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Your Guide to DC in October 2025

Posted on October 1, 2025   |   Updated on October 2, 2025
Julia Karron

Julia Karron

The bridge from Roosevelt Island frames the trees beginning to turn fall colors on the island as a pedestrian walks across the bridge, spanning a section of the Potomac River on October 19, 2024, in Washington, DC.

Fall on Roosevelt Island. (J. David Ake/Getty Images)

City Cast

Your Guide to October 2025 in DC

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October in D.C. just hits. The weather is good. The leaves are turning. It’s an ideal time to hike and hang out before hibernating for winter. And even though the city is still reeling from the federal takeover, we are still finding joy and ways to connect with this city we call home. From fast cars to throwing back a few drinks with a former U.S. president, here are some of our top picks for what to do in D.C. this October.

How ‘Bout Them Apples (Or Pumpkins)?

Overrated? Underrated? Either way, it’s apple picking season and time to grab a pumpkin from a patch. Butler’s Orchard in Germantown has ripe apples, hay rides, and petting zoos. It’s also their 75th anniversary, and their pumpkin festival is in full swing from Wednesdays to Sundays until Nov. 2.

Speed Racer

Thinking you could be an F1 driver? Union Market is giving you that chance from Oct. 9-12 with Race The District. Take a spin in a go kart, then unwind (or get more hype???) with a block party hosted by Louis the Child.

atrons drank plenty of beer as they participate in Oktoberfest celebrations at the Biergarten Haus in Washington, D.C. on September 15, 2012.

Pick your poison. (Marvin Joseph/Getty Images)

Beer or Wine, Pick Your Poison

A beer festival and a wine festival?! In the same month?! Hopefully you don’t have to choose. Mount Vernon is hosting their annual Fall Wine Festival on Oct. 10, and the Snallygaster Beer Festival takes place on the Mall Oct. 11.

Keep the Museum Lights On

With the effects surrounding the government shutdown, Smithsonian museums all across the city could close down. But there are a few hidden gems like the Kreeger Museum, which has an exhibit on Claude Monet, and American University’s Katzen Art Center, currently showing artists Luciano Penay, Joan Lewis Birnbaum, and Myrtle Katzen. They remain open because they aren't government funded, so check out an exhibit or show at a place that isn’t a Smithsonian if you haven't yet!

Friday Night Lights

High School football season is in full swing across the District and ‘burbs. You can take in most games for free, while a few have cheap ticket prices. Cozy up in the bleachers with some cocoa and popcorn and show some school spirit.

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