| Cultural Tourism DC (CTDC) develops and delivers memorable Washington, DC experiences that provide people with opportunities to enjoy and learn about the District of Columbia's neighborhoods by walking along its DC Neighborhood Heritage Trails and participating in WalkingTown DC, its international diplomatic community via Passport DC and the Around the World Embassy Tour, and its arts and culture during PorchFest DC, a showcase of neighborhoods and local performing artists. Authenticity extends to the Embassy Chef Challenge, an extraordinary tribute to international cuisine. Through these programs, Cultural Tourism DC encourages residents and visitors alike to explore the city, boost the community's economic prosperity, and become civically engaged. Passport DC is a month-long journey around the world highlighting DC's thriving international diplomatic community and its lively and varied culture. Celebrated annually in May, which is International Cultural Awareness Month in Washington, Passport DC is 31 days of programming by 70 embassies and some of DC's very best cultural institutions. In 2017, more than 200,000 people enjoyed the popular embassy open houses, street festivals, performances, exhibitions, workshops, and more. Passport DC offers something for everyone as it invites DC area residents and visitors to experience a global journey without leaving the city. Among the events scheduled for May 2018: * Pre-Passport DC Event: International Children's Festival, April 29 * European Month of Culture, May 1-31 * Flower Mart at National Cathedral, May 4 and 5 * Around the World Embassy Tour, May 5 * European Union Embassies' Open House, May 12 * Embassy Chef Challenge, May 17 * Fiesta Asia! Street Festival, July 21 Here's What People Say about Passport DC… "Fascinating to learn about countries; loved how different embassies highlighted very different things; free food; dance and music; seeing pride in the faces of the people from that country to show off what makes them special; diversity of attendees." "The world got smaller and friendlier." "Getting the opportunity to learn about other cultures and cuisines, and getting to see the buildings that house other nations." "Love, love, love the event -- one of my favorite DC events. Really appreciate that it's free and open!" | 
Friday and Saturday, May 4-5, 2018 
Since 1939, on the first Friday and Saturday of May, the All Hallows Guild has welcomed visitors to the grounds of the Washington National Cathedral for Flower Mart. Over the past 79 years, this event has grown and now draws thousands of people – who come to shop for plants and gifts, eat fun festival food, enjoy children's activities, ride our historic carousel, climb to the top of the Cathedral, and take in the beauty of our International Floral Exhibit. The Guild was founded in 1916 to protect and celebrate the beautiful gardens and grounds of the Washington National Cathedral. All Flower Mart proceeds benefit the upkeep of this treasured historic landscape. 
