Not only does it mark the first day of summer, but it is an ancient tradition, an astrological phenomenon or, simply, as a way to celebrate more sunlight. Many cultures observe this day with feasts, dancing, bonfires and picnics. In the D.C. area, there will be late-night exhibit hours, parties, concerts, yoga and more.

The solstice may be Wednesday, but events are popping up all week long to welcome summer. Here are some unique ways to enjoy the nearly 15 hours of sunlight in the D.C. area:

Smithsonian Solstice Saturday

📅 Sat., June 24
📍 National Mall, Washington D.C.
💲 Free
🔗 Details

The biggest D.C. area celebration is the Smithsonian’s Solstice Saturday. The event includes free parties, programs and extended hours at museums on the National Mall, including three museums staying open until midnight. Be sure to plan ahead, some of the museums require that you pre-register.

Here’s the full schedule– including all of your favorite museums:

• ☀️ Joe Tohonnie Jr. and the Apache Crown Dancers, guided gallery tours, National Museum of the American Indian, various performances times; 1- 8 p.m.
• 🎨 Late-night exhibit hours, Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden; 5-10 p.m.
• 🎧 DJ sets by Les The DJ, curator programming, gallery access, National Museum of Asian Art and Enid A. Haupt Garden; 5:30 p.m.- midnight
• 🎶 Sounds of Africa and light show, exhibition tours, African Art Museum; 5:30 p.m.-midnight
• 🐘 Late Night at the Museum: Exhibit Opening + Solstice Saturday, Natural History Museum; 6:30-midnight
• 🦅 Pop-culture exhibition, “Entertainment Nation,” and activities, American History Museum; 5:30-10 p.m.
• 🕹️ Glow Night Arcade Party, Arts and Industries Building; 7-11 p.m.
• 🌱 Conversations, free pop-up mint planters, National Museum of African American History and Culture; 5:30-10 p.m.
• 🪐 Planetarium shows, Hofstra University’s Astronomy Festival, Air and Space Museum and on the National Mall; 6- 11 p.m.

Foamhenge in Virginia

📅 Through Sat. Aug. 19, 1- 2 p.m.
📍 Cox Farms Centreville, Virginia
💲 Included with admission to Smokin’ Saturday events
🔗 Details

People travel all over the world to visit Stonehenge in England on the summer solstice, why not pilgrimage to one of several existing U.S. replicas located in nearby Virginia.

Artist Mark Cline of Enchanted Castle Studio created it in 2004 in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Natural Bridge, Virginia, before it moved to Cox Farms in 2017. Foamhenge is carved out of 16-foot-tall blocks of Styrofoam, spray-painted grey and anchored with concrete. Note the sculpture is accessible by shuttle from the farm’s Corner Market.

Summer Solstice Celebration on U Street

📅 Wed., June 21 and Sat., June 24
📍 Temperance Alley Garden, D.C.
💲 Free
🔗 Details

Join Temperance Alley Garden in marking the changing of the seasons. First, with a meditation on June 21 that will reflect on the longest day of the year. Then with a Summer Solstice Celebration on June 24 that will celebrate the sun moving through the sky with learning, community, as well as food and drink.

“This point of stillness is our SUMMER SOLSTICE. Come to the Garden to properly celebrate when we are in this yearly cycle!” the website reads.

Salute the Sunset:

📅 Sat. June 24, 7-8 p.m.
📍 National Harbor, Maryland
💲 Free
🔗 Details

Watch the sunset at the National Harbor as the U.S. Air Force Concert Band and Singing Sergeants serenade you and your family. Bringing a blanket and grabbing food from a nearby restaurant is encouraged.

Summer Solstice Cocktail Garden Party

📅 Wed., June 21, 5:30 p.m.
📍 King & Rye, Alexandria, Virginia
💲 $35
🔗 Details

The King & Rye restaurant will ring in summer by launching its Cocktail Garden with activities, cocktails, photo moments and a menu by Executive Chef Tomas Chavarria, who competed on Food Network’s Beat Bobby Flay.

Summer Solstice Forest Bathing

📅 Wed., June 21, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
📍 James E. Bunn Amphitheater, D.C.
💲 $10
🔗 Details

Ground yourself in the natural world and community on a guided walk through the forests of Oxon Run.

Summer Solstice Yoga

📅 Wed., June 21, 6-7 p.m.
📍 909 Rose Ave., Bethesda, Maryland
💲 Free
🔗 Details

Stretch your way through the start of summer with an all-levels, rejuvenating yoga flow on a rooftop.

Things to Do DC Jun 15

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Summer Jun 20

Summer solstice 2023: What to know about the first day of summer

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A special display of the Emancipation Proclamation at the National Archives, a star-studded tribute to Marvin Gaye and festivals throughout the DMV are some of the ways to mark Juneteenth, coming up on Monday.

Juneteenth celebrations around the Beltway they are dynamic and diverse. See for yourself in our Juneteenth events guide.

Otherwise, D.C.’s having a celeb-y week…

• 💃🏾 Juvenile is celebrating 25 years of backing that thang up at the NMAAHC and the Howard Theatre tonight.
• ⚽ The prospect of potentially seeing Lionel Messi sent ticket prices for the DC United-Inter Miami game in July soaring to over $150 (normal cost: about $30).
• 🏀 Tickets for the Mystics’ Pride Night game are going for well over $100 — Washington is hosting Phoenix Mercury, Brittney Griner’s team (normal cost: $18).
• 🍚 Philippe Chow’s new, upscale Chinese restaurant at The Wharf is booked solid for nearly two weeks.
• 🐻 We’ll count Franklin the Brookland bear, too. He even made it on a T-shirt.

⛅ Summer weather is here, even while we wait for the summer solstice on June 21. This weekend looks promising for fun on the water: dry with highs in the mid-80s. Here’s the forecast.

Share your adventures with us! Tag #4TheScene and @nbcwashington on your socials for a chance to be featured in our newsletter and social feeds.

