#1 Food & Restaurant Industry Event
The 35th annual celebration of area restaurants welcomed more than 2,300 attendees to the Walter E. Washington Convention Center on July 30. Prior to entering, guests walked along a display with the names of Rammy Chef of the Year honorees from the past 20 years, reminiscent of the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Guests were served food from the embassies of Korea, Argentina, Peru, and Chile. Produced by the Restaurant Association of Metropolitan Washington, the ceremony featured the handing down of 21 awards. Chef of the Year honors went to Tarver King, of Restaurant at Potowmack Farm, while Hazel nabbed the Restaurant of the Year award. Next: Summer 2018
Photo: Daniel Schwartz
#2 Food & Restaurant Industry Event
The 12th annual food fest will feature chefs Guy Fieri, hometown favorite José Andrés, Carla Hall of The Chew, and Rammy winners. Set to feature samplings from more than 50 area restaurants in its Grand Tasting Pavilion, the event also will include 200 specialty food exhibitors in the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, and is produced by E.J. Krause & Associates. Interactive offerings during the event include the BBQ Bash, hosted by Top Chef finalist Marjorie Meek-Bradley, chef of Smoked & Stacked. Sponsorship is provided by the Lincoln Motor Company, Cooking Light, Geico, Yelp, and others. Next: December 9-10, 2017
Photo: Courtesy of Metro Cooking D.C.
#3 Food & Restaurant Industry Event (up from #4)
Following 2016’s cancellation due to Winter Storm Jonas, the ninth annual event was held January 28 and 29 at the Newseum. On the first night, about 900 guests visited tasting stations from 57 restaurants, mixologists, and others. Sponsors JetBlue and Whole Foods, respectively, provided a lounge with two cocktails—the Window and Aisle—and game-day food in a nod to February’s Super Bowl. On the second night, 70 chefs from around the world, including 49 from Washington, hosted dinners in 35 homes for 600 guests. Collectively, $600,000 was raised for a duo of charities: D.C. Central Kitchen and Martha’s Table. The affair was founded and hosted by a trio of James Beard winners: chefs Alice Waters and José Andrés and cookbook author Joan Nathan. Next: January 27-28, 2018
Photo: Courtesy of D.C. Central Kitchen
#4 Food & Restaurant Industry Event (up from #6)
A shift to R.F.K. Stadium Festival Grounds from Pennsylvania Avenue allowed for a bigger food festival on October 7 and 8, with more than 65 area restaurants participating and 50 wines serving on the Taste of D.C. Wine Walk. Entertainment was on three stages, including one with culinary demonstrations from regional chefs. The area’s biggest Oktoberfest celebration took over a section of the festival grounds, while a Kids Zone was added. A chili-eating contest was held, along with a tailgate party featuring a chili cook-off, barbecue dishes, and beer. The event was presented by Events D.C. in partnership with Brainfood, a nonprofit youth organization focused on educating and empowering local children. Next: Fall 2018
Photo: Courtesy of Taste of D.C.
#5 Food & Restaurant Industry Event
Raising more than $30,000 for the Spirit of Hope Children’s Foundation, some 12,000 foodies and wine aficionados gathered on National Harbor’s waterfront April 29 and 30. Produced by Trigger Street, the event featured chef demonstrations by Scott Drewno of the Source by Wolfgang Puck, Victor Albisu of Del Campo and Taco Bamba, Seng Luangrath of Thip Khao, Marjorie Meek-Bradley of Smoked & Stacked, and Rock Harper of RockSolid. Live music was provided by Bobby McKey’s Boombox, Johnny & the GI’s, and Texas Chainsaw Horns. Next: April 28, 2018
Photo: Courtesy of National Harbor Wine & Food Festival
#6 Food & Restaurant Industry Event (up from #7)
Held on both Pennsylvania and Constitution Avenues, the June event featured plates of beef brisket, pork, chicken, and lamb prepared by some of the nation’s top barbecue joints for about 100,000 guests. Entertainment included three stages featuring performances by 30 bands, the World’s Largest Traveling Grill, Nathan’s Competitive Eating contests, area sports teams, and more. A military cook-off, in which all branches of service took part, benefited the U.S.O. of Metropolitan Washington. The Capital Area Food Bank also received aid from the event, which has been called a “Top 10 BBQ Event” by the Travel Channel. Next: June 23-24, 2018
Photo: Courtesy of Giant National Capital Barbecue Battle
#7 Food & Restaurant Industry Event (up from #8)
Presented by the H.R.C. Foundation and event creator David Hagedorn, the sixth annual edition brought in food and drink stations courtesy of 150 local chefs, pastry chefs, and mixologists. Held September 19 for the first time at Dock5 at Union Market, the event featured nine personal chef tables where attendees could share a five-course meal with celebrity chefs including Marjorie Meek-Bradley, Katsuya Fukushima, Pichet Ong, Edward Lee, Tarver King, and Bryan Voltaggio. Also on tap were 18 multi-tier wedding cakes in protest of an upcoming Supreme Court case involving a Colorado baker who refused the business of a same-sex couple, citing religious beliefs. A new event this year was the 5/10/15 Speed Dinner, where guests could buy tickets for 15-minute time slots to enjoy a mini five-course tasting prepared by five pairs of celebrity chefs. All proceeds benefit the foundation’s nationwide L.G.B.T.Q. equality education efforts. Next: Fall 2018
Photo: Nick Wass/AP Images for Human Rights Campaign
#8 Food & Restaurant Industry Event (new to the list)
For D.C. Central Kitchen’s November 16 fund-raiser at the Ronald Reagan Building & International Trade Center, more than 80 area restaurants fed 1,200 guests while four local chefs battled. Judges were chef Joseph “JJ” Johnson, CNN’s Ana Navarro, Washington Nationals first baseman Ryan Zimmerman, and television personality Adam Richman. Founded and chaired by chef José Andrés, the fight raised $638,000. It was co-hosted by chef Spike Mendelsohn, Tregaye Fraser, and Fanny Slater of Food Network’s Kitchen Sink. New this year was a mobile app for guests to learn about the dishes being served, participating restaurants, and more. Sponsors—feted in a pre-event gathering—included Smithfield Foods, American Airlines, Whole Foods,, and others. Next: Fall 2018
Photo: Larry French/Getty Images for DC Central Kitchen's Capital Food Fight
#1 Art & Entertainment Event
Set to mark its 40-year anniversary this year, the ceremony will feature some retrospective moments for the live crowd at the 2,200-seat Kennedy Center Opera House, which always sells out for this affair, and on the event’s PBS broadcast, airing December 26. History will be made next month at the event when recipient LL Cool J becomes the first hip-hop artist honored; and also because President Trump announced he would skip the affair after some honorees threatened a boycott if he attended. Other luminaries to be recognized are recording artists Gloria Estefan and Lionel Ritchie, television producer Norman Lear, and choreographer and dancer Carmen de Lavallade. Next: December 3, 2017
Photo: Jeffrey R. Staab/CBS
#2 Art & Entertainment Event
Another full-house gathering at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, the 20th annual Twain prize this year went to David Letterman. Sponsored by Capital One—which funded a red carpet pre-show on Facebook Live—and Comcast/NBCUniversal, the event took place October 22 and was broadcast on November 20. Among those who praised and skewered Letterman and his 33-year career were comics Jimmy Kimmel, Steve Martin, Amy Schumer, Martin Short, and others, along with his colleagues from Late Night With David Letterman, Paul Shaffer and Biff Henderson. The event raised $2.2 million for the Kennedy Center’s arts, education, and community programs. Next: Fall 2018
Photo: Scott Suchman/The Kennedy Center
#3 Art & Entertainment Event (new to the list)
The bipartisan fund-raiser, which has honored President Lincoln for over four decades, brought in close to $2 million for the historic venue’s programs. Many government leaders attended the June 4 gathering, including President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump; Vice President Mike Pence and Karen Pence; senators Roy Blunt, Bob Corker, Richard Durbin, Lindsey Graham, Patrick Leahy and Ed Markey; House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy; House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi; and others. In total, the venue’s 550 full-view seats were filled. Melania Trump was the honorary chair, and football giant Peyton Manning and businessman Ronald Perelman received the Lincoln Medal. The event’s lead sponsor was General Dynamics, while Ovation sponsored the red carpet. Next: June 2018
Photo: Maxwell MacKenzie
#4 Art & Entertainment Event
The largest cast to date took part in the June 12 show at Sidney Harman Hall, with 40 members of Congress and Washington influencers among the performers. The original script Met By Moonlight, by Peter Byrne and The West Wing writers, was given life by actor Santino Fontana and other thespians: U.S. Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke, Senator Chris Coons of Delaware, and eight members of the House. Media participants included writers and editors from the Hill, the Atlantic, and the Washington Post, plus a Fox News correspondent, ABC’s political director, and more. The announcement of Fontana’s involvement reached 18,000 Facebook users, and the event raised $510,000 for the Shakespeare Theatre Company. Next: Spring 2018
Photo: Kevin Allen
#5 Art & Entertainment Event
With 112 films from 28 countries, the 15th edition of the documentary film festival covered a variety of topics, including the environment, sports, politics, and art. Filmmaker Laura Poitras, who is best known for Oscar-winning Citizenfour, an Edward Snowden portrait, was named the Charles Guggenheim Symposium honoree; the Audience Award for Best Feature went to Step, and Fish Story won the Audience Award for Best Short. Notables present included Mariska Hargitay, Morgan Spurlock, scientist Bill Nye, and others. AT&T once again was the presenting sponsor, and several discussions were held with journalists from ABC, NPR, PBS, CQ Roll Call, and the Washington Post. Next: June 13-17, 2018
Photo: Courtesy of AFI Docs
#6 Art & Entertainment Event
Nearly 79,000 jazz fans attended at least one of the 125 performances that were on offer June 9 to 18 in 40 venues citywide, including performing arts spaces, museums, restaurants, hotels, and community centers. Produced by Events D.C., the 13th annual festival featured more than 90 bands and 300 artists. Among the highlights, D.C. JazzFest at the Yards boasted 11,000 attendees during three days of programming; Jazz in the ’Hoods came to 22 neighborhoods; Jazz ’n Families Fun Days at the Phillips Collection garnered 5,100 attendees; and the Bass-ically Yours Series at the Kennedy Center Millennium Stage hosted six nights of free jazz performances. Sponsors included Renaissance Hotels, Coca-Cola, Amtrak, and others. Next: June 8-17, 2018
