The tradition of embassies opening their doors to their neighbors dates back at least to the 1950s, when diplomatic teas were held as charity fundraisers, and as a measure of goodwill. Reported accounts from the time show these gatherings were prompted less by a means of forming bilateral relations between governments, and more as a means to appease the local neighborhood commissions, which were notoriously displeased when an embassy or consulate moved to the area.
The non-profit organization Cultural Tourism DC, formalized the embassy open houses in 2003 with Around the World Embassy Tour. For several years, European embassies took part under the CTDC umbrella before organizing their own event, EU Open House, beginning in 2007. Organized by the Delegation of the European Union to the United States, EU Open House typically occurs on the first Saturday following Europe Day (May 9), commemorating the Schuman Declaration of 1950, which laid the foundation for the creation of the European Union.
For years, the crowds at the open houses have grown, as those outside the District have turned Around the World Embassy Tour and EU Open House into destination weekends. Passport DC is now celebrated from May 1-31, kicking off with a mayoral proclamation that May is the “month of culture” in Washington, D.C. In 2022, the Cultural Tourism DC was absorbed by Events DC, the official convention and sports authority for the District of Columbia. Events DC expanded offerings but also began promoting the weekends to a larger audience, which resulted in significant crowds. It’s now more of a tourist event than a local one but for those in the know, there is still fun to be had (if you know where to look).
It Kicks Off with a Mayoral Proclamation
The tradition of recognizing May as a month dedicated to cultural exchange began in 1997, when then-Mayor Anthony A. Williams first proclaimed the official Month of Culture in Washington, D.C. The mayoral proclamation marked an effort to highlight the significant role that embassies and international cultural centers play in enriching the city’s cultural landscape. Since then, every May, the Mayor of Washington, D.C. issues a proclamation to officially kick off the celebration, urging residents and visitors to take part in cultural events that celebrate the world’s diversity through art, music, food, and diplomacy.
This declaration underlines the importance of cultural diplomacy in fostering global understanding and promoting peace, as well as providing a platform for embassies to share their heritage with the broader public. Today, the proclamation is a key marker that signals the beginning of the month-long festivities.
Annual Flagship Events
Passport DC (Hosted by Events DC)
One of the most significant events in Washington, D.C.’s Month of Culture is Passport DC, which is coordinated by Events DC. Passport DC is a month-long, citywide celebration of the diverse cultural contributions of embassies, international organizations, and cultural institutions in the capital. It offers an extraordinary chance for the public to engage with more than 50 embassies and cultural centers, offering exhibitions, performances, food tastings, and interactive activities throughout the month of May.
Signature Event: Embassy Open House
Date: Early May
The Around the World Embassy Open House is the marquee event of Passport DC. On this day, more than 50 embassies across Washington, D.C. open their doors to the public for free. Visitors can experience the culture of each participating country through music, dance, art exhibits, and food. The day provides an unparalleled opportunity to explore the architecture of embassy buildings and engage directly with diplomats and cultural representatives.
Notable Highlights:
- Performances by local and international artists.
- Traditional and contemporary art exhibitions.
- Culinary events such as cooking demonstrations or tastings.
- Unique cultural displays, such as tango lessons, folk music, and fashion showcases.
- Specialized cultural tours and workshops led by diplomats, artists, and historians, providing deeper insight into heritage, art, and history.
EU Open House (Hosted by the EU Delegation)
Date: Typically the second Saturday of May to coincide with Europe Day celebrated on 5 May by the Council of Europe and on 9 May by the European Union.
The EU Open House, held annually as part of May’s Month of Culture, is one of the largest embassy open house events in Washington, D.C. It provides an opportunity to explore the European Union’s cultural and diplomatic presence in the U.S., as well as the individual member states’ contributions to global art, culture, and innovation.
Notable Highlights:
- Co-located open houses, like the Embassies of Austria and Slovakia in International Chancery Court
- Sustainability on display in LEED-certified properties like the Embassies of Netherlands, Finland, Sweden, and others
- Exterior exhibits on fences lining the Embassy of Poland, Spanish Cultural Center and others
- European culinary tastings (French pastries, Austrian studel, Italian pasta, Spanish tapas, German sausages, Belgian waffles and more)
Fiesta Asia (Hosted by the Asia Heritage Foundation)
Fiesta Asia is Washington’s premier celebration of Asian culture, attracting thousands of visitors to the National Mall each year. Organized by the Asia Heritage Foundation, the event celebrates the diverse cultures of Asia with an emphasis on community engagement, performance, and food.
Date: mid- to late-May
Notable Highlights:
- Traditional performances: lion dances, drumming, folk dancing, Indian classical dance.
- Asian cuisine from 100+ vendors.
- Family-friendly activities: workshops, storytelling, hands-on cultural experiences.
Additional Highlights of the Month of Culture
- International Film Screenings: Embassies host national cinema screenings.
- Art Exhibitions: Museums and galleries showcase global themes.
- Cultural Performances: Venues like the Kennedy Center host international acts.
- Fashion Shows and Design Expos: Embassies showcase designers and cultural heritage.
Travel Tips: Transit, Biking, and Walking Options
Due to heavy traffic, street closures, and a lack of parking, driving is strongly discouraged. Please note: the free shuttle service did not resume after the pandemic.
Public Transit
- Ride the Metro: Most efficient for embassy access.
- Take a bus: Many embassies have convenient bus stops nearby. Note that all WMATA bus routes and numbers changed summer of 2025. See wmata.com for current information. Pre-load your fare card or app.
- Ask drivers: They’d rather answer than see you lost.
- Note: “Metro” means subway, not bus.
- Pro tip: Walk left, stand right on escalators.
Biking
- Arrive on two wheels: Racks are widely available.
- Give sharing a spin: Bike, e-bikes and scooter shares are plentiful throughout DC.
- Use bike lanes: There’s a growing network across the city.
- Take precautions: Use helmets, locks, and hand signals.
- Get a map: DDOT’s online bike resources.
Walking
- DC is highly walkable; many embassies are clustered.
- Look up—architecture is stunning (but step aside first).
- Enjoy pocket parks, statues, and details along the way.
Worth Noting
- Admission is free and first-come, first-served.
- Lines begin early, sometimes hours before opening.
- Not all embassies participate; check official listings.
- Planning is essential; you cannot visit them all.
- Beware of fake VIP packages—they do not exist.
- Expect security screenings; avoid large bags, dark containers.
- Stay hydrated. Bring clear refillable water bottles. Nearly all embassies have water fountains or other hydration stations.
- Check co-located embassies (e.g., UDC campus).
Reminder: Diplomatica Opens Embassy Doors All Year Long
Around the World Embassy Tour and EU Open House are wonderful events that introduce folks to a wide range of cultures they might not otherwise experience. But Diplomatica subscribers receive access to these embassies all year long — with invitation-only events, curated literature, behind the scenes reporting, and guides to experiencing all that these special places have to offer — without all the crowds.