The Scotland Juneteenth Heritage Festival

📅 Events Fri. to Mon.
📍 Montgomery County, plus a concert at The Anthem in D.C.
💲 Various
🔗 Details

All are invited to learn the history, celebrate the community and respect the journey at The Scotland Juneteenth Heritage Festival spanning several locations. The Scotland A.M.E. Zion Church community is leading a coalition of historic Black churches and the larger community to create the multiday festival.

Here’s the full schedule — it has something for everyone, including:

• 🎶 Motown and oldies at Bethesda Blues and Jazz on Saturday ($60-$100).
• 🙏 Interfaith worship and a Day of Community Service on Sunday.
• 🐐 A children’s carnival with rides, music, face painting, a petting zoo and more family fun will take over Cabin John Regional Park on Monday.
• 🚗 A classic car show, health and wellness and history pavilions and a talent show on Monday at Cabin John Village (11325 Seven Locks Road, Potomac).
• 🎤 Wyclef Jean, Tarrus Riley, Patrice Roberts, Ricardo Drue and Gyptian perform at the Scotland Freedom Day Concert on Monday ($65-$153). Note that the event was moved to The Anthem.

Portside in Old Town Summer Festival

📅 Fri. and Sat.
📍 Waterfront Park Alexandria
💲 Free
🔗 Details

Live music, food, hands-on crafts, lawn games, local vendor fair and history activities (including a chocolate-making demo) are taking over the Alexandria waterfront.

Go Friday for the ALX Jazz Fest and local poets, then on Saturday for an eclectic lineup ranging from indie soul to zydeco to Ethiopian folk and jazz, plus upcycling crafts.

Awesome Con

📅 Fri. to Sun.
📍 Washington Convention Center
💲 $45 to $170
🔗 Details

D.C.’s premier con for nerds of all stripes is back.

Levar Burton and “LOTR” actors Elijah Wood, Sean Astin and Andy Serkis are just a few celebs showing up, while panels, a Star Wars dance party, science and book fairs, gaming and more will keep you busy.  It’s kid-friendly, too.

If you’re in the neighborhood, enjoy people-watching for cosplayers.

Emancipation Proclamation on display

📅 Sat. to Mon.,  10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
📍  National Archives
🔗 Details

The National Archives Museum offers extended hours so you can see the original documents at the root of the Juneteenth holiday — a once-a-year event.

Reserve a free ticket to save yourself time in line.

If you have kids, check out the Juneteenth Family Day on Saturday, too.

Home Rule Music Festival — free pick

📅 June 16-17, 24
📍 575 3rd Street, NW, D.C.
🔗 Details

Black-owned record shop HR Records, plus its music advocacy organization, and CapitalBop are hosting a festival to celebrate D.C. music and culture with a lineup of world-class jazz shows.

• 🌟 The main event on Saturday is a free day of music at the Parks at Walter Reed, complete with a record fair, food trucks and family-friendly fun.
• 🎵 Mark G. Meadows and The Movement, Brian Jackson, EU, The Experience Band and Show are included on the lineup.
• 🥪 Feel free to bring a chair and a picnic. ANXO will be selling craft drinks and cider; no outside alcohol is allowed. 
• 🐦 Songbyrd will host a free after-party. 

It’s not free, but… if you’re after more jazz, Grammy nominee Kassa Overall will kick off the festival on Friday with a ticketed show at Songbyrd ($20 in advance, $25 at the door).

Music Snob Concert Picks

Boygenius, 5 p.m. Friday, Merriweather, $65-$129.50: A supergroup of indie rock singer-songwriters Julien Baker, Phoebe Bridgers and Lucy Dacus – each a draw on their own. It’s part of the Re:SET concert series. Details. 

Water From Your Eyes, 10 p.m. Friday, Comet Ping Pong, $18.54: Brooklyn art-pop duo makes some of the most interesting music around these days. Complex arrangements that are oddly ear-catching and intriguing. Details.

Trombone Shorty and Ziggy Marley, 7 p.m. Saturday, Wolf Trap, $49: The living New Orleans jazz/funk/R&B legend teams up with the son of the LEGEND himself, reggae icon Bob Marley. Another iconic singer, Mavis Staples, brings the blues and gospel for the evening. Details.

More Things to Do in Washington DC

• 🏀 Washington Mystics Pride Night: Fri., Entertainment and Sports Arena, $112+
• 🎬 DC/DOX: Fri. to Sun., various locations, $15.90 for most screenings
• What’s Going On NOW: A Tribute to Marvin Gaye: Fri. and Sat., The Kennedy Center, $39-$99
• 📚 Children’s Book Festival: Sat., Ronald Reagan Building, 💸🚫
• 🍷 Rosé All Day: Sat., The Yards, $35
• Noche De Verano Sin Ti: Bad Bunny Night: Sat., Union Stage, $20-$40
• Planet Word’s Black Author Book Festival: Mon., Northwest, free admission

More Things to Do in Maryland

• 🎤 Re:SET concert series: Fri. to Sun., Merriweather Post Pavilion, $45-$250
• City of Bowie Juneteenth Celebration: Fri. to Sun., Allen Pond Park, 💸🚫
• 🏳‍🌈 Glen Echo Park Pride Family Day:Sat., 💸🚫
• Juneteenth: Journey to Freedom: Sat., BlackRock Center for the Arts, 💸🚫
• Prince George’s Juneteenth Festival: Sat., Watkins Regional Park, free
• Juneteenth films: AFI Silver Theatre, $8
• 🍦 Ice Cream Festival: Sat., National Harbor, $10-$60
• DMV’s Largest Juneteenth Celebration: Sat., MGM Grand Ballroom, $60-$100
• Celebrate Juneteenth: Mon., National Harbor, free

More Things to Do in Virginia

• 🎭 Last chance: “Passing Strange”: Through Sat., Signature Theatre, $56-$89
• Broadway in the Park: Fri., Filene Center in Vienna, $33+
• Kids Day at the Meadows Farms Nurseries: Sat., Chantilly, 💸🚫
• 🎹 Columbia Pike Blues Festival: Sat., S. Walter Reed Dr. and Columbia Pike, 💸🚫
• Small But Important Riots: The Cavalry Battles of Aldie, Middleburg, and Upperville: Sat. and Sun. FYI: Free tours and living history events, plus a book talk
• 🚗 Sully Annual Car Show: Sun., Sully Historic Site in Chantilly, $12 for adults (tickets)

Want to know what’s up for your weekend? Sign up for The Weekend Scene, our newsletter about events, experiences and adventures for you and for your family around the DMV.