Photo: Jati Lindsay
#7 Art & Entertainment Event (up from #8)
Marking a dozen years of existence, the theatrical showcase featured 90 shows from July 6 to 30. Five shows received audience awards, while 16 had their runs extended. Held in 19 venues, mostly in the Trinidad neighborhood, the summertime event included unique productions such as MacBheatha, a high-flying Shakespeare adaptation; Comedian Elected to Town Council in New Jersey; and the experimental Dishwasher, where guests were invited to wash dishes in the home of actor Brian Feldman while he delivers a monologue. Current events and politics also were explored, according to WTOP. Produced by Capital Fringe, the event reported that it generates more than $283,000 in revenue for participating artists. Next: July 6-July 23, 2018
Photo: Courtesy of Capital Fringe Festival
#8 Art & Entertainment Event (up from #9)
The 14th annual festival received record-breaking submissions of more than 1,500 films and 77 screenplays. Nearly 170 films from some 30 countries were screened, while six screenplays were shown over 10 days. Programming included dozens of showcases, an outdoor screening in partnership with Asian Pacific American Film Festival and EuroAsia Shorts, and four lunchtime showcases presenting area filmmakers. Many films premiered, including 15 from around the world, six from North America, five from the United States, and 25 from the east coast. Evening parties and a Shorts Competition with a $2,000 prize also took place. Sponsors included Apple, Yelp, Tito’s Homemade Vodka, and others. Sunnyside VR demonstrated its products at some events. Next: Fall 2018
Photo: Courtesy of D.C. Shorts
#1 Political & Press Event
President Trump did not attend the celebrity-packed media affair on April 29 due to his tense relationship with the media, and several after-parties were canceled. Still, the Washington press corps came out in full force to the Washington Hilton, and its members were reminded of their purpose by the grandfathers of journalism, Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein. But Jeff Mason, president of the association, provided the soundbite of the evening when he said, “We are not fake news. We are not failing news organizations. And we are not the enemy of the American people.” Comedian Hasan Minhaj, a senior correspondent on The Daily Show, entertained at the black-tie dinner. Next: April 28, 2018
Photo: Joy Asico/Asico Photo
#2 Political & Press Event
Almost 23 million viewers witnessed the first—and one of the few—instances of President Trump appearing “presidential,” according to several correspondents. As is often the case for the first year of a first-term president’s tenure when it comes time for the remarks, the White House referred to the February 28 speech as a “Joint Session of Congress,” and the talk was delivered slightly later in the month than normal. Rather than reflect on the past year, the president used his bully pulpit to outline his administration’s goals. Still, the television networks and those who tuned-in for the update treated the remarks as equally significant to the typical State of the Union, and the President generally received high marks. Next: January 30, 2018
Photo: Shealah Craighead
#3 Political & Press Event
Always packed with notable speakers from the world of politics, this year’s edition of the Israel-focused conference was no exception. Roughly 18,000 attendees heard speeches from Vice President Mike Pence, United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley, the full bipartisan leadership of the U.S. Congress, former Israeli Ambassador to the U.S. Danny Ayalon, former British prime minister Tony Blair, and Rwandan President Paul Kagame, among others. The organization fights to protect, strengthen, and promote the relationship between the United States and Israel, while enhancing the security of both nations. Next: March 4-6, 2018
Photo: Jason Dixson
#4 Political & Press Event
The American Conservative Union had media and think talk personalities interview politicians at the conference, which returned to the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center in National Harbor, Maryland, February 22 to 24. The 9,300 attendees heard Senator Ted Cruz talk to Mark Levin of the Mark Levin Show, while former Republican presidential candidate Carly Fiorina was questioned by Arthur Brooks of the American Enterprise Institute. Organizers also had an emcee speak with luminaries on a topic and synthesize the conversations. The event racked up 500 million Twitter impressions and 4.2 million YouTube views. Speakers included President Trump, Vice President Mike Pence, Steve Bannon, the N.R.A.’s Wayne LaPierre, and more. Next: February 21-24, 2018
Photo: Gage Skidmore
#5 Political & Press Event
Broadcast journalist Greta Van Susteren served as emcee for the 73rd annual dinner, held at the Ritz-Carlton on March 1 and meant to serve as a light-hearted evening. Televised on C-SPAN, the event gave the Lifetime Achievement Award to former NPR host Diane Rehm, and PBS NewsHour executive producer Sara Just revealed the creation of a journalism fellowship in honor of the late Gwen Ifill. Senator Tim Scott of South Carolina also spoke, while Representative Cedric Richmond of Louisiana delivered keynote remarks. Sponsors included Twitter, BP, Toyota, and others. Next: Winter/Spring 2018
Photo: Tom Williams
#6 Political & Press Event
This club for Washington’s journalists creates musical lampoons of the White House and Congress at its annual white-tie affair. For the 132nd iteration, held March 4 at the Renaissance Washington D.C. Hotel, House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi and Vice President Mike Pence lobbed zingers at one another while journalists performed parody songs. Pelosi represented her party in a comic speech along with her counterpart, Republican Senator Joni Ernst of Iowa, making them the event’s first female speaker duo. President Trump declined his invitation, becoming only the second sitting president not to speak there since 1885. But many White House officials were on hand, including then press secretary Sean Spicer and counselor Kellyanne Conway. Next: Spring 2018
#7 Political & Press Event
Headlined by Hillary Rodham Clinton, the 21st annual sold-out affair brought in 3,500 guests and raised $3.5 million. Speakers included Billie Jean King, Gold Star father Khizr Kahn, actress Uzo Aduba, and Senator Kamala D. Harris. Amazon C.E.O. and Washington Post owner Jeff Bezos received the National Equality Award, and Joe Jonas performed. Macy’s, Lexus, and Smirnoff Vodka were sponsors. The dinner, held October 28 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, had a theme of “Rise.” Next: Fall 2018
Photo: FotoBriceno
#8 Political & Press Event
Under the theme of “And Still I Rise,” the 47th annual conference, held September 20 to 24 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, featured 100 forums and exhibitors, as well as the foundation’s fund-raiser, the Phoenix Awards Dinner. With co-emcees—actor Anthony Anderson and White House correspondent April Ryan—the evening featured Grammy-award-winning singer Dionne Warwick, and the keynote speaker was Michael Eric Dyson. Among the honorees at the dinner was Tamika Mallory, one of the organizers of the Women’s March on Washington and a 2017 BizBash Innovator. Next: September 19-23, 2018
Photo: AFGE
#9 Political & Press Event
While no guest list was published, President Trump reportedly declined to attend the January 28 black-tie gathering of millionaires, which serves as an unofficial White House roast. But several administration officials were expected to join the elite affair, including Vice President Mike Pence, Ivanka Trump and senior adviser Jared Kushner, then-chief of staff Reince Priebus, Sean Spicer, and Kellyanne Conway. Also slated to take part were former New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg, the new president of the club; Bill Gates of Microsoft; Jeff Bezos of Amazon and the Washington Post; and other members of the one percent. An after-party was held at Cafe Milano in Georgetown. Next: January 27, 2018
#10 Political & Press Event
Top-ranking and high-profile members of government served as speakers during the eighth annual summit on May 23. Among them were Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, Senator John McCain, and House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi. Other heavy hitters took part, including former Louisiana Lieutenant Governor Mitch Landrieu; Joshua Bolten, president and C.E.O. of the Business Roundtable; and James Capretta, a fellow at the American Enterprise Institute. Moderators and interviewers included correspondents and editors from CNN, CNBC, PBS, the Wall Street Journal, and Kaiser Health News. Held in the Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium, the theme was “Rising Debt in a Changing Economy.” Next: May 2018
Photo: Courtesy of Peter G. Peterson Foundation
#11 Political & Press Event (up from #12)
Known for a pedigreed speaker roster, event organizers added more interactive elements at the September 26 and 27 gathering. Tours, tastings, and other programming in museums, restaurants, exercise studios, and more were made available around town—even extending beyond the conference to October 1—giving the 3,200 attendees a potentially more memorable, and holistic, experience of the city. Organized by The Atlantic in partnership with the Aspen Institute, the forum featured a premium pass, providing V.I.P. seating, admission to a patrons-only reception with a panel discussion from The Atlantic’s top editors, and early event access. More sponsors signed on this year, including Allstate, Pfizer, Bank of America, Aflac, ExxonMobil, and others. Next: Fall 2018
Photo: Courtesy of Washington Ideas
#12 Political & Press Event
The pot surely was stirred when House Speaker Paul Ryan was the keynote speaker during the 73rd annual dinner, held October 25 at the National Building Museum and televised on C-SPAN. On the lighter side, Roy Wood Jr., correspondent on Comedy Central’s The Daily Show, was the headline entertainer, and radio personality Bobby Bones was guest emcee. Tom Shine of ABC News received the Lifetime Achievement Award; Quentin Sommerville of the BBC won the David Bloom Award; Rick Morse of Fox News received Jerry Thompson Award; and CNN’s Manu Raju received the Joan Shorenstein Barone Award. Next: Fall 2018
Photo: Courtesy of R.T.C.A.
