Nate Marcus is the founder of OccasionGenius, a global event data platform that powers real-time discovery of what’s happening in several cities. He and his team of event experts cut through the noise to identify what events really matter to locals and tourists.

Nate Marcus

Nate Marcus

Articles (9)

The best things to do in Washington, D.C. this weekend: July 24–26

The best things to do in Washington, D.C. this weekend: July 24–26

The weekend is the perfect excuse to get out and experience everything Washington, D.C. has to offer. Whether you're looking to enjoy live music, explore a local festival or try something a little different, the city's packed calendar makes it easy to plan a memorable few days. No matter your interests, there's plenty happening across the District to keep your weekend busy. This weekend's highlights include the International Colombian Festival, Juicy J & Project Pat, and Day Shift Washington D.C. From cultural celebrations to live performances and daytime parties, these events offer a variety of ways to make the most of your weekend in the nation's capital.
The best things to do in Washington, D.C. this week: July 20–24

The best things to do in Washington, D.C. this week: July 20–24

Washington, D.C. is packed with reasons to get out and explore this week, whether you're in the mood for live entertainment, family-friendly fun or a memorable night out. From can't-miss cultural happenings to one-of-a-kind experiences, the city's calendar is brimming with events that make it easy to fill your days and nights with something exciting. Whether you're a longtime local or just visiting, there's no shortage of ways to make the most of the week. This week's lineup includes something for every interest, from Washingtonian's Best of Washington and Noah Kahan: The Great Divide Tour to Curious George: Let's Get Curious! at the National Children's Museum. Whether you're planning a night out with friends, a family adventure or simply looking for something new to experience, these events are among the week's top picks in the District.
The best things to do in Boston this weekend: July 24–26

The best things to do in Boston this weekend: July 24–26

*]:pointer-events-auto R6Vx5W_threadScrollVars scroll-mb-[calc(var(--scroll-root-safe-area-inset-bottom,0px)+var(--thread-response-height))] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" data-turn-id="request-WEB:776600e4-e568-4a5e-89b6-81b07ed1a11b-7" data-turn-id-container="request-WEB:776600e4-e568-4a5e-89b6-81b07ed1a11b-7" data-testid="conversation-turn-16" data-turn="assistant"> There's something about a summer weekend in Boston that makes staying indoors feel like a missed opportunity. Sidewalks fill with people lingering over coffee, parks become gathering places and every neighborhood seems to have something happening. Whether you're looking for a full day out or just a reason to wander somewhere new, this is the season to follow your curiosity. This weekend, Newbury Street once again closes to cars for Open Newbury Street, turning one of Boston's best-known shopping districts into a pedestrian promenade lined with outdoor dining, local performers and plenty of people-watching. Over in Franklin Park, the Puerto Rican Festival of Massachusetts brings a full weekend of live music, dancing, family activities and traditional food while celebrating Puerto Rican culture and community. If an early start is more your speed, Run to Home Base sends thousands of participants on a meaningful route that finishes at Fenway Park, raising money to support veterans and their families along the way.
The best things to do in Boston this week: July 20–24

The best things to do in Boston this week: July 20–24

There's never much debate about what to do in Boston this time of year. Summer keeps the city's calendar packed, with big-ticket events, neighborhood favorites and plenty of reasons to stay out a little longer after work. This week, the Best of Boston Soirée returns for an evening celebrating the city's standout restaurants, bars and businesses with tastings and cocktails, Ariana Grande brings her Eternal Sunshine Tour to TD Garden for a long-awaited run of arena shows, and The Night Bazaar transforms Charles River Speedway into an evening of local vendors, street food, live music and drinks under the summer sky.
The best things to do in San Francisco this weekend: July 24–26

The best things to do in San Francisco this weekend: July 24–26

Weekends in San Francisco rarely require much planning. Whether you're looking for a reason to get outside, try something new or revisit an old favorite, the city's calendar is packed with events that make it easy to fill a couple of days. This weekend, Heritage Fire brings some of the Bay Area's top chefs together in San Mateo for an all-you-can-eat open-fire feast where guests vote for their favorite bite, the San Francisco Marathon returns with thousands of runners taking over the city's most iconic streets, and Bhangra & Beats Night Market fills Yerba Buena Gardens with live music, dance performances, local vendors, and some of the city's best South Asian food.  
Things to do in San Francisco this week: July 20–24