From the 1800s to the 1950s, the space held alley dwellings along the U Street corridor in Northwest D.C. Right now, it is a COVID-era community garden. On Sept. 30, when the garden’s lease ends, it will be turned into townhomes.

“You’re standing in somebody’s living room in the past and you’re standing in somebody’s living room in the future,” U Street Neighborhood Association President Aaron Lewis said. “And right now, we’re in the special window in time where it’s somehow impossibly a garden.”

A Time Machine

Centuries before it was a garden, the Anacostans were stewards of the land. When Congress declared the swamplands of D.C. the nation’s capital in the 1790s, it became a part of the U.S. In Pierre Charles L’Enfant’s plans for the City of Washington, it was known as Square 274, according to the U Street Neighborhood Association’s Temperance Alley Garden timeline.

The alley was occupied between the 1800s and 1950s. Its first residents were freed slaves who migrated to D.C. following the Civil War, Lewis said. In the alley, they found cheap shack-like houses with no plumbing, heat or sewage systems.

In the early 1900s, the poor conditions of alley dwellings caught the attention of Congress. By 1934, the Alley Dwellings Authority was created to clear D.C.’s alleys of homes and occupants.

Over the years, working-class Black people established a close, supportive community known as Temperance Court. In 1953, the 23 townhomes in the alley were torn down, displacing over 130 residents, according to the U Street Neighborhood Association. At a Land Acknowledgement Ceremony, Ben’s Chili Bowl Owner Virginia Ali said she knew someone who lived in Temperance Court before it was demolished.

The homes were never rebuilt, and part of the alley came to be used as a parking lot. Decades later, in the 2000s, several attempts were made to create affordable housing in the alley. The area was also used for a farmers’ and artists’ market.

During COVID-19, Lewis and his roommates were stuck inside their rowhouse near the alley and contacted EastBanc, the developer who acquired the property in 2012, and received a temporary lease for a park.

“I’ve been very impressed with the energy that the team running the garden has brought to it,” EastBanc redevelopment manager Hope Richardson said. “You see a lot of community volunteer-run initiatives that start with a lot of enthusiasm and fizzle because people move on, or people get busy.”

Now, throughout the garden, there are layers of the alley’s past that the stewards excavate like amateur archeologists, including broken pieces of parking lot asphalt, empty oyster shell husks, brown clay pottery pieces and bricks of sunbaked faded reds.

“We really try to engage people that time machine element with the deeper past and help them picture what it was like, so they feel a greater sense of connection to this neighborhood,” Temperance Alley Garden Chair Josh Morin said.

On Garden Time

Over a three-year lease, the stewards transformed a vacant lot slated for construction into a pop-up community garden. The area is tucked behind homes, making it a peaceful retreat from the bustling bar-filled noise of U Street and its Metro station.

The garden appears at first glance to be just a fence protecting overgrown weeds, but beyond its entrance it is a series of intentional spaces, an urban rewilding experiment. Once inside, you can hear birds chirp as city noises become muffled and calm settles in.

“U Street’s like the come-up and then the garden can be the comedown,” Morin said.

In the space’s Welcome Womb, visitors enter a circle of found items inside a knee-length wall of plants, like a labyrinth or clock. This is where weekly meditations are held and where a Little Free Library is located. Walk through an arch to the Lawn, a grassy open area where people sit to watch concerts, do yoga and attend the garden’s events.

“I would say Temperance Garden is a learning landscape, an urban farm, a time machine and a construction site,” Lewis said. “And it’s a place where neighbors come together to host a lot of different classes, workshops, experiences where we can learn together, create art together and grow together.”

An overgrown Virginia Creeper winds its way up from the ground, creating a green roof on a wooden pergola with a brick floor and chairs. The stewards consider the Pavilion to be the garden’s outdoor living room and a “reanimated ruin” — the only thing left of the 2000s market.

A thriving mulberry tree and vegetables that grow in wood or brick planter boxes mark the Café Garden behind the Pavilion. Hand-painted signs identify hot peppers, tomatoes, the leafy beginnings of eggplants and dormant vines of watermelons.

Volunteers grow the produce along with Farm the District. They take some of the produce home, share recipes in the garden’s homemade zine and donate some of it to Martha’s Table.

Among the vegetables, the Story Circle is a black geodesic dome with campfire energy, Lewis said. Pillows and tree stumps are used for seating; a hanging “dynamic” talking stick is meant to facilitate sharing.

“Whether you’re new to the neighborhood or you’ve been around here for 50 years and seen it completely transform, the storytelling, the connection with people that aren’t just in your immediate vicinity, is sort of the whole purpose of this outdoor community space,” Morin said as he sat inside the Story Circle among wildflowers and plants.

At the back of the garden is the “time capsule,” a black chest with gold buckles that sits closed on a platform of light stone. It is filled with items found in the garden, writings, art, poems, signs, bucket lists and a scrapbook. In front of it, a bench looks back into the green tangles of the garden.

Lewis described it as a seed vault or memory bank of all of their event ideas: something they will keep once the garden is gone, “to reanimate other places that we want to help bring to life in the future.”

‘A Moment in Time’

Though its stewards are counting the days wistfully (and literally: “144,” Morin said on May 9), Lewis and Morin both emphasized the project was created with an end date in mind.

The stewards are planning a full schedule for the garden’s final season of events; it’s D.C.’s last chance to get to U Street and experience the garden.

“For season three of the garden, we’re doing everything a little bigger,” Lewis said.

Each event will be headed by a neighbor, volunteer or partner organization that wants to share their passion with the neighborhood, Morin said. You’ll find theater, art, music, mind and body events, gardening and meditation.