#13 Political & Press Event
Held June 5, the event brought together nearly 600 guests, hailing from about 40 countries, who represent the top levels of government, business, military, and media, as well as civil society leaders. Honorees at the 21st annual ceremony and dinner included Princess Haya Bint Al Hussein of Jordan; Jens Stoltenberg, secretary general of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization; Ford Motor Company executive chairman Bill Ford; Navy Admiral Michelle Howard; and soprano Renee Fleming. Among this year’s speakers and presenters was Vice President Mike Pence and former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright. Next: May 2018
Photo: Courtesy of Atlantic Council
#14 Political & Press Event
Rock star Jon Bon Jovi received the Service to America Leadership Award for his work with the Jon Bon Jovi Soul Foundation at the June 20 event, later performing for the 580 guests at the Andrew Mellon Auditorium. FedEx was given the Corporate Leadership Award for the FedEx Cares initiative and the company’s pledge to invest $200 million in 20 communities by 2020. The event is presented by the N.A.B. Education Foundation. Next: June 12, 2018
Photo: Courtesy of Celebration of Service to America Awards
#15 Political & Press Event
Paying tribute to the best of journalism, the February 16 fete at the Marriott Marquis honored the Washington Post with the Best Use of Technology Award, the Innovation in Journalism Award, and the Feddie Reporting Award; ABC’s Martha Raddatz received the Sol Taishoff Award for Excellence in Broadcast Journalism; and several others were recognized. The dinner draws 900 guests each year. A long list of sponsors this year included AARP, Bloomberg, Politico, and Facebook. Next: February 15, 2018
Photo: Courtesy of the National Press Foundation
#16 Political & Press Event (up from #17)
Nearly all 50 governors were in town for the February 24 to 27 conference—a record-breaking 46 of them gathered—held at the JW Marriott. Discussions varied from early childhood education, a topic on which actress Jennifer Garner spoke, to ending childhood hunger to cybersecurity. Speakers included celebrity chef Hugh Acheson, political pollster Frank Luntz, and a panel discussion moderated by Adam Clayton Powell III. Highlights of the event included a luncheon for the governors and their spouses with Vice President Mike Pence. But it was at the Governor’s Ball, held at the White House, that made news around the nation when President Trump, who had been working to overhaul Obamacare, said, “Nobody knew that healthcare could be so complicated.” Next: Winter 2018
Photo: Courtesy of the National Governors Association
#17 Political & Press Event
A baker’s dozen of brave women each received a Secretary of State’s International Women of Courage Award during a March 29 ceremony at the State Department. The social and human rights activists recognized included Sharmin Akter, an activist against early/forced marriage from Bangladesh; Veronica Simogun of the Family for Change Association in Papua New Guinea; Major Aichatou Ousmane Issaka of the Military Hospital of Niamey in Niger; attorney Cindy Arlette Contreras Bautista of Not One Woman Less; Jannat Al Ghezi of the Organization of Women’s Freedom in Iraq; Sister Carolin Tahhan Fachakh of Daughters of Mary Help of Christians, in Syria; and others. Next: Spring 2018
Photo: Courtesy of the State Department
#18 Political & Press Event
Presided over by Oklahoma City Mayor Mick Cornett and hosted by District of Columbia Mayor Muriel Bowser, the 85th annual meeting was held January 17 to 19 at the Capital Hilton. Among the highlights were an address by Vice President Mike Pence, a discussion of driverless cars with Ford Motor Company executive chairman Bill Ford, the launch of the Better Cities for Pets survey, and a joint session of the Latino Alliance of the Conference of Mayors. The organization represents cities with populations of 30,000 or more. Next: January 24-26, 2018
Photo: David Hathcox
#19 Political & Press Event (new to the list)
Coinciding with International Women’s Day, the March 8 event brought 1,200 guests to the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Art’s Eisenhower Theater. For the 20th anniversary of host organization Vital Voices Global Partnership, one of its founders, Hillary Rodham Clinton was honored with a thank-you letter read by members of Vital Voices’s Global Leadership Network. Award recipients included Queen Rania Al Abdullah of Jordan, and luminaries attending the event included Sally Field and Tina Brown. The event raised about $1.6 million, marking the most successful year since 2012. Next: April 4, 2018
Photo: Courtesy of Vital Voices Global Leadership Awards
#1 Holiday Event (up from #2)
Hosted by John Stamos, the Fourth of July celebration included performances by the Beach Boys, Dan Aykroyd and Jim Belushi of the Blues Brothers, the Four Tops, and many other entertainers. Broadcast live on PBS, the celebration lit up not only the sky, but also the Internet: the event was the top trending topic locally, and nationwide it was number three on Nielsen Specials Social Media ratings. It garnered 6.2 million social-media impressions. Capital Concerts produced the affair. Next: July 4, 2018
Photo: Courtesy of Capital Concerts
#2 Holiday Event (up from #3)
Closing out last year’s celebration of the National Park Service’s 100th anniversary, President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama led their final iteration of the event in President’s Park on December 1, 2016. They were surrounded by entertainers including Yolanda Adams, Marc Anthony, Kelly Clarkson, the Lumineers, Chance the Rapper, James Taylor, Garth Brooks, and Trisha Yearwood, who performed holiday songs while accompanied by Afro Blue and the Airmen of Note. Olympic champion swimmer Simone Manuel also made an appearance. The tree spreads its cheer year-round in a Twitter account, with clever posts such as “You’ll never hear me complain it’s too early for Christmas candy in the grocery store” earlier this month. Next: November 30
Photo: U.S. Department of the Interior
#3 Holiday Event
Pulled together in a last-minute scramble compared to the planning process of previous administrations, the 139th occurrence of this event saw a 20,000 person attendance dip, to a total of 21,000 guests. Unlike last year’s version—where entertainers Beyoncé and Jay-Z joined President Obama for his final outing—this year’s version was celebrity-free, save for Sesame Street’s Elmo and administration members. First Lady Melania Trump focused on historical elements of the hunt with egg dying, an art wall, a cookie-decorating area, a thank-you note section for children to write notes to troops and veterans, a reading nook, and military bands, according to CNN. Entertainment also was provided by boy band Bro4 and the Martin Family Circus. Next: April 2, 2018
Photo: Joyce N. Boghosian
#4 Holiday Event
Hundreds of thousands of people filled the West Lawn of the United States Capitol building for the tribute to active service members, veterans, and military families, leading to seven million social-media impressions. Broadcast for the 28th year on PBS, the show featured actors Joe Mantegna, Laurence Fishburne, and Gary Sinise. Performances were given by opera star Renee Fleming, Vanessa Williams, American Idol winner Scotty McCreery, the National Symphony Orchestra, and more. Auli’i Cravalho, the voice of Disney’s Moana, sang the national anthem. The concert was streamed on Facebook Live. Next: May 27, 2018
Photo: Courtesy of Capital Concerts
#1 Benefit
Raising money to support early childhood education, the 28th annual event on November 2 secured $4.3 million. For the first time this year, stars of mixed martial arts joined the 2,000-person crowd at the Washington Hilton. The Professional Fighters League arranges match-ups at the event, and former heavyweight champion Blagoy Ivanov, rising star featherweight Lance Palmer, Brazilian Caio Alencar, and MMA veteran Steven Siler participated. Appearances were made by the Washington Redskins cheerleaders and several athletes, Fox Sports NFL commentator Jay Glazer, and actors Omar Benson Miller and Donovan W. Carter from HBO’s Ballers. The Party Deck, a smaller, self-contained and lower-cost area of the ballroom, returned; rock group Royal Machines performed. Next: November 1, 2018
Photo: Rich Kessler
#2 Benefit
With an eye toward putting music front-and-center, and shifting from a ball to a gala, organizers shook up the format June 3 by moving from decorated embassies around town to a concert from Broadway and opera stars at the Kennedy Center Opera House. The effort paid off, with the evening’s benefactor, the Washington National Opera, earning $2.3 million, double recent fund-raising totals. Mezzo-soprano Denyce Graves sang Showboat’s “Old Man River” and Renee Fleming sang, while The Color Purple cast member Cynthia Erivo and Hamilton’s Leslie Odom Jr. and Jordan Donica performed. Board chairwoman Jacqueline Badger Mars, heiress to the Mars candy company, was honored as she stepped down after six years—but not before each guests received a W.N.O. package of M&Ms. Next: June 2018
