Yahoo is using AI to generate takeaways from this article. This means the info may not always match what’s in the article. Reporting mistakes helps us improve the experience.

Yahoo is using AI to generate takeaways from this article. This means the info may not always match what’s in the article. Reporting mistakes helps us improve the experience.

Yahoo is using AI to generate takeaways from this article. This means the info may not always match what’s in the article. Reporting mistakes helps us improve the experience. Generate Key Takeaways

President Donald Trump announced Tuesday that he will kick off his Independence Day weekend by traveling to Iowa on Thursday for “a very special event, honoring our Great Country.”

“I am thrilled to announce that I will be traveling to one of my favorite places in the World, beautiful Iowa, on Thursday, July 3rd, to kick off the very beginning of our exciting Celebration of America’s 250th Anniversary!” Trump posted to Truth Social Tuesday afternoon.

“Iowa voted for me THREE TIMES, because they love my Policies for our Wonderful Farmers and Small Businesses, and they LOVE AMERICA! This will be a very special event, honoring our Great Country, and our Brave Heroes who fought to keep us FREE,” he continued, and included a link for people to RSVP. “I’ll also tell you some of the GREAT things I’ve already done on Trade, especially as it relates to Farmers. You are going to be very happy with what I say — Should be a BIG Crowd!”

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The event is slated to be held at the Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines and is scheduled to begin at 7:30 p.m. Central Time, according to the event’s website.

Trump White House Releases Video Series Leading Up To America’s 250Th Birthday: ‘Road To Independence’

President Donald Trump is expected to travel to Iowa Thursday to kick off the holiday weekend celebrating America’s independence.

“This special event serves as the magnificent start of a dynamic, year-long commemoration across our beautiful country, unveiling a vision for a renewed commitment to America’s future,” Monica Crowley, the principal media representative for America250, said in a press release previewing the event.

Read On The Fox News App

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Trump To Host Military Parade To Celebrate Army’s 250Th Birthday, Honor Active-duty Service Members, Veterans

The 250th anniversary of American independence will be held on July 4, 2026, with Trump repeatedly touting his administration will plan a year of patriotic events celebrating the anniversary.

The president’s upcoming trip to Iowa follows the Senate passing Trump’s “one big, beautiful bill” Tuesday afternoon, which is a massive piece of legislation that works to advance Trump’s agenda on taxes, immigration, energy, defense and the national debt.

President Donald Trump and first Lady Melania celebrating the 4th of July from the White House during Trump’s first term.

Trump was alerted to the news during a roundtable while visiting the Florida Everglades to tour a new illegal immigrant detention center, celebrating the news in separate Truth Social posts shortly after.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

“Our Country is going to explode with Massive Growth, even more than it already has since I was Re-Elected. Between the Growth, this Bill, our Tariffs, and more, “THE ONE, BIG, BEAUTIFUL BILL” sets the United States down a fiscal path by greatly reducing our Federal Deficit, and setting us on course for enormous Prosperity in the new and wonderful Golden Age of America,” Trump wrote on Truth Social on Tuesday afternoon. “To my GOP friends in the House: Stay UNITED, have fun, and Vote “YAY.” GOD BLESS YOU ALL!”

Original article source: Trump announces he will kick off Independence Day weekend with ‘very special’ patriotic event

Drivers heading to Downtown D.C. next week should prepare for widespread road closures around Trump’s inauguration and events tied into the transition of power. Here’s what you need to know.

Editor’s Note: Last-minute plans to move some inauguration events indoors due to weather has caused changes and updates to these road closures. This story will be updated as WTOP gets more information.

Drivers heading to Downtown D.C. should prepare for extensive road closures around Donald Trump’s inauguration and events tied into the transition of power. Here’s what you need to know.

A rally at Capital One arena Sunday kicked off inauguration festivities, which also include a prayer service at the National Cathedral Tuesday and a swanky ball or two.

For more about the latest on the inauguration proceedings, visit WTOP’s Inauguration FAQ.

Those events come with road closures, parking restrictions and Metro service changes; D.C. government shared a list of the affected roadways and train lines.

Officials said the closures, along with their timing, could be changed.

There will be signage indicating where parking is restricted — anyone who parks in those zones risks being ticketed and towed.

For the latest on possible roadway impacts, visit WTOP’s Traffic tool or listen for updates on the 8s.

Tap to jump to a section of closures:

Weekend before Inauguration

Some road closures started Saturday morning.

For people planning to drive near the National Mall, the White House and the U.S. Capitol on Saturday, traffic will remain open for east-to-west travel on Constitution and Independence avenues. To drive across the National Mall, north-to-south travel will remain open on 7th, 9th, 14th and 17th streets.

As of Saturday night, garages and alleyways may be blocked with concrete barricades within the fenced perimeter from:

Pennsylvania Avenue NW to F Street NW, between 9th Street NW and 15th Street NW may be blocked with concrete barricades.

Pennsylvania Avenue NW to D Street NW, between 1st Street NW and 9th Street NW.

Constitution Avenue NW to Pennsylvania Avenue NW, between 6th Street NW and 15th Street NW.

D Street SW to Independence Avenue SW, between 3rd Street SW and 6th Street SW.

Constitution Avenue NW to H Street NW, between 17th Street NW and 18th Street NW.

Early Sunday, garages and alleyways outside of the fenced perimeter but within the road closure area were blocked with concrete. All vehicle travel within the pedestrian restricted area is limited.

“Our agents are making notifications to affected business owners and property managers and we are asking for the public’s patience as we fine-tune these security plans,” U.S. Secret Service Washington Field Office Special Agent in Charge Matt McCool said in a statement.

Inauguration Day swearing-in and parade

The Secret Service released a map Saturday showing the latest road closures, following the announcement that the inauguration would move inside the Capitol due to cold weather. New impacts are expected, especially for the Capital One Arena and Chinatown areas.

Areas highlighted in red are “Hard Road Closures” — only open to pedestrian traffic — according to the Secret Service.

Areas highlighted in pink are “Pedestrian-Restricted Zones.” Anyone will be able to enter the pink areas by Pennsylvania Avenue and the National Mall, as long as they go through screening. However, the light pink areas around the Capitol, the Convention Center, Capital One Arena and Union Station are for ticketed guests only, according to police. Ticketholders will be screened, as well.

Areas highlighted in yellow are designated “No Vehicle Access” — the Secret Service said only pedestrians can access these roads.

Green areas will be treated as “Local Traffic Only,” according to police: People who live and work in these areas will be granted permission to enter by law enforcement.

There will be no inaugural parade on Pennsylvania Avenue due to the weather; instead, anyone who wants to watch the motorcade travel from Capital One Arena to the White House will have to enter at designated checkpoints and be subject to screening. The parade has been moved inside Capital One Arena.

All monuments and memorials will be open to the public Monday, except for the Washington Monument, according to the National Park Service.

The following roads will be closed to all traffic from Monday, Jan. 20 at midnight until Tuesday, Jan. 21 at 6 a.m.:

23rd Street from Constitution Avenue NW to Ohio Drive SW

Henry Bacon Drive from Constitution Avenue NW to Lincoln Memorial Circle NW

Daniel French Drive, NW from Lincoln Memorial Circle NW to Independence Avenue SW

