washington dc capitol tour

Reserve a Tour of the Capitol

• My Reservations
• Change Password

LOGIN/ACCOUNT CREATION

Visitor Name Information

ADVANCE RESERVATION SYSTEM Terms of Use AGREEMENT

1. General.

1.1 The Advance Reservation System (" ARS ") of the United States Capitol Visitor Center is a service provided to the public by the United States Congress to book reservations for tours of the United States Capitol. The ARS is owned and managed by the Office of Visitor Services through the Office of the Architect of the Capitol (" AOC "). This Terms of Use Agreement (" Agreement ") sets forth the legally binding terms for your use of the ARS. By using the ARS you agree to be bound by this Agreement, whether you are a "Visitor" (which means you are browsing the ARS website) or you are a "Member" (which means you have registered as a user of ARS). The term "User" refers to both a Visitor and a Member. You are only authorized to browse this website or use the ARS service (whether your use is intended or unintentional) if you agree to abide by all applicable laws and to this Agreement. Please read this Agreement carefully and save it. If you do not agree with this Agreement you should leave this website and discontinue use of ARS services immediately. If you wish to use this website and make use of the ARS service, you must read this Agreement and indicate your acceptance as outlined below, or during the registration process.

1.2 This Agreement shall remain in full force and effect while you use the ARS website. If you are registered with the ARS you may terminate your registration at any time, for any reason, by following the instructions found on the ARS website. The AOC may terminate your use of the ARS website at any time, without warning and without reason, at no liability.

1.3 The AOC reserves the right, in its discretion, to change or modify all or any part of this Agreement at any time, effective immediately upon notice published on this website. Your use of the website following any change or modification constitutes your binding acceptance of these terms and conditions, including any changes or modifications made by the AOC. If at any time the terms and conditions of this Agreement are no longer acceptable to you, you should immediately cease use of the ARS website.

1.4 You should, at all times, ensure that your contact information is updated with the ARS website. If you need to update any of your online and/or off-line contact information, please follow the instruction on the ARS website.

2. Use of Content.

2.1 You acknowledge that the ARS website contains information, software, photographs, audio and video clips, graphics, links and other material that are owned by the AOC or other United States governmental agencies (collectively, the "Content"). You agree to comply with any notices, information, or restrictions contained in any Content available on or accessed through the ARS website. Users of the ARS website may use the Content only for their personal, non-commercial, use.

2.2 You may not modify, publish, transmit, transfer or sell, reproduce, create derivative works from, distribute, perform, display, or in any way exploit any of the Content, in whole or in part. Content consisting of downloadable software may not be reverse-engineered. You grant to the AOC the right to edit, copy, publish, distribute, translate and otherwise use in any medium and for any purpose any content that you place on the ARS website without compensation to you. You represent and warrant that you are authorized to grant all rights set forth in the preceding sentence.

2.3 You may not download Content on this web site. No copying, storage, redistribution or publication of any Content on the ARS website is permitted.

2.4. Any information you provide to the ARS website may be used by the AOC and the United States Government, without any compensation to you.

3. Rules of Conduct.

3.1 By using the ARS website you agree not to:

(a) Use the ARS website for any unlawful reason, or in a manner prohibited by this Agreement.

(b) Post any content which is libelous, defamatory, obscene, pornographic, abusive, harassing or threatening;

(c) Post content which contains viruses or other contaminating or destructive features;

(d) Post content which violates the rights of others, such as content which infringes any copyright, trademark, patent, trade secret or violates any right of privacy or publicity; or (d) otherwise violates any applicable law or regulation.

(e) Make any part of the ARS website available as part of another service by hyperlink framing, "deep linking" or otherwise. You may not link the ARS website to, or post links on the ARS to, other websites.

(f) Use the ARS website for any commercial purpose, nor shall you distribute any advertising or solicitation of funds or goods and services or solicit users to join competitive online services.

(g) Use any false or inaccurate information for purposes of registering as a user of the ARS website, or for purposes of registering for any promotions offered through the ARS website;

(h) Allow any other person or entity to use your username or password for posting or viewing comments or sending or receiving materials or use the account of another user for any purpose;

(i) Sell or otherwise transfer your user status; or

(j) Delete or revise any material or other information of any other user or the AOC;

(k) Harvest or otherwise collect information about others, including e-mail addresses;

(l) Take any action that imposes an unreasonable or disproportionately large load on the ARS website?s infrastructure;

(m) Use any device, software, or routine to interfere or attempt to interfere with the proper working of the ARS website or any activity being conducted on the ARS website;

(n) Use any engine, software, tool, agent, or other mechanism (including, without limitation, browsers, spiders, robots, avatars, or intelligent agents) to navigate or search the ARS website other than (i) the search engine and search agents available from the AOC on the ARS website and (ii) generally available third party web browsers (e.g., Netscape Navigator and Microsoft Internet Explorer) (if applicable);

(o) Attempt to decipher, decompile, disassemble, or reverse engineer any of the software comprising or in any way making up a part of the ARS website.