Photo: Jati Lindsay
#3 Benefit
Dovetailing with the ball’s 30th anniversary on March 11 was the retirement of the ball’s founder, David Timko, who also served as executive director of the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s area chapter. As a result, organizers raised $4.1 million through ticket sales, sponsorships, live auction, and an on-site call for donations. “David is an infectious personality so a lot of people wanted to do something special for his retirement,” said Beth Gorman, the chapter’s executive director. Event designer Hargrove created a wall of photos from the past three decades at check-in. Entertainment included comedian Jim Gaffigan and singer Andy Grammer. Held at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, more than 1,700 people attended. Next: March 10, 2018
Photo: Tony Brown/Imijination Photography
#4 Benefit (up from #6)
In total, the March 10 benefit at the National Building Museum raised almost $1.6 million, thanks to a strategy of targeting new industries to attend and an expansion of the silent auction. Featuring a theme of Italy: Icon of Innovation, event designer David Tutera showcased the European nation in modern times. A foundation board member, Tutera also spoke, noting cancer “punctured my world” when family members and friends were diagnosed. House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy, who lost his father to the disease, was honored for encouraging bipartisan unity around medical research. He accepted the Cancer Champion Award on his father’s behalf. The event had more than 100 sponsors, including several pharmaceutical companies. Next: May 16, 2018
Photo: Jack Hartzman
#5 Benefit
About 300 of Washington’s business elite gathered for the sold-out event November 12, according to organizers. Shifted to different venues each year, the 2017 gala was held at the Ritz-Carlton with 20 chefs and one mixologist. A silent auction included prizes like a trip to Las Vegas featuring cage-side tickets to the 2018 Professional Fighters League, or a “Tour de Jose,” during which four guests could dine at four of chef José Andrés’s Michelin-starred restaurants. A live auction also was held. Presented by CIM Group and Wells Fargo, sponsors included Marriott, Baird, American Airlines, and others. J. Knox Singleton, C.E.O. of Inova Health Systems, received the Alfred J. Hitchcock award. The foundation’s fund-raising goal was $500,000. Next: Fall 2018
Photo: Rodney Choice
#6 Benefit
One might not imagine the Kennedy Center topping last year’s event, which honored Marvin Gaye, but the cultural venue shifted to focus on John Lennon at the May 8 event. In a concert hosted by actor David Duchovny, under musical direction by T Bone Burnett, performers included Corinne Bailey Rae, Steven van Zandt, Judy Collins, and many others. An estimated 2,110 came to the concert in the Kennedy Center’s Concert Hall, while some 800 came to the pre-concert dinner. The 2017 recipients of the Award for the Human Spirit are philanthropists Joan and Sanford (Sandy) Weill and citizen artists Aaron and Afa Sadykhly Dworkin. An after-party reportedly lasted until the wee hours. Next: Spring 2018
Photo: Teresa Wood
#7 Benefit
For its 30th anniversary, celebrated October 23 at the Marriott Wardman Park, the College Fund shifted to a larger ballroom and created a new stage set. A video showcased the organization’s history, while former organization officials were on hand, and 30 scholars were brought on stage. Nearly $4.3 million was raised. Celebrities in attendance included Jussie Smollett, Vivica A. Fox, Kevin Frazier, and others. Miss U.S.A. 2016 Captain Deshauna Barber, a fund member-school graduate, also came. In another first, the event was hosted by outgoing fund president and C.E.O. Johnny C. Taylor, Jr. Sponsors included Altria, Gallup, MillerCoors, the N.B.A., Society for Human Resource Management, and Wells Fargo. Next: October 29, 2018
Photo: Tasos Katopodis/Getty Images For Thurgood Marshall College Fund
#8 Benefit
The familiar and much-loved ball returned in lieu of the Trust for the Mall Luncheon to celebrate the 10-year partnership of the Trust for the Mall and the National Park Service. CNN’s Wolf Blitzer served as master of ceremonies at the May 11 event; author and presidential historian Douglas Brinkley presented the History, Heroes, and Hope Award to philanthropist David M. Rubenstein; and the Distinction in Corporate Service Award went to Volkswagen Group of America. The long list of sponsors included Altria, Bloomberg Philanthropies, Capital One, Quicken Loans, Walt Disney Parks & Resorts, and scores of others. American Airlines sponsored the after-party. Next: April 26, 2018
Photo: Tony Powell/Trust for the National Mall
#9 Benefit
In support of Children’s National Health System, which works to advance pediatric medicine locally and worldwide, the April 7 event raised just over $3 million. The Ritz-Carlton Washington, D.C. provided ample space for the 860 attendees and “creative decor,” according to organizers. Emcee Bret Baier donned an authentic NASA spacesuit during the opening program to support the Pioneering the Future theme. He was joined on stage by CBS This Morning co-host Norah O’Donnell and Molly Barcalow, a 16-year-old who survived a rare and life-threatening cancer after receiving treatment at Children’s National. Next: April 6, 2018
Photo: Abram Eric Landes
#10 Benefit
Part of a weekend-long celebration that paid tribute to Sicily, the 42nd anniversary gala drew 1,400 guests to the Marriott Wardman Park November 4 and honored Princess Beatrice di Borbone delle Due Sicilie. Italian cocktails were served, and the silent auction included Italy trips and items showcasing Italian craftsmanship. Performances were delivered by Lena Prima, Carmelo Sorce, and Alfio. Emceed by Emmy-award winning journalist Maria Bartiromo and actor Joe Piscopo, the event raised just over $1 million. During an after-party, traditional songs were sung and guests danced the tarantella. The weekend also featured decor in Sicily’s red and yellow colors, traditional dishes, and events like Tony De Nonno's Sicilian marionette show. Next: October 13, 2018
Photo: Andy DelGiudice/NIAF
#11 Benefit
Honoring military families, U.S.O. supporters, and volunteers, the 76th annual event was held October 19 at the Marriott Marquis. Attended by 600 people, the evening was emceed by journalist Tamron Hall and included a performance by comedian Jeffrey Ross, “Roastmaster-in-Chief.” The theme was A Force Behind the Forces, and seven U.S.O. Service Member of the Year awards were given, while two service members received U.S.O. Volunteer of the Year Awards. The evening focused on Fueling the Future, a four-year, $500 million fund-raising initiative to help American service members make connections. The Boeing Company and the Kroger Company both are partners in the campaign. Other sponsors included Chevron, AT&T, and Coca-Cola. Next: Fall 2018
Photo: Mike Theiler
#12 Benefit
Looking to create a fun atmosphere against the backdrop of the stately Meridian House, organizers of the October 20 event decorated the 49th annual edition with tropical flowers, colorful paper cut-outs, cigar rollers, and a doughnut wall. Following a cocktail reception at the the Latin-inspired event, 800 guests dined either at one of 25 embassies, or at Meridian’s White-Meyer House next door. The night ended with dancing in a clear-topped tent in the garden. House Speaker Paul Ryan, Commerce secretary Wilbur Ross, Veterans Affairs secretary David Shulkin, and Deputy National Security advisor Dina Powell attended. Meridian declined to disclose the fund-raising total. Corporations such as Bayer, Chevron, and Gallup were sponsors. Next: October 12, 2018
Photo: Rodney Bailey
#13 Benefit
Held at the National Air & Space Museum on May 12, the event drew 600 guests. Several members of Washington’s glitterati attended, including Michelle Kosinski of CNN, U.S. senators Mark Warner and Lisa Collins, Amy and Brett Baier of Fox, and others. Celebrating President John F. Kennedy’s 100th birthday, the theme was the Washington Ballet Ball: We Choose the Moon. Caroline Kennedy was honorary chair. The event featured catering from Occasions Caterers, florals and some rentals from Amaryllis, and lighting by John Farr Lighting, while Design Foundry oversaw decor for the first time. Next: May 2018
Photo: Tony Powell
#14 Benefit
Inspired by a traditional German ringing-in of spring’s arrival, the May 19 event attracted 400 guests and featured the theme of Maifest: A Spring Celebration of German Art and Culture. It honored the collection’s long-standing relationship with the German Embassy, and celebrated the artistic exchange between the United States and Germany. On behalf of the museum’s educational programs, $1 million was raised, and honorary board chairman and trustee emeritus George Vradenburg and Trish Vradenburg were recognized. The event coincided with the Contemporaries Bash: Berlin Underground, an evening of cocktails, dancing, music, food, and fashion at Dock 5 at Union Market, which brought in over 700 young professionals. Next: May 4, 2018