17th Street from K Street NW to Independence Avenue SW

Connecticut Avenue from I Street NW to H Street NW

16th Street from K Street NW to H Street NW

Vermont Avenue from I Street NW to H Street NW

15th Street from K Street NW to Independence Avenue SW

Raoul Wallenberg Place from Independence Avenue to Maine Avenue SW

14th Street from K Street NW to D Street SW

13 1/2 Street from Pennsylvania Avenue NW to D Street NW

13th Street from K Street NW to Pennsylvania Avenue NW

13th Street from C Street SW to D Street SW

12th Street from K Street NW to C Street SW

11th Street from G Street NW to Pennsylvania, NW

10th Street from G Street NW to Constitution Avenue NW

9th Street from G Street NW to C Street SW

8th Street from F Street NW to D Street NW

7th Street from G Street NW to Independence Avenue SW

6th Street from G Street NW to C Street SW

5th Street from G Street NW to Indiana Avenue NW

4th Street from G Street NW to Virginia Avenue SW

3rd Street from Massachusetts Avenue NW to D Street SW

2nd Street from F Street NW to D Street SW

2nd Street from Massachusetts Avenue NE to C Street SE

First Street from New Jersey Avenue NW to Washington Avenue SW

New Jersey Avenue from F Street NW to D Street SE

North Capitol Street from Massachusetts Avenue NW to Louisiana Avenue NW

Delaware Avenue from Columbus Circle NE to Constitution Avenue NE

First Street from Columbus Circle NE to C Street SE

L’Enfant Plaza from Independence Avenue SW to Hilton Washington Hotel Entrance

West Basin Drive from Independence Avenue SW to Ohio Drive SW

Parkway Drive from Lincoln Memorial Circle NW to Ohio Drive NW

Pennsylvania Avenue from 18th Street NW to 3rd Street NW

I Street from 18th Street NW to 11th Street NW

H Street from 18th Street NW to 12th Street NW

G Street from 18th Street NW to 12th Street NW

G Street from 4th Street NW to 2nd Street NW

F Street from 18th Street NW to North Capitol Street NW

E Street from 18th Street NW to Columbus Circle NE

New York Avenue from 18th Street NW to 11th Street NW

D Street from 18th Street NW to 17th Street NW

D Street from 14th Street NW to 13 1/2 Street NW

D Street from 9th Street NW to Massachusetts Avenue NE

Indiana Avenue from 7th Street NW to Louisiana Avenue NW

C Street from 18th Street NW to 17th Street NW

C Street from 6th Street NW to 2nd Street NE

Virginia Avenue from 18th Street NW to 17th Street NW

Constitution Avenue from 18th Street NW to 2nd Street NE

East Capitol Street from First Street NE to 2nd Street NE

Louisiana Avenue from Constitution Avenue NW to Columbus Circle NE

Independence Avenue from 23rd Street SW to 3rd Street SE

C Street from 14th Street SW to 12th Street SW

C Street from 6th Street SW to First Street SE

D Street from 4th Street SW to 3rd Street SW

D Street from Washington Avenue SW to First Street SE

Maryland Avenue from 7th Street SW to 2nd Street NE

Maine Avenue from East Basin Drive, SW to Independence Avenue SW

Washington Avenue from Independence Avenue SW to South Capitol Street SE

Madison Drive from 15th Street NW to 3rd Street NW

Jefferson Drive 15th Street SW to 3rd Street SW

Ohio Drive from West Basin Drive SW to Ohio Drive Bridge, SW

These streets will be open to local traffic from Sunday, Jan. 19 at 6 a.m. through Tuesday, Jan. 21 at 6 a.m.

22nd Street from K Street NW to Virginia Avenue NW

22nd Street from C Street NW to Constitution Avenue NW

21st Street from K Street NW to Constitution Avenue NW

20th Street from K Street NW to Virginia Avenue NW

20th Street from C Street NW to Constitution Avenue NW

19th Street from K Street NW to Constitution Avenue NW

18th Street from K Street NW to Constitution Avenue NW

12th Street from C Street SW to Maine Avenue SW

11th Street from K Street NW to G Street NW

10th Street from K Street NW to G Street NW

9th Street from K Street NW to G Street NW

8th Street from I Street NW to G Street NW

7th Street from Massachusetts Avenue NW to G Street NW

7th Street from C Street SW to G Street SW

6th Street from Massachusetts Avenue NW to G Street NW

6th Street from C Street SW to E Street SW

5th Street from Massachusetts Avenue NW to G Street NW

4th Street from Massachusetts Avenue NW to G Street NW

4th Street from Virginia Avenue SW to E Street SW

3rd Street from C Street SW to E Street SW

2nd Street from Massachusetts Avenue NW to F Street NW

New Jersey Avenue from Massachusetts Avenue NW to F Street NW

South Capitol Street from D Street SE to I Street SE

Canal Street from South Capitol Street SE to E Street SE

New Jersey Avenue from D Street SE to E Street SE

First Street from C Street SE to North Carolina Avenue SE

L’Enfant Plaza from 9th Street SW to Hilton Washington Hotel entrance.

I Street from 23rd Street NW to 18th Street NW

I Street from 9th Street NW to Massachusetts Avenue NW

H Street from 23rd Street NW to 18th Street NW

H Street from 12th Street NW to Massachusetts Avenue NW

G Street from 23rd Street NW to 18th Street NW

G Street from 12th Street NW to 4th Street NW

G Street from New Jersey Avenue NW to Massachusetts Avenue NW

F Street from 23rd Street NW to 18th Street NW

E Street from 23rd Street NW to 18th Street NW

E Street from 7th Street SW to New Jersey Avenue SE

New York Avenue from 11th Street NW to 10th Street NW

C Street from 21st Street NW to 18th Street NW

C Street from 3rd Street to 2nd Street NE

C Street from 9th Street SW to 7th Street SW

C Street from 2nd Street SW to First Street SW

D Street from 3rd Street SW to 2nd Street SW

D Street from 2nd Street SW to First Street SW

D Street from 14th Street SW to Virginia Avenue SE

E Street from 7th Street SW to New Jersey Avenue SE

Virginia Avenue from 23rd Street NW to 18th Street NW

Virginia Avenue from 7th Street SW to 3rd Street SW

Constitution Avenue from 23rd Street NW to 18th Street NW

Constitution Avenue from 2nd Street NW to 3rd Street NE

A Street from 3rd Street NE to 2nd Street NE

East Capitol Street from 2nd Street NE to 3rd Street NE

Pennsylvania Avenue from Washington Circle 18th Street NW

School Street from 6th Street SW to 4th Street SW

Frontage Road from 6th Street SW to 12th Street Tunnel entrance

Maryland Avenue from 2nd Street NE to 3rd Street NE

Maine Avenue from 9th Street SW to 14th Street SW

Ivy Street from New Jersey Avenue SE to Canal Street SE

D.C. police said the following streets will be posted as Emergency No Parking through Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2025 at 6 a.m.:

