloween celebrations. Whether you’re a history buff or looking for seasonal fun, there’s something for everyone. Discover the must-attend events in DC and enjoy the festive atmosphere.

Twilight Zone: Hidden Wonders of the Ocean 

ARTECHOUSE and the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution invite you to experience a captivating exhibition that reveals the nightly migration of ocean twilight zone creatures and their vital role in our planet's health and climate regulation. Dive into a stunning 24-minute cinematic adventure featuring immersive 270-degree projections, interactive installations, and XR activations.

ARTECHOUSE, 1238 Maryland Avenue SW, Washington, DC 2002

Theatre Week – Until Oct. 13

Celebrate the theatre season in the Washington, DC area with TheatreWashington's exciting weeks-long promotion! Enjoy $20, $40, and $60 tickets to a variety of highly anticipated productions, from musicals and dramas to comedies and shows for young audiences. Plus, take advantage of special events, many of which are free, including the fun Kickoff Fest! Don’t miss out—book your hotel today and immerse yourself in the vibrant local theatre scene!

Architecture Cruise with DC Design Tours – Oct. 11, 18 & 25

Embark on a unique architectural cruise with DC Design Tours! Departing from Georgetown, you’ll be guided by an expert as Capitol River Cruises takes you south along the Potomac. Enjoy live commentary while admiring iconic landmarks like the Francis Scott Key Bridge, Arlington Memorial Bridge, and Kennedy Center, as well as hidden gems like the Lyndon Baines Johnson Grove. Experience the beauty of DC from the water!

Army Ten-Miler – Oct. 13

Celebrating 40 years, the Army Ten-Mile Race and Expo brings together over 35,000 runners and 900 teams from around the world. Open to military, civilians, wheelchair athletes, and wounded warriors, this event captures the spirit of sport and community. Come run or cheer on the participants!

850 Army Navy Drive, Arlington, VA and 955 15th Street South, Arlington, VA

DC Wine Fest – Oct. 19

Following the success of DC Coffee Fest, the DC Wine Fest – Fall Edition is here! Enjoy 30+ premium wine tastings with admission, along with snacks and discounted bottles for purchase. Stroll through the vendors, sip your favorites, and enjoy live music throughout the event.

Dock 5 at Union Market, 1309 5th Street NE, Washington, DC 20002

Fall Harvest Festival – Oct. 19-20

Step back into the 18th century at the Farm at George Washington’s Mount Vernon for a hands-on harvest experience. Explore the corn maze, sample fresh breads, and watch demonstrations of traditional wheat treading, cooking, candle-making, spinning, and horseshoeing. It’s a fun and educational glimpse into early American farm life!

3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway, Mount Vernon, VA 2212

Boo at the Zoo - Oct. 18-20

The family-favorite event of the season is back! Enjoy trick-or-treating at the National Zoo with after-hours animal viewing, a dance party, fun displays, tasty treats, and plenty of family fun. No tricks, just a spooktacular good time!

Smithsonian’s National Zoo, 3001 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20008

Air & Scare - Oct. 26

The family-favorite event of the season is back! Enjoy trick-or-treating at the National Zoo with after-hours animal viewing, a dance party, fun displays, tasty treats, and plenty of family fun. No tricks, just a spooktacular good time!

Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center, 14390 Air and Space Museum Pkwy, Chantilly, VA 20151

Trick-or-Treating at Mount Vernon – Oct. 26

The family-favorite event of the season is back! Enjoy trick-or-treating at the National Zoo with after-hours animal viewing, a dance party, fun displays, tasty treats, and plenty of family fun. No tricks, just a spooktacular good time!

3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway, Mount Vernon, VA 22121 

Source: washington.org