Visiting Congress in Session
 

Could someone tell me when Congress ends its session in the Summer? We would like to have the chance to see them in action (contradiction in terms?) next summer.

I believe Congress usually takes off the month of August with extended breaks around Memorial Day and July 4.

In terms of "action", unless there is a vote scheduled or debate on a major issue, the House and Senate chambers are usually fairly quiet. It isn't unusual for a Representative to be making a speech in front of an empty chamber.

I believe you need to contact your Representative for tickets. If you're really interested in seeing how the House really works, check the Committee calendars.

If you go to www.senate.gov you can find a session calendar. This year, Senate holidays were: May 30-June 3, July 4-8 and August 1-Sept. 5. It does not look like a schedule for next year is posted yet. I would imagine a similar calendar exists for the House.

I really enjoyed seeing Congress in session on our recent trip this summer. Hope this helps!

Next year is an election year, so chances are good they will also be out of session in October, leading up to the election.

Back in 1998, I toured the capitol and went to a session of congress. Got there after lunch, around 3:00pm or so and the only thing we saw was the vote to adjourn for the day. We got tickets through our congressman's office about a month before we left for Washington. Due to the events of 9/11, not sure if tours are still available. I think you have to contact your congressman well in advance of your trip. I don't think if you just show up in their office they will be able to give you a ticket.

Thanks for everyone's help!