Things to do in San Francisco this week: July 20–24

San Francisco doesn't ask you to pick just one kind of night out. In the span of a few blocks, you can find an arena-worthy singalong, an underground block party, or a Broadway favorite reimagined on a local stage. That's what makes the city's calendar so much fun. You never have to settle for just one vibe. This week, The Fray brings its Summer of Light Tour to Berkeley with all the soaring choruses that defined the 2000s, SOMA Nights returns with its biggest block party yet, transforming Folsom Street into a pop-up sidewalk gallery with live music, DJs, artists, and vendors, and Hairspray arrives at San Francisco Playhouse with its infectious songs, big laughs, and timeless message that everyone deserves a place in the spotlight.
The best things to do in Washington, D.C. in July 2026

The best things to do in Washington, D.C. in July 2026

July in Washington DC brings a full calendar of summer energy, with long daylight hours, warm evenings, and a steady mix of outdoor celebrations, cultural experiences, and sporting events across the city. It’s a peak season for both locals and visitors, when the National Mall area becomes a focal point for large gatherings, waterfront venues host festivals and concerts, and neighborhoods across the District lean into food, music, and public events that showcase the city’s diversity and national significance. The month is highlighted by several major events, including the National Independence Day Parade along Constitution Avenue featuring marching bands, military units, and patriotic performances as part of the Fourth of July celebrations. The evening continues with the A Capitol Fourth 2026: America's 250th Anniversary Special on the National Mall, a televised concert known for its star-studded lineup and fireworks display over the monuments. Food and nightlife take center stage at the Washingtonian's Best of Washington at The Anthem, where top local restaurants, chefs, and bars offer unlimited tastings in a showcase of the city’s culinary scene. Later in the summer, the Mubadala DC Open brings elite ATP and WTA tennis players to Rock Creek Park, turning the city into a hub for international competition and fan festivities.
Things to do in San Francisco in July 2026

Things to do in San Francisco in July 2026

*]:pointer-events-auto R6Vx5W_threadScrollVars scroll-mb-[calc(var(--scroll-root-safe-area-inset-bottom,0px)+var(--thread-response-height))] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" data-turn-id="request-WEB:776600e4-e568-4a5e-89b6-81b07ed1a11b-10" data-turn-id-container="request-WEB:776600e4-e568-4a5e-89b6-81b07ed1a11b-10" data-testid="conversation-turn-22" data-turn="assistant"> Looking for things to do in San Francisco this July? Summer is in full swing, bringing longer days, cool coastal breezes, and a packed calendar of outdoor events across the city. From waterfront promenades and neighborhood street fairs to live music, food pop-ups, and cultural showcases, July is one of the best times to experience San Francisco at its most active. Whether you’re exploring the Embarcadero, relaxing in public parks, or checking out local markets, the city offers a steady mix of entertainment, community, and iconic views throughout the month. Highlights of the month include several signature events that capture the spirit of the season. The Fourth of July fireworks light up the skyline with a spectacular display over the Bay, drawing crowds to waterfront viewing spots across the city. The Yerba Buena Gardens Festival brings free outdoor performances, music, and cultural programming to the heart of downtown. The SF Marathon challenges runners with a scenic course through iconic neighborhoods, bridges, and waterfront views, while the Fort Mason
The best things to do in Boston in July 2026

The best things to do in Boston in July 2026

*]:pointer-events-auto R6Vx5W_threadScrollVars scroll-mb-[calc(var(--scroll-root-safe-area-inset-bottom,0px)+var(--thread-response-height))] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" data-turn-id="request-WEB:776600e4-e568-4a5e-89b6-81b07ed1a11b-4" data-turn-id-container="request-WEB:776600e4-e568-4a5e-89b6-81b07ed1a11b-4" data-testid="conversation-turn-10" data-turn="assistant"> July is when Boston truly comes alive, offering a packed calendar of summer events that highlight the city’s deep history, waterfront setting, and vibrant cultural scene. Warm weather and long days make it easy to explore everything from the historic downtown streets to the Charles River Esplanade, where locals and visitors gather for festivals, outdoor performances, and neighborhood celebrations. The city’s energy builds around Independence Day, but the momentum continues throughout the month with music, food, and cultural traditions that reflect Boston’s diverse identity. The season is anchored by a series of standout events that draw crowds from across the region and beyond. Boston Harborfest kicks things off with historic reenactments, waterfront activities, and patriotic celebrations that turn downtown Boston into a lively Fourth of July destination. The excitement continues with the Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular, an iconic tradition featuring a world-class orchestral performance followed by a dramatic fireworks display over the Charles River. Later