Photo: Pepe Gomez
#15 Benefit
Heavy hitters were among the 600 art fans who attended this 50th anniversary gala on March 11. Actress Cicely Tyson, age 92, paid tribute to the evening’s guest of honor, Reginald Van Lee, executive vice president of Booz Allen Hamilton. She read a letter to the titan from former First Lady Michelle Obama, while Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, an opera fan, also was in attendance, the Washington Post reported. A silent auction included a variety of offerings, including lunch for 10 at the Hungarian embassy with the ambassador, access for nine to an Hermes scarf-tying party, and more. Sponsors included Altria Client Services, which handled wine; Daimler did the after-party; and Mars Inc. provided favors. The event raised $1.2 million, an increase from $1 million the previous year. Next: March 10, 2018
Photo: David Claypool
#16 Benefit
The Shakespeare Theatre Company’s 10th annual gala honored actress Laura Linney with the William Shakespeare Award for Classical Theatre. The evening began at Sidney Harman Hall with performances by Broadway stars, flamenco dancers, and many other artists. Batalá Washington, a musical group, played drums while walking guests to the National Building Museum and into the venue for dinner and dancing. Videos provided tributes to Harman Hall and—from cellist Yo-Yo Ma—to the late Sidney Harman, the theater’s namesake. The event raised $715,000 for the Shakespeare Theatre Company’s education and community programs. Next: Fall 2018
Photo: Margot Schulman
#17 Benefit
It doesn’t get much more glamorous than Monaco. The French city-state provided the theme for the September 23 event, which raised $1.5 million to support the Wolf Trap Foundation. Beginning with the invitations, which featured a zoomed-in photo of the Grace de Monaco Rose, Monte Carlo was evoked throughout the event. Roses were prominent in the decor, a reproduction of Princess Grace’s wedding dress was brought in, and the stage’s rehearsal hall echoed Monaco’s Opera House and Casino, with roulette tables and branded casino chips, which guests could use to win extra tickets for the raffle of a lavish Monte Carlo vacation. Drone footage of Monaco’s skyline was shown on a loop to the event’s 840 guests. Next: September 2018
Photo: Traci Brooks
#18 Benefit
National Youth of the Year winners from seven decades joined the program’s 70th anniversary celebration September 26 at the National Building Museum, where a video showcased the program’s legacy. This year’s winner, Carlos Polanco, also was celebrated, and photos of prior winners were placed atop napkins at each place setting. The event was emceed by Nick Cannon—a club alumnus—and Kelly Rowland, Estelle, and the Real Housewives of Potomac took part. Celebrities walked a blue carpet into the event, honoring the color of Boys & Girls Club doors nationwide. For entertainment, the organization enlisted members to perform. The Youth of the Year program is presented by Disney with support from Toyota and additional partners Taco Bell Foundation and University of Phoenix. Next: September 25, 2018
Photo: Kevin Wolf/AP Images for Boys & Girls Clubs of America
#19 Benefit
In a return to the National Building Museum, the competitive cook-off was again held May 23, this year between 48 members of Congress and their spouses. The event raised $1.1 million and brought in 650 attendees. In celebration of the gala’s 35th anniversary, members of Congress who have participated for 10 years or more were recognized on stage. Senator Tom Cotton and wife Anna Cotton were guest speakers, sharing the story of their son’s birth and two-week stay in neonatal intensive care. Next: April 17, 2018
Photo: Terry Brennan
#20 Benefit
The National Multiple Sclerosis Society raised more than $500,000 at its 39th annual benefit on October 12. The evening included dinner, dancing, and a silent auction with international prizes, including trips to the United Arab Emirates and Casablanca, as well as items made by artisans overseas. Held at the Marriott Marquis, the ball honored Representatives David E. Price, a Democrat from North Carolina, and Ryan Costello, a Republican from Pennsylvania, co-chairs of the Congressional Multiple Sclerosis Caucus. The event was co-chaired by Jennifer Kildee, wife of Representative Dan Kildee of Michigan and Cristina Antelo, principal of the Podesta Group. Ambassador Yousef Al Otaiba and his wife, Abeer Al Otaiba, of the U.A.E. were honorary co-chairs. The evening’s emcees were local news personalities. Next: Fall 2018
Photo: Tony Powell
#21 Benefit
Honoring the centennial birthday of two musical dynamos—Ella Fitzgerald and Dizzy Gillespie—as well as that of President Kennedy, Alvin Ailey kicked-off a week-long Kennedy Center engagement on February 7 with its annual benefit performance and party at the venue. Over 800 guests raised a record $1 million while taking in Ella, artistic director Robert Battle’s piece set to scatting; and Billy Wilson’s The Winter in Lisbon, set to Gillespie tunes. Other dance numbers were featured before a finale of, naturally, Ailey’s masterpiece Revelations. A wide swath of Washington, including ambassadors, journalists, Alvin Ailey board members, and others took in the show and a reception; they were joined for dinner by Battle and the dancers. Next: February 6, 2018
Photo: Tony Powell
#22 Benefit
Reunited with Fight Night after a scheduling conflict split the two events last year, the recent increase in media coverage of sexual harassment claims helped the fund-raising efforts for this event, which seeks to end to domestic violence. The November 2 bash at the Ritz-Carlton, Washington, brought in more than $720,000, a healthy boost from last year’s $600,000 total. A silent auction and reception kicked off the evening, followed by dinner and an after-party. The Break the Silence Award was given to Rene Denfeld by Virginia Governor Terry McAuliffe. Representative Debbie Dingell of Michigan and Mayor Muriel Bowser also made appearances. Next: November 1, 2018
Photo: Courtesy of Knock Out Abuse
#23 Benefit (up from #24)
Increasing its attendance, 1,200 guests attended the 30th annual ball, which took place June 17 at the Washington Hilton. Organizers raised $700,000, with organizations such as ExxonMobil, TTR Sotheby’s International Realty, Hilton, Microsoft, ASPCA, and others providing sponsorship at the $10,000 and above level. Former Senators Bob and Elizabeth Dole took part in the event. Design Foundry arranged event decor, and a masquerade theme was featured. Guests received masks upon arriving at the event, and there was a live musical performance set to photos of adopted animals. Next: October 20, 2018
Photo: Courtesy of the Humane Rescue Alliance
#1 Parade, Walk & Festival
Celebrating its 90th year, the iconic festival had 1.5 million visitors and grew on social media, surpassing 100,000 likes on Facebook and nearly doubling its Instagram followers. Facebook Live was used to stream the opening ceremony and Snapchat geofilters deployed for most of the signature events were viewed over 268,5000 times. In a social media campaign conducted with sponsor All Nippon Airways, the hashtag #BlossomMoments was used 2,700 times and the carrier planted a cherry tree in the community for every 100 posts. Sponsors ANA, Procter & Gamble, Tesla, and others provided interactive brand activations, and programming from a popular exhibit at the Hirshhorn Museum was incorporated into the event. Next: March 20-April 15, 2018
Photo: Matthew Borkoski
#2 Parade, Walk & Festival
In celebration of its 50th anniversary, the summertime festival focused on American creativity through several offerings. The “Circus Arts” program included performances in a Big Top tent, a circus school, and hands-on activities. The “On the Move” program featured hip-hop artists, muralists, poetry slam providers, and others delivering performances, discussions, and sports activities relating to migration, identity, community, and creativity. Additionally, the festival—which is co-produced by the National Park Service—featured concerts and dance parties at the Ralph Rinzler Concert Stage on the National Mall, the Festival Marketplace, and a 50th-anniversary reunion. The latter brought in past staff, volunteers, participants, and guests for reflection. Next: June 27-July 1, 2018 and July 4-8, 2018
Photo: Circus Arts Photos
#3 Parade, Walk & Festival
Amid some 200,000 spectators, bands selected by governors, mayors, and the parade committee performed along the Constitution Avenue parade route, from Seventh to 17th streets. Among the performers this year was the Bahrain Police Band. The event is hosted by the National Park Service and produced by Diversified Events, with Music Celebrations International selecting arrangements. Video clips of all bands marching past the reviewing stand were shown on Facebook Live and parents of band members liked and shared the clips, bringing reach to 70,000 minutes viewed. Miss D.C., Miss Maryland, and Miss U.S.A. were among the V.I.P.s who took part in the event. Next: July 4, 2018
