This year in Washington has been one of striking contrasts. Soon after the loss of former President Jimmy Carter, January saw the return of an old face as the 47th president. With Donald Trump came federal firings, DOGE, and federal agents fanned out through the streets, along with an abundance of p rotests. But there were events in DC beyond the political arena: the zoo welcomed its newest pair of pandas, World Pride came to town, as did a National Irish Dance Competition. Through it all, staff photographer Evy Mages was there. Here is a look back at a selection of photos that capture the year. January 8 Members of the public visited the Capitol to pay their respects to President Jimmy Carter. January 20 President Trump was inaugurated for his second term in office. January 24 Bao Li, one of the Smithsonian National Zoo’s new pandas, ate an apple while making his public debut alongside Qing Bao. February 18 DC reacted to the new administration with the “No Kings, No Tyrants” protest. April 5 Frustrations with the Trump administration’s policy boiled over into the “Hands Off!” protest. June 8 Thousands turned out to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Capital Pride and World Pride. August 13 Following Trump’s use of emergency powers over DC law enforcement, federal law enforcement and the National Guard spread out across the city. August 19 The North American Irish Dance Championships drew competitors and colorful costumes to the Gaylord National Harbor Resort. September 6 Thousands marched in the “We Are All DC” protest against federal actions in the District. October 8 The Caps made their “Red Carpet” start to what could be Alexander Ovechkin’s last season with the team. Ovi was joined by Sunny Thornton, a fan and a 4-year-old pediatric leukemia patient. October 15 Artists LigoranoReese placed a 3,000-pound ice sculpture spelling the word “DEMOCRACY” to melt away in front of the Capitol. October 18 More than 200,000 people took to Pennsylvania Avenue in the second “No Kings” protest of the year. October 28 Lady Liberty won the annual 17th Street High Heel Race, telling a TV network, “This is America. Land of the free. Home of the brave. Life, liberty, and the pursuit of fabulousness.” November 24 Two women, dressed as Miss Piggy, refused to be quiet at a rally at the Lincoln Memorial, calling for Trump’s impeachment. The post Year in Photos: 2025 Through the Lens of Our Photographer first appeared on Washingtonian. ...read more read less