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The official end of summer.

The first two weeks of June bring free performances of works of Shakespeare in the outdoor theater in Rock Creek Park. Presented by the Shakespeare Theater, the productions are of excellent quality. Free tickets available at several sites.

Fascinating and entertaining cooking, storytelling, craft-making, dancing, music, and art fill the National Mall for two weeks around Independence Day (July 4). One of the largest and best cultural events in the world.

Competitions include home-built kites, fighting kites, and others.

A parade on Constitution Ave, SE.

This three-day event in mid-October fills a seven-block section of Pennsylvania Avenue (between 7th and 14th Sts) with vendors preparing and selling most of the myriad types of cuisine available in this international city. Hundreds of other activities pulse at dozens of venues – music, dance, poetry, children’s games, comedy acts, and crafts demonstrations and sales. Over a million people attend this exciting food festival.

At the end of winter, locals and visitors alike are revitalized by the early jolt of spring provided by the riot of colorful flowers and inviting landscapes recreated indoors. The air itself is restorative, scented by blossoms.

In early December, the cathedral (see Washington National Cathedral) inaugurates the Christmas season with an open house featuring bagpipes, group singing, pageantry, and stunning seasonal decorations. Then, throughout the season, music and concerts are presented, culminating with the elaborate celebrations of Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

White House staff dye eggs for children to seek out on the lawn.

This three-day festival presents top performers of both traditional and contemporary jazz and blues. The all-day Saturday show is a blast.