DC Climate Week Enters Year Two With 240+ Events and Record Attendance Expected Across the DMV
Cross-sector leaders convene, signaling climate’s continued importance despite national headwinds
Washington, DC, April 20 — DC Climate Week (DCCW) returns to the nation’s capital for its second year, bringing together a dynamic coalition of changemakers from April 20–26, 2026. What began as a bold experiment in community-driven climate engagement is quickly becoming a cornerstone gathering for the region and a signal of what’s possible when a city leans into climate leadership.
Spanning seven days, DCCW features a diverse, decentralized lineup of events across Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia. Programming includes immersive exhibitions, film screenings, walking tours, roundtables, and networking gatherings. Each event is independently organized but united by a shared mission: to confront the realities of the climate crisis while amplifying the solutions already reshaping our future.
“Last year proved what’s possible when DC’s climate community comes together with intention,” said C’pher Gresham, DCCW Co-Founder and Co-Organizer. “This year, we’re building on that momentum by creating space not just for conversation, but for collaboration, creativity, and real progress. Whether you're a longtime leader or just stepping into this work, DC Climate Week is for you.”
Opening Ceremony: Igniting the Week of Action
DCCW kicks off on April 20 with an Opening Ceremony at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg Center, bringing together climate leaders, policymakers, investors, founders, advocates, and community members under one roof.
Attendees will hear from a cross-section of climate leaders, including federal policy architects, national security experts, clean energy innovators, and voices shaping storytelling and conservation from leading media organizations and environmental nonprofits.
More than a launch event, the ceremony sets the tone for the week ahead: grounded in urgency, fueled by optimism, and centered on collective action.
The ceremony will be live-streamed by one of our media partners, Canary Media.
Leadership Forum: Advancing Solutions Together
On April 21, DCCW continues with its Leadership Forum at the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library, one of D.C.’s most iconic civic spaces. Designed as a working session rather than a traditional conference, the forum convenes senior policymakers, legislators, private sector leaders, nonprofits, and community voices to tackle the most pressing climate challenges.
The goal is to move beyond panels and into problem-solving, fostering cross-sector collaboration that drives tangible outcomes.
Earth Day Happy Hour
On Earth Day, April 22, DCCW is gathering for a Happy Hour celebration of community-driven climate solutions. Hosted by Sycamore & Oak, Earth Day, Climate DC, and WACIF, the evening features live music and drinks, a small business showcase, and a sustainability spotlight from local organizations. Expect remarks from both local leaders and nationally recognized speakers.
At the heart of the happy hour is a simple mission: to honor the environmental work happening across DC and shine a light on the communities most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.
Career Development Day
Climate Career Development Day is a highlight of DCCW, an opportunity to learn from experienced career coaches, connect with industry experts, and gain the tools needed to upskill, stand out, and advance in the climate sector through engaging, hands-on workshops.
A Week Powered by Community
While the flagship events anchor the week, the core of DCCW is its community calendar. Events throughout the region will examine climate from various perspectives — policy, innovation, culture, finance, and grassroots action. In collaboration with Future Food Week, participating restaurants across the DMV will host intimate dining experiences and community-wide climate programs. Locals can explore participating restaurants, events, and menus to support dining experiences aligned with DCCW’s mission.
"Casey Trees has long been committed to community-centered planting, care, and protection of DC's thriving urban forest and making it a greener, more sustainable place for everyone," said Vincent Drader, Director of Communications, Casey Trees, and DCCW Advisory Board Member. "DC Climate Week embodies that same spirit: that when community comes together, climate action follows. We're honored to be a part of a week of events that reminds us all that lasting change begins close to home, grounded in the very roots of our city."
Whether attendees are looking to learn, invest, organize, dine, or simply connect with others who care deeply about our shared future, DCCW offers an entry point.
From first-time attendees to seasoned experts, DDCW invites everyone to take part in shaping a more sustainable, resilient future.
Explore the full calendar and get involved: https://www.dcclimateweek.com/
Together, DC Climate Week connects and celebrates the people and ideas driving climate action across the DMV. Thank you to our platinum sponsors — Arcadia, DTE, Johnson Controls, and NPUC — and to all our other sponsors, media partners, and supporting partners who make it possible.
Media Contact:
Amalia Grobbel
DCCW@browningenvironmental.com