There are events in Washington DC that you will regret missing if you don't mark them on your calendar in advance.

Due to its status as the federal capital, DC is a city where nationwide events are concentrated. While this is attractive for tourists, residents need to be aware and prepared in advance, or parking, transportation, and accommodations can become chaotic. Here's a chronological list of major annual events.

The first event to mention is the National Cherry Blossom Festival. It takes place every year from late March to early April, lasting about 2 to 3 weeks. This is the time when 3,000 cherry trees around the tidal basin bloom simultaneously, with the peak bloom depending on weather conditions. During this period, the National Mall sees a significant increase in tourists, and metro usage also rises sharply. Residents should know in advance that they should avoid driving during this time. Parades, fireworks, and cultural events are held, including performances from the Korean community.

The Independence Day celebration on July 4th is the largest in the nation, held in DC. The fireworks display on the National Mall is organized directly by the federal government, and scenes featuring the Washington Monument and the Capitol are featured in American media every year. There is a parade in the morning, and the evening fireworks start around 9 PM. Parking is virtually impossible, and the metro is crowded. Many residents prefer to secure a spot early or enjoy the day from home.

The Smithsonian Folklife Festival takes place every year from late June to early July for two weeks on the National Mall. This event allows attendees to experience traditional cultures, foods, and performances from various countries and regions, and admission is free. Korean culture has been featured as a theme country, with active participation from the Korean community. It can be understood as a nationwide folk culture fair. Since it can be hot, early morning or evening times are recommended.

In October, the Marine Corps Marathon is held. It takes place on the last Sunday of October and is a large-scale marathon with about 30,000 participants. It starts at the Iwo Jima Memorial and includes iconic locations in DC such as the National Mall and the Potomac River. There is no entry fee, and it offers spectacular sights just for spectators. If you wish to participate, registration is done by lottery, so you need to apply in advance.

At the end of the year, the National Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony is held in front of the White House Ellipse. This event, attended by the President, takes place in early December. Afterward, small trees representing each state are installed around the main tree until early January. Admission is free, but tickets are required on the day of the lighting ceremony. The presidential inauguration, which occurs every four years in January, brings security levels and crowds in DC to unprecedented levels. Residents tend to avoid going out during inauguration years.

If you live in DC and are completely unaware of these events, it can be hard to understand why the roads suddenly become congested and the metro is delayed. By familiarizing yourself with the annual calendar, you can adjust your plans or appointments around those dates. The Destination DC website has a list of major annual events, so it's a good idea for newcomers to check it out.