When most people think of DC museums they think about the Smithsonian and the major attractions on the National Mall. But the nation's capital is home to dozens of interesting museums that are located throughout the city. Dupont Circle is home to a dozen privately held institutions that offer a variety of educational exhibits. See a guide to the museums near Dupont Circle and explore one of the most eclectic neighborhoods of Washington DC.

Wishing for spring and thinking about all of the fun things to do in Washington, DC? The National Cherry Blossom Festival will be here before you know it. The annual festival welcomes the spring season and begins at the end of March drawing crowds from around the country to see the beautiful blossoms in the nation's capital. Here are some resources to help you make some plans for the Washington, DC area's favorite season of the year:

• Top 10 Spring Events in Washington, DC
• Spring Family Fun in DC
• March Festivals and Events in Washington, DC
• April Festivals and Events in Washington, DC

Photo © Bob Nichols

DAYGLOW, the premiere music and paint party, returns to the RFK Stadium Festival Grounds in Washington DC on Saturday, April 14, 2012 with an all new show: L!FE IN COLOR. This year, DAYGLOW will feature a brand new laser show, cirque-style live acts, its world-famous "Paint Blast," new DAYGLOW paint cannons that shoot over 100 feet into the crowd and the latest house and techno music by some of the world's hottest DJs. Tickets are on sale now at Ticketmaster.com and TicketsNow.com. Attendees must be 18 and older. The event takes place rain or shine.

Photo © Dayglow

See a guide to the top events going on this weekend in the Washington, DC area, including Maryland and Northern Virginia.

• Valentines Day Events in Washington DC - Throughout the weekend, find dining specials and romantic events to celebrate Valentines Day.
  
  
• Washington, DC International Wine Festival - February 11-12, 2012. Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center. The festival will include many new highlights including a Food Pavilion partnering sponsors with local chefs, trendy events at local restaurants, a restaurant partners program as well as a fun celebrity chef demonstration stage.
  
  
• Grand Opening Ford's Theatre Center for Education and Leadership - February 12 and 20, 2012. The new facility honoring Abraham Lincoln celebrates its opening with open houses and special programming including tours, author discussions, live performances and music.
  
  
• Frederick Douglass Birthday Celebration - February 11, 2012, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Frederick Douglass National Historic Site, 1411 W St. SE Washington, DC. Celebrate Frederick Douglass' Birthday and his contribution to the Women's Rights Movement with music, presentations, children's activities, live Douglass speeches, and house tours.
  
  
• Cupid's Undie Run - February 11, 2012. Run around the U.S. Capitol Building in your Valentine's themed undies to raise money for the Children's Tumor Foundation.
  
  
• Abraham Lincoln Birthday Observance - February 12, 2012 at noon. Lincoln Memorial, 23rd & Constitution Ave., NW Washington, DC. Honor Abraham Lincoln at a Presidential wreath laying ceremony and a dramatic reading of the "Gettysburg Address."
  
  
• Strathmore Discover Ellington Festival Through February 20, 2012. Music Center at Strathmore in North Bethesda, Maryland. Enjoy live musical performances, demonstrations and lectures and learn more about Washington's iconic jazz musician.
  
  
• Bethesda's Play in a Day - February 11, 2012. Six professional Washington, DC area theatre companies will write, direct, rehearse and perform original plays based on similar themes in only 24 hours.
  
  
• Black History Month - Throughout the month of February, remember the contributions of African Americans in the United States with numerous events and cultural programs.

More Upcoming Washington, DC Events

February Festivals and Events in the DC Area

Presidents' Day Weekend in Washington DC

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