Visiting Washington, DC in June
Washington, DC in June means summer is in full swing with temperatures averaging between the mid-60s and the mid-80s. While the temperature can vary, the heat and humidity rolls in with the summer crowds of tourists.
June weather can vary, with cooler days and summer thunderstorms. I often carry a light sweatshirt for air-conditioned spaces and a small umbrella in case of a surprise downpour. Comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and bug spray for evening mosquitoes are also a must. Last year, I even bought a pocket fan, which is great for a hot metro ride and baseball games.
Keep in mind that museums and other major tourist attractions will be more crowded in the summer months. Plan museum visits before noon and consider some tours off the National Mall like a tour in Georgetown, U Street, or Brookland. While I always recommend restaurant reservations just in case, restaurants in the summer can get busy, especially near the National Mall.
June 2024 Festivals in Washington, DC
Capital Pride: June 2 to 8
Capital Pride decorations and special events occur throughout the month of June but most major events occur in the first week. The Capital Parade 2025 is scheduled for June 7 with other major celebrations happening all weekend. Pride decorations appear in stores and restaurants all over the city, but especially in Dupont and near 14th Street. Washington, DC is also gearing up to host World Pride in 2025.
DC/DOX Film Festival: June 12-15
The DC/DOX Film Festival celebrates non-fiction storytelling, highlighting important stories in our nation’s capital. The event takes place in multiple locations around the city.
Home Rule Music Festival: June 21
Home Rule Music Festival celebrates DC’s music legacy with roots in jazz and funk. Head to The Parks at Walter Reed in Takoma for a free outdoor music festival from 1 to 9 pm. Bring snacks and a blanket to sit on. The festival will also feature food vendors and other community activations.
Giant National Capital Barbecue Battle: June 21-22
The Giant National Capital Barbecue Battle is a full weekend of food, music, and fun. Tickets get you admission, over 100 free food and beverage samples (while supplies last), live music, cooking demos, children’s activities, and more. Tickets are $20 for the day or $30 for the weekend. Drinks are an additional cost.
Baseball at Nationals Parks: June 3 to 8 and 13 to 19
Head to Nationals Park in June to enjoy a baseball game! Baseball is one of my favorite sports in the city because it is fun for sports fans, but also anyone who wants to enjoy some time outside. Nationals Park features a big variety of food stands for local DC food stands like Roaming Rooster, Electric Kool-Aid, Ben’s Chili Bowl, Arepa Zone, Haute Dog & Fries, Capo Deli, and more. Come hungry! Look out for happy hour deals 90 minutes before the first pitch and special deals on Tuesdays.
250th Celebration of Washington Taking Command: June 14
Head to Mount Vernon on June 14 to celebrate 250 years of the U.S. Army. Enjoy music, a boat parade along the Potomac River, 18th-century games, horses, and military history presentations. This event is free for members and $28 for anyone over 12 years old.
Things to do in Washington, DC in June
DC in June is a great time to enjoy the outdoors before the hottest and most humid months of July and August settle in. This is a great month for rooftop drinks, patio brunch, and enjoying the city’s green space.
- Walk the monuments and have lunch in the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden
- Explore the Metropolitan Beer Trail
- Take a walking tour in Georgetown
- Get drinks on a rooftop bar
- Have brunch on a patio
- Take a tour of Heurich House and have a drink in their Biergarten
- Attend a Nationals Game
- Visit the National Gallery of Art and take photos of the rooftop
- Spend the afternoon walking around East Potomac Park and then get dinner on The Wharf
- Take the watertaxi to Old Town Alexandria