Your Guide To DC In May 2025

May is when D.C. comes alive again. Streateries are in full swing, outdoor movies are back, sunset is after 8 p.m., and FOMO is at its strongest. Here’s what to prioritize this month to make the most of it.

Enjoy Outdoor Movies Sans Bugs

Outdoor movie season begins this month, and it’s the one and only time to enjoy them without mosquitoes. Some of our favorite spots to catch a free flick are Alethia Tanner Park, Transit Pier at The Wharf, and Congressional Cemetery for the creeps.

Eat at a Hong Kong Night Market

Hi-Lawn on top of Union Market is hosting its wildly popular annual night market on May 22 with food stalls from local AAPI chefs, artisan shops, performances, baijiu bars, and thousands of lanterns. Tickets are $5 and always sell out, so get them now!

Head for the Woods

May is the unofficial start of camping season and the perfect time to go before the heat makes it unbearable (I prefer to not sweat through my sleeping bag tyvm). Shenandoah is a great close option, but Dolly Sods in West Virginia and George Washington National Forest are worth the extra drive.

Swap Your Clothes For Something New

Looking for some new pieces for the summer season? Head to one of D.C.’s many clothing swaps this month to grab something new for free. There is one at Eckington Hall on May 10 and another at the Anacostia Arts Center on May 25.

Open Dem’ Windows

D.C. utility bills could spike even more this summer if Washington Gas’s new proposed gas hike goes into effect. Take advantage of the temperate weather and a fan to save on energy bills while you can.

Party At Suns Cinema

Mt. Pleasant's iconic cool-crowd film house is turning nine and will be celebrating on May 17. There will be local DJs, crafty cocktails, and lots of men with mustaches.

Get Your Bike Tuned Up

Something I do once a year as part of my “spring cleaning:” a bike tune-up makes you safer and smoother on the road. Here are the best spots around town to get fixed up with prices. It’s worth it, I promise.