According to the Washington website, fall in DC offers a vibrant mix of events and activities for locals, making it an exciting time to explore the city. From cultural celebrations to art exhibits, there's always something new to experience in the nation's capital.
Paris 1874: The Impressionist Moment – Sept. 8 – Jan. 19, 2025
Discover the roots of one of history's most influential art movements at a new exhibit at the National Gallery of Art. The museum is recreating a historic 1874 Paris exhibit that marked the birth of Impressionism. View iconic works by Claude Monet, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Paul Cézanne, Edgar Degas, Camille Pissarro, and others.
10 a.m. – 5 p.m. | National Gallery of Art, 6th Street & Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC
Comedy of Errors – Sept. 10 – Oct. 6
One of Shakespeare’s earliest plays proves that The Bard could evoke laughter just as masterfully as he could bring audiences to tears. Directed by Artistic Director Simon Godwin, this hilarious tale of mistaken identities unfolds with a rock ‘n’ roll twist, making for a humorously chaotic family saga.
Klein Theatre, 450 7th Street NW, Washington, DC 20004
Primary Trust – Sept. 10 – Oct. 20
Winner of the 2024 Pulitzer Prize and a New York Times Critic’s Pick, Primary Trust debuts in the DC area at Signature Theatre in Arlington, VA. The play follows Kenneth, a regular at Wally’s Tiki Bar, who faces a life-changing moment after losing his job. Both humorous and heartfelt, Primary Trust is a must-see this fall.
Signature Theatre, 4200 Campbell Avenue, Arlington, VA 22206
National Symphony Orchestra's DC ORIGINALITY – Sept. 10-11

Celebrate the "Cultural Beat of Capital City" with the NSO as they collaborate with outstanding local artists to bring the sounds of U Street jazz and native Go-go to life. Featuring music from DC legends like Marvin Gaye, Chuck Brown, Duke Ellington, John Philip Sousa, and more, this unique event is a can't-miss, only-in-DC experience.
8 p.m. | The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, 2700 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20566
Cirque du Soleil's OVO – Sept. 11-15
Cirque du Soleil’s latest spectacle, OVO, comes to DC for a limited five-day run. This enchanting show tells the love story between a clumsy insect and an elegant ladybug, showcasing the circus arts that define Cirque du Soleil: dazzling costumes, magical music, and breathtaking acrobatics.
Capital One Arena, 601 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20004
KYGO WORLD TOUR* – Sept. 12
Record-breaking EDM artist KYGO will light up the Merriweather Post Pavilion for one night this September. The Norwegian superstar is set to energize the crowd with electronic hits like “It Ain’t Me” (feat. Selena Gomez) and remixes of chart-toppers such as "Higher Love."
7p.m. | Merriweather Post Pavilion, 10475 Little Patuxent Parkway, Columbia, MD 21044
James Taylor & His All-Star Band – Sept. 12, 14-15
For five decades, James Taylor has defined American singer-songwriters. Join the six-time Grammy Award-winner and his acclaimed band as they perform timeless soft rock classics like “Fire and Rain,” “How Sweet It Is,” “Carolina In My Mind,” and “You’ve Got A Friend.”
8 p.m. | Wolf Trap, 1551 Trap Road, Vienna, VA 22182
Kevin Hart: Acting My Age – Sept. 13
Emmy and Grammy-nominated comedian Kevin Hart is coming to the historic DAR Constitution Hall. Known for hits like Think Like A Man, The Wedding Ringer, Get Hard, and Ride Along, Hart’s last two tours were the highest-grossing comedy shows of their years. Don’t miss your chance to see him live—get your tickets ASAP!
7:30-11:30 p.m. | DAR Constitution Hall, 1776 D Street NW, Washington, DC
URBNmarket At the Mosaic Fall Festival - September 24-25
At the Mosaic Fall Festival, festival-goers can purchase fresh autumn produce and snacks from Freshfarm vendors and explore handmade items and vintage products at the URBNmarket.
Mosaic, 2920 District Ave, Fairfax, VA 22031
Nationals Blowout Weekend: 1924 World Series championship celebration (100-year anniversary) – Sept. 13-15
Did you know the Washington Senators won the World Series 100 years ago? Join the Nationals as they celebrate the 1924 Championship with a weekend series against the Miami Marlins. Enjoy fireworks and exciting fan giveaways throughout the weekend.
1500 South Capitol St SE, Washington, DC 20003
Go-Karts at Union Market – Sept. 19-22
Union Market and Events DC are teaming up for an adrenaline-packed weekend in the nation's capital. Experience unique go-kart racing powered by K1 Speed in Union Market’s parking lot, featuring 15-minute races for six drivers. Both seasoned racers and beginners are welcome (minimum height: 58”). Enjoy live music, food, beverages, and more entertainment. Tickets will be available in late August.
Union Market, 1275 5th Street NE, Washington, DC 20002
National Dance Day – Sept. 21
Cut a rug at this year's National Dance Day at the Kennedy Center! Enjoy free classes, performances, and parties that celebrate creativity and community.
10a.m. | The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, 2700 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20566
Summer Concert Series at Nationals Park: Lady A – Sept. 27
For the first time in a decade, the Nats are reviving their postgame Summer Concert Series, with Lady A headlining in September. With your game ticket, enjoy the full concert afterward. On-field passes will be available as an upgrade a few weeks before each concert, so secure your tickets now to stay updated.
1500 South Capitol St SE, Washington, DC 20003
All Things Go Music Festival – Sept. 28-29
The All Things Go Music Festival returns this September at Merriweather Post Pavilion, featuring headliners like Lauren, Bleachers, Janelle Monáe, Hozier, and Reneé Rapp. Enjoy two stages, a stellar lineup of local eats, and captivating art installations throughout the festival.
10475 Little Patuxent Parkway, Columbia, MD 21044
Imprints in Time – Through Jan. 5, 2025
The recently renovated Folger Shakespeare Library presents a special exhibition showcasing rarely displayed objects. Journey through time and space, from ancient Egyptian tombs to the Moon’s surface, with Stuart and Mimi Rose’s collection of manuscripts and books offering a sweeping view of human history, knowledge, and creativity.
Folger Shakespeare Library, 201 East Capitol Street SE, Washington, DC 20003
Smithsonian Craft2Wear Show - September 27-29
Shop jewelry, purses, scarves, clothing, and more finds at Smithsonian
National Building Museum, 401 F St NW, Washington, DC 20001
Sources: washington.org, washingtonian.com