Photo: Courtesy of the National Independence Day Parade
#4 Parade, Walk & Festival
Honoring the L.G.B.T.Q. community, the Capital Pride Alliance event includes a pool party, parade, concert, festival, and as of this year, a block party. About 175,000 attended the June 10 Pride Parade, where the grand marshals were same-sex marriage pioneers Edith Windsor and Jim Obergefell, plus two activists. The Pride Block Party featured a beer garden, local entertainers, and drag performances. On June 11, 425,000 people took in the concert and festival, where performers included Miley Cyrus, the Pointer Sisters, and others. Among the activities were a waterslide, acrobatic and aerial performers, a living art-creation exhibit, and food and beverage vendors. A gala formerly part of the weekend was held a month earlier due to event competition during the busy Pride weekend. Next: June 7-10, 2018
Photo: Courtesy of the Points Guy
#5 Parade, Walk & Festival
Roughly 900,000 participants and spectators took part in this motorcycle rally to gain government recognition and protection for prisoners of war and service members missing in action. Held over Memorial Day weekend, the 30th annual event began with a “Blessing of the Bikes” at the National Cathedral, followed by a candlelight vigil at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. On May 28, approximately 400,000 motorcycles roared from the Pentagon, crossed Arlington Memorial Bridge, and headed down Constitution Avenue. Billy Ray Cyrus and others then performed at a veterans tribute. On Memorial Day, wreath-laying ceremonies were held at the Vietnam Memorial and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery. Next: May 25-28, 2018
Photo: Lee Stalsworth
#6 Parade, Walk & Festival
For its 46th annual edition, the parade kicked-off in front of the National Archives and proceeded up Constitution Avenue past museums and the National Monument, ending at the White House. Military units, bands, and floats provided music with bagpipes, fifes, and drums, while Irish dancers also adorned the streets. Cody Keenan, a White House speechwriter for President Obama, served as the grand marshall, and he rode in a horse-drawn carriage alongside his wife, Kristin Bartolini, also a member of the Obama administration. A vintage Ford convertible—with the top down—that was in the parade held Michael Lonergan, deputy chief of mission at the Embassy of Ireland. Next: March 11, 2018
Photo: Senior Airman Delano Scott
#7 Parade, Walk & Festival
About 25,000 spectators took in this festive event, witnessing Chinese dragon dances, live musical performances, and more. It was held on January 29, and sponsored for the second year by TD Bank. This year was the Year of the Rooster, which was acknowledged with rooster hats worn by parade sergeants. For the first time this year, the Almas Shriners Mini Motors unit took part in the event. A fixture on the local parade circuit for over three decades, the group of vehicles includes motorized squads of Go-Karts, Three-Wheelers, and Harley Davidsons. Each unit has won awards for performance, drill, and speed. The parade and festival has been held for more than 70 years. Next: February 18, 2018
Photo: S Pakhrin
#8 Parade, Walk & Festival
The annual race that raises money for breast cancer research and support programs in the region made some changes this year. Metro repairs prompted organizers to move the event date to September in a shift from Mother’s Day weekend and relocated the course from the National Mall to Freedom Plaza. Participation fell from 10,000 runners and walkers to 7,000. Still, the event has raised $766,658 thus far this year; the goal is $1.2 million. Organizers say they plan to stick with the new date and location, which offers greater access to transit, in the coming years. Next: September 8, 2018
Photo: Courtesy of Susan G. Komen Foundation
#9 Parade, Walk & Festival
Once again taking place at the aptly named Freedom Plaza, the October 28 event was led by Grand Marshall Jim Obergefell, whose case before the Supreme Court secured marriage equality for all Americans in 2015. The signature fund-raiser for Whitman-Walker Heath boasted about 3,200 registrants and brought in about $610,000. The health care institution will continue collecting for the current campaign until year’s end, though officials aren’t sure if they’ll match—or best—the $715,000 raised in the prior effort. Next: October 27, 2018
Photo: Edward Le Poulin
#10 Parade, Walk & Festival
Expanded by about 75 independent artists and vendors of handmade goods to nearly 225 exhibitors, compared to 150 last year, the November event set the stage to grow with its move to Nationals Park from Union Market this year. Produced by the Washington City Paper, the event lured over 13,000 visitors and was sponsored by Homewood Suites by Hilton, the Washington Nationals, the Smithsonian American Art Museum, and other organizations. Proceeds benefit GuaTela, a D.C.-based organization that supports encourages women in Guatemala to become entrepreneurs through the sale of goods they made using Mayan weaves. Next: Fall 2018
Photo: Andrew Schwartz
#11 Parade, Walk & Festival
A change of layout at this September festival enabled more exhibitors to participate and for organizers to accommodate VA Child ID, a program to help parents get records to law enforcement for emergencies. Wares being sold included soaps and candles made on-site, kilts, jewelry, toys, knives, hats, Scottish pottery, and candy. Activities such as heavy athletics contests, like the log (or caber) toss, plus highland dancing, a fiddling competition, an antique British car show, and a sheep herding demonstration were featured. Rain on the first day dampened attendance, but visitors came out in force on day two, bringing 15,500 guests over the weekend. Next: September 1-2, 2018
Photo: Gjeterhund Photography
#12 Parade, Walk & Festival (new to the list)
For one of the nation’s largest Saint Patrick’s Day festivals, about 20,000 Irish men and women—and the Irish for the day—rocked out to nearly 30 bands across three stages at the RFK Stadium Festival Grounds on March 11. Participating entertainers included Coolio and the Fighting Jamesons. The 18th annual gathering included a Hot Kilted Legs Contest, extreme activities, carnival rides, an Irish Village with shops, Irish dancers, a DJ party tent, and Irish food. Sponsor Barefoot Wines provided samples and games, while Lyft offered free rides. Jameson also provided samples, while Miller Lite, Guinness, and Red Bull also were sponsors. V.I.P. ticket-holders received “green carpet treatment,” which included bottomless beer, private seating, and more. Next: March 17, 2018
Photo: Courtesy of Shamrock Fest
#1 Sports Event
While this race dashed the hopes of those wishing for the Kentucky Derby winner Always Dreaming to continue on to the Triple Crown, it still offered excitement to the record-breaking crowd of more than 140,000 attendees at the 142nd running at Pimlico Race Course. Winner Cloud Computing pulled out a surprise victory in the final stretch, edging out Classic Empire, another favorite to win. Budweiser, Pepsi, and iHeartRadio were among the event sponsors. Ratings for the race’s broadcast fell slightly, but the thoroughbred contest still won the day on television. Next: May 19, 2018
Photo: Courtesy of Preakness Stakes
#2 Sports Event (up from #3)
At 20 years old, Alexander Zverev became the youngest player ever to win the tournament on May 20, marking his first win in the city. In the women’s draw, Ekatarina Makarova claimed her third win at the tournament. Attended by some 72,000 tennis fans, the event this year featured a player’s party at the Rammy awards, which honors restaurants. To blend the sport element into the gala and make athletes feel welcome, decor included table tennis, tennis racquets, and fake grass. Next: July 28-August 5, 2018
Photo: Courtesy of Citi Open
#3 Sports Event (up from #4)
The marathon’s season this year included the MCMmmys, a virtual award for which runners could nominate themselves or others through the race’s social networks each week leading up to the marathon on October 22, held in Washington and Virginia. Categories were most inspiring weight loss, best running family, and most motivated Marine relative. The weekend—which was headquartered at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center—also included the MCM Health and Fitness Expo, from which many Facebook Live sessions were broadcast. On each day of marathon weekend, organizers reached 1.8 million viewers on Facebook and one million on Twitter; there was a total of 184,000 views of the Snapchat filter. Next: October 28, 2018
Photo: Courtesy of the Marine Corps Marathon
#4 Sports Event
