Planning a Wedding Weekend in Washington, DC: Rehearsal Dinners, Brunch Spots & Guest Activities
If you’re planning a wedding weekend in Washington, DC, why limit the celebration to just one day? With its iconic monuments, world-class museums, charming neighborhoods, and unbeatable food scene, DC is the perfect backdrop for a full wedding weekend your guests will never forget.
Whether you’re welcoming out-of-town friends or want to maximize every moment with loved ones, here’s how to plan a seamless, stylish, and fun wedding weekend in the nation’s capital.
Rehearsal Dinner: Make It Personal & Memorable
The rehearsal dinner sets the tone for the weekend—it’s your chance to gather your closest family and friends and kick things off with intention.
Top DC picks for rehearsal dinners:
- Iron Gate (Dupont Circle): Romantic garden vibes + incredible Mediterranean cuisine
- Blue Duck Tavern (West End): Upscale but cozy—perfect for foodies
- Old Ebbitt Grill (Downtown): A classic DC institution with historic charm
- The Duck & The Peach (Capitol Hill): Bright, modern, and effortlessly cool
Tip: Add a slideshow, custom cocktails, or printed toasts to make the evening feel extra personal.
Welcome Party: Let the Bubbly Flow
A welcome party is a great way to greet out-of-town guests and get everyone mingling before the big day. Keep it casual and fun!
Ideas for a DC welcome party:
- Rooftop cocktails at venues like The Conrad, The LINE Hotel, or The Graham
- Brewery hangouts at Atlas Brew Works or Right Proper Brewing
- A private museum tour or gallery space for something culturally unique
- Food truck meet-up at The Yards or Union Market for a local twist
This can follow the rehearsal dinner or stand on its own the night before your ceremony.
What Should Guests Do on Saturday (Before the Ceremony)?
If your ceremony is later in the day, give guests ideas for how to explore DC on their own (or plan an optional group outing).
Guest-friendly Saturday ideas:
- Monument tour by bike or segway (especially fun for first-timers)
- Visit Eastern Market for local flavor and handmade goods
- Museum strolls: The National Gallery of Art, Air & Space, or African American History and Culture Museum
- Brunch and boutique hopping in Georgetown or Capitol Hill
Provide a printed or digital wedding weekend guide with maps, timing, and your recommendations—it’s a thoughtful touch that makes guests feel at home.
Post-Wedding Brunch: Say Goodbye in Style
Don’t let the weekend end with the dance floor! A farewell brunch is the perfect opportunity to thank your guests, reminisce, and soak up the last bit of celebration.
Top brunch spots in DC for private events:
- Lulu’s Winegarden (U Street): Colorful, casual, and fun
- Le Diplomate (Logan Circle): Chic and French (a true favorite!)
- The Royal (Shaw): Cool, cozy, and Latin-inspired
- Cafe Riggs (Penn Quarter): Sophisticated and Instagram-ready
Want to keep things casual? Host a picnic-style brunch at a local park with bagels, coffee, and lawn games.
Final Thoughts: DC Makes Wedding Weekends Effortless (and Epic)
From intimate dinners to cultural adventures, planning a multi-day wedding experience in DC lets you make the most of your time with loved ones. As your planner, I help you design every element—from venue selection to vendor coordination—so your wedding weekend flows beautifully and reflects your style from start to finish.
Want help planning a wedding weekend in Washington DC for your guests? Let’s plan it together. Your celebration deserves more than just one day.
