October in Washington, DC is a beautiful time to visit. There is so much to do and see. The foliage has changed colors, the kids are back in school so there are fewer crowds to deal with, and best of all the weather is not too warm and not too cool. It is the perfect time to tour the city and enjoy the autumn season.
Weather
- Average High: 68 degrees
- Average Low: 50 degrees
- Record High: 94 degrees
- Record Low: 29 degrees
- Average Precipitation: 3.22 inches
What to Pack
- Sweater
- Long pants
- Light jacket if the evenings get cool
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Camera
October Happenings
Some of the highlights of things to do and see during the month of October include the following:
- Oktoberfests in Washington, DC. There are several Oktoberfests in DC.
- Maryland Renaissance Festival. The Festival takes place on weekends, running through October 25, 2009 in Crownsville, MD.
- Mount Vernon’s Wine Festival & Sunset Tour Beginning October 2 and running through October 4, 2009, 6–9 p.m. visit George Washington's Estate & Gardens. You can even check-out the wine-cellar. Admission: $25.
- National Hispanic Heritage Month. From September 15 to October 15, DC celebrates Hispanic Heritage. Many of the museums will have exhibits and programs to help visitors learn more about the traditions of the Hispanic culture.
- Taste of Georgetown. October 10, 2009, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Georgetown is a great place to grab a bite to eat and this festival allows you an opportunity to sample some of the best.
- White House Fall Garden Tours. October 17 -18, 2009. This is an opportunity to get a closer look at the Rose Garden, the Children's Garden and the most photographed South Lawn.
- Washington International Horse Show. October 20-25, 2009 at DC's Verizon Center.
- Boo at the Zoo. From October 23-25, 2009 from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. families can take part in “wildest” trick-or-treat in the District.
- Marine Corps Marathon. October 25, 2009. As a MCM alum, I believe runners--both beginners and veterans--will find the People's Marathon to be one of the most exciting.
- Night of the Living Zoo. On October 30, 2009 from 8 p.m. to midnight, the National Zoo is hosting an adults-only Halloween party with live music, a costume contest, palm readers, fire eaters, talking bats, and illusionists.
Things to Consider
- The weather in October can turn cold very quickly in DC, and other times it will be warm all the way through November.
- Halloween offers some fun events to attend in the District.
- The cooler weather is conducive to sight seeing outdoors.
- Hotel rates are generally higher as this is peak season in DC.
