#2 Holiday Event More than 30,000 people attended the 135th edition of the event, which had the theme, "Be Healthy, Be Active, Be You." In addition to the traditional roll, activities included a basketball court with Washington Wizards players, a healthy-cooking demonstration from chef Anne Burrell, and story time with the first family. Next: April 21, 2014
Photo: Pete Souza
2. A Capitol Fourth
#3 Holiday Event The annual Independence Day concert from the West Lawn of the United States Capitol was hosted this year by Tom Bergeron of Dancing With the Stars. Performers on the PBS-aired concert included Barry Manilow, Neil Diamond, Darren Criss, and Megan Hilty. Next: July 4, 2014
Photo: Courtesy of PBS
3. National Christmas Tree Lighting
#4 Holiday Event Kicking off the city's holiday season, the National Tree Lighting is a 91-year tradition started by President Calvin Coolidge. Now, the event has a larger reach with a live stream on thenationaltree.org, its own Twitter feed, and a broadcast of the ceremony on PBS. This year, Mariah Carey, Renée Fleming, and Aretha Franklin performed, and Jane Lynch hosted the event. Next: December 2014
Photo: Associated Press
4. National Memorial Day Concert
#5 Holiday Event The annual tribute to members of the military who have died in service to the country features musical performances, documentary footage, and dramatic readings. The event, this year hosted by actors Joe Mantegna and Gary Sinise, aired on PBS. Next: May 26, 2014