There are so many things I love about living in Washington, DC, and that includes the plethora of things to do in the summertime. In fact, there are too many fun events and activities around the city to possibly do them all, but I think that’s a good problem to have. I love having something fun, new, and social to look forward to after work, especially when the days are long and sun is out for so many more hours.

Some of my favorite summer evening activities around the city are…

1. Jazz in the Sculpture Garden

Every Friday (between Memorial Day & Labor Day) in the Smithsonian Sculpture Garden – it seems like every twenty-something in the city flocks here Friday afternoon once work is over. I love the busyness, the live jazz music, the views (Capitol, fountain, National Archives, etc), picnics with friends, and the sangria, of course!

2. Movies in the park

Every night of the week, all around the city, different neighborhoods play great movies. Check out your local movie night (or try a new neighborhood around the city!) for a screen on the green… and try out the food trucks nearby, too!

3.  A couple weeks ago, we had a picnic (of course!) and saw a free performance of Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing at a park in Georgetown. It was a great show – vivacious acting, a beautiful setting, sparkly costumes, and a delicious picnic with dear friends. You never know what you can stumble across every evening of the summer!

4. Sunsets from a rooftop.

I love finding a good sunset! There are tons of rooftop events, bars, and activities around the city, and the views are mesmerizing. Definitely take the time to marvel at a summertime sunset!

5. The Kennedy Center

There are free performances every single evening at 6pm, and everyone in DC should take advantage of this! We (attempted) to see a free performance of John Legend (!!) at the Kennedy Center a couple weeks ago… we waited in line for several hours before realizing we’d never make it inside for his show. But there are always great rooftop terrace views nearby + delicious restaurants!

6. Shows/concerts

The Birchmere, in Alexandria, VA, had an amazing show that I loved! Brendan James is pretty much my all-time favorite singer, and he was on tour with Andy Grammer. Tickets were pretty inexpensive, the venue was great, and the music was incredible!! I loved being able to see Brendan again in concert, and I was finally able to meet him! You never know what can come of a good summer show.

And, of course, I love a good night of watching The Bachelor, playing tennis, or enjoying a casual dinner party, too!

What are your favorite summertime evening activities in your city?