World Embassy Day returns to the District on May 6, offering locals a chance to learn about many cultures, watch performances, and devour food and drink samples that are often worth waiting for in the event’s notoriously long lines. The annual event bounced back from a pandemic hiatus last year, but has since doubled in size with a record 63 participating embassies and cultural centers this year.

The daylong cultural immersion is consistently one of the most highly attended events in the region, drawing standstill crowds to the Embassy Row and Dupont Circle area, so keep an eye on the forecast and have a backup plan.

Most embassies will keep their doors open from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., unless otherwise noted. Registration is not required for the free event, which is hosted by Events DC, part of a monthlong celebration of the District’s international diplomatic community called Passport DC.

There are other events to mark on your calendar, including a May 5-6 international flower mart at the National Cathedral. European Union countries will host their own embassy open houses on May 13 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. And lastly, on May 20, the Asia Heritage Foundation will host its 18th annual Fiesta Asia street fair, representing 20 different Asian cultures with performances and a marketplace on Pennsylvania Ave.

Here are some additional details from Events DC about the World Embassy Tour:

• Admission is free. Reservations are not required but are recommended to get the latest updates.
• Street parking is available but difficult at many embassy locations.
• Many embassies are within walking distance of the Dupont Circle and Van Ness/UDC Metrorail stations.
• Embassies on International Drive are larger and often have shorter lines than those on Embassy Row.
• Follow Events DC social media and #PassportDC for updates about lines, pop-up activities, and other breaking news.
• Souvenir passports, which will be stamped at participating embassies, will be available at Dupont Circle and Van Ness information booths.

For a full list of embassies, their addresses, and specifics on what each embassy will offer, visit the PassportDC website.