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Dear Members, 

DC wrapped several weeks of celebrations and commemorations on June 8 while hosting WorldPride – a milestone event for the city over two years in the making. The festivities generated an influx of visitors who participated in the welcoming and inclusive nature of the District in celebration of the LGBTQ+ community. Congratulations to Capital Pride and all of its partners for their tireless work. 

The city’s offerings this month span from the brand new to the beloved. DC/DOX, the annual documentary film festival, teaches and inspires from June 13-16. June 14 marks the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army with a military parade and concert on the National Mall. The city’s most mouthwatering competition takes place on June 21-22 at the Giant National Capital BBQ Battle, and DC favorite Smithsonian Folklife Festival arrives on July 2-7. 

All this summer excitement leads right into one of DC’s best celebrations: July 4th. It’s a can’t-miss moment in the nation’s capital. 

Kindly,

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Elliott L. Ferguson, II
President & CEO
Destination DC

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Now Live: July 4th Silent Auction & Raffle

Bid on incredible prize packages featuring exclusive #Only1DC experiences – all while supporting an amazing cause. Buy a raffle ticket ($25) for a chance to win a private dinner for six.

Every dollar raised helps DC students thrive through internships, work-based learning, scholarships and vital professional connections that prepare them for college and careers.

Bid Now
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July 4th Celebration | 7-10 p.m.

Nothing beats Independence Day in the nation's capital. Celebrate with Destination DC (DDC).

Buy Tickets
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Marketing Outlook Meeting | Aug. 26, 8-11:30 p.m.

Attendees can expect essential visitation updates, important details regarding DDC's marketing and sales plans for FY2026, an update from STR on hotel data, networking, live entertainment and much more from this year's event at Capital Turnaround.

Stay tuned for an official invitation with more information and registration details.

Save the Date
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Help Train the Next Generation

Volunteer your expertise with the American Experience Foundation this summer. We're seeking judges to provide feedback to high school interns studying hospitality and media every Thursday afternoon in July. 

Sign Up
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Would you like to host a Member Event?

Show off your space to DDC members, staff, clients and AEF students by hosting an event. Member hosts provide space, AV, catering and/or exclusive experiences. DDC brings the right audience.

Learn More
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Crowds attend a lively festival on Pennsylvania Avenue, with the U.S. Capitol in the background.

BBQ, Music & More – June 21-22

The Giant National Capital Barbecue Battle’s packed lineup of entertainment includes go-go stars, family-friendly events, a World Central Kitchen panel and more.

Get Tickets Today
A grid of colorful ads for theater shows at Woolly Mammoth, including the slogan: ''We don't play it safe. We play it Woolly.''

'We Don’t Play It Safe'

Woolly’s 46th season brings bold, genre-defying theater to DC – featuring clowns, chaos, drag icons and revolutionaries. You’ve never seen a season like this.

Explore Shows
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Earned Media

  • Domestic
    • 10 WorldPride Events in DC – Washingtonian
    • Black-Owned Restaurant Openings – Forbes
  • International
    • Significance of WorldPride in DC – Gay Star News (UK)
    • Celebrating the Nationals' 20th Anniversary – Travel&News (Mexico)
  • Trade
    • Top Family-Friendly Meeting Destination – Corporate and Incentive Travel
    • Profile: Sustainability District Members – Smart Meetings

Content Team

  • DC250 Advertising & Content Update
    • History and family-focused advertising launches in key markets via search, social, digital and custom content placements around core events and experiences to inspire visitation for America's 250th birthday. 
    • DC250 web content will expand to include themed itineraries as well as inspirational and informational pieces that highlight ways to experience both American and DC history. 
    • Pitching DC250 story angles and hosting journalists working on long-lead stories remain priorities of the editorial team. 

Social Media

  • Popular with Leisure Audiences:
    • Top Liked Post: WMATA’s Pride Metro train has arrived
    • Celebrating Spring: Flower calendar, U.S. National Arboretum, kayaking at Key Bridge Boathouse
    • Arts & Culture: Taste of Pride, counting down to WorldPride, International Museum Day, DC’s local stores
    • Food & Beverage: Rooftop bar recommendations, bagel roundup, National Wine Day, food halls, farmers markets
  • Content Creators We Hosted:
    • WorldPride bar recommendations
    • Things to know about WorldPride
    • WorldPride wedding!
  • Industry Updates from DDC:
    • Record-breaking visitation in 2024
    • NFL Draft coming to DC in 2027
    • Elliott Ferguson joined the board of directors at ASAE
    • Newly launched District Blog
    • AEF awarded 37 scholarships
    • WorldPride in Washington, DC
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The TSVE team has an exciting month with WorldPride celebrations, site visits, familiarization tours and more.

Top visitor questions last month:

  • What does the 250th Army Anniversary Parade/Celebration (June 14) entail, and what outside of the event will be open and accessible?
  • Which guided tours cover all the major stops throughout the city?
  • Where are suitable locations in the city to park a coach bus?
Read More

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