23rd Street from Constitution Avenue NW to Independence Avenue SW

22nd Street from K Street NW to Virginia Avenue NW

22nd Street from C Street NW to Constitution Avenue NW

Henry Bacon Drive from Lincoln Memorial Circle NW to Constitution Avenue NW

Daniel French Drive from Lincoln Memorial Circle SW to Independence Avenue SW

21st Street from K Street NW to Constitution Avenue NW

20th Street from K Street NW to Virginia Avenue NW

20th Street from C Street NW to Constitution Avenue NW

19th Street from K Street NW to Constitution Avenue NW

18th Street from K Street NW to Constitution Avenue NW

17th Street from K Street NW to Independence Avenue SW

Connecticut Avenue from I Street NW to H Street NW

16th Street from K Street NW to H Street NW

Vermont Avenue from I Street NW to H Street NW

15th Street from K Street NW to Independence Avenue SW

Raoul Wallenberg Place from Independence Avenue to Maine Avenue SW

14th Street from K Street NW to D Street SW

13 ½ Street from Pennsylvania Avenue NW to D Street NW

13th Street from K Street NW to Pennsylvania Avenue NW

13th Street from C Street SW to D Street SW

12th Street from K Street NW to Maine Avenue SW

11th Street from K Street NW to Pennsylvania Avenue NW

10th Street from O Street NW to Constitution Avenue NW

9th Street from O Street NW to Constitution Avenue NW

8th Street from O Street NW to N Street NW

8th Street from I Street NW to D Street NW

7th Street from O Street NW to E Street SW

6th Street from Massachusetts Avenue NW to Constitution Avenue NW

6th Street from Independence Avenue SW to E Street SW

5th Street from Massachusetts Avenue NW to Indiana Avenue NW

4th Street from Massachusetts Avenue NW to Indiana Avenue NW

4th Street from Pennsylvania Avenue NW to G Street SW

3rd Street from Massachusetts Avenue NW to E Street SW

2nd Street from Massachusetts Avenue NW to Constitution Avenue NW

2nd Street from Washington Avenue SW to E Street SW

2nd Street from Massachusetts Avenue NE to C Street SE

First Street from New Jersey Avenue NW to Washington Avenue SW

New Jersey Avenue from Massachusetts Avenue NW to Constitution Avenue NW

North Capitol Street from Massachusetts Avenue NW to Louisiana Avenue NW

South Capitol Street from D Street SE to I Street SE

New Jersey Avenue from D Street SE to E Street SE

Delaware Avenue from Columbus Circle NE to D Street NE

First Street from Columbus Circle NE to D Street SE

L’Enfant Plaza from Independence Avenue SW to 9th Street SW

Raoul Wallenberg Place from Independence Avenue SW to Maine Avenue SW

West Basin Drive from Independence Avenue SW to Ohio Drive SW

Parkway Drive from Lincoln Memorial Circle NW to Ohio Drive NW

Massachusetts Avenue from North Capitol Street NE to 3rd Street NE

Massachusetts Avenue from 11th Street NW to 5th Street NW

Pennsylvania Avenue from Washington Circle NW to 1st Street NW

N Street from 11th Street NW to 6th Street NW

M Street from 11th Street NW to 6th Street NW

L Street from 11th Street NW to 6th Street NW

Allen Y. Lew Place from 9th Street NW to 7th Street NW

Mount Vernon Place NW from 9th Street NW to 7th Street NW

K Street from 10th Street NW to 6th Street NW

I Street from 23rd Street NW to Massachusetts Avenue NW

H Street from 23rd Street NW to Massachusetts Avenue NW

G Street from 23rd Street NW to Massachusetts Avenue NW

F Street from 23rd Street NW to North Capitol Street NW

E Street from 23rd Street NW to Columbus Circle NE

New York Avenue from 18th Street NW to 6th Street NW

D Street from 18th Street, NW to 17th Street, NW

D Street from 14th Street NW to 13 ½ Street NW

D Street from 9th Street NW to Massachusetts Avenue NE

Indiana Avenue from 7th Street NW to Louisiana Avenue NW

C Street from 21st Street NW to 17th Street NW

C Street from 6th Street NW to New Jersey Avenue NW

C Street from 3rd Street to 2nd Street NE

Virginia Avenue from 23rd Street NW to Constitution Avenue NW

Constitution Avenue from 23rd Street NW to 3rd Street NE

A Street from 3rd Street NE to 2nd Street NE

East Capitol Street from First Street to 3rd Street NE

Louisiana Avenue from Constitution Avenue NW to Columbus Circle NE

Independence Avenue from 23rd Street SW to 2nd Street SE

C Street from 14th Street SW to 12th Street SW

C Street from 9th Street SW to 2nd Street SE

D Street from 14th Street SW to 2nd Street SE

Maine Avenue from 12th Street to 14th Street, SW

E Street from 7th Street, SW to 2nd Street, SE

Ivy Street from New Jersey Avenue SE to Canal Street SE

Maryland Avenue from 7th Street SW to 3rd Street NE

Virginia Avenue from 7th Street SW to 3rd Street SW

School Street from 6th Street SW to 4th Street SW

Washington Avenue from Independence Avenue SW to E Street SE

Madison Drive 14th Street to 3rd Street NW

Jefferson Drive 14th Street to 3rd Street SW

Ohio Drive from West Basin Drive SW to Ohio Drive Bridge SW

First Street from G Place NE to Massachusetts Avenue NE

G Street from North Capitol Street NW to First Street NE

F Street from 2nd Street NE to Columbus Circle NE

Capital One rally

You can’t drive on these streets on Sunday, Jan. 19 from midnight to 6 p.m.

7th Street from H Street NW to E Street NW

6th Street from H Street NW to E Street NW

5th Street from H Street NW to E Street NW

G Street from 9th Street NW to 7th Street NW

G Street from 6th Street NW to 4th Street NW

F Street from 9th Street NW to 4th Street NW

Inaugural Ball

Convention Center

These streets are closed to traffic on Monday, Jan, 20:

M Street from 9th Street NW to 7th Street NW

L Street from 9th Street NW to 7th Street NW

K Street from 9th Street NW to 7th Street NW

New York Avenue from 10th Street NW to 9th Street NW

9th Street from N Street NW to K Street NW

7th Street from N Street NW to New York Avenue NW

Only local traffic can drive on these roads on Monday, Jan. 20:

N Street from 10th Street NW to 6th Street NW

M Street from 11th Street NW to 9th Street NW

M Street from 7th Street NW to 6th Street NW

L Street from 11th Street NW to 9th Street NW

L Street from 7th Street NW to 6th Street NW

K Street from 11th Street NW to 9th Street NW

K Street from 6th Street NW to 7th Street NW

10th Street from O Street NW to Massachusetts Avenue NW

9th Street from O Street NW to N Street NW

8th Street from O Street NW to N Street NW

7th Street from O Street NW to N Street NW

Union Station

You can’t drive on these roads Monday, Jan. 20:

F Street from 2nd Street NE to Columbus Circle NE

First Street from G Place NE to Columbus Circle NE

These streets are only open to local traffic on Monday, Jan. 20:

G Street from North Capitol Street NE to First Street NE

First Street from K Street NE to G Place NE

These roads are closed to vehicles on Monday, Jan. 20 from 5 p.m. to 11:59 p.m.:

Massachusetts Avenue from North Capitol Street NE to 2nd Street NW

Columbus Circle from E Street NE to First Street NE

National Cathedral prayer service

These streets will be posted as emergency no parking from Saturday, Jan. 18 at midnight through Tuesday, Jan. 21 at 6 p.m.:

Garfield Street from Massachusetts Avenue NW to 34th Street NW

34th Street from Woodley Road NW to Fulton Street NW

Woodley Road from Wisconsin Avenue NW to 34th Street NW

Wisconsin Avenue from Lowell Street NW to Massachusetts Avenue NW

Cathedral Avenue from Massachusetts Avenue NW to Wisconsin Avenue NW

125′ north of Woodley Road NW on 36th Street NW

50′ north of Woodley Road NW on 35th Street and 34th Street NW

50′ east of 34th Street on Woodley Road, Klingle Road, Cleveland Avenue, Cathedral Avenue, and Garfield Street NW

50′ south of Garfield Street on 34th Place 35th Street and 36th Street NW

200′ west of Wisconsin Avenue NW on Woodley Road NW

You can’t drive on these streets on Tuesday, Jan. 21 from midnight to 3 p.m.:

Garfield Street from Massachusetts Avenue NW to 34th Street NW

34th Street from Woodley Road NW to Garfield Street NW

Woodley Road from Wisconsin Avenue NW to 34th Street NW

Wisconsin Avenue from Lowell Street NW to Massachusetts Avenue NW

Cathedral Avenue from Massachusetts Avenue NW to Wisconsin Avenue NW

These streets are only open to local traffic on Tuesday, Jan. 21 from midnight to 3 p.m.:

Garfield Street from 34th Street to 32nd Street NW

Woodland Drive from Garfield Street to 32nd Street NW

33rd Place from Cathedral Avenue to Garfield Street NW

Cleveland Avenue from 34th Street to 32nd Street NW

Cathedral Avenue from 34th Street to 32nd Street NW

Klingle Road from 34th Street to 32nd Street NW

Woodley Road from 33rd Street to 32nd Street NW

34th Street from Macomb Street to Woodley Road NW

35th Street from Lowell Street to Woodley Road NW

36th Street from Lowell Street to Woodley Road NW

Wisconsin Avenue from Macomb Street to Lowell Street NW

Woodley Road from 38th Street to Wisconsin Avenue NW

36th Street from Garfield Street to Massachusetts Avenue NW

35th Street from Garfield Street to Fulton Street NW

34th Place from Garfield Street to Fulton Street NW

34th Street from Garfield Street to Fulton Street NW

Highway closures

These highways and exits will be closed to traffic from Sunday, Jan. 19 at 6 a.m. though Tuesday, Jan. 21 at 6 a.m.:

Eastbound I-395 Exit 1 toward 14th Street / National Mall

Eastbound I-395 HOV exit toward 14th Street / National Mall

Eastbound I-395 Exit 3 toward 12th Street Expressway

Eastbound I-395 Exit 4 toward Maine Avenue

Northbound I-395 toward C Street SW / US Capitol / 3rd Street Tunnel

Westbound I-695 exit toward I-395 North / 3rd Street Tunnel

Northbound South Capitol Street ramp toward I-1395 North / D Street SW, all traffic sent toward I-395 South / Downtown / Richmond

Westbound I-395 Exit 4A & 4B toward Maine Avenue SW / 12th Street NW, all traffic sent toward I-395 South / Richmond

Southbound 9th Street Expressway ramp toward Maine Avenue SW, all traffic sent toward I-395 South / Richmond

Eastbound I-66 / TR Bridge exits toward Constitution Avenue / Downtown and Independence Avenue SW all traffic sent toward E Street then sent toward Whitehurst Freeway

Southbound Potomac River Freeway exits toward Independence Avenue / Maine Avenue / E Street all traffic sent toward I-66 West

Westbound E Street Expressway split toward Potomac River freeway, all traffic sent toward I-6 West

All 3rd Street Tunnel / I-395 exits and entrances from I-695 to New York Avenue NW, with exceptions listed below:

These highway entrances will reopen to traffic on Monday, Jan. 20 at 5 p.m.:

3rd Street Tunnel / Southbound I-395 entrance at 4th Street and New York Avenue NE

3rd Street Tunnel / Southbound I-395 entrance at 4th Street & Massachusetts Avenue NE

This exit will only be open to local traffic from Sunday, Jan. 19 at 6 a.m. through Tuesday, Jan. 21 at 6 a.m.:

Westbound I-395 Exit 5A toward 7th Street SW and 5B toward 6th Street SW

Metro and transit changes

Several changes have been made to the Metro’s original plan, given the inauguration’s move indoors.

Metro will no longer offer increased service Monday: Stations will open at 5 a.m., as usual, and operate on a normal weekday schedule.

Due to the planned events at Capital One Arena, the Gallery Place Metro station will be transfer-only on Sunday and Monday, meaning that passengers can change train lines at the stop but will not be able to enter and exit the station. This is for security reasons, according to the Secret Service.

Metro recommends that customers traveling to Capital One Arena on Sunday and Monday enter and exit via the Metro Center station.