Alexander Currey said he helps organize the garden workdays and hosts a meditation circle on Wednesdays. He credits the garden with giving him and other volunteers a place to express themselves outside of work.

“It was such a fulfilling project for me, both from a social standpoint, but also just, you know, how I want to live in community and how I want to show up in the city that I call home,” Currey said.

For Sara Mack, who is helping organize the events this summer, the garden was the perfect space for this time in her life.

“It’s hard to see that go away, but it is also just a really important lesson in appreciating what you have, regardless of the timeframe that you have it,” Mack said.

June Events:

• Volunteer Gardening Hours: June 17 and 24; 11 a.m.- 2 p.m.
• Juggling for Everyone: June 17; 5-6:30 p.m.
• Craft in the Garden: June 19; 6:30-8 p.m.
• Yoga in the Garden: June 20; 6-7 p.m.
• Secret Cacao Garden: June 20; 5-8 p.m.
• Group Meditation: June 21 and 28; 6-7 p.m.
• Open Songwriting Hours: June 22; 6-8 p.m.
• Tea Time with Tanya: June 22; 7-8:30 p.m.
• “Your Ass Is Grass” Comedy Show: June 23; 7-9 p.m.
• Summer Solstice 🌞 Celebration: June 24; 6-9 p.m.
• PALC at the PARK: June 28; 6-8 p.m.
• Music in the Garden: June 30; 7-9 p.m.

For a full list of the garden’s events, visit the U Street Neighborhood Association website.

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The holiday commemorates June 19, 1865, when news of liberation reached 250,000 enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, the Smithsonian Museum says. That was two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued in 1863.

Today, Juneteenth National Independence Day — the combination of “June” and “nineteen” — is a federal holiday that’s celebrated throughout the D.C. area and beyond. Juneteenth has been called a second independence day, Emancipation Day, Jubilee Day and Black Independence Day.

Juneteenth is the newest federal holiday, first recognized in 2021. But, it’s been celebrated for generations by Black Americans, Brandon Byrd, Associate Professor of History at Vanderbilt University, told NBCLX.

DJ QuickSilva of 93.9 WKYS says it’s important to celebrate Juneteenth now that it’s a day off work.

“We know the history of Juneteenth and what it means to us. You have to live life and enjoy life,” QuickSilva said. “If you’re able to make a large celebration, good. But if not, just have something in your own backyard, in your own house, enjoy your family and celebrate Juneteenth.”

If you’re looking for ways to get out and celebrate in D.C., Maryland and Virginia, check these out:

Juneteenth celebrations in Washington, D.C.

Exhibits

Emancipation Proclamation and General Order No. 3 display

📅 June 17-19
📍  National Archives
💲 Free
🔗 Details

See the original documents at the root of the Juneteenth holiday with your own eyes in a special National Archives exhibit. Reserve a timed ticket to save yourself time in line.

The National Archives Museum will open for extended hours, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., on Saturday, Sunday and Monday in honor of the holiday.

Don’t miss the Juneteenth Family Day on Sat. from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. It’s free and a great place to take kids for hands-on activities.

Frank Stewart’s Nexus: An American Photographer’s Journey

📅 Through Sept. 3
📍 The Phillips Collection
💲 Included with general admission ($16 for adults)
🔗 Details

Photographer Frank Stewart portrayed world cultures and Black life in many forms, the Phillips Collection says, and this exhibit of more than 100 black and white photos shows trips to Africa and Cuba, as well as images of jazz legends including Miles Davis.

Don’t miss the companion exhibit it inspired: Focal Point, a display of D.C. students’ photography work that debuts June 16.

Afrofuturism: A History of Black Futures

📅 Through March 24, 2023
📍 NMAAHC
💲 Free; timed tickets required
🔗 Details

The exhibit uses hundreds of pop-culture objects “from music, film, television, comic books, fashion, theater, literature and more” to demonstrate the concept of Afrofuturism and share the cultural movement with visitors. NBC Washington took a look when it opened in March.

Explore the museum more with two talks on Saturday, June 17 (at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.): History Alive!: USCT: Juneteenth: What it Means, and Why We Celebrate.

I Dream a World: Selections from Brian Lanker’s Portraits of Remarkable Black Women

📅 Through Sept. 10
📍 National Portrait Gallery
💲 Free
🔗 Details

Events

The Black Tech Collective Juneteenth Networking Link

📅 Tuesday, June 13
📍  The Owl Room (2007 14th St NW, Washington, D.C.)
💲  Free admission
🔗 Details

The Black Tech Collective hosts this fundraiser for the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Washington’s STEM club. It’s free to enter, but you can pay $25 to enter a raffle for prizes including tickets to the Broccoli City Festival or the Kennedy Center’s Marvin Gaye tribute show.

One Life: Frederick Douglass

📅 June 16 through April 21, 2024
📍  The National Portrait Gallery
💲 Free
🔗 Details

The National Portrait Gallery’s Frederick Douglass exhibit, featuring prints, photographs and ephemera, opens just in time for Juneteenth weekend. 

Guest curators and Harvard University professor John Stauffer will host a talk about the exhibit on Friday, June 16 at 3 p.m.

What’s Going On NOW: A Tribute to Marvin Gaye

📅 June 16-17
📍  The Kennedy Center
💲 $39-$99
🔗 Details

In honor of Marvin Gaye’s “What’s Goin On” turning 50, Michelle Williams, Joshua Henry, Cory Henry and more artists are performing the D.C. native’s biggest hits alongside young local poets and writers.

For a free option, check out the Millennium Stage. Youth poets and writers from 826DC, Shout Mouse Press, and Words, Beats & Life will do performances on Wednesday through Saturday in June. Reserve free tickets here.

Home Rule Music Festival

📅 June 16-17, 24
🔗 Details

Black-owned record shop HR Records, plus its music advocacy organization, and CapitalBop are hosting a festival to celebrate D.C. music and culture with a lineup of world-class jazz shows.

The main event is a free day of music at the Parks at Walter Reed, complete with a record fair, food trucks and family-friendly fun. Feel free to bring a chair and a picnic. ANXO will be selling craft drinks and cider; no outside alcohol is allowed.

