Your Guide To DC in November 2024

The days are getting shorter and the weather is getting colder. Throw in a high-stakes national election and November can be, well, a bit of a slog. Here are the ways we’ll be keeping our head above water this month and embracing the shorter days.

Headbang at Adams Morgan PorchFest

As an AdMo resident, I might be biased, but this is my favorite porchfest. Over 100 local bands of every musical genre will be performing – including rock, go-go, hip-hop, reggae, and pop. Wander between 25 porch stages, and grab goodies from local businesses at a hefty discount. (Nov. 2, 2 - 6 p.m.)

Have a Bonfire

You don’t have to go all the way to Shenandoah to enjoy a good s’more. Throw a fire pit party in Rock Creek Park. Some of the park’s picnic areas have stone fire pits that anyone can use for free. The best part is you can even order food delivery, which definitely gives it a leg up over the backcountry.

Embrace Soup Season

Picture this, it’s a Saturday morning, and you’re perusing your local farmers market for the perfect soup squash. Sounds like heaven, right? Just me? Regardless, November is the perfect time to work through your soup repertoire. Don’t feel like cooking? Order one from a local restaurant.

Bathe Under the Full Moon

Head to the National Arboretum for a full moon forest bathing session (or opt for the hike if that’s more your style). The program encourages you to slow down and take in the woods through the senses. Not only is this magnificently witchy, but it also helps boost immunity, lowers blood pressure, and improves attention. (Nov. 15, 6 p.m. Tickets are $35)

Have a Plan For Election Day

Have a plan for where you’ll be watching the election (we’ve got a list of the best election watch parties here), but also have a plan for how to cope if things go south. Is that commiserating with friends? Is that making a big bowl of soup alone? Whatever it is, stay safe!

Get Ahead On Thanksgiving Prep

It might seem like you have loads of time, but reservations go fast. If you are considering going out for Thanksgiving dinner or ordering in from a local restaurant (which I highly recommend), it’s time to start making plans. We’ll have some recs for you coming soon!