March 27, 2026
Dear Washingtonians,
The first post-Civil War DC Emancipation Day celebrations took place at Franklin Park—at the time, called Franklin Square—in 1866. This year, we're returning the celebration to its roots.
 Save the date for the DC Emancipation Day festivities on Sunday, April 19. The free, day-long celebration at Franklin Park in Downtown DC will feature a parade, festival, and concert featuring world-renowned talent.
On April 19, festival gates will open at 1:00 p.m., the parade will take place at 1:30 p.m., and the concert will begin at 2:00 p.m.
More information about the DC Emancipation Day celebration will be available soon at emancipation.dc.gov, so mark your calendars and we'll see you there!
Sincerely,
Today, the Office of the State Superintendent of Education and My School DC announced the results of the public school lottery for pre-K to grade 12 for the 2026-27 school year.
Families received lottery results for their students today, Friday, March 27, and must enroll at their matched schools by Friday, May 1 to accept their lottery match.
Families still interested in additional school options may submit a post-lottery application by visiting MySchoolDC.org.
For more information or assistance with lottery results, enrollment questions, or other support, families can contact My School DC:
- Email: info.myschooldc@dc.gov
- Hotline: 202-888-6336, Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. (Language interpretation available)
Do you love ice skating? Want to build real skills while serving your community? Join the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) Rink Guard Volunteer Team and help keep Fort Dupont Ice Arena safe, fun, and welcoming for all skaters.
Volunteer Opportunities
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CPR Certification: Learn lifesaving skills and earn an official CPR credential.
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SafeSport Training: Understand signs, symptoms, and proper response for head injuries.
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General Rink Maintenance: Support daily ice operations, skate checks, and on-ice safety.
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Zamboni Training: Learn the basics of arena resurfacing and equipment care.
This is a great opportunity for high school students (16 and older) seeking community service hours or experience in sports and recreation.
Learn more about volunteering as well as upcoming programming at dprfortduponticearena.splashthat.com.
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On Thursday, the cherry blossoms hit peak bloom, and this weekend will provide plenty of opportunities to get out and enjoy the beauty of spring in DC, including:
- Starting today: BloomFest at the Tidal Basin
- Saturday, March 28: Blossom Kite Festival near the Washington Monument
- Saturday, March 28: Sakura Taiko Fest 2026 at the Sylvan Theater
On Sunday, March 29, head to Oxon Run Park in Ward 8 for the Oxon Run Pinknic & Kite Fly! Enjoy a day of kites, culture, and community crafts for all ages.
Learn more about activities happening across DC at nationalcherryblossomfestival.org.
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