Stick around for these particular days (if you are in the neighborhood), and find out what particular things (from fireworks to turkeys) Washington DC does on these special occasions:

New Year's Day (January 1)
Martin Luther King's Birthday (third Monday in January)
Washington's Birthday (third Monday in February)
Memorial Day (last Monday in May)
Independence Day (July 4)
Labor Day (first Monday in September)
Discoverers' Day (second Monday in October)
Veterans' Day (November 11)
Thanksgiving (last Thursday in November)
Christmas (December 25)

Local Customs & Language

Customs: It is customary to shake hands with people upon first meeting them. Tourists tend to blend together in this part of the country, so even if you are from a different country, there is no need to feel awkward if you find yourself taking pictures of nearly everything, as most Americans will be doing the same thing. Generally, simply being polite (a smile and friendly demeanor) will go a long way with most people.

Language: English is the dominant language spoken in Washington DC. Though there are many foreign dignitaries coming and going, the main tourist areas are saturated with English speakers. Acquiring a second language to the point of fluency is not a wide practice.

Tipping Advice: Tipping is standard practice throughout the United States. You should expect to tip 15% of your bill at the minimum. If you receive excellent service, include a 20% tip. If you have a large party, many restaurants will include an 18% gratuity in the bill. You may add the tip to your bill when you pay or you can leave cash on the table.

Other workers receive different tips based upon their job function. Hotel-room attendants should receive $1 per guest per day. Taxi drivers can be tipped about 10% of the fare. Airport baggage handlers get about $1 per bag. Coat-checkers expect $1-$2 and a concierge usually will receive $5-$10 with extra depending upon any additional services offered.

You do not have to tip theatre ushers, gas station attendants, or museum guides.

Health and Security
Washington used to rival New Orleans for the title of Murder Capital of America, but in recent years the amount of violent crime has fallen a great deal. Now, it is concentrated in outer parts of the Northwest and areas beyond the Capitol Hill neighborhood. Areas south and east of the Anacostia River are also prone to crime. As with any city, it is important to pay attention to your surroundings; though much of the crime in DC is located in specific areas that does not restrict smaller crimes such as pick pocketing. Stay safe by remaining in well-lit areas at night, travel in groups if possible, and guard expensive items well. Overall, much of downtown DC is safe.

Instead, steer clear of poverty stricken areas. If you feel the need to see something in a less-than-quaint area of the city, then exercise caution. Try to do your sightseeing during the day and take a cab at night. If possible, avoid Anacostia, Southeast and Northeast DC east of about 15th Sts SE and NE, and the southeastern waterfront near the Navy Yard.

At present, there are no health risks associated with traveling to Washington, DC. Food and water are considered very safe.

Washington, DC has excellent medical facilities. Should something happen, you can be at ease knowing quality medical care will be administered. Your one worry may come when the bill does; before traveling, you should take care to have health insurance for that one, single “just in case” moment.

Disabled Travelers: If you are disabled, there is not much to worry about. The majority of all restaurants and attractions are very accommodating and will do whatever they can to help and make your visit pleasurable. If you plan on using the Metrorail, you should either check their website or otherwise contact them to find out if any of the elevators or escalators are broken in the areas you plan on visiting. Should some of these services be out of order, knowing beforehand can help you to make revised travel plans.

Tax Refunds
Taxes are included on almost everything you purchase within the United States. The typical sales tax here is 5.75%, and it will apply to all of the products you buy and services you purchase. Hotel rooms may be taxed at a higher rate. Check with your particular embassy or country’s guidelines to see if you qualify for a value added tax (VAT) refund.