Washington D.C. October 2024

Washington D.C. October 2024 Events

Washington D.C. October 2024 Events

Fall in Washington D.C. is a Beautiful Season to See the Nation's Capital

Average temperature low and high: 46°- 69°
The brisk autumn air makes trips to Washington D.C. in October particularly pleasant. As the leaves fall, don't miss the chance to take in the United States' capital. From outdoor activities to museums, the possibilities are limitless.

October Event Calendar

Shear Madness

Shear Madness is an interactive comedy whodunit set in present-day Georgetown. Audiences are invited to help solve the murder of a concert pianist who lives above the Shear Madness unisex hairstyling salon. The show is known for its slapstick comedy, improvisational humor, audience sleuthing, and unique performance each night. With over 13,500 performances at the Kennedy Center, it is the second longest-running play in the history of American Theater. The performance is ongoing with a runtime of two hours and one intermission. The actors keep the audience engaged and involve the crowd. Buy tickets.

Drunk Shakespeare

Five classically trained actors unite as “The Drunk Shakespeare Society”. One actor takes at least 5 shots of whiskey before playing a principal role in a Shakespearean play. Hilarity ensues as the sober actors try to keep the drunkness in check. Don't miss the classical lunacy from October 10 - November 30 at the Sage Theatre, 1100 13th St NW Suite 105, in downtown Washington, D.C. Book your experience now! 

Mister Lincoln

Mister Lincoln

Beloved Emmy-nominated Scott Bakula is Abraham Lincoln in the witty and poignant one-man show, Mister Lincoln. As the President preferred to be called, Mister Lincoln shares personal stories about one of the most tumultuous periods of our nation's history. Experience America's story with its greatest president at Washington DC's historic Ford Theatre October 2 - 13. Purchase tickets for your memorable evening with Mister Lincoln. 

Vienna Oktoberfest

Vienna Oktoberfest

Presented by the Vienna Business Association & town of Vienna, Oktoberfest is making its return on October 5th. This year, guests can expect three stages of live entertainment, two beer & wine gardens, German cuisine, bike garden, and a vendor and artisan marketplace. Oktoberfest is a family-friendly affair with free kid activities - Admission is free.

Oktoberfest at The Wharf

Oktoberfest at The Wharf

The Wharf is excited to announce its annual Oktoberfest celebration featuring a weekend full of activities perfect for all ages. This year’s festivities feature the Annual Wiener 500 Dachshund Dash, a polka dance party on Transit Pier, and stein hoisting contests. Throughout the weekend, restaurants across The Wharf will have German fare, Bavarian decor, and Sam Adams Octoberfest beer. Pets are allowed during this festival in the outdoor areas of The Wharf. Please bear in mind that it will be crowded. Entry to this event is free.

14th Annual Red Shoe 5k

14th Annual Red Shoe 5k

The Annual Red Shoe 5k helps raise money for children's welfare through the Ronald McDonald House Charities® of Greater Washington, DC (RMHCDC). Come and run for a great cause, or attend remotely. All entrants get race swag, and if you decide to attend remotely, a race t-shirt and participation medal will be sent to you. There's also a kid's fun run before the 5K run. Regular registration for the run starts at $45. 

Snallygaster

Snallygaster

Snallygaster is Washington, D.C.'s biggest beer festival, overflowing with 450 varieties of small-batch and rare craft beers and ciders. Sample these delectable brews to your heart's content smack dab in the heart of the city with the Capitol building as your backdrop. And there's plenty of food, live music and games to enjoy between tastings. This family-friendly event also works for a good cause and supports a nonprofit organization. Tickets start at $75, and there are special low-price passes for young adults and designated drivers. Children under 12 enter for free.

Runway for a Cure DC

Runway for a Cure DC

The 7th Annual Runway for a Cure DC is bringing high fashion and breast cancer awareness together at the Union Station Washington DC. Designers, vendors, and models are set to unveil their take on this year's theme. Tickets start at $50 for the Pink and White after-party. Or, get the full VIP treatment with dinner and drinks for $250 for two. Enjoy a dazzling runway show, meet the designers, and lots more! You must be 18 or older to attend.

Whiskey, Wine & Fire Festival

Whiskey, Wine & Fire Festival

Enjoy an elegant and toasty evening at the Whiskey, Wine, and Fire Festival. Attendees can enjoy unlimited tastings of both whiskey and wine while listening to live music, sitting beside one of the many intimate fire pits, attending a seminar, or visiting vendors' tables. Foodies will enjoy this festival featuring food trucks, stations from top local restaurants, and specialty barbecued meats. General admission tickets for Whiskey, Wine, and Fire's event at the Maryland State Fairgrounds in Timonium are $59, and VIP tickets are $99; visit the festival website to purchase.

DC Wine Fest

DC Wine Fest

Experience DC Wine Fest fall edition. Join other wine enthusiasts down by Dock 5 at Union Market for the ultimate wine-tasting experience. This year, DC Wine Fest is partnering with Schneiders to offer guests exclusive discounts on wine from around the world. All wine tastings are included in your ticket price. Last year food was available for purchase from New Gourmet Delight, Corky’s Crab Cakes, Buddin’ Bakery and The Hotdog Hideout. DC Wine Fest is offering three sessions throughout the day - tickets are on sale now, ranging from $35 to $55. This is a 21+ event.

Home Rule Music Festival

Home Rule Music Festival

The Home Rule Music Festival celebrates the best of Washington, D.C.’s music and culture. The main event is an all-day outdoor, family-friendly music festival with activities for kids, a Record Fair, food, drinks, and spectacular live jazz and go-go music. Join the festivities at Althia Tanner Park on October 26 from 1 - 9 pm. Visit the event websites for tickets and lineups. 

See what's happening in Washington D.C. Today
Washington D.C. Today

Washington D.C. Events in October

Concerts

Theater & Headliners

Sports

Nightclubs

Things to do in Washington D.C.

Things to Do in Washington D.C. in October

Walk Through American Art and History at Any of D.C.'s Museums

Walk Through American Art and History at Any of D.C.'s Museums
Washington D.C. is awash with museums, and frankly, listing them all would be extremely difficult. However, the museums that border the National Mall – all overseen by the Smithsonian Institution – are all very worthy of your time. If you have a particular interest – from general American History to aerospace to African American culture – there is a museum waiting for you to wander through.

Check Out the Haunts of D.C.'s Ghosts

Check Out the Haunts of D.C.'s Ghosts
Ghost stories are all in the spooky fun, but why not experience the stories where they take place? Ghost tours, like ghost stories, are abundant in Washington, D.C. A guide will take you from place to place as they tell you about paranormal experiences, ranging from Lincoln's ghost in the White House to the spirits of DuPont Circle.