The Yellow Line will not run to Greenbelt, Maryland, as previously planned.

These stations will be closed, to maintain security, from Sunday, Jan. 19 at 8 p.m. until Tuesday, Jan. 21 at 5 a.m.:

McPherson Square (Blue, Orange, Silver lines)

Federal Triangle (Blue, Orange, Silver lines)

Smithsonian (Blue, Orange, Silver lines)

Mt. Vernon Square (Green, Yellow lines)

Archives (Green, Yellow lines)

On Jan. 20, the Pentagon station (Blue, Yellow lines) will be closed.

Some station entrances will be closed from Sunday, Jan. 19 at 8 p.m. until Tuesday, Jan. 21 at 5 a.m.:

Metro Center: 13th and G St. and 12th and F St. entrances

Farragut West: 18th and I St. entrance

Two stations will be temporarily closed during festivities.

At Judiciary Square, the F Street/National Building Museum entrance will close at 4 p.m. on Jan. 19 and will reopen at 5 a.m. on Monday, Jan. 20

At Metro’s Union Station Metrorail Station, the Amtrak/Union Station entrance will be closed from Jan. 19 at 4 p.m. through Jan. 21 at 5 a.m.

The exterior entrances on 1st St NE and on Massachusetts Ave. NE will stay open.

People with tickets to the inauguration will be directed to the closed Metro station: Union Station, Judiciary Square, Capitol South or Federal Center SW.

Organizers warned Metro riders should expect crowds at those nearby stations along with L’Enfant Plaza, Gallery Place, Metro Center, Dupont Circle, Foggy Bottom, Pentagon City, Crystal City and Rosslyn.

DC Streetcar

DC Streetcar will operate on an extended schedule on January 20, with service from 4:00 AM to 12:00 AM. Regular service hours will resume on January 21, 2025.

Metrobus

Some bus routes will be detoured due to the road closures Downtown. Riders taking these routes should plan for the rides to take longer than usual:

3F, 3Y, 7A, 10A, 11Y, 16A, 16C, 16E, 16Y, 22A, 38B, 31, 32, 33, 36, 42, 43, 52, 54, 59, 63, 64, 70, 74, 79, 80, 96, D4, D6, D8, G8, L2, N2, N4, N6, P6, S2, S9, X2, X8 and X9.

The Pentagon Transit Center will be closed on Monday, Jan. 20; Metro said buses and trains will bypass to Pentagon City.

Rideshare / Taxicabs

For Monday, ALL vehicles should expect heightened security and road closures near the U.S. Capitol and other D.C. landmarks.

Union Station will be closed to traffic, including taxicabs, rideshare (Uber and Lyft), limousines, buses, and trains beginning at 5 pm. All incoming bus and train service will be suspended at 4 pm.

The D.C. government has released a list of pick-up/drop-off points closest to the main events.

Rideshare Locations (Updated January 18):

The Wharf: 9th and Maine Ave. SW (South side)​

The Wharf (Additional): 700 Block of 7th St. SW (North side)​

Waterfront Metro Station: 1100 4th Street SW (East and West side)​

McPherson Square Metro/The White House: 1000 Vermont Ave NW (East and West side)​

Union Station: 800 New Jersey Ave NW (East and West side)​

RFK: 1800 Constitution Ave NE (South side)​

Convention Center: 1400 7th Street NW (East and West side)​

WTOP’s Neal Augenstein contributed to this report.

Get breaking news and daily headlines delivered to your email inbox by signing up here.

© 2025 WTOP. All Rights Reserved. This website is not intended for users located within the European Economic Area.

There will be holiday road closures to and around the National Mall for Independence Day fireworks. Metro will also be making July 4 service adjustments.

Moving into a holiday weekend, our region is expected to see a dramatic increase in travel with pandemic restrictions loosening.

There will also be holiday road closures to and around the National Mall for pre-pandemic type fireworks and Independence Day celebrations. Metro will also be making holiday service adjustments, however their shut down continues. Here’s what you need to know:

Roadwork

Throughout our region, roadwork is generally suspended for a long holiday-weekend. That will be the case heading to Sunday’s July 4 celebration planned on the National Mall, as this Independence Day will see a return of fireworks, but also road closures and, of course, crowds to revel in the festivities.

This holiday weekend there is expected to be quite the increase of travelers, beachgoers and yes, the return of congestion to and through our Nation’s Capital. The AAA Mid-Atlantic report is expecting approximately 1.3 million people in our area to travel at least 50 miles from home this weekend.

D.C.

The National Park Service is anticipating a large crowd return to the National Mall this year for the Independence Day Celebration and fireworks display.

Because of that, they will be preparing for the festivities in pre-pandemic style with road and site closures going into place beginning Saturday. These closures will be in conjunction with earlier preparations, which closed Ohio Drive to the south of the Mall earlier this week.

Part of the holiday will include closing some of the memorials around the National Mall. These include the Franklin Delano Roosevelt, World War II, Potomac Park recreation centers and many more before and after the festivities.

Most of the bigger roadways heading toward the National Mall will begin to see closures going into place as well:

The Arlington Memorial Bridge and Circle

Rock Creek Parkway

Constitution and Independence Avenues surrounding the Mall and surface streets leading there

A full list of these closures and times can be found here.

Maryland

This Independence Day weekend should see increased travel to the Eastern Shore. There is rain in the forecast heading into this weekend, which will dictate travel patterns on US-50 crossing the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. There is no two-way travel during inclement weather.

Be sure to stay tuned to WTOP and traffic on the 8s with the latest. Call the Traffic Center with any road hazards or tips to be part of the process at 866-304-WTOP.

The Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) has tips for travelers using US-50 at the Bay Bridge this weekend. Heavier traffic volumes should be expected Thursday toward the weekend, and again Monday with July 4 falling on a Sunday this weekend.

It does urge motorists to stay on US-50 on BOTH sides of the bridge to keep the local roadways open for first responders and residents.

Travel off-peak when heading to and from the Eastern Shore. The best times to travel the Bay Bridge this holiday period include:

Friday, July 2 – before 8 a.m. and after 8 p.m.

Saturday, July 3 – before 6 a.m. and after 8 p.m.

Sunday, July 4 – before 8 a.m. and after 10 p.m.

Monday, July 5 – before 6 a.m. and after 5 p.m.

Metro

Metro will operate from 7 a.m. through 11 p.m. on Saturday, and 8 a.m. through 11 p.m. on Sunday, servicing 87 of the 91 stations for the holiday weekend.

On Saturday there will be normal service on the Red, Blue, Orange and Silver lines with the ongoing Platform Project and shutdown continuing on the Green and Yellow lines.

For Sunday, July 4, Metro plans additional service to accommodate the anticipated crowds for the fireworks display on the National Mall. They do have a service advisory for those using Metro for travel to the Mall for the festivities with specific details and tips.

And, as planned through September, the ongoing Platform Improvement Project on the Green and Yellow lines will continue to close four stations: the West Hyattsville, Prince George’s Plaza, College Park-U of Md and Greenbelt stations.

During this time, there continues to be free shuttle buses provided for customers to/from the closed stations. Check out the shuttle schedules and alternative travel options, parking and bus relocations here.

Weekend service summary:

The Red Line, Blue Line, Orange Line and Silver Line will see normal Saturday service, with additional service on Sunday to accommodate Fourth of July festivities.

Yellow Line: Due to the summer Platform Improvement Project

Trains operate between Huntington and Mt Vernon Sq only.

Travelers to stations north of Mt Vernon Sq should transfer to the Green Line.

Green Line: Trains 15–20

Due to the summer Platform Improvement Project:

Trains operate between Branch Ave and Ft Totten only.

West Hyattsville, Prince George’s Plaza, College Park-U of Md and Greenbelt stations closed.

Free shuttle buses replace trains as follows:

Limited stop service between Greenbelt, College Park- U of Md. and Fort Totten

Limited stop service between Prince George’s Plaza, West Hyattsville and Fort Totten

Local service between Greenbelt, College Park- U of Md. Prince George’s Plaza and West Hyattsville

Under federal law, and for your safety and the safety of others, customers are required to wear cloth face coverings or masks while traveling on Metro.

Summer in DC is just a train ride away

Only-in-DC events, unparalleled museums, world-class dining and neighborhood charm await in the nation’s capital. Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a spontaneous city adventure, Amtrak makes it easy with Flex Fares. Book now – swap later.

Book Now

Powered by Amtrak. Restrictions may apply.

Washington Spirit

Soccer season in Washington, DC

Head to Audi Field to catch four-time MLS Cup winners D.C. United or 2021 NWSL Champion Washington Spirit, which fields some of the best women’s soccer players in the country. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just looking for a high-energy night out, experiencing the electric atmosphere of professional soccer is easy in DC.

