Chinese New Year Celebrations The Chinese follow a lunar calendar, so the exact dates vary from year to year; generally, the Chinese New Year falls in late January or early February. D.C.'s Chinese neighborhood is centered in the area around 7th Street and H, marked by the brightly colored arch given by its sister city of Beijing. From the day of the Chinese New Year through the ten days following, there are parades, fireworks, and celebrations. Area restaurants feature special menus. Check The Washington Post for listings.

Holiday Homecoming

Throughout February and citywide. Look for special discounts, events, and promotions at D.C.'s hotels, restaurants, and attractions. Call 1-800-422-8644, or visit www.washington.org.

Come Out and Play

Throughout February and citywide. Enjoy theater, pre-show dining, and post-show discussions with writers and cast. Many special hotel packages. Call 1-800-422-8644, or visit www.comeouttoplay.org.

Warm Up to a Museum

February is museum month with seasonal extras, free hot beverages, and special concerts, tours, and film series. Visit www.culturaltourismdc.com.

Black History Month

The city offers a wealth of special exhibits, concerts, and performances all month long. Call the Smithsonian's Anacostia Museum for its events (202-633-4820) as well as the Frederick Douglass Historic Site (202-426-5960), the Mary McLeod Bethune House (202-673-2402), and the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library (202-727-0321). Also check The Washington Post listings. February 12 marks the birthday of Frederick Douglass. A wreath-laying ceremony, performances, and activities are held all day long at his historic home.

Lincoln's Birthday

Every February 12, there is an annual laying-of-a-wreath ceremony at the Lincoln Memorial and a reading of the Gettysburg Address at noon in commemoration of Lincoln's birthday. Call 202-619-7222 for more information.

Washington's Birthday

George Washington was born on February 22, and his birthday is marked with a celebration similar to other birthday events, plus a parade. Mount Vernon celebrates Washington's birthday with free admission all day, as well as activities and fanfare on the bowling green. Call 703-780-2000 for more information.