Benefiting the Tiger Woods Foundation, the 11th edition of the tournament moved to a new course, TPC Potomac. Though Woods was unable to participate after a fourth back surgery, the tournament was broadcast to a national audience on the Golf Channel and NBC. The champion was Kyle Stanley in just his second P.G.A. Tour victory. Look for potential changes in the coming year, as the event’s title sponsorship with Quicken Loans expired this year, according to Golf Digest. Next: Summer 2018
#5 Sports Event
Nearly 2,000 amateur competitors were joined by professional athletes for the first time this year, bringing 20 competitors to the September 10 contest. A $20,000 purse was added to the Triathlon, which is produced by Premier Event Management and owned by IMG. Comprising a 40-kilometer bike ride, a 10-kilometer run, and a 1.5-kilometer swim, the race included all three parts after water cleanliness issues prompted the cancellation of the swim in 2016 and three prior years. Also new, the top three finishers per age group received slots in San Francisco’s 2018 Escape from Alcatraz Triathlon. First place finishers also won a complimentary race entry. The event raises money for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Next: September 9, 2018
Photo: Courtesy of the Nation's Triathlon
#6 Sports Event
New this year, organizers of the 10th annual college football game will add a Military Bowl Salute to Heroes dinner honoring a dozen or so Medal of Honor recipients and first responders. The game itself, presented by Northrop Grumman and benefiting the U.S.O., will pit an American Athletic Conference team against an Atlantic Coast Conference opponent at the Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium, in Annapolis, Maryland. It will air on ESPN and be produced by the D.C. Bowl Committee. Social media accounts will feature highlights of the event’s first nine years. In 2016, 26,656 people attended the game, where Wake Forest beat Temple. Next: December 28, 2017
Photo: Courtesy of Military Bowl
#7 Sports Event (new to the list)
The bipartisan event this year generated more than double its usual 10,000 ticket sales, and raised a record-setting $1.5 million—roughly twice the 2016 total—after a gunman opened fire at a Republican practice the day before the June 15 game at Nationals Park. House Majority Whip Steve Scalise, two police officers, and two others were injured, but Congress played ball as scheduled the day of the game. Former New York Yankees manager Joe Torre presented the game ball to injured Capitol Police special agent David Bailey, who threw out the first pitch while on crutches to thunderous applause. Democrats prevailed, 11-2, but the winning team gave its trophy to the Republicans for Scalise’s office. Next: Summer 2018
Photo: David King
#1 Literary & Publishing Event
A capacity crowd of nearly 100,000 again gathered at the National Book Festival, produced by the Library of Congress, on September 2. Spread across 10 stages at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, the 17th annual edition garnered over one million impressions on Twitter. The main-stage, which was bookended by a pair of literary Davids—McCullough and Baldacci—was livestreamed throughout the festival for the first-time on Facebook and Twitter, bringing in approximately 1.3 million views. Debuts by authors Margot Lee Shetterly, Michael Lewis, and others, as well as book launches by eight writers, also took place. Denis Johnson, who died in May, was honored posthumously with the 2017 Library of Congress Prize for American Fiction. Next: September 1, 2018
Photo: Hillel Steinberg
#2 Literary & Publishing Event
Heralding Washington’s top dishes, as named by the Washingtonian, the AT&T-sponsored party brought 77 restaurants to the National Building Museum on June 1. About 2,000 attendees enjoyed bites and sponsor activations, including a 180-degree photo booth and a boozy root-beer float bar from BMW; green cotton candy and a photo booth from Geico; a driving simulator and a money machine from AT&T; a candy bar and money machine from PenFed; and a V.I.P. lounge from the American Beverage Association—decked out with food and cocktails, along with henna artists. The affair’s theme was 1960’s California Vibes, which was executed with a Beach Boys cover band and an interactive surfboard game. Next: June 7, 2018
Photo: Doug Van Sant
#3 Literary & Publishing Event
The winner and finalists read from their award-winning novels at the May 6 event at the Folger Theater. Top honors this year went to Imbolo Mbue for her novel Behold the Dreamers. Finalists were Viet Dinh, After Disasters; Garth Greenwell, What Belongs to You; and Sunil Yapa, Your Heart is a Muscle the Size of a Fist. While they are Americans, most of the winners have roots in other countries, prompting the Washington Post to praise the selections. Noted critic Ron Charles, “These writers are the United States.” Selected from 2,000 submissions, the winner receives $15,000 and four finalists each receive $5,000. Next: May 5, 2018
Photo: Andrew Propp
#4 Literary & Publishing Event
More than 75 local and national authors participated in the 40th annual fair on November 10, including Sally Quinn, Deborah Tannen, Greta Van Susteren, and scores of others. Attendees discussed current events, history, politics, and culture with the writers. Once again hosted in partnership with Politics and Prose, the event raises money for the National Press Club Journalism Institute’s programming and mission. That effort includes a scholarship program devoted to promoting diversity among the next generation of journalists, and training programs focusing on high standards, ethical conduct, and best practices. Next: November 2018
Photo: Noel St. John
#5 Literary & Publishing Event
Possibly putting an end to tied winners, which is how the bee concluded for the last three years, the 90th annual competition, held May 29 to June 1 at National Harbor, saw the introduction of a tie-breaker test for remaining spellers on finals night. It was taken by 15 competitors, but ultimately, the contest was won in the 36th round by Ananya Vinay. The bee continued its tradition of holding a Memorial Day picnic at Nationals Park. Televised on ESPN, the event garnered about 605,000 viewers and was seen in-person by about 2,000 attendees. It was number six on the Nielsen Social Content Ratings for the week, and on social media the finals had 172,000 interactions. Next: May 27-31, 2018
Photo: Mark Bowen/Scripps National Spelling Bee
#1 Fashion & Beauty Event
Emceed by fashion expert and general cut-up Carson Kressley, the 11th annual fashion show for dogs again brought 1,000 attendees to the Grand Hyatt and raised $400,000 for the Humane Rescue Alliance. Ryan Kerrigan of the Washington Redskins, as well as other professional athletes from local teams, walked with the canines. Audi was the event’s top sponsor, while Design Foundry created the runway and the event decor. CityCenterDC sponsored the men’s clothing, while the women’s outfits were provided by a host of stores and designers including Lilly Pulitzer. The dogs were outfitted by Anthony Rubio Designs, Emily Abril, Mallory Debenedetto, Pet Elegance, Custom Dog Jackets, and Vladlena Design. Next: May 5, 2018
Photo: Moshe Zusman
#2 Fashion & Beauty Event
Celebrating the city’s nine most fashionable men and women, named in its September issue, Washingtonian held a bash September 2 at the Showroom. Honorees and their guests were joined by past award winners, fashion bloggers, retailers, and the media. Whispering Angel provided the backdrop for a GIF photo booth by Booth-o-Rama, as well as rose, while Relish Catering produced the evening’s food. Highway to Hill Flowers outfitted bars and tables with pastel florals, and Mixing Maryland entertained guests with lively music. Attendees were able to touch up their makeup at an interactive Lip Bar by Sanctuary Cosmetic Center. Social Supply handled the decor, bringing in a waterfall chandelier and dramatic pink and purple uplighting by John Farr Lighting. Next: Fall 2018
Photo: Joy Asico
#3 Fashion & Beauty Event
Held in February and September, the fashion week schedule this year was reduced from five days to four, but that didn’t stop crowds from coming. Attendance rose to more than 3,500 guests, with more than 100 designers and brands featured. An Instagram account was started this year, and new countries that took part in the shows included Estonia and New Zealand. Menswear collections, plus-size fashions, and emerging designers were consolidated into one show, called the Emerging Designers Showcase. The September edition included the Eco Fashions & Next/Gen Fashion Show, for which 14 fashion students created clothing from recyclable materials or by methods not harmful to the environment. Next: February 22-25, 2018
Photo: Courtesy of D.C. Fashion Week
#4 Fashion & Beauty Event
