Summary
After a two-year hiatus of in-person events due to the global pandemic, the popular open houses at embassies around Washington, DC return, offering visitors a chance to experience countries around the world in an afternoon.
Passport DC, the month-long event celebrating the robust international diplomatic scene in Washington, DC, kicks off on May 1. Embassies open their doors to allow visitors to experience food, dance, music, and manufactured goods produced in their respective countries.
Although the events themselves are free, visitors often purchase a souvenir “passport” to have stamped at each embassy. Consequently, this year marks the return of a month-long calendar of events, with three key dates to add to your plans if you intend to visit DC.
May 7: Around the World Embassy Tour
On May 7, Passport DC will host the Around-the-World Embassy Tour, which is the signature event of the month-long celebration.
From 10 AM to 4 PM, 22 different embassies around DC will open their doors to welcome visitors to experience the food, drink, and culture of their respective countries.
For instance, at the Embassy of Mexico, the celebration will feature “VISIT MEXICO! Puebla in the USA,” highlighting the culture of Puebla, known for the “Cinco de Mayo” battle. Attendees can enjoy traditional dances, music, arts, crafts, and Mezcal.
Other countries participating in the Around the World Embassy tour on May 7 include the African Union, Albania, Algeria, Barbados, Cameroon, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Egypt, The Gambia, Guatemala, Iraq, Kenya, Libya, Nepal, Oman (Sultan Qaboos Cultural Center), Pakistan, Panama, Saudi Arabia, Thailand, Tunisia, and Uganda.
May 14: European Union Open House
The following weekend on May 14, countries that comprise the European Union will host a separate event. The EU annually coordinates its own gathering on the Saturday after May 9, Europe Day, which commemorates the signing of the Schuman Declaration.
This year, the celebration occurs on May 14 from 10 AM to 4 PM, where the European Union and various embassies will host events at 25 separate locations. Travelers can design “Stand up for Ukraine” buttons at the EU and enjoy everything from Pastéis de Nata in Portugal to waffles in Belgium and Heineken in the Netherlands.
Note that parking can be challenging at some embassies, so the EU partners with Lyft to provide $2 off any LyftScooter ride that begins or ends in front of one of the embassies.
May 21: Fiesta Asia Street Fair
The Fiesta Asia Street Fair, organized by the Asia Heritage Foundation to celebrate Asian Heritage Month, returns on May 21.
This free event, showcasing 20 different cultures, will take place in front of Capitol Hill, specifically on Pennsylvania Avenue NW between Third & Sixth Streets, from 11 AM to 7 PM.
During the fair, visitors can enjoy performances on multiple stages, purchase food from a variety of vendors, and explore a shopping bazaar—all aimed at celebrating “the rich and diverse heritage of America’s Asian Community.”
What Else to Know Before You Go
This year, the open houses have returned to in-person events; however, each embassy has its own COVID-19 regulations. Therefore, make sure to bring a mask and proof of vaccination, as some embassies may require them.
To acquire a souvenir passport, attendees can visit the information booths at Dupont Circle or Van Ness.
As Passport DC is a popular event, attendees should anticipate crowds. It is advisable to visit the embassies on International Drive, which generally offer more space and shorter lines compared to those on Embassy Row.
Additionally, consider alternative transportation methods, as street parking near embassies can be difficult. Most embassies are within walking distance from the Dupont Circle and Van Ness metro stations.