Mark G. Meadows and The Movement, Brian Jackson, EU, The Experience Band and Show are included on the lineup.

Songbyrd will host a free after-party. 

If you’re after more jazz, Grammy nominee Kassa Overall will kick off the festival on Friday with a ticketed show at Songbyrd ($20 in advance, $25 at the door). Hear in Now headline the closing show at the Black Cat on Sat., June 24 ($20 in advance, $25 at the door).

Juneteenth Family Day

📅 Sat., June 17, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
📍 National Museum of African American History and Culture
💲 Free
🔗 Details

No tickets are required for the outdoor events, which include an architectural and garden tours, seed art, a drum circle and African folktales.

Grab tickets to get in on the action inside, including a “Sounds of Juneteenth” performance, plus fan and jewelry making. 

The R&B Bar Crawl

📅 Sat., June 17, 2-10 p.m.
📍  U Street
💲 $10-$20
🔗 Details

Juneteenth for the City

📅 Sat., June 17, 1-5 p.m.
📍  The Michelle Obama Southeast Center of Bread for the City (1700 Good Hope Rd SE)
💲 Free entry
🔗 Details

A performance by D.C.’s Chocolate Soul, family-friendly activities and a Black-owned vendor fair are just some of the ways to enjoy this history-focused event hosted by Bread for the City and Mema’s Popups. 

Celebrate Juneteenth

📅 Sun., June 18, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
📍  Brookland  Arts Walk (next to the Brookland Metro station)
🔗 Details

Shop the Black-owned marketplace, hear talks on Black maternal care and the Djembe drum and enjoy Coyaba Dance Theater and DJ M$NP at the performance stage.

The family-friendly event has canvas painting and a history lesson on the Juneteenth flag for kids aged 6 and up.

Use the John F Mccormack Rd NE & Michigan Ave NE entrance at the Brookland Metro station; there’s also free neighborhood parking on Sundays.

FITDC’s Juneteenth in the District Health and Wellness Fair

📅 Mon., June 19, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
📍  Franklin Park (1332 I Street NW)
💲 Free
🔗 Details

Put on your workout gear for free fitness classes: yoga at 9 a.m. and dance cardio at 11 a.m. The wellness festival will offer mini massages, aura photography, nutrition and meditation sessions, astrology classes and food trucks. The first 500 residents to register will get a free T-shirt.

Planet Word’s Black Author Book Festival

📅 Mon., June 19, noon
📍  Planet Word Museum (Northwest D.C.)
💲 Free admission
🔗 Details

Nine DMV authors will host conversation and book signings while DJ Qué Pequeño mixes tunes and Mixt stores craft cocktails.

Juneteenth celebrations in Maryland

The Scotland Juneteenth Heritage Festival

📅 Events Fri. to Mon.
📍 Montgomery County, plus a concert at The Anthem in D.C.
💲 Various
🔗 Details

All are invited to learn the history, celebrate the community and respect the journey at The Scotland Juneteenth Heritage Festival spanning several locations. The Scotland A.M.E. Zion Church community is leading a coalition of historic Black churches and the larger community to create the multiday festival.

Here’s the full schedule — it has something for everyone, including:

• 🎶 Motown and oldies at Bethesda Blues and Jazz on Saturday ($60-$100).
• 🙏 Interfaith worship and a Day of Community Service on Sunday.
• 🐐 A children’s carnival with rides, music, face painting, a petting zoo and more family fun will take over Cabin John Regional Park on Monday.
• 🚗 A classic car show, health and wellness and history pavilions and a talent show on Monday at Cabin John Village (11325 Seven Locks Road, Potomac).
• 🎤 Wyclef Jean, Tarrus Riley, Patrice Roberts, Ricardo Drue and Gyptian perform at the Scotland Freedom Day Concert on Monday ($65-$153). Note that the event was moved to The Anthem.

City of Bowie Juneteenth Celebration

📅 Events Fri. to Sun.
📍 Allen Pond Park (3330 Northview Drive, Bowie, Maryland)
💲 Free
🔗 Details

Join your neighbors in Bowie for celebration, history and community on Juneteenth weekend. Events include:

• KanKouran West African Dance Class and “42: The Jackie Robinson Story” screening on Friday
• Juneteenth Family Reunion with inflatable rides, dance, a petting zoo and more on Saturday (11 a.m. to 4 p.m.)
• Fathers & Families Juneteenth Celebration Bike Ride and Juneteenth Concert on Sunday

Juneteenth Festival

📅 Sat., June 17, noon to 5 p.m.
📍 Watkins Regional Park in Upper Marlboro
💲 Free
🔗 Details

Prince George’s County’s big Juneteenth Festival includes performances by Rare Essence, Avery Sunshine, an Earth, Wind and Fire tribute band and more. You’ll find local merchandise and food vendors, plus artist Bevadine Zoma Terrell’s exhibit “My Coloured Girls.”

Kids will love giant bubble wands, face painting and hands-on art activities including making a mini airbrush print and group mural making.

A virtual Black genealogy summit will happen over Zoom in conjunction with the festival. If you’re interested, register here by June 15.

Freedom Fest: A Celebration of Juneteenth

📅 Sat., June 17, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
📍  Marian Fryer Town Plaza in Wheaton, Maryland
💲 Free
🔗 Details

Craft vendors, music, local organizations and family activities are on tap. Attendees can bring baby items and canned food items to donate.

Juneteenth: Journey to Freedom

📅 Sat., June 17, noon to 10 p.m.
📍 BlackRock Center for the Arts (12901 Town Commons Drive, Germantown, Maryland)
💲 Free
🔗 Details

Montgomery County’s Juneteenth celebration has something for everyone, including a headlining performance by Southeast D.C. native Sa-Roc. Educational activities and free indoor Hollywood blockbuster screenings are also planned.

Juneteenth Black Business Expo

📅 Sun., June 18, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
📍 Veterans Plaza Silver Spring
💲 Free entry
🔗 Details

Shop from more than 60 Black-owned businesses while enjoying lie entertainment, games, food and drinks and more.