Retail complex Bethesda Row made its annual Front Row fashion show into a more interactive experience June 10 and renamed the event. The lively gathering included activations such as lip-print readings, a bracelet toss that offered a bracelet as a prize, temporary tattooing, a sketch artist who drew fashion-oriented pictures—including of guests’ pets—and more. Welcoming about 600 guests, event producers were BrandLinkDC and Bethesda Row, a property of Federal Realty Investment Trust. A total of 30 retailers and restaurants from the complex participated. Design Foundry handled decor, DJ Alkimist served up music, and UrbanStems provided flowers. Organizers sought to “emphasize experiences, for everyone from kids to adults,” said a rep for the event. Next: Summer 2018
Photo: Courtesy of Bethesda Row
#5 Fashion & Beauty Event (new to the list)
Domestic violence prevention organization Becky’s Fund hosted the ninth annual Walk this Way Charity Fashion Show October 27 at the Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium. More than 600 attendees raised $200,000, and organizers showcased storytelling—in keeping with the #metoo campaign—by having a dozen survivors on-stage. As emcee, journalist Tamron Hall spoke about a family experience. Local menswear brand Brimble & Clark outfitted area athletes, including Vernon Davis and Chris Carter of the Washington Redskins; Steven Birnbaum, Kofi Opare, Sean Franklin, and Bill Hamid of D.C. United; Tierra Ruffin-Pratt of the Washington Mystics; and former N.F.L. stars Gary Clark and John Booty. DiDomenico provided eveningwear for Sunni and the City of radio station WPGC; Estelle Johnson of the Washington Spirits; and commentator Christy Winters-Scott. Next: October 18, 2018
Photo: Courtesy of Walk This Way
#1 Trade Show & Convention
The 750,000-square-foot show, which was held in January at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, was revved up by several changes. A conference on best practices around driverless vehicles—called the MobilityTalks International conference—was added. It brought in government regulators, entrepreneurs, think tanks, trade associations, academia, the industry, and global media. Also new was an exotic car display, featuring Bentleys, Rolls Royces, Ferraris, and others. Meanwhile, the new Art in Motion element had artists create works on 15 cars, in partnership with Automotive Rhythms. More than 700 cars from more than 20 foreign and domestic manufacturers were showcased. Local sports figures also stopped by. Next: January 26-February 4, 2018
Photo: Courtesy of Washington Auto Show
#2 Trade Show & Convention
More than 80,000 wellness enthusiasts, and resolution-keepers, gathered at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center at the start of the year, on January 7 and 8. A total of 220 exhibitors participated, and new elements of the show included the Safe at Home pavilion, focused on domestic violence, plus an American Ninja Warrior zone, free yoga classes, a healthy book festival, and skin cancer screenings by American Academy of Dermatology. Returning portions included a pet adoption event, numerous free health tests and screenings, and activities with the Washington Redskins, D.C. United, Monumental Sports, and the Washington Nationals. Eight stages running concurrently all weekend featured Zumba, kids shows, dancing, and health discussions. Next: March 10-11, 2018
Photo: Courtesy of Health and Fitness Expo
#3 Trade Show & Convention
Notable Army veterans, active members, and supporters attended the October 9 to 11 event at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. The keynote speech was delivered by Secretary of Defense James Mattis, while acting Secretary of the Army Ryan McCarthy, army chief of staff General Mark Milley, and actor Gary Sinise—a Marshall Medal recipient—gave addresses. A new obstacle course featuring nine tasks was undertaken by 350 attendees and country singer Mark Wills performed with the U.S. Army Band Downrange. The entire show had over 650 exhibits, spanned 270,319 square feet, and received more than 14 million social media impressions. Attendance jumped to 29,734, growing by 12 percent over 2016. Next: October 8-10, 2018
Photo: AUSA News photos
#4 Trade Show & Convention
Information and experiences provided to 20,587 attendees during the show held January 14 and 15 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center ranged from the practical—like packing advice—to entertaining, with more than 20 cultural presentations. Spanning 116,551 square feet with 170 exhibitors, dozens of sessions were held across five stages. New features included camel rides, a rock-climbing wall, and a green-screen photo booth. Among the celebrity guest speakers were the Travel Channel’s Samantha Brown; CBS News travel editor Peter Greenberg; Pauline Frommer, editorial director of Frommer’s; and Patricia Schultz, author of 1,000 Places to See Before You Die. The event garnered social media’s attention, with 431,500 unique impressions on Facebook, 4.3 million on Twitter, and more than 135,000 on Instagram. Next: January 20-21, 2018
Photo: Dillon Padgette
#5 Trade Show & Convention
Produced by the Smithsonian Institute and featuring 122 displays, the show was held April 26 to April 30. Attendance fell to 6,100 from 8,000, but artist and activist Faith Ringgold brought in a high degree of buzz. She won the Visionary Award and an exhibit of her quilts—in partnership with the event’s venue, the National Building Museum—attracted about 2,530 people; roughly the same number of guests who visit the facility in an average month. Social-media users took notice: The show’s Facebook presence grew by nearly 7,000 users, a 40 percent increase from 2016; the number of Instagram followers soared to 1,248, a 132 percent spike; and the Pinterest contingent also grew. Next: April 26-29, 2018
Photo: Monica Vidal
#6 Trade Show & Convention
Nearly 10,000 visitors checked out flowers May 5 and 6 at the Washington National Cathedral. Mayor Muriel Bowser presided over the opening ceremony and former First Lady Rosalynn Carter served as honorary chairwoman of the All Hallows Guild-sponsored event. More than 80 vendors participated and a free cathedral and botanical exhibit was added. The show again partnered with Passport D.C.’s Around the World Embassy Tour, and the used book and white elephant sales returned, as did the plant sale. Other Flower Mart traditions continued, including the tower climbs and cathedral gargoyle walks, the antique carousel, children’s games, the international floral display—with over 20 embassies participating—and free entertainment. Next: May 4-5, 2018
Photo: Marie Joabar
#7 Trade Show & Convention
Cosplay and a “celebration of nerd culture” took over the Walter E. Washington Convention Center June 16 to 18, bringing in 71,000 attendees and spanning 800,000 square feet. Produced by LeftField Media, the three-day celebration of pop culture, comics, science, gaming, and more featured the event’s most comprehensive program to date, with panel discussions, screenings, and celebrity appearances. Among the offerings was a question-and-answer session with legendary comic book creator Stan Lee; an Embassy of Japan-hosted talk on that country’s influence on American pop culture; a discussion of women in STEM; a slate of activities for kids; and Pride Alley, which featured sessions on L.G.B.T. representation in the culture. Next: March 30-April 1, 2018
Photo: Courtesy of Awesome Con
#8 Trade Show & Convention
The Art of Style was the theme of this year’s antiques show, held January 12 to 15 at the Katzen Arts Center at American University. Attendance rose to 6,500, and designer Lela Rose delivered the keynote address. An interior design panel also was added; speakers included designers Darryl Carter, Barry Dixon, Marcia Crosby Pollard, and Domino market editor Tori Mellott serving as moderator. Loan exhibit “Coco Chanel: A New Portrait by Marion Pike, Paris: 1967-1971,” which previously had only been shown overseas, also likely drew interest. Proceeds benefit at-risk children and families served by the show’s charitable partners: TheArc, Bishop John T. Walker School, and the Founder’s Board of St. John’s Community Services. Next: January 11-14, 2018
Photo: Michael Kress
#9 Trade Show & Convention
In keeping with a technology industry show, the March 6 to 9 event at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center featured next generation-focused initiatives. The 36th annual gathering added a contest for entrepreneurs to pitch investors and industry leaders, and a full-day of interactive talks from the aerospace world with young professionals, known as SgX, returned for a second year. Conference participants were 14,661 satellite communications professionals and 350 exhibitors—including 65 first-timers—from 110 countries. Keynote speeches were given by Amazon’s Jeff Bezos, Air Force General David Thomas, and two satellite firm executives. The event took over 85,000 square feet of space, becoming the largest-ever gathering of the Access Intelligence-presented event. Next: March 12-15, 2018
Photo: Steven David
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