Spirit Tickets

D.C. United Tickets

Washington Nationals Baseball: 20th Anniversary Season

The Nats, who have four National League East titles, five postseason appearances and a World Series championship since coming to DC in 2005, are one of the city’s main attractions throughout the spring and summer. Head to Nationals Park to experience MLB action with an exciting schedule, plenty of home runs and, of course, Racing Presidents. The team celebrates its 20th anniversary in the nation’s capital with a year filled with special events. Purchase single-game tickets now and use the code VISITDC for 10% or more off!

Tickets: Use code VISITDC for 10% off

1500 South Capitol Street SE, Washington, DC 20003

The Savannah Bananas – June 27-28

Combining on-field entertainment, hijinks, crazy uniforms, dancing and a whole lot of other funny stuff … including, well, baseball, the Savannah Bananas come to Nationals Park for consecutive nights later this month (Friday and Saturday). This traveling roadshow attracts a lot of attention, so grab tickets as soon as you can, as a sellout is expected.

Tickets

Nationals Park, 1500 South Capitol Street SE, Washington, DC

Picturing the Presidents: Daguerreotypes and Ambrotypes from the National Portrait Gallery’s Collection – Through June 28

In honor of the upcoming presidential election, the National Portrait Gallery displays daguerreotype and ambrotype portraits of eight commanders-in-chief who held the office in the 19th century. The collection includes a rare ambrotype pin from Abraham Lincoln’s first presidential campaign credited with contributing to Lincoln’s 1860 victory. Visitors can also check out a modern daguerreotype that depicts the 2009 inauguration of President Barack Obama.

11:30 a.m. – 7 p.m. | Free Admission

National Portrait Gallery, 8th and G Streets NW, Washington, DC 20001

Forensic Science on Trial – Through June 2025

The National Museum of American History explores historic courtroom cases and how forensic science has come to be used in the pursuit of justice. Artifacts from more than 150 years of trials showcase at least 12 forensic science techniques; three items can claim to come from “the trial of the century.”

10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. | Free Admission

Smithsonian National Museum of American History, 1300 Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20560

Open Streets Capitol Hill – June 28

Mayor Bowser and DDOT invite you to enjoy the Capitol Hill neighborhood through their Open Streets initiative for the first time. A full mile of streets will be closed to vehicles to allow for safe walking, biking and playing. Expect hourly programmed classes and performances that will include live music, yoga and dancing. The event is free and suitable for all ages and abilities.

9 a.m. – 3 p.m. | Free Admission

North Carolina Avenue SE, East Capitol Street & Massachusetts Avenue SE from 6th Street SE to 17th Street SE

Broadway in the Park – June 28

Visit Wolf Trap in Vienna, Va. as the performing arts hub partners with Signature Theatre for the fifth edition of Broadway in the Park. Broadway stars Lindsay Mendez and Jessie Mueller join Signature performers for a night of renditions of classic songs.

8 p.m. | Tickets

Filene Center at Wolf Trap, 1551 Trap Road, Vienna, VA 22182

Car Seat Headrest – June 28

What began as solo pop songs crafted and recorded in the Leesburg, Va. bedroom of frontman Will Toledo has blossomed into a full-blown band that can release rock operas entitled The Scholars. Car Seat Headrest’s music is laced with raw emotion and loud guitars, weaving tales full of angst and humor, anthemic and relatable to all.

8 p.m. | Tickets

The Anthem, 901 Wharf Street SW, Washington, DC 20024

Vivian Browne: My Kind of Protest – June 28 – Sept. 28

The Phillips Collection uncovers previously unknown pieces and archival findings to showcase the depth of three decades of work by Vivian Browne. The exhibition features paintings, prints, works on paper and additional ephemera, highlighting Browne’s incredible career as an artist, activist, teacher and founder of one of the first women’s art cooperatives in Manhattan. Her approach to color and form continues to challenge concepts of figuration and abstraction.

Hours & Admission

The Phillips Collection, 1600 21st Street NW, Washington, DC 20009

Mosaic Theater: Andy Warhol in Iran – Through June 29

Set in 1976, the new production from Mosaic Theater Company set to debut at the Atlas Performing Arts Center concerns the Empress Farah and her desire for iconic artist Andy Warhol to compose pop-art portraits of the royals in Tehran. The plan is disrupted when a University student takes Warhol hostage, leading to a lethal showdown.

Tickets

Atlas Performing Arts Center, 1333 H Street NE, Washington, DC 20002

Frankenstein – Through June 29

Mary Shelley’s gothic masterpiece comes to the stage at Klein Theatre thanks to Shakespeare Theatre Company and the writing/directing talents of Emily Burns. The foundational tale concerns Elizabeth and Victor Frankenstein and the creation of a monster that continues to resonate throughout contemporary art.

Tickets

Klein Theatre, 450 7th Street NW, Washington, DC 20004

Duel Reality – July 1-20

Shakespeare Theatre Company stages The Bard’s most beloved tale in a way you’ve never seen before. Duel Reality combines theatre, dance, circus acrobatics and stunts in pitting the two families of Romeo and Juliet against each other. You need to see Shakespeare told through acrobatics, trust us. The show is suitable for all ages.

Tickets

Harman Hall, 610 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20004

Smithsonian Folklife Festival – July 2-7

The free festival salutes different international cultures every year on the National Mall with craft exhibits, live music and cooking demos. The 2025 edition focuses on “Youth and the Future of Culture.”

More Info | Free Admission

You’ve Got A Friend: Women Pop Songwriters – July 2-13

Contemporary pop music features a staggering array of brilliant women who sing and write their own compositions. Signature Theatre Company celebrates icons like Adele, Alicia Keys, Brandi Carlile, Dolly Parton, Carole King, Carly Simon and Joni Mitchell with performances of their classic songs. The setlist will include “Will You Love Me Tomorrow,” “Rolling in the Deep,” “If I Ain’t Got You,” “You’re So Vain” and “Cactus Tree,” among many others.

Tickets

Signature Theatre Company, 4200 Campbell Avenue, Arlington, VA 22206

Shahzia Sikander: The Last Post – July 3 – July 12, 2026

The Smithsonian American Art Museum showcases a groundbreaking work that deeply examines the legacy of British colonialism in Asia. Shahzia Sikander’s signature approach is evident in the way The Last Post blends Indo-Persian miniature paintings with contemporary flavor: see the score by Pulitzer Prize-winning composer Du Yun and the way images form and dissolve around the piece’s central figure.

11:30 a.m. – 7 p.m. | Free Admission

Smithsonian American Art Museum, 8th & G Streets NW, Washington, DC 20004

Momentum Park(our) – July 3-20

The National Building Museum’ summer installation transforms the Museum’s Great Hall into an immersive parkour environment. The family-friendly physical and educational journey takes visitors through elements of design, spatial awareness and movement. Developed in partnership with Mark Toorock, founder of American Parkour, the space allows for guests to navigate an obstacle landscape that challenges agility and invites new ways of engaging with the built environment.

Hours & Admission

National Building Museum, 401 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20001

Daytime Baseball at Nationals Park – July 4

The Washington Nationals annually play at home on Independence Day, holding a daytime game to accommodate the activities throughout the city the rest of the day.

Nationals Park, 1500 South Capitol Street SE, Washington, DC 20003

July 4th Fireworks

Watching the fireworks is one of the highlights of Independence Day in Washington, DC and fortunately, the city and the surrounding area offer a plethora of scenic viewing options. July 4th is a great time to be in DC for plenty of other reasons as well. Plan a trip now.

Jazz in the Garden – Fridays through July 11

Kick back and groove to the music with sangria in hand at Jazz in the Garden throughout the summer, held in the National Gallery of Art’s Sculpture Garden. An eclectic mix of DC-area jazz musicians lend a soundtrack to one of the city’s most idyllic scenes set around the sculpture garden’s central fountain. This is a free seasonal tradition that you do not want to miss. Due to high demand, the museum has instituted a lottery system; visit the Gallery’s website for more information.

6-8:30 p.m. | Free Admission | Register

National Gallery of Art, 6th Street and Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20565

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child – July 8 – Sept. 7

The Harry Potter franchise continues to offer spellbinding entertainment. The record-breaking play that won six Tony Awards, including Best Play, comes to The National Theatre. Harry’s son, Albus, befriends Draco Malfoy’s son, leading to a riveting adventure that can alter the past and future.

Tickets

The National Theatre, 1321 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20004

Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company

Dead Inside – July 9-27

Ali Wong and Bill Hader present this one-woman show from actress, comedian and songwriter Riki Lindhome. Woolly Mammoth Theatre hosts this part musical, part stand-up special that details Lindhome’s real-life fertility journey through humor, humility and original songs.

Tickets

Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company, 641 D Street NW, Washington, DC 20004

Sesame Street the Musical – July 10 – Aug. 31

A can’t-miss slice of family entertainment comes to the Kennedy Center for an extended run this summer. Cookie Monster, Elmo, Abby Cadabby and many more of your Sesame Street friends will be live onstage to perform iconic songs and stir up plenty of furry fun that all ages can enjoy.