Celebrate Juneteenth

📅 Mon., June 19
📍 National Harbor
💲 Free entry
🔗 Details

Browse a Black-owned marketplace from 1-7 p.m., and stick around for performances on the Plaza Stage from 5-7 p.m. Autumn Joi Live will serve as host readings from Prince George’s County Poet Laureate Khadijah Ali-Coleman and Youth Poet Laureate Precious Foreman, plus music from DuPont Brass and Prince George’s Cultural Arts Foundation’s African Drumming and Percussions Master Class.

Don’t miss MahoganyBooks’ celebration and storytime the Saturday before, either. 

Juneteenth Service Projects

📅 Mon., June 19, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
📍  Soulfull Cafe in Rockville
💲 Free
🔗 Details

Juneteenth Poetry Slam Cookout

📅 Sat., June 24
📍  Horace and Dickies Seafood of Waldorf (12536 Mattawoman Drive, Waldorf, Maryland)
💲  Free admission
🔗 Details

You’re invited to perform your favorite poem, spoken word o rap to celebrate Juneteenth at Horace and Dickies Seafood in Waldorf. It’s for people aged 21 and up only.

Juneteenth celebrations in Virginia

“Passing Strange“

📅 Through June 18
📍  Signature Theatre in Arlington, Virginia
💲  $56-$89
🔗 Details

It’s your last chance to see the revival of the Tony Award-winning rock musical that inspired a Spike Lee film adaptation at Signature Theatre. 

Bull Run Church and Harris Cemetery Juneteenth Celebration

📅 Sat., June 17, 10:30 a.m. to noon
📍  Bull Run Regional Park (7700 Bull Run Drive Centreville, Virginia)
💲 Free
🔗 Details

Co-sponsored by NOVA Parks and the Fairfax County NAACP, this Juneteenth event will tell the story of Robert Carter Ill’s emancipation of 500 enslaved people in Northern Virginia, plus present a Black Expo and children’s activity.

Attendees are asked to meet at The Atlantis Water Park parking lot and donate a gently used reading book aimed at toddlers and early readers.

Gum Springs Community Day/Juneteenth

📅 Sat., June 17
📍 Martin Luther King Jr. Recreational Park (8115 Fordson Road, Alexandria, Virginia)
💲 Free
🔗 Details

Fairfax County’s oldest African American community is turning 190 years old. After unveiling a new highway marker, Gum Springs is set to celebrate with a parade in Martin Luther King Jr. Community Park, followed by a festival with carnival rides, food, music, an auction, a health fair and more. Visit the civic association’s website for more details.

Juneteenth Celebration at Frying Pan Farm Park

📅 Sat., June 17
📍 Frying Pan Farm Park in Herndon, Virginia
💲 Free
🔗 Details

Make sure to register online for one of three sessions.

Juneteenth Celebration 2023

📅 Sat., June 17, noon to 6 p.m.
📍 Ida Lee Park in Leesburg, Virginia
💲 $20 at the door

Check the event’s Facebook page for updates.

Carlyle House Historic Park Annual Juneteenth Celebration

📅 Sat., noon to 4 p.m.
📍 Carlyle House (121 N Fairfax St., Alexandria, Virginia)
💲 Free
🔗 Details

Visitors can see the work of visual artist Michael Spears and poets Micah the Poet, Carlynn Newhouse, Mysfit and Pi-Anir the Poet before talking to the artists, plus join hands-on activities.

For a deeper look at the historic property, check out Friday’s tour focused on the enslaved people who worked there ($10, limited spots).

Underground Railroad Quilt Codes

📅 Sun., June 18, 1 p.m.
📍 Green Spring Gardens Park in Lincolnia, Virginia
💲 $15

Local quilter Sharon Tindall explains the intersection of quilts and the Underground Railroad in history. Register here; spots are limited.

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The LEGO Discovery Center Washington, D.C. announced it will open its newest family attraction in Springfield, Virginia, in August.

After a ribbon cutting on Aug. 9, the LEGO center will open to the public fully on Monday, Aug. 14.

Big LEGO fans can check out tickets for the grand opening week, called “First to Play Days.” Tickets cost $28.99 per person and will go on sale Thursday, June 15 (LEGO says you can get a presale code by signing up for their newsletter).

LEGO Discovery Center Washington, D.C. recommends picking up tickets in advance of every visit.

LEGO’s newest center in the Springfield Town Center is putting the pieces together for a 32,000-square-foot playground for locals and visitors with kids aged 2 to 12.

“We are truly bringing LEGO experiences to life at our new Center! Children will be able to let their imagination and creativity run wild in each of our unique and immersive zones,” General Manager Therese Alvich said in a press release.

Zones include a DUPLO Park, Make Your Minifigure station, the Imagination Express train ride through an oversized LEGO world, a café and a 4D cinema.

Master Model Builder Andrew Litterst is leading the team building the new center after winning a competition earlier this year.

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It’s a time to celebrate progress and affirm people in the LGBTQ+ community, and to protest against discrimination.

The Pride Parade is the flagship event for the whole shebang in D.C., and it kicks off Saturday around 3 p.m.

NBC4 and Telemundo 44 will be there, with our very own float. Wave to us, and tag your photos and videos on social media!

If you can’t go in-person, you can watch the 2023 Capital Pride Parade in the video player above.

We’ve got a whole guide to the Capital Pride Parade and Festival here. But here are a few of the highlights:

This year’s theme, Peace, Love, Revolution, points to a weekend of joy and celebration — and awareness and activism.

The parade route includes 14th Street, Rhode Island Avenue and P Street, going through Dupont and Logan Circle neighborhoods. It’s completely free to attend, but things are likely to get loud, and crowded.

There was concern that the historically abysmal air quality earlier this week would cancel the parade and block party, but fear not: The forecast is expected to keep getting better.

👟 Wear comfortable shoes and rainbow.
🧴 Pack your festival essentials: water, sunscreen, a phone charger, hand sanitizer and wipes. 
🗺️ Set a specific meeting point with your crew — cell service can be spotty with so many people around.
📷 Post your pics with #4TheScene for the chance to be featured on TV!