You further agree not to violate or attempt to violate the security of the ARS website, including, without limitation, actions such as:

(a) Accessing data not intended for you or logging into a server or account that you are not authorized to access; (b) Attempting to probe, scan, or test the vulnerability of a system or network or to breach security or authentication measures without proper authorization; (c) Attempting to interfere with service to any user, host, or network, including, without limitation, by way of submitting a virus to or overloading, "flooding," "spamming," "mail bombing," or "crashing" the ARS website; (d) Sending unsolicited e-mail, including promotions and/or advertising of products or services; or (e) Forging any TCP/IP packet header or any part of the header information in any e-mail or posting.

Violations of system or network security may result in civil or criminal liability.

4. Managing Content.

4.1 The AOC is not responsible for any content posted to the ARS website by users. The AOC reserves the right to delete, move or edit any content that it may determine, in its sole discretion, violates or may violate this Agreement or is otherwise unacceptable. You shall remain solely responsible for all content posted by you.

5. No Endorsement.

5.1 The AOC does not represent or endorse the accuracy or reliability of any content posted on the ARS website and you acknowledge that any reliance upon such content shall be at your sole risk.

5.2 The ARS website may contain links to sites on the Internet, which are owned and operated by third parties (the " External Sites "). You acknowledge that the AOC is not responsible for the availability of, or the content located on or through any External Site. You should contact the site administrator or Webmaster for those External Sites if you have any concerns regarding such links or the content located on such External Sites.

6. Indemnity.

You agree to indemnify, defend and hold the AOC and the United States Government and its agents or officers (collectively, the " US Government ") harmless from and against any and all claims, liability, losses, costs and expenses (including attorneys' fees) incurred by the US Government in connection with any use or alleged use of the service under your user name by any person, whether or not authorized by you. The AOC reserves the right, at your expense, to assume the exclusive defense and control of any matter otherwise subject to indemnification by you, and in such case, you agree to cooperate with the AOC?s defense of such claim.

7. Termination of Service.

7.1 The AOC may change, suspend or discontinue all or any aspect of the ARS website at any time, including the availability of any feature, database, or Content without prior notice or liability.

7.2 The AOC reserves the right, in its sole discretion, to restrict, suspend or terminate your access to all or any part of the ARS website at any time, for any reason, without prior notice or liability.

7.3 Failure to adhere to this Agreement may result in the restriction, suspension or termination of your access to all or any part of the ARS website without prior notice or liability.

8. Cancellation of Your Tour of the United States Capitol

The U.S. Capitol reserves the right to suspend scheduled tours at any time and for any reason.  To cancel your tour of the United States Capitol, please have your confirmation number available.  You may cancel your tour at visitthecapitol.gov or by calling 202-226-8000.

9. DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTIES; LIMITATION OF LIABILITY.

9.1 THE AOC MAKES NO WARRANTIES THAT THE ARS WEBSITE WILL BE UNINTERRUPTED OR ERROR FREE; NOR DOES THE AOC MAKE ANY WARRANTY AS TO THE RESULTS TO BE OBTAINED FROM USE OF THE ARS WEBSITE, ITS SERVICES OR ITS CONTENT. THE ARS WEBSITE, THE SERVICE PROVIDED AND THE CONTENT WITHIN ARE DISTRIBUTED ON AN "AS IS, AS AVAILABLE" BASIS. THE AOC DOES NOT MAKE ANY WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND, EITHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION, WARRANTIES OF TITLE OR IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, WITH RESPECT TO THE ARS WEBSITE, ANY CONTENT OR ANY SERVICES PROVIDED THROUGH THE ARS WEBSITE. THE AOC DOES NOT WARRANT THAT ANY FILES AVAILABLE FOR DOWNLOADING THROUGH THE ARS WEBSITE WILL BE FREE OF VIRUSES OR SIMILAR CONTAMINATION OR DESTRUCTIVE FEATURES. YOU EXPRESSLY AGREE THAT THE ENTIRE RISK AS TO THE QUALITY AND PERFORMANCE OF THE SERVICE AND THE ACCURACY OR COMPLETENESS OF THE CONTENT IS ASSUMED SOLELY BY YOU.

9.2 NEITHER THE AOC NOR ITS AGENTS SHALL BE LIABLE FOR ANY ACT, DIRECT OR INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF THE USE OF OR INABILITY TO USE THE SERVICE, EVEN IF SUCH PARTY HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES.

9.3 THE AOC RESERVES THE RIGHT TO ALTER THE CONTENT OF THIS SITE IN ANY WAY, AT ANY TIME, FOR ANY REASON, WITHOUT PRIOR NOTIFICATION, AND WILL NOT BE LIABLE FOR POSSIBLE CONSEQUENCES OF SUCH CHANGES. THESE LIMITATIONS APPLY EVEN IF THE AOC OR THE US GOVERNMENT HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITIES OF SUCH DAMAGE.