Tickets

The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, 2700 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20566

Chris Grace: As Scarlett Johansson – July 11-12

Self-proclaimed as “America’s 88th-most beloved Chinese actor,” you’ll recognize Chris Grace from NBC’s Superstore and numerous other roles. In his new show, Grace riffs on Scarlett Johansson, specifically her role in 2017’s Ghost in the Shell. Watch the comedian (dressed as Johansson) pontificate on the relationship between art and identity with the songs of Tom Waits and some stage combat thrown in as well.

Tickets

The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, 2700 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20566

Wavves – July 12

Set to release their first collection of new music in four years, Wavves visit DC’s Union Stage to play favorites from the first 15 years of their discography along with new tracks. Led by singer/songwriter Nathan Williams, the group barrels through surf-flavored punk rock and pop melodies with reckless abandon.

8 p.m. | Tickets

Union Stage, 740 Water Street SW, Washington, DC 20024

Apropos of Nothing, a Comedy – July 12 – Aug. 10

The Keegan Theatre treats audiences to an evening packed with laughs thanks to this new production. Owen confesses to being in love with his best friend’s wife but quickly attempts to retract it. Too late. From there, spurned on by a clever millennial, five friends are forced to deal with their many unresolved issues.

Tickets

The Keegan Theatre, 1742 Church Street NW, Washington, DC 20036

The Untitled Unauthorized Hunter S. Thompson Musical – Through July 13

If you’re full of fear and loathing, boy, does Signature Theatre have a show for you this summer. A rock musical about Hunter S. Thompson promises to be a raucous, bewildering immersion into Gonzo journalism, political anarchy and drug culture. The anticipated production is directed by Tony Award winner Christopher Ashley.

Tickets

Signature Theatre, 4200 Campbell Avenue, Arlington, VA 22206

Les Misérables – Through July 13

Back in 1986, the Kennedy Center hosted the pre-Broadway run of what has become one of the most popular musicals of all time. And in the summer of 2025, Les Mis comes home. Seen by more than 130 million people worldwide, this brilliant new interpretation of the classic production tells an epic story of love, passion, redemption and survival set in 19th-century France.

Tickets

The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, 2700 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20566

Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center

LIVE! Concert Series on the Plaza

From salsa to strings, and blues to swing, Live! Concert Series on the Plaza features hot entertainment for the downtown DC community. Head to Wilson Plaza between 12 and 1 p.m. and take in free lunchtime performances showcasing the area’s most talented entertainers.

12-1 p.m. | Free Admission | More Information

Wilson Plaza, 1300 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20004

Arena Stage

A Wrinkle in Time – Through July 20

With music and lyrics by Heather Christian, a book by Lauren Yee (the mind behind Cambodian Rock Band) and direction by Lee Sunday Evans, this highly anticipated production comes to Arena Stage next summer. Join main character Meg on an epic quest in an adventurous new musical adaptation of Madeleine L’Engle’s Newbery Medal-winning novel. Prepare for a spellbinding journey through space and time.

Tickets

Arena Stage, 1101 6th Street SW, Washington, DC 20024

Kyle Mooney – July 20

You may be familiar with Kyle Mooney from his nine-year tenure on Saturday Night Live or any number of comedy projects he’s helmed. He also happens to be a remarkable musician who can write and perform songs across multiple genres with aplomb. Mooney’s singular musical vision will be evident during this show at 9:30 Club.

6 p.m. | Tickets

9:30 Club, 815 V Street NW, Washington, DC 20001

Mubadala Citi DC Open – July 21-27

The District’s signature professional tennis tournament returns to Rock Creek Park Tennis Center. Top-tier talent from all over the world will compete for a prestigious trophy, leading to action that you do not want to miss.

Rock Creek Park Tennis Center, 5220 16th Street NW, Washington, DC 20011

Dungeons & Dragons: The Twenty-Sided Tavern – July 22 – Aug. 3

Whether you’ve run your own Dungeons & Dragons campaign or you’re completely unfamiliar with the game, the Kennedy Center has a magical evening in store for you. The legendary role-playing game comes to the stage, combining theatre, gaming and unique storytelling. Choose heroes and battle monsters as you assist three players in an interactive fantasy adventure.

Tickets

The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, 2700 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20566

Sailing: Yacht Rock – July 22 – Aug. 10

Signature Theatre’s summer cabaret season is in full swing with Sailing, which invites you to join Deimoni Brewington and Tracy Lynn Olivera for an evening of the lush harmonies and lighthearted lyrics of yacht rock. Relax with a drink in hand to soothing singalongs like “Brandy (You’re a Fine Girl),” “Come and Get Your Love” and “What a Fool Believes.”

Tickets

Signature Theatre Company, 4200 Campbell Avenue, Arlington, VA 22206

CJM After Sunset: After Hours Pride Party – July 24

Keep the Pride party going with the Capital Jewish Museum’s after-hours event of community and celebration. Explore the LGBTJews in the Federal City exhibition and enjoy drag performances, curator talks, crafts, themed cocktails and food from Catalyst Hot Dogs.

6-9 p.m. | Tickets

Lillian and Albert Small Capital Jewish Museum, 575 3rd Street NW, Washington, DC 20001

The Artist’s Experience: From Brotherman to Batman – Through July 24

Visit Phillips@THEARC for a distinctive exhibition of the vitality of comic book art. From Brotherman to Batman focuses on 20 Black artists from across the spectrum of comic books, including Dawud Anyabwile (creator of Brotherman), Denys Cowan (co-founder of Milestone Media and legendary Batman illustrator for DC Comics) and many others. Dive deep into how each panel of a comic book page tells a story as well as how these fascinating creatives break the confines of the art form.

Wednesday & Thursday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Free Admission

Phillips@THEARC, 1801 Mississippi Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20020

Pixies – July 25-26

Alternative rock legends Pixies are set to release new material this fall, but up first is a North American tour that includes a visit to The Anthem in DC. The beloved group will play their classic albums, Trompe le Monde and Bossanova, in full during the show. Kurt Vile and the Violators serve as a great opening act.

8 p.m. | Tickets

The Anthem, 901 Wharf Street SW, Washington, DC 20024

Alley Fest – July 26

Don’t miss this chance to see this only-in-DC area activated with summer festivities: the Blagden Alley, Naylor Court and Shepard Court Historic District hosts its second annual “Alley Fest” this July. The action-packed afternoon includes a live DJ, chalk mural making, games and special offers from local businesses like the award-winning Causa/Amazonia. The event will also launch of the DC Alley Pass, a digital membership offering special incentives at businesses in this happening part of the District.

1-4 p.m.

Blagden Alley NW, Washington, DC 20001

The Dinner Detective – July 26

At this exciting true crime murder mystery dinner, the culprit isn’t dressed in costume: they’re hidden in the audience. Feast on a fabulous dinner and lots of laughs at this surprising, social and interactive take on a classic concept, with tickets available for select nights through the end of the year. Each ticket purchase covers admission to the show, plus a full plated dinner and waitstaff gratuity.

Tickets

Courtyard Alexandria Pentagon South, 4641 Kenmore Ave, Alexandria, VA 22304

Five New Galleries Open at the National Air and Space Museum – July 28

Thousands of artifacts go back on display in five reopened galleries at the National Air and Space Museum. Popular items such as the Spirit of St. Louis, the North American X-15, John Glenn’s Mercury Friendship 7 capsule, the Apollo Lunar Module 2 and the touchable moon rock will all be available to view again. The building will also welcome several new artifacts, including the Sopwith F.1 Camel, Virgin Galactic’s RocketMotorTwo, a Blue Origin New Shepard crew capsule mockup and a Goddard 1935 A series rocket. Free timed-entry passes will be required for entry.

10 a.m. – 5 p.m. | More Info | Free Admission

National Air and Space Museum, 6th Street & Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20560

Celebrate Peruvian Independence Day in the District – July 28

Honor this Latin American nation’s heritage – as well as its 200-year anniversary of diplomatic ties with the U.S. – by exploring its rich cultural and culinary traditions in Washington, DC. Sample plates at Pisco y Nazca, take part in three days of special menus at local favorite China Chilcano or opt for a walk-through experience at the James Beard Award-winning Causa/Amazonia. Ceviches, anticuchos, pisco sours and more await at these and other locations across the city.

How to Be A Power Player: Tudor Edition – Through July

The Folger Shakespeare Library exhibit features more than 60 objects from the collection to demonstrate the dos and don’ts for how to be a successful courtier in 16th-century England. Social climbing was a sport in Tudor England and visitors can engage with the entire playbook and even create their own with a 21st-century spin. You can also draw your portrait, design a dinner menu and make your own rules.