If you’re part of a group more sensitive to unhealthy air — say, someone with asthma, allergies or other chronic respiratory health issues, small children, or elderly adults — you may want to check the air quality forecast and take precautions.

Respirators, like N95s, can help reduce your smoke exposure if you have to be outside in poor air quality conditions, according to the CDC. But the best way to avoid smoke exposure when there’s smoke in the air is simply to stay inside, and watch the parade virtually.

Capital Pride Jun 9

Capital Pride events will go on as DC air quality improves

Regardless of the smoke, there are a few other ways to make your Pride experience memorable and enjoyable.

If you’re not part of the LGBTQ+ community, Pride is universal! But it never hurts to learn more, and show your support.

If you’re looking for a way to do that, consider donating to trusted organizations, such as The DC Center for the LGBT Community, SMYAL, or D.C.’s Whitman-Walker Health.

You can also patronize queer-owned small businesses, educate yourself, and share resources. PFLAG and GLAAD also offer resources and information, such as tips for allies of trans people.

And at the end of the day, stepping up for the community can be as simple as asking for someone’s pronouns and avoiding assumptions.

Happy Pride!

Capital Pride’s big weekend is taking over the District with a massive parade and joyful block party on Saturday, followed by a packed festival and epic concert featuring Idina Menzel on Sunday. Bonus: it’s all free to attend!

After historically poor air quality plagued the D.C. area for days, Capital Pride organizers say the improving forecast means the parade and all other events will go on. Attendees are encouraged to take any necessary precautions to protect their health.

This year’s theme, Peace, Love, Revolution, points to a weekend of joy and celebration — and awareness and activism.

Ryan Bos, Capital Pride’s executive director, said Pride events are so important as the LGBTQIA+ community struggles against hate and attacks.

“It’s a time for community to come together, feel safe, and also to stand up for kindness,” Bos said.

Washington certainly has a lot to be proud of. Saturday’s festivities center in a neighborhood central to D.C.’s history of LGBTQIA+ activism — and the District is hosting WorldPride 2025.

Other pride events this weekend include also the D.C. Dyke March, fireworks at The Wharf and many more across D.C., Maryland and Virginia.

When and where was the D.C. Pride Parade?

The Capital Pride Parade started at 3 p.m. Saturday and went through the Logan Circle and Dupont Circle neighborhoods.

The parade route included 14th Street, Rhode Island Avenue and P Street. It began at 14th and T streets NW and ended at P and 21st streets NW at 7 p.m.

Crowds showed their support for D.C.’s LGBTQ community at the parade by wearing bright colors and waving rainbow flags. Many floats in the parade showed the fun, music and joyful side of Pride. While some of the marchers were more serious, reminding people that LGBTQ rights still need to be defended.

Photos from the parade show various LGBTQ community groups, businesses and organizations from across local and international D.C. with floats or marching in the parade.

The OUT Riders Women’s Motorcycle Club Bikers led the beginning of the route. The event was filled with performances, including stunts by Cheer DC’s cheerleaders and dancing by drag queens on VIDA Fitness’s float.

It was also a family affair with many of the marchers bringing their children to pass out free items or wave at the crowd.

The News4 and Telemundo44 teams marched in the parade. They wore “Pride is Universal” t-shirts and danced along the route.

What about the Capital Pride Block Party?

The Block Party can be your pregame or after-party for the parade. It runs from noon to 10 p.m. on 17th Street NW between P and Q streets — the neighborhood were some of D.C.’s original Pride celebrations took root.

Enjoy DJs from noon to 3 p.m., followed by local entertainers into the night.

The Capital Pride Beverage Garden will have a view of the Pride Parade from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m., organizers say.

Don’t miss local drag performers, DJs, two beverage gardens and tasty fuel for your dancing feet at local spots like Annie’s Paramount Steak House, a “mostly gay but straight-friendly” landmark of inclusion for 75 years.

For Metro riders, the closest Metro stop is Dupont Circle. Farragut West is about a 13-minute walk away.

Keep the Capital Pride party going on Sunday

The Capital Pride Festival and Concert happens on Sunday from noon to 10 p.m. near 3rd and Pennsylvania Avenue.

Idina Menzel, Hayley Kiyoko, Rina Sawayama, Monét X Change, Debbie Gibson and Shanice, plus DJs Tracy Young and TWiN, will perform across three stages.

Headliners will perform until 8 p.m., then you can dance away the last hours of the weekend with DJ Tracy Young at the Sunset Dance Party until 10 p.m.

Stop by one of 300 exhibitors, including our NBC4 T44 booth. Two food courts and three beverage gardens will keep you refreshed.

Here’s the lineup for each stage and hours for the refreshment areas.

The closest Metro stops include Judiciary Square, Federal Center SW and Archives-Navy Memorial-Penn Quarter.

Pro tips

Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned regular, get prepared for the marathon weekend:

• 👟 Wear comfy shoes and rainbow colors.
•  🧴 Pack your festival essentials: water, sunscreen, a phone charger, hand sanitizer and wipes.
• 🗺️ Set a specific meeting point with your crew — cell service can be spotty.
• 📷 Very important: Post your pics with #4TheScene — we want to put you and your crew on TV!

Be an Ally

The Pride Parade and Festival are a great time for allies of the LGBTQIA+ community to show support.

Stepping up for the community can be as simple as asking for someone’s pronouns and avoiding assumptions. PFLAG and GLAAD offer resources and information such as tips for allies of trans people.

Patronize queer-owned small businesses, educate yourself and share resources.

If you’re looking for a way to show your support, consider donating to trusted organizations such as D.C.’s Whitman-Walker Health, The DC Center for the LGBT Community or SMYAL.

Want to know what’s up for your weekend? Sign up for The Weekend Scene, our newsletter about events, experiences and adventures for you and for your family around the DMV.

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Welcome to a weekend of celebration and inclusion. The Capital Pride Parade and Festival are coming back — say hi to our NBC4 Telemundo 44 fam at both big events (wave, and we’ll wave back!).

