10 Ways to Celebrate Labor Day Weekend in Washington, DC
Just because Summer is coming to an end doesn’t mean the fun has to! The end of summer marks the start of new things. New school year, new season and new memories. Check out these 10 ways to send summer off with a bang!
1. Labor Day Capitol Concert
Say so long to summer with DC’s free Concert at the U.S. Capitol. The annual concert featuring the National Symphony Orchestra takes place on the Sunday before Labor Day. Music lovers can pack a picnic and enjoy a serene Sunday evening on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol. Gates open at 3 p.m., with a dress rehearsal at 3:30 p.m. leading up to the main concert at 8 p.m.
2. Designing for Disaster
Learn how modern architects address and prepare for natural disasters in their building designs and strategies by visiting Designing for Disaster at the National Building Museum. This exhibition will highlight disaster-resistant structures, including residences, schools, hospitals, airports and more. Hear testimonials from leading engineers, scientists and emergency planners on how disaster mitigation has evolved.
3. DC Blues Festival
Groove to the music at the annual DC Blues Festival. Staged at the Carter Barron Amphitheatre, the festival is more than two decades old and features well-known artists, workshops and even an instrument “petting zoo.” All performances and activities are free of charge.
4. Swanky DC Pools
Spend the waning summer days in a swimming pool. Many of DC’s hotels offer outdoor pools, such as the swanky Donovan House or the family-friendly Holiday Inn Central.
5. Rent a Boat
Kayak, canoe or sail along the Potomac during the long weekend. Both Thompson Boat Center and Key Bridge Boathouse offer rentals, while Washington Sailing Marina will let you take a sailboat out for the day – or even give you a sailing lesson. Kayak, canoe or sail along the Potomac during the long weekend.
6. Jazz in the Garden
Sway to the lilting sounds of the National Gallery of Art’s Jazz in the Sculpture Garden series. Every summer Friday from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., the gallery hosts this popular outdoor concert. Take advantage of the final Friday by packing a picnic or sipping and snacking at the outdoor café.
7. Enjoy Nature
Hike, bike and horseback ride in Rock Creek Park. While DC’s 2,000-acre public park is accessible year ‘round, summer is a great time to take advantage of an array of warm-weather activities. Want to beat the heat? Take a break in the park’s planetarium.
8. Catch a Ball Game
Hit a home run by taking the family to a Washington Nationals baseball game. Enjoy the great amenities at the state-of-the-art Nationals Park.
9. Go Brunching
Eat your way through the weekend with brunch, the unofficial meal of summertime. Longer days mean more time for lingering over your pancakes (and mimosas). Many local restaurants offer special Monday brunches in honor of the final long weekend of the summer.
10. National Book Festival
Release your inner bookworm at the 2014 Library of Congress National Book Festival, taking place at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center on August 30. Authors, poets and illustrators will be on hand for book signings and photos, while kids can marvel at the storybook characters on hand, as well as a number of fun, educational activities.
– Article Courtesy of washington.org