9.4 THE AOC RESERVES THE RIGHT TO CANCEL YOUR RESERVATION, OR REVOKE YOUR STATUS AS A USER AT ANY TIME, FOR ANY REASON. THE AOC WILL PROVIDE YOU WITH NOTIFICATION OF SUCH CANCELLATION OR REVOCATION.

9.5. NOTWITHSTANDING ANY STATEMENT TO THE CONTRARY IN THIS AGREEMENT, THE AOC DOES NOT WAIVE ITS, OR THE UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT LIABILITY, UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCE, FOR ANY INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES YOU MAY SUFFER AS A RESULT OF THE USE OF THE ARS WEBSITE. YOU EXPRESSLY AGREE THAT YOU UNDERSTAND AND ASSUME ALL RISKS INHERENT IN THE USE OF THE ARS WEBSITE.

10. Miscellaneous.

This Agreement shall be construed in accordance with the laws of the District of Columbia, and the parties irrevocably consent to bring any action to enforce this Agreement in the federal courts located in Washington, DC.. This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof, and supersedes all previous written or oral agreements between the parties with respect to such subject matter. All provisions hereof shall survive any termination of this Agreement as well as any other revisions which by their terms or sense are intended to survive.

11. Severability and Integration.

Unless otherwise specified herein, this Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between you and the AOC and governs your use of the ARS website. If any portion of this Agreement is held invalid or unenforceable, that portion shall be construed in a manner consistent with applicable law to reflect, as nearly as possible, the original intention of the parties, and the remaining portions shall remain in full force and effect.

This Agreement is accepted upon your use of the ARS Website or any of the ARS Services and is further affirmed by you becoming a registered group. This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between you and AOC regarding the use of the ARS. The failure of AOC to exercise or enforce any right or provision of this Agreement shall not operate as a waiver of such right or provision. The section titles in this Agreement are for convenience only and have no legal or contractual effect. This Agreement operates to the fullest extent permissible by law. If any provision of this Agreement is unlawful, void or unenforceable, that provision is deemed severable from this Agreement and does not affect the validity and enforceability of any remaining provisions.

Please contact us at: 202-226-8000 with any questions regarding this Agreement.

I HAVE READ THIS AGREEMENT AND AGREE TO ALL OF THE PROVISIONS CONTAINED ABOVE.

Are you interested in getting updates on what is happening at the Capitol Visitor Center? Click here to learn more and to subscribe!

Exhibition Hall: E Pluribus Unum

Current Exhibition

• Legislative Highlights
• Congress and the War of 1812
• Conflict and Compromise II
• Conflict and Compromise I
• Instruments of Change
• Congress and the Civil War II
• Congress and the Civil War I
• April 2010 - September 2011
• October 2009 - March 2010
• April 2009 - September 2009
• December 2008 - March 2009
• Views of Exhibition Hall
• Capitol Story
• Take an Interactive Tour
• Image Gallery
• Take the Capitol Challenge
• 1945-Present
• Building a More Perfect Union

Live, Virtual Capitol Tour

Join one of our knowledgeable guides for a live, virtual tour of the Capitol. The tour includes the Crypt, Rotunda, National Statuary Hall, the Old Supreme Court Chamber, and the Old Senate Chamber. The tour will have live video and audio with time for questions and answers.

These online tours are available upon request by emailing [email protected] . Tours are 45-60 minutes, including time for questions and answers. Tour participation requires a device that plays sound and video. Participants will not be on camera and will submit questions via the chat feature.

To request an accommodation to participate in a Virtual Capitol Tour, please email your request to  [email protected]   at least 48 hours before your scheduled tour.

An official website of the United States government

Here’s how you know

Official websites use .gov A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock ( Lock Locked padlock icon ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

U.S. Capitol Visitor Center

Take a tour of the historic Capitol, where you can see the Crypt of the Capitol, the Rotunda, and National Statuary Hall.

Phone number

1-202-226-8000

Main address

Have a question.

Ask a real person any government-related question for free. They will get you the answer or let you know where to find it.

How Do I Tour the U.S. Capitol and See Congress in Session?

Learn all you need to know about visiting and touring america’s center of democracy..

UPDATE: The U.S. Capitol Visitor Center is open Monday-Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. All tours are free and are led by professional tour guides and do not include the Senate and House Galleries. The tour route is subject to change. Note that advance reservations are required for a tour. Visitors enter through the Capitol Visitor Center, located underground on the east side of the Capitol. Please leave time to go through security and review the U.S. Capitol’s prohibited items list before your visit.

The U.S. Capitol Building is one of the most recognizable buildings in the world and the center of American democracy. The world-famous domed building is home to the United States House of Representatives and Senate; where America’s congressmen and congresswomen conduct business, debate laws and pass bills on behalf of the American people. The U.S. Capitol and U.S. Capitol Visitor Center  is also one of DC’s most popular monuments and museums and welcomes millions of visitors each year.