Not only is it Pride Month’s biggest weekend in D.C. — complete with fireworks at The Wharf — but we’ve got a new museum devoted to the local Jewish experience, two beer festivals and the reopening of Whitlow’s, which is the newest addition to our list of 10 favorite rooftop bars.

Take extra care during this poor air quality. It’s supposed to improve for the weekend, but, as always, pay attention to public health warnings. Before you go out this weekend, check the weather conditions and make sure any event you’re interested in hasn’t been canceled, postponed or moved.

One Loudoun Carnival at Uptown

📅 June 7-25 and Aug. 9-20
📍 One Loudoun (Ashburn, Virginia)
🔗 Details

Hop on a Ferris wheel and more favorite rides, snack on fair food, play games and get in on more summer fun. The carnival will be open 5-11 p.m. Monday to Friday; 1-11 p.m. on Saturdays and 3-11 p.m. on Sundays.

You can buy ride tickets in advance to save a few bucks, Jolly Shows says.

Note: The carnival is closed on Thursday, June 8, because of poor air quality.

Capital Jewish Museum

📅 Opens Fri.
📍 3rd & F streets NW
🔗 Details

D.C.’s newest museum tells stories of Jewish life in the Capital — and includes a restored synagogue that originally opened in 1876.

A gallery devoted to Ruth Bader Ginsburg (open through November) and “Washington’s oldest purpose-built synagogue” are some highlights across three floors of exhibitions.

The core museum is free to visit, but entry to the RBG exhibit is $12. Special programming may cost extra, as well.

Metro DC Brewer’s Ball

📅 Fri.
📍 The Wharf
🔗 Details

“The most fun you’ll have at a charity event!” Dozens of breweries are pouring on the pier to raise money to fight Cystic Fibrosis. It’s a great time and a noble cause to raise a glass to.

Capital Pride Parade and Block Party

📅 Sat.
📍 Dupont and Logan Circle neighborhoods

The parade route includes 14th Street, Rhode Island Avenue and P Street, and it’s scheduled to step off at 3 p.m.

From noon to 10 p.m., hit up the Block Party on 17th Street NW between P and Q streets for local drag performers, DJs, two beverage gardens and tasty fuel for your dancing feet at local spots like Annie’s Paramount Steak House, a “mostly gay but straight-friendly” landmark of inclusion for 75 years.

Pride on the Pier and fireworks

📅 Sat.
📍 The Wharf
🔗 Details

Go for free, all-ages entertainment — including a drag show, a DJ and the Capital Pride Parade on a big screen — leading up to a fireworks display at 9 p.m. 

Capital Pride Festival and Concert

📅 Sun. noon to 10 p.m.
📍 3rd and Pennsylvania Avenue
🔗 Details

Idina Menzel, Hayley Kiyoko, Rina Sawayama, Monét X Change, Debbie Gibson and Shanice, plus DJs Tracy Young and TWiN, will perform across three stages. Stop by one of 300 exhibitors, including our NBC4 T44 booth.

Mount Vernon Summerfest

📅 Sat. and Sun.
📍 Mount Vernon
🔗 Details

Sampling beers amid sunset views of Mount Vernon? Sign us up. The price of admission ($48 for nonmembers) includes eight tasting tickets and a commemorative cup; additional tastings are $2 each.

Music Snob: Best concerts around DC this weekend

MSPAINT, 8 p.m. Saturday, Atlas Brew Works, $15
These oddball synth-punks from Mississippi are influenced by a wide variety of genres, from hardcore to hip hop. They are touring in support of their debut LP “Post-American.” Details.

AJJ, 8 p.m. Saturday, 9:30 Club, $25
Phoenix folk-punks handle heavy topics with attitude. They continue to expand their style and sound on their eight LP, “Dissonance,” released in May. Don’t miss opening act Oceanator, the Brooklyn indie rock band led by singer and multi-instrumentalist Elise Okusami, whose second LP was produced by D.C.’s own Bartees Strange. Details.

Love and Rockets, 8 p.m. Sunday, Fillmore Silver Spring, $55
Classic British post-punk band formed after the breakup of goth rockers Bauhaus. They maintained some of their previous band’s darkness and had a smash with “So Alive.” Details. 

More Things to Do in Washington DC

• 🎭 “Hadestown”: Through 6/16, National Theatre, $65+
• New Kitchens on The Block: Sat., Mess Hall, $100+
• 😋 T1, A Transit Via Food pop-up: Sat., NW DC
• Jazz in The Parks: Sat., The Parks at Walter Reed Great Lawn, 💸🚫 
• 🍷 Gay for Rosé: Sun., National Union Building, $68.48 

More Things to Do in Maryland

• 🍕 Explore Rockville dining passport: Through 6/11
• 🏳‍🌈 Takoma Park Pride: Sun., 💸🚫 

More Things to Do in Virginia

• ⚾ Fredericksburg Nationals Star Wars Night: Fireworks Friday, Star Wars Day on Sat., Salute to Service/kids run the bases Sun.
• 🐴 Upperville Colt & Horse Show: Through Sun., Grafton and Salem Show Grounds, 💸🚫 

Want to know what’s up for your weekend? Sign up for The Weekend Scene, our newsletter about events, experiences and adventures for you and for your family around the DMV.

Along with the start of meteorological summer, Pride Month is officially here — it’s a time of celebration, affirmation, education and recognition of LGBTQIA+ people, the community’s contributions and the push for human rights.

• ✨ Check out our Pride Guide for tons of events all month long.
• 🎬 Find outdoor movies almost any day of the week.
• 🥗 Our 10 favorite restaurant salads in D.C. know how to treat veggies right.
• 🌳 Enjoy a bonsai museum, concerts, standup comedy and more things that are surprisingly free in D.C.

🌡️ Summer sweat and a few showers are on tap this weekend, but Sunday is looking fantastic. Here’s the forecast.

Pride Far and Wide

Check out Reston Pride, Alexandria’s LGBTQ+ Pride Month Fair, Culpeