How to Enjoy an Outdoor Concert in Washington, D.C.

Washington, DC isn't home only to politics and government but to exciting outdoor concerts and music festivals as well. After you are done visiting the U.S. Capitol and the monuments, enjoy an outdoor concert in Washington, DC.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Transportation
• Tickets

1. Visit the official Web site. The Official Tourism Site of Washington, DC has a master calendar of events as well as featured concerts, performances and shows.

2. Check out the Duke Ellington Jazz Festival. Experience the jazz stylings of over 50 different artists at this festival sponsored by the District of Columbia. Many of the events are free; check out the Web site or call for details on specific events.

3. Attend the Takoma Park Folk Festival. This folk festival is held every year in Takoma Park (just off Rt. 410) and is free! The Takoma Park Folk Festival features dance, art and music. Call or visit the Web site for information.

4. Find a performance at the John F. Kennedy Center for Performing Arts. The John F. Kennedy Center is always putting on free shows and concerts. Check to see if you are in the area during the Annual Kennedy Center Prelude Festival, or check out the calendar of events at their Web site to see what's going on.

5. Go to the Wolf Trap Farm Park for Performing Arts. The Wolf Trap Farm features the Filene Center, an outdoor covered pavilion with seating for 4,000 as well as lawn seating. The gates open an hour and a half before the performance and you're free to bring your own food and drink. Look for free concerts in the summer at their Web site.

6. Hear some Sounds in the Square. Visit the Golden Triangle Business district between June 8 and August 10 to hear some free live music. See who's playing by checking their Web site.

7. Watch the Military Bands Perform at the Capitol. During the summer you can enjoy the musical prowess of the U.S. Navy, Army, Marine Corps and Air Force on the grounds of the U.S. Capitol. Concerts begin at 8 p.m. and are held from June to August.

8. Figure out how to get there. The Metrorail and the Metrobus are the fastest and most efficient way to get around the city. Route maps are posted at each station, but if you want to talk to a person call the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority.

Tips & Warnings

• Looking for more venues? Try the Fort Dupont Park, Woodrow Wilson Plaza and the Washington National Cathedral.
• Washington, D.C. is divided into four quadrants: Southeast, Southwest, Northwest and Northeast. Lettered street names run east and west and numbered streets run north and south. The U.S. Capitol is in the center of the quadrants.