Tour groups in United States Capitol Building Rotunda - Attractions and landmarks in Washington, DC

How do I arrange a tour of the United States Capitol Building?

Plan your visit in advance! A public tour of the U.S. Capitol is free and open to anyone who makes an advanced reservation, although there are some same-day tickets available by standing in line at the U.S. Capitol Visitors Center (note that lines will be long during spring and summer).  We recommend reserving a  reserving a tour date and time .

All tours begin and end at the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center, open Monday-Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (except Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s Day and Inauguration Day).  Tours typically take about 90 minutes and are  fully accessible for people with disabilities.

What will I see on a Capitol tour?

Guided tours begin with a 13-minute intro film, followed stops in the Capitol Rotunda, where guides point out the center point of the District of Columbia, as well as demonstrate the unique acoustical effect where a speaker several yards away can be heard more clearly than a speaker close to the listener. The Capitol Dome is encircled by murals, and the fresco on the eye of the ceiling is called The Apotheosis of Washington showing President Washington rising to the heavens in glory with Liberty and Victory/Fame beside him. Below, on the walls of the Rotunda, are large paintings depicting significant events in American history: The Signing of the Declaration of Independence, The Baptism of Pocohontas, The Embarkation of the Pilgrims, The Landing of Columbus and General George Washington Resigning His Commission. Other stops on the 45-minute walking tour include the Crypt, National Statuary Hall and connecting corridors of the U.S. Capitol, where you’ll see statues representing every state

Can I see Congress in session?

The guided tour doesn't include the Senate and House galleries. However, visitors can obtain free passes through their congressmen to view both chambers when Congress is in session. International visitors can ask about gallery passes at the House and Senate Appointment Desks on the upper level of the Capitol Visitor Center. When Congress is not in session, the galleries are open to the public Monday-Friday from 9 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. However, viewing hours are subject to change and are not always the same for the House and Senate galleries. You can check the schedules with your Congressional office when requesting gallery passes. Read more information about  watching Congress in session  and viewing the House and Senate galleries.

@paddyleahy

What’s in the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center?

You’ll find a cafeteria and gift shop in the Capitol Visitor Center. The gift shop carries merchandise inspired by the art and architecture of the U.S. Capitol. The restaurant is open Monday through Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. for continental breakfast and lunch from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. If you haven’t printed your tour reservation, bring along the number you were assigned. There are free listening devices in multiple languages for international visitors.

How do I get to the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center?

Because there is very little parking, it is best to travel via the  Metro or the DC Circulator. There are three Metro stops within walking distance of the U.S. Capitol: Union Station (Red Line), Capitol South and Federal Center SW (Orange, Silver and Blue lines). The Capitol Visitor Center, which serves as the main public entrance, is located beneath the East Front plaza of the U.S. Capitol at First and East Capitol streets.

Looking for more in the neighborhood? Take advantage of  our guide to Capitol Hill .

More About DC

You may also like..

Things to Do May 2024 in Washington, DC

Things to Do June 2024 in Washington, DC

Things to Do September 2024 in Washington, DC

DC News Now | Washington, DC

Paris Hilton shares powerful testimony on protecting children during visit to Capitol Hill

by: Jordan Connell

Posted: Jun 26, 2024 / 01:59 PM EDT

Updated: Jun 26, 2024 / 01:59 PM EDT

WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) – Paris Hilton was on Capitol Hill Wednesday to advocate for child welfare reform during a hearing before the House Ways and Means Committee.

“I’m here to be the voice for the children whose voices can’t be heard,” Hilton said during prepared testimony. “If you are a child in the system, hear my words. I see you. I believe you. I know what you’re going through, and I won’t give up on you.”

The reality TV star has been an advocate for protecting foster care children in recent years and has detailed the alleged abuse she suffered as a teenager at several residential treatment facilities.

“While my experience was not through the foster care system, I know from personal experience the harm that is caused by being placed in youth residential treatment facilities,” Hilton said. “These programs promise healing, growth and support but instead, did not allow me to speak, move freely or even look out a window for two years.”

During her opening statement, Hilton shared stories of children she said suffered abuse and even died while in these types of facilities.

“Why can’t we as a society see that these kids are hurting?” Hilton asked. “They need love and kindness, not beatings and restraints.”

According to the House Ways and Means Committee, there are currently 34,000 foster care youth living in residential treatment facilities.

“From my own experience, it has caused me severe post-traumatic stress disorder and trauma that I will have for the rest of my life,” Hilton said.

The hearing was focused on strengthening child welfare programs through the reauthorization of Title IV-B.

Since 2023, Hilton has also advocated for the Stop Institutional Child Abuse Act. The legislation, which has bipartisan support, would create more transparency within youth facilities and provide guidelines to states to prevent abuse.

How to protect yourself from wildfire smoke at home

Wildfires have left many Americans impacted by poor air quality. Clear your home and keep yourself safe with these tips and products.

Women’s lightweight joggers for summer to help you …

Women’s joggers let you bend and stretch from the moment you wake up. They’re perfect for exercise, lounging and everything in between.

This outdoor pizza oven and smokeless fire pit are …

This outdoor pizza oven and smokeless fire pit are two of the hottest outdoor products of the season.

Thanks for signing up!

Watch for us in your inbox.

Subscribe Now

Trending Stories

Police: 117+ mph, fake plates land driver in jail, gordon ramsay hands out pizza, high five at street …, hearing on fmr. dc deputy mayor’s sexual harassment …, dc high school student wins ‘doodle for google’, dc news now live stream, gas-powered leaf blower sales ban starts in july, multiple homes in potomac evacuated due to gas leak, 3 virginia bills going into effect in july, music review: johnny cash’s ‘songwriter,’ a collection …, ‘annie’s way’ sign unveiled honoring dc lgbtq advocate, bestreviews.com - top picks to make everyone happy, amazon announces prime day will return july 16 and …, viral tiktok products on sale for prime day, best prime day home deals 2024, our diy expert weighs in on the best father’s day …, best prime day electronics deals 2024, best prime day kitchen and cookware deals 2024.

The 30 best things to do in D.C. this weekend and next week

Some of the area’s top festivals and events return, including Smithsonian Solstice Saturday, Home Rule Music Fest, the Barbecue Battle and Shakespeare in the Parks.

This weekend sees the return of an array of festivals and special events. The Smithsonian’s Solstice Saturday celebrates the longest day of the year by keeping some museums open until midnight with special tours, events and even an arcade. Alexandria’s Portside festival gears up for the city’s 275th birthday with music, beer gardens and family fun. The Embassy of France opens its doors for the annual Fête de la Musique concert, but more than 40 other artists are performing across Georgetown. The 32nd Barbecue Battle brings irresistible aromas and catchy music to the streets of downtown. In new attractions, the Folger Shakespeare Library celebrates its grand reopening, and while timed-entry tickets have been claimed for Friday, the building is open throughout the weekend.

Editor’s note : This weekend’s dangerous heat wave has led to the postponement of some events, including the Boot ’N Scoot at Hi-Lawn . If you’re planning to enjoy an outdoor festival or other activity this weekend, check social media for updates, and stay cool and hydrated regardless.

Friday, June 21

Home Rule Music Festival

Wild to think that D.C.’s annual Home Rule Music Festival — which celebrates homegrown jazz and go-go traditions that date back generations — is only on its third summer. And to add to the time-warping fun of it all, this year’s fest unfolds in episodes. An opening-night gig will be followed by a full day of outdoor music in June. Then jump ahead a full month for another day-long dance party in July. Expect appearances from a spate of spiritual jazz heroes (Idris Ackamoor and the Pyramids; the New Doug Carn Sextet; Plunky and Oneness of Juju), plus a constellation of go-go troupes (Rare Essence; Black Alley; Be’la Dona). The outdoor events also promise family-friendly games, plus vendors peddling food, drinks and records. Friday at 7 p.m. at the Black Cat, $40-$50 ; Saturday at the Parks at Walter Reed, free-$150 ; July 20 at Alethia Tanner Park, free-$75 .

Portside in Old Town Summer Festival

July marks the city of Alexandria’s 275th anniversary, and this milestone is naturally part of the celebration during Old Town’s annual summer waterfront festival. Local brewery Port City Brewing Company is serving a commemorative hoppy IPA, dubbed ALX275, that was brewed with 275 pounds of hops. Port City beers are available, as well as drinks from Lost Boy Cider and Virginia’s Horton Vineyards, while local businesses like Rocklands Barbeque and Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana are slinging food. Saturday’s events have been canceled because of the heat, but Friday still brings the ALX Jazz Fest @ Portside, featuring verse from local poets in between sets by bands like the Lovejoy Group, Brandon Woody’s UPENDO and Kokayi. Try your hand at lawn games and art projects, including activities inspired by the 275th anniversary. 6 to 9 p.m. Free .

Clipper Race Fleet Week at the Wharf

After more than 10 months at sea, the teams from the Clipper Round the World yacht race arrive in Washington for Clipper Race Fleet Week at the Wharf. This marks the first time D.C. is serving as a port for the race, which covers 40,000 nautical miles while circumnavigating the globe, and this is the only East Coast stop for the 11 teams. The public is invited to a spate of free events, including yacht tours and live entertainment, and to learn what it takes to sail around the world. On Tuesday evening, the event concludes with the parade of sail and a fireworks display as the teams set off for Britain on the final leg of the race. Friday from 5 to 9 p.m., Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Tuesday from 7 to 10 p.m. Free .

