#1 Trade Show & Convention
Now 10 days long—double the previous span—the show is the city's largest public trade show and takes place at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. The show stands out from shows across the country for its focus on policy that affects the industry, but it still offered car lovers more than 700 new makes and models from more than 42 manufacturers. Next: January 23-February 1, 2015
#2 Trade Show & Convention
The two-day consumer event held at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center offers interactive experiences such as cooking demonstrations and Zumba and dance classes. Next year will offer a new pavilion focused on mental health. Next: January 10-11, 2015
#3 Trade Show & Convention (new to the list)
Former President Bill Clinton has been a featured speaker at all five summits, which focus on the country's long-term debt and economic future. Held at the at the Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium, the event takes a bipartisan approach to solutions and speakers, including 2014 participants New Jersey Governor Chris Christie and House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi. Next: May 2015
#4 Trade Show & Convention
More than 30,000 attendees come to the event, which tackles military and national security subjects and offers exhibits that cover more than 250,000 square feet of space at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. Next: October 13-15, 2014
#5 Trade Show & Convention
The show marked its 10th anniversary in 2014, and attendees at the consumer expo at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center could hear from travel writer Rick Steves and visit booths from more than 100 exhibitors. Next: March 7-8, 2015
#6 Trade Show & Convention
The show's theme in 2014 was "Quest for the Best" and featured a juried group of 123 craft artists who focus on sculptural objects and design. The show opened with a preview party at the National Building Museum. Next: April 23-26, 2015
#7 Trade Show & Convention (up from #9)
The show chose its 75th anniversary as its theme, which usually honors a country. The benefit for the cathedral's gardens and grounds draws about 10,000 people to each of its two days. Next: May 1-2, 2015
#8 Trade Show & Convention (up from #9)
The antique show, which benefits three local charities, had a Southern theme for its 59th annual installment. The theme inspired programming as well as the catering at the preview cocktail party for 650 guests at the Katzen Arts Center at American University. Next: January 9-11, 2015
#9 Trade Show & Convention (up from #10)
The three-day show draws more than 20,000 motorcycle enthusiasts to the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. This year the Progressive-sponsored show promoted itself through a partnership with local dealer Coleman PowerSports to screen the motorcycle documentary Why We Ride. Next: January 9-11, 2015