Hours | Free Admission

Folger Shakespeare Library, 201 East Capitol Street SE, Washington, DC 20003

OSGEMEOS: Endless Story – Through Aug. 3

Gustavo and Otavio Pandolfo are the identical twin brothers that comprise OSGEMEOS, which is Portuguese for “the twins.” The Hirshhorn Museum presents the first U.S. survey and the largest American exhibition of work by the duo to date. In total, the full-floor exhibit features roughly 1,000 artworks, photos and archival materials that detail OSGEMEOS’ unique artistic voice that combines heritage, urban art, graffiti and magical elements.

10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. | Free Admission

Hirshhorn Museum & Sculpture Garden, Independence Avenue & 7th Street NW, Washington, DC 20560

In the Tower: Chakaia Booker – Treading New Ground – Through Aug. 3

The National Gallery of Art presents three extraordinary sculptures from visionary artist Chakaia Booker in its East Building this spring. Booker transforms tires – cutting, coiling and contorting them – to sculpt industrial waste into awe-inspiring abstract forms. The environmentally conscious work inspires visitors to ponder the effect of materials on the natural world.

10 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Free Admission

National Gallery of Art, 6th Street & Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20565

Uncanny – Through Aug. 10

The National Museum of Women in the Arts invites visitors to an exploration of unease across a range of surreal media. The only museum solely dedicated to championing women artists treads into new territory with Uncanny, which reveals women’s authorship of surreal narratives, revealing how the concept is used by these artists to regain agency and dissect feelings of revulsion, fear and discomfort.

Hours & Admission

National Museum of Women in the Arts, 1250 New York Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20005

Pictures of Belonging: Miki Hayakawa, Hisako Hibi and Miné Okubo – Through Aug. 17

The Smithsonian American Art Museum honors three of the most important female American artists of Japanese descent in the years leading up to World War II. Across eight decades, the careers of Miki Hayakawa, Hisako Hibi and Miné Okubo helped shape modern American art. This new exhibit examines the three trailblazers like never before, tracing their artistic evolution before, during and after the internment and displacement of Japanese Americans during World War II.

11:30 a.m. – 7 p.m. | Free Admission

Smithsonian American Art Museum, 8th & G Streets NW, Washington, DC 20004

Photo by Cpl. Chloe McAfee

Friday Evening Parades at the Marine Barracks – Through Aug. 22

This breathtaking 75-minute ceremony showcases the precision and pride of the Marine Corps with spectacular performances by “The President’s Own” Marine Band, “The Commandant’s Own” Drum & Bugle Corps and the renowned Silent Drill Platoon. Held every Friday from May through August at the historic “Oldest Post of the Corps,” the free event has captivated audiences for decades.

Marine Barracks, 8th & I Streets SE, Washington, DC 20390

Delighting Krishna: Paintings of the Child-God – Through Aug. 24

A new exhibit at the Smithsonian National Museum of Asian Art puts the Pushtimarg tradition front-and-center and showcases 14 “pichwais,” which are monumental paintings of Krishna on cotton cloth. The pieces have not been displayed to the public since the 1970s. Museum visitors can encounter the larger-than-life creations and learn about how the Hindu Pushtimarg community engages with the spiritual.

10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. | Free Admission

National Museum of Asian Art, 1050 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20560

Summer Films at The REACH – Through Aug. 29

The REACH at the Kennedy Center presents an outdoor film series all summer long. The Millennium Stage Outdoor Film screenings presents classic and modern feature films on the REACH video wall every Friday from May 30 – Aug. 29. The lineup kicks off with The Bourne Identity.

Movies begin at dusk | Free Admission

The REACH, 2700 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20003

Summer Evenings at the U.S. National Arboretum – Through Aug. 30

Thanks to the nonprofit Friends of the National Arboretum, the 451-acre park will stay open until 8 p.m. (three hours past regular closing time) giving visitors the chance to experience one of DC’s most picturesque destinations in a new light. This limited-time opportunity invites you to picnic, walk or bike after hours, catch golden-hour views of the Capitol Columns and enjoy special events throughout the summer.

More Info | Excludes June 7, 14 & 21

3501 New York Avenue, NE Washington, DC 20002

Essex Hemphill: Take Care of Your Blessings – Through Aug. 31

The Phillips Collection showcases the relationship between the trailblazing work of poet and activist Essex Hemphill and contemporary visual art in a new exhibit. Hemphill was born in Chicago and raised in DC, where he became one of the most outspoken LGBTQ+ advocates of his time, both through his poetry and the spoken word. Hemphill tragically died of an AIDS-related illness in 1995 at the age of 38, but his work powerfully lives on, as can be observed in Take Care of Your Blessings, which puts him in dialogue with artists of his time and the present.

Hours & Admission

The Phillips Collection, 1600 21st Street NW, Washington, DC 20009

Wild Kratts: Ocean Adventure! – Through Sept. 7

The PBS Kids’ Wild Kratts® team takes over the National Children Museum’s Visiting Exhibit Hall. With technology from the program, kids can solve problems, complete missions, assist animals and stop villainous plans. Exhibit experiences include themed areas like The Tortuga, the Dolphin Decoder, an Amphisub and a digital aquarium.

Hours & Admission

National Children’s Museum, 1300 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20004

The Shape of Power: Stories of Race and American Sculpture – Through Sept. 14

The Smithsonian American Museum’s new exhibit examines sculpture’s role in understanding and constructing race in the United States. Across 82 sculptures created between 1792 and 2023 by 70 different artists, visitors can observe historical and modern works that inspire conversation and reflections on how power, identity and race are intertwined.

11:30 a.m. – 7 p.m. | Free Admission

Smithsonian American Art Museum, 8th & G Streets NW, Washington, DC 20004

A Radical Alteration: Women’s Studio Workshop as a Sustainable Model for Art Making – Through Sept. 28

The National Museum of Women in the Arts celebrates the Women’s Studio Workshop (WSW) with a special exhibit that examines the organization’s history as a proponent of the book arts in marginalized communities across the U.S. Founded in 1974 by four women, WSW emerged at the vanguard of second-wave feminism and has published more than 240 artists’ books thanks to its Artist-in-Residence program. The display showcases more than 40 objects, including artists’ books, zines, ephemera and archival materials.

Hours & Admission

National Museum of Women in the Arts, 1250 New York Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20005

Guerrilla Girls: Making Trouble – Through Sept. 28

An artist collective that continues to make its mark today, Guerrilla Girls celebrate their 40th anniversary in 2025. The National Museum of Women in the Arts honor the attention-grabbing group known for their provocative, text and graphic-based prints that denounce discrimination. Their work uses bold and eye-catching aesthetics to call out gender disparity and other important social injustices across billboards, banners, buildings and other sites. The museum’s extensive collection informs the exhibit that features an expansive and enthralling chronology of Guerrilla Girls’ vital work.

Hours & Admission

National Museum of Women in the Arts, 1250 New York Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20005

Bond In Motion – Through September

Across more than six decades of films, James Bond has become the on-screen embodiment of spies for millions. The International Spy Museum pays homage to the fictional character, along with his allies and adversaries, with a breathtaking display of iconic vehicles from the movies. In total, visitors can fix their eyes on 17 pieces, including cars, motorcycles, submarines and even more from the Q Branch Garage.

Hours & Admission

International Spy Museum, 700 L’Enfant Plaza SW, Washington, DC 20024

With Passion and Purpose: Gifts from the Collection of Larry D. and Brenda A. Thompson – Through Oct. 5

A collection that spans 100 years of Black creativity comes to the National Gallery of Art’s East Building Mezzanine thanks to Larry D. and Brenda A. Thompson. The largest group of objects by Black artists to enter the museum’s collection at one time includes 175 works. These range from lyrical abstractions to intricate sculptures to well-known paintings. Featured artists include Jacob Lawrence, Archibald Motley, Vivian Browne, Mildred Thompson, Alison Saar and many others.

10 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Free Admission

National Gallery of Art, 4th Street & Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20565

Little Beasts: Art, Wonder and the Natural World – Through Nov. 2

Art and nature lovers young and old will be delighted by this new display at the National Gallery of Art. Across more than 70 paintings, prints and drawings, visitors can see how nature has inspired art since the dawn of European natural history in the 16th and 17th centuries. Specimens and taxidermy from the National Museum of Natural History will also be showcased along with a new film by artist Dario Robleto.

10 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Free Admission

National Gallery of Art, 6th Street & Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC

Cut + Paste: Experimental Japanese Prints and Photographs – Through Nov. 20

The National Museum of Asian Art showcases 17 Japanese artists who have pushed boundaries in printmaking and photography. The exhibit features multilayered images that challenge distinctions between mediums, traditions and notions of fine art and commercial design.

10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. | Free Admission

National Museum of Asian Art, 1050 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20560

Niki de Saint Phalle In Print – Through Nov. 30

The National Museum of Women in the Arts displays 20 of multimedia artist Niki de Saint Phalle’s large-scale prints. Although primarily known for performances and sculptures, Saint Phalle showcases mastery as a printmaker as well, using striking colors, a whimsical and animated drawing style and looping handwriting to stamp a style all her own.

Hours & Admission

National Museum of Women in the Arts, 1250 New York Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20005

Collecting Memories – Through December

The Library of Congress opens its new David M. Rubenstein Treasures Gallery with a brand-new exhibit filled to the brim with fascinating artifacts across its 120 items. Collecting Memories includes Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address, a map from the Lewis and Clark Expedition, lyrics from The Sound of Music and much more in its examination of how cultures preserve the past.

Hours | Free Admission

Library of Congress, 101 Independence Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20540

Martin E. Red Bear / National Museum of the American Indian

Unbound: Narrative Art of the Plains – Through Jan. 20, 2026

The National Museum of the American Indian celebrates narrative art among Native nations of the Great Plains with an exciting new exhibition. You’ll see historical works alongside contemporary commissions, from battle records to ledger books to pop culture takes.

More info | Free Admission

National Museum of the American Indian, 4th Street & Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20560

The Two Georges: Parallel Lives in an Age of Revolution – Through March 21, 2026

The Library of Congress brings together letters, ledgers, diaries, maps, drawings and other artifacts to illuminate the similarities and differences between two iconic figures of the Revolutionary War: George Washington and King George III. Although the two never met, visitors can envision where they would clash and where they would compromise in this stirring exhibit that features items from a wide range of collections, including the Royal Archives at Windsor Castle, London’s Science Museum and George Washington’s Mount Vernon.

Hours | Free Admission

Library of Congress, 101 Independence Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20540

Smithsonian Institution

Making a Statement – Through March 2026

The Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian displays two gowns worn by Oscar-nominated actor Lily Gladstone (Siksikaitsitapi [Blackfeet]/Nimiipuu [Nez Perce]) in a special installation. Four public programs are planned for Women’s History Month as well. Both gowns were designed by Gucci and Indigenous artist Joe Big Mountain (Mohawk/Cree/Comanche) of Ironhorse Quillwork and were worn by Gladstone the evening of March 10, 2024, to the 96th Academy Awards and the Vanity Fair Oscars party. Gladstone was the first Native American nominated for best actress for her work in the film Killers of the Flower Moon.

10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. | Free Admission

National Museum of the American Indian, 4th Street & Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20560

Back and Forth: Rozeal., Titian, Cezanne – Through April 25, 2026

Four stunning art works across six centuries are in conversation in a new exhibit at the National Gallery of Art. Through a recent piece by Rozeal., Titian’s Venus with a Mirror and Ranuccio Farnese and Cezanne’s Boy in a Red Waistcoat, visitors can find unexpected connections and visual similarities that draw the 16th, 19th and 21st centuries together.

10 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Free Admission

National Gallery of Art, 6th Street & Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC

Reasons to Gather: Japanese Tea Practice Unwrapped – Through April 26, 2026

The Japanese tea practice of chanoyu revolves around the appreciation of utensils that assist in the preparation and consumption of matcha (powdered green tea). This new exhibit at the National Museum of Asian Art presents 11 historic tea utensils and accessories, including ceramics, hanging scrolls, boxes and wrapping cloths. All the objects tell a story of trade and exchange across Asia and reveal a vast network of tea practitioners.

10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. | Free Admission

National Museum of Asian Art, 1050 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20560

From Shadow to Substance: Grand-Scale Portraits During Photography’s Formative Years – Through June 7, 2026

The National Portrait Gallery displays early photographic mastery in an exhibit featuring works in the impressive whole-plate format (8.5 × 6.5 inches). Trace the evolution of the art form, from daguerreotypes to ambrotypes to tintypes. Featured icons include Daniel Webster, John C. Calhoun, Gaetano Bedini and John Frederick Kensett.

11:30 a.m. – 7 p.m. | Free Admission

National Portrait Gallery, 8th and G Streets NW, Washington, DC 20001

Blossom Time, Willard Metcalf, 1910

Shifting Boundaries: Perspectives on American Landscapes – Through July 26, 2026

Discover powerful new details and context around some of the greatest works of art in American history. The National Museum of Asian Art approaches the fascinating New England landscape portraiture of legendary artists such as Willard Metcalf, Dwight Tryon, Winslow Homer and Abbott Thayer. By empowering a variety of voices, the exhibit reveals how the landscapes depicted have shifted in the century since these works were first showcased.

10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. | Free Admission

National Museum of Asian Art, 1050 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20560

Here: Pride and Belonging in African Art – Through Summer 2026

The National Museum of African Art has assembled a powerful showcase of works that marks the first continental and diasporic survey of its scale outside of Africa. LGBTQ+ identities and experiences are the focus of the exhibit, with many of the pieces serving as challenges to legacies of homophobia and bigotry.

10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. | Free Admission

National Museum of African Art, 950 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20560

Adam Pendleton: Love, Queen – Through Jan. 3, 2027

Known for his rigorous work in creating jaw-dropping paintings, Adam Pendleton will showcase new and recent pieces as well as single-channel video in this landmark exhibition at the Hirshhorn Museum. Pendleton’s first solo showcase will highlight his contributions to contemporary American painting and utilize the architecture of the Hirshhorn and the vast history of DC’s National Mall.

10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. | Free Admission

Hirshhorn Museum & Sculpture Garden, Independence Avenue & 7th Street NW, Washington, DC 20560

InSight: Photos and Stories from the Archives – Ongoing

Peer into Indigenous lives from across the Western hemisphere over time thanks to a new exhibit at the National Museum of the American Indian. Through this special selection picked from more than 500,000 images, the museum highlights moments of everyday joy, education and familial bonding. Each photo has its own story to tell.

10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. | Free Admission

National Museum of the American Indian, 4th Street & Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20560

Places to Stay

Hotel Nell

Need some inspiration for a place to stay in between events? Washington, DC is filled with a multitude of hotels to fit your needs. Whether you are looking for that specialty boutique hotel or booking at your favorite hotel brand, Washington, DC’s booking engine has it all. Find your stay today!

Severe weather threatens Thanksgiving travel for millions as officials warn of delays

toggle caption Kamil Krzaczynski/Getty Images

Millions of travelers hitting the roads or heading for the airport may face delays due to long lines and severe weather that threatens to disrupt holiday travel over the next few days.

Nearly 80 million people are expected to travel in various ways, including cruises, during Thanksgiving, according to AAA. The organization projects that nearly 72 million people will travel by car over the holiday period and about 6 million will travel by plane within the U.S.

More than 50,000 flights are expected to take off Tuesday — one of the busiest Thanksgiving travel days — and around 50,000 are expected to fly on Wednesday as well, according to the Federal Aviation Administration.

Sponsor Message

So far, more than 1,000 flights in, out and within the U.S. have been delayed on Tuesday, according to FlightAware . The majority of delays travelers face at airports are not because of air traffic controller staffing, but “weather and volume,” which drive nearly all delays, the FAA tells NPR.

“For the Thanksgiving holiday travel period, the FAA will implement traffic flow management initiatives to address any staffing shortages as needed,” the FAA says, adding that it has more than 14,000 air traffic controllers and plans to hire over 2,000 more.

Transportation Security Administration chief David Pekoske on Tuesday urged fliers to “pack a little patience” and understanding as they make their travel plans.

“Travelers: Airports will be busy today and tomorrow. Please be sure to arrive at least 2 hours early for domestic and 3 hours for international flights,” Pekoske wrote in a social media post .

On top of crowded roads and terminals that could prolong travel and lead to longer wait times, travelers will also face delays because of severe weather depending on where they live and their holiday destinations.

“Messy Thanksgiving travel possible in the eastern half of the U.S., including potential central/northern tier winter weather,” the National Weather Service (NWS) said in an advisory on Sunday.

Sponsor Message

Heavy snow can be expected in higher elevations of the Central Rockies and “moderate to heavy” rain will move across the Tennessee Valley region and southeastern states to the Appalachians and mid-Atlantic regions late Wednesday into Thursday, according to the NWS.

Joe Carr, national aviation meteorologist for the NWS, says there may be travel issues for those in the New York and Boston areas Tuesday as heavy rain and wintry weather moves across the region. Travelers could also face delays in San Francisco on Tuesday. On Wednesday, most of the country will be in “pretty good shape” for travelers, but for those flying into areas like Aspen, Colorado, could be delayed by snowfall, Carr says.

“Thanksgiving Day, [a] storm system, moves into the mid-Atlantic region. [It’s] primarily going to be rain and for the mid-big cities of the northeast — D.C., Philadelphia, New York, Boston — all could see some delays due to inclement weather, such as most ceilings, and or lower visibilities with the rain,” Carr says. The storm system will move out Friday and cause gusty winds, he says.