Fête de la Musique at the French Embassy and throughout Georgetown

World Music Day, which originated in France four decades ago as a day to celebrate free, live music in communities, comes to the French Embassy and outdoor venues across Georgetown on Friday. At the embassy, three stages offer a variety of genres, plus dancing and drinks available for purchase. Highlights include the French Choir of Washington and German percussionist Christian Benning in the embassy’s auditorium, the Magnolia Hungarian Folk Band and Baltimore Swing Drop in the ballroom, and the alt-pop Smooth City and French DJ Escandaleux in the Place Charles de Gaulle. The embassy recommends arriving early and to expect lines. If the embassy is at capacity, you can still catch live music at Georgetown Waterfront Park, Book Hill Park, the Sandlot Georgetown and other venues throughout the neighborhood. 5 to 10 p.m. Free.

Midsommar at Electric Cool-Aid

Summer solstice festivals are a big deal in Nordic countries: When you’ve survived a dark, bleak winter, having daylight for 18 hours a day (or more) is a reason to celebrate. Electric Cool-Aid channels its best Swedish self to welcome the solstice, with flower crowns; Absolut vodka drinks; Swedish fish; and a playlist heavy on Robyn, Abba and songs produced by Max Martin (so Katy AND Taylor?) at the Shaw beverage garden. The fun begins “after sunset.” Free .

Atlas Brew Works arrives in Alexandria

The next step in Atlas Brew Works’ plans for regional beer domination begins this weekend, as the Ivy City-based brewery opens a 6,000-square-foot brewpub and taproom in Alexandria’s Carlyle Crossing development, a short walk from the Eisenhower Avenue Metro station. While actual brewing won’t begin for a few weeks, the taproom has 16 draft lines, pinball machines, a “sun-soaked patio” (per its press release) and a branch of the award-winning local Andy’s Pizza. Through Sunday, Atlas offers a free slice of pizza with the purchase of a pint of beer. Open at 11 a.m. daily.

Saturday, June 22

Smithsonian Solstice Saturday

This weekend brings the longest Saturday of the year, both in terms of the amount of daylight (14 hours, 53 minutes, 47 seconds) and the hours the Smithsonian is open. The annual Solstice Saturday is a chance to explore the museums after hours with free activities for visitors of all ages. Sally’s Night at the Air and Space Museum honors Sally Ride with planetarium shows, trivia challenges and hands-on science experiments until 11 p.m. (Tickets are required.) The Arts and Industries Building turns into a glow-in-the-dark arcade with classic games and immersive music until 11 p.m. Artists from across the European Union join forces for sound performances and interactive music at the Hirshhorn, where indoor exhibitions are open until 10 p.m. Little ones who can’t make it until midnight can visit American History during the day for a festival celebrating Latin music with story time and dance lessons. And at the National Museum of African American History and Culture, where no passes are required after 4 p.m., you can explore the “Afrofuturism” exhibit, which is scheduled to close Aug. 18. Closing times vary by museum. Free; some events require advance tickets .

Folger Shakespeare Library reopening weekend

The multiyear renovation of Folger Shakespeare Library’s historic building is finally complete: The Folger officially opens its doors to the public Friday at 1 p.m., and while timed entry passes for the first day have all been claimed, tickets remain available for this weekend and through the end of September. Extra gallery guides will be on hand during the opening weekend in the exhibition halls, Reading Room, theater and gardens to help visitors as they explore the revitalized museum and library. Other opening weekend festivities include games for kids, live music, and a live painting session with artist and scenic designer Matthew J. Keenan. Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. $15 suggested donation per person .

32nd annual Giant Barbecue Battle

More than 150 free food samples await at the 32nd annual Barbecue Battle, a festival and Washington tradition that turns Pennsylvania Avenue into a massive block party. All sorts of brands from Oscar Mayer to Takis set up shop, doling out food and product samples from multiple pavilions, while crowds can watch pitmasters from across the country compete in various barbecue competitions. (In a nod to local cuisine, there’s even a contest crowning the best mumbo sauce.) Other entertainment throughout the weekend includes a Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog eating contest; BMX and skateboarding freestyle exhibitions; and live performances from musicians including DuPont Brass Band, the Chuck Brown Band, Jimmie’s Chicken Shack and White Ford Bronco. Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. $20-$225 .

Out and About Festival at Wolf Trap

Ever go to a music festival just to hear one song? I did once. It was the Trillectro festival in 2018 to hear Sheck Wes do “Mo Bamba.” Fun experiment, for sure. How will three minutes of music stand against a whole day of it? If this sounds like your idea of a good time, get yourself a ticket to the Out and About Festival, where Sonic Youth co-founder Kim Gordon will almost certainly perform “Bye Bye,” a noisy new rap-like anthem so artful, so intense, so important-feeling, she played it twice during her set at the Black Cat in March. And there are plenty of other good reasons to attend Out and About. Billed as “a celebration of LGBTQ+ talent and allies,” the festival will also host performances from Brittany Howard, Jenny Lewis, Lawrence, Tiny Habits, Quinn Christopherson, Okan and Be Steadwell. 3 p.m. $49-$89 .

