What's On in Washington, D.C.

May and June are ideal months to visit the U.S. capital, before summer crowds and humidity descend upon the city. Take advantage of competitive airfares to D.C. from around the country and the world. Below a sampling of what is on offer during May and June 2009.

[Updated May 25, 2009]

Now through August 30
Mary McFadden's Goddesses
National Museum of Women in the Arts

Godesses showcases 40 pieces from designer Mary McFadden's haute couture collections and examples from her personal jewelry collection, along with traditional ethnographic textiles and clothing collected by the designer during her world travels. National Museum of Women in the Arts

May 30
American Craft Brewers Harmonize Craft Beer and Food Experience
National Building Museum

Visit Savor Craft Beer for more about this second annual brew and food event.

June 5-15
Duke Ellington Jazz Festival

The 2009 Duke Ellington Jazz Festival will feature over 100 jazz performances at venues throughout the city. The festival presents major and emerging jazz artists from around the world. For more information on performances and locations, see Duke Ellington.

June 6-7
Dupont-Kalorama Museum Walk Weekend
Two days of special exhibitions, tours, music, demonstrations, and hands-on activities for all ages and interests. Sponsored by the Dupont-Kalorama Museums Consortium, established in 1983 to highlight these museums and their distinct neighborhoods. For more information, visit Dupont Kalorama Weekend.

Throughout May and June
Garrison Keillor, Elvis Costello, David Byrne, Gipsy Kings, Indigo Girls, Diana Krall, Huey Lewis and the News
Wolf Trap National Park
These and other artists headline shows at Wolf Trap, America's National Park for the Performing Arts. Located in northern Virgina, 20 minutes outside the District, Wolf Trap's outdoor concert venues present music, dance and theater throughout the spring and summer. For a full calendar of events, see Wolf Trap.

Photo Credits: top: © iofoto #2998834/Fotolia; middle: courtesy of Wolf Trap; preview and bottom: © Notebook #6888342/Fotolia.