(Washington, DC) – Today, Mayor Muriel Bowser and the Office of the State Superintendent for Education (OSSE) are encouraging families to register for and attend EdFEST, DC’s annual public school fairs that provide DC families an opportunity to meet with representatives from and learn about DC public schools and charters. EdFEST will be held over two weekends, starting tomorrow on Saturday, December 7. Tomorrow, families with students entering Grades 9-12 can attend EdFEST at Eastern High School from 10 am to 1 pm. Then, on Saturday, December 14, families with students entering pre-K3-Grade 8 can attend EdFEST at the DC Armory from 10 am to 1 pm.
“EdFEST is a reflection of our city’s commitment to education and our belief that investing in students is investing in DC’s future,” said Mayor Muriel Bowser. “We have great schools with dedicated educators and strong programs that families can trust to provide the best opportunities for their children. With everything families need in one place, EdFEST is great for helping you find the right fit for your child and prepare for the 2025-26 school year.”
In addition to school resources, EdFEST features various free services available to families. My School DC will have its staff and Parent Advisory Council members available to answer questions about the school lottery process. Flu and COVID-19 vaccinations for adults and free routine childhood immunizations are available to ensure you’re compliant before December 9. At the pre-K3-grade 8 EdFEST, free meals for youth will be provided by DC Central Kitchen, while supplies last.
“We are so excited to welcome back families, school representatives, and community partners to this year’s EdFEST,” said Interim State Superintendent Dr. Antoinette S. Mitchell. “The District of Columbia has fantastic public and public charter schools – from pre-K through adult education – and we are thrilled to showcase them in this annual community event. Join us for EdFEST 2024 and discover everything our schools have to offer your family.”
Admission to EdFEST is free. Interpretation services are available for American Sign Language, Spanish, Amharic, Mandarin, Vietnamese, and French. Families can register for EdFEST at myschooldc.org/events/edfest.
There are several ways families can get to EdFEST. Free parking is available for both events at DC Armory Lots 1, 2, and 3. The closest Metro station is Stadium-Armory on the blue, orange, or silver lines. Families can also use the Metrobus via routes B2, D6, and 96. An Uber discount code (donated via Education Forward DC) will also be sent to all who register for the events.
Last year, 8,007 people attended EdFEST over two days, breaking an attendance record. DC Central Kitchen distributed 750 free meals during the pre-K through grade 8 EdFEST, and 333 immunizations were administered to students.
On social media, use #EdFEST24 and tag @MySchoolDC on Facebook, X (Twitter), or Instagram. For more information on EdFEST or the school lottery, visit MySchoolDC.org or call the My School DC hotline at (202) 888-6336.
This year’s Platinum Sponsors for EdFEST include Hi-Tech Electric, and Gold Sponsors, WETA – PBS Kids and DC Water.
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