Annapolis Juneteenth Parade

The fourth Juneteenth Festival in Annapolis starts with a parade from St. John’s College down West Street to Maryland Hall, with floats, marching bands, and groups passing performances at multiple locations, including the People’s Park and Westgate Circle. The festival begins at 1 p.m. at the Bates Athletic Complex, with plenty of live music — gospel, smooth jazz, R&B, go-go — on multiple stages, games, food vendors, and a fireworks show. Noon to 9 p.m. Free .

Songbyrd Summer So(u)lstice Celebration

The NoMa venue marks the longest Saturday of the year with a six-hour free show that stretches from day to night. Catch local performers like headliners the Crystal Casino Band and Makeup Girl, and stick around for the ticketed after-party — Nordista Freeze is DJing a set of ’90s alternative from 11 p.m. to 3 a.m. Tickets to the after-party are $13. 5 to 11 p.m. Free .

Caribbean Culture Concert at Freedom Plaza

In honor of Caribbean American Heritage Month, this seven-hour celebration on Freedom Plaza includes calypso by the Image Band, reggae from Baltimore’s Strykers Posse, the Pan Masters Steelband Organization, dance performances, poetry and storytelling. 2 to 9 p.m. Free .

Pride Family Day at Glen Echo Park

Glen Echo’s fourth Family Pride Day features free carousel rides (while supplies last), live music for all ages by Rachel Eddy and Em Hammond, hands-on arts and crafts activities, temporary tattoos, and a backdrop for family portraits. Discounted tickets for the park’s aquarium and theaters are also available. 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Free; $10 suggested donation .

Alexandria Pride Bar Crawl

Seven Old Town Alexandria bars offer discounted drinks and food Saturday evening to raise money for Safe Space NOVA, a nonprofit supporting LGBTQ+ youth in Northern Virginia. Check in at Alexandria Bier Garden between 4 and 6 p.m., then get crawling to bars including Hen Quarter ($8 cocktails and frozen margaritas, $12 sliders, wings and other snacks), the Light Horse ($5 woo-woo shots and beers), and Augie’s Mussel House ($11 cocktails, $2 off beers). The after-party at Chadwicks begins at 10 p.m. with $5 green tea shooters and cans of Three Notch’d hazy IPA. Twenty percent of ticket sales benefit charity. 4 p.m. to midnight. $20-$25 .

Splash Into Pride Pool Party at Generator Hotel

The Pride parade and festival are over, but celebrations continue in Dupont Circle. The Generator hotel-slash-hostel hosts an afternoon-long party with a DJ on its private pool deck. Tickets include two drinks. Noon to 8 p.m. $25 .

Chinatown Park Festival

The Mayor’s Office on Asian and Pacific Islander Affairs organized this lunchtime festival in Chinatown Park, promising live music and dance performances, martial arts demonstrations, face painting, hands-on arts and crafts, a clothing swap, and other activities to celebrate Immigrant Heritage Month. 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Free .

Guided tour: African Americans at Congressional Cemetery

Graves at the historic Congressional Cemetery tell the story of African Americans in Washington, from weathered markers remembering men and women born into slavery to the final resting place of “Mayor for Life” Marion Barry Jr. Join a cemetery docent for a guided walking tour of the graves of Black Washingtonians from all walks of life, dating back before the Civil War. 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. $5 .

Happy Daze Clothing Swap at Dock 5

Union Market’s warehouse space is the venue for a massive clothing swap, where you can find secondhand vintage clothing and accessories while sustainably clearing your own closet. Bring up to 20 items (note: no event T-shirts) to display while you shop. Leftover clothing will be donated to So What Else, a Maryland nonprofit. Noon to 3 p.m. Free.

Shaed at the Atlantis

Shaed is its own community in microcosm, a family band that pairs twins Max and Spencer Ernst with vocalist Chelsea Lee (who is married to Spencer). The D.C.-born band whistled its way from a MacBook commercial to streaming and chart success with the moody electro-pop hit “Trampoline,” but after a pandemic and the birth of Chelsea and Spencer’s daughter, it’s refocused on the forthcoming “Spinning Out.” From the early singles, the trio’s sophomore album promises breezy ballads and bops and plenty of sun-kissed, streamlined pop. 6:30 p.m. $30 .

Sunday, June 23

Shakespeare in the Parks opening night

This is a big weekend for Shakespeare: The Folger Shakespeare Library celebrates its grand reopening on Friday (see Saturday’s listing), and the annual Shakespeare in the Parks begins its annual tour through Prince George’s and Montgomery counties. New artistic director Randy Snight directs a production of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” which runs for two hours, including intermission. After opening in Bowie’s Fairwood Community Park , performances move to the historic Ridgeley Rosenwald School in Capitol Heights (Tuesday) and Greenbelt Park (Thursday). Brookside Gardens and Fort Washington Park are among sites hosting Theseus, Hippolyta and the fairies before the season wraps up at the Publick Playhouse on July 14. Picnics and lawn chairs are welcome. Most shows begin at 7:30 p.m. Locations vary. Free .

Nikole Hannah-Jones at Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library

In honor of Juneteenth weekend, Pulitzer Prize-winning author Nikole Hannah-Jones is in conversation about the 1619 Project, which launched five years ago. She’s joined by author and Well-Read Black Girl founder Glory Edim. The ticket price includes a signed book copy. 3 to 4:30 p.m. $29.

American Outlaws Copa Am é rica viewing party at Astro Beer Hall

We’re in the midst of the “Summer of Soccer,” with European powerhouses battling in the European Championship and the best teams in North and South America set to square off in the Copa América. The United States is hosting the latter tournament , and its first match is against Bolivia in Texas on Sunday evening. In the D.C. area, the best place for American fans to watch is downtown’s Astro Beer Hall, home of the drum-banging, always-chanting American Outlaws supporters group. Arrive early to make sure you have a beer in hand at kickoff. 6 p.m. Free .

Parallax Scrolls at Galaxy Hut

Live music was a staple at Galaxy Hut before the pandemic, but everyone’s favorite cozy Arlington watering hole has been focused on vegan food and delicious craft beers instead of live entertainment over the last few years. That changes this weekend: Sundays will now be given over to “experimental/electronic-type stuff,” according to a post on the Hut’s social media. Fittingly, the first artist featured is Parallax Scrolls, the synthwave/8-bit project by Galaxy Hut owner Lary Hoffman. Older D.C. fans might remember Hoffman’s group the Aerialist; Parallax Scrolls is definitely more toward the vintage electronic end of the spectrum, sometimes veering into frenetic chiptune. ( Take a free listen to the album on Bandcamp.) Stay tuned: DJs and indie rock bands could return to the bar “at some point.” 9 p.m. $10 .

Storybox Comics Fair at Third Hill Brewing Co.

More than a dozen DMV-based comics artists are bringing their work to the Silver Spring brewery for an afternoon celebrating local art and artists. Grab a beer while touring their booths, or join a workshop or craft session hosted by artists. Noon to 4 p.m. $10.

Pride Party at Morris American Bar

DJ Alex Love and drag queen Petya are featured at Morris American Bar’s Pride Party, which promises to put the focus on themed cocktails. Reservations are suggested. 5 p.m. to midnight. Free .

Tuesday, June 25

A Toast to the Boogie: Art in the Name of Funk(adelic)

George Clinton’s Parliament popularized the term “Chocolate City” with its 1975 album of the same name, a tribute to D.C. that used a nickname coined by local DJs . D.C. still loves Clinton, and the feeling is mutual. The founder of P-Funk is honored with a new exhibit at the D.C. Commission on the Arts and Humanity’s gallery near Canal Park, titled “A Toast to the Boogie: Art in the Name of Funk(adelic).” Works by 20 local artists, including Mingering Mike, Auguster Williams, Anna U Davis and Ronald “Stozo” Edwards are featured alongside original memorabilia and pieces inspired by funk and futurism. Clinton will be at the gallery for the opening reception, where entry is on a first-come, first-served basis. 7 to 9 p.m. Free .

Pride Drag Bingo at Starr Hill

Starr Hill’s biergarten-in-the-sky in Tysons is usually the kind of place you go to drink beers and listen to Americana or cover bands ( see Saturday’s schedule ) after work or a round of mini-golf. But this week, to celebrate Pride, Starr Hill brings Logan Stone and Crimsyn to host an all-ages edition of drag bingo. Early arrival is suggested. 6 p.m. Free .

Wednesday, June 26

Smithsonian Folklife Festival

We know, we know. The brutality of the summer heat and the density of the tourist throng are two formidable strikes against this absolute gem of a festival, but year after year, Folklife’s celebration of “contemporary living cultural traditions” remains worth the sweat. This year’s theme is Indigenous Voices of the Americas, and it includes an exciting slate of musical performances — the Mi’kmaw music traditions of Sons of Membertou, Mixtec group Pasatono Orquesta, Guatemalan singer-songwriter Sara Curruchich and more. Yes, it’ll most likely be hot, and, yes, it’ll probably be crowded, but you will hear the world differently. Daily through July 1. Free .

Pizza Time and Gin Mare Cocktails at the Betsy

What goes together as well as a refreshing gin cocktail and a slice of pizza? Find out at the Betsy, the rooftop “gin garden” above Belga Cafe on Barracks Row. This tasting features Spain’s Gin Mare, created with Spanish olives, basil and thyme for a taste profile that’s more herbaceous and less juniper-forward than some popular American and English gins. Cocktails by a Gin Mare brand ambassador are paired with pizza from Belga Cafe chef (and Betsy owner) Bart Vandaele. 6 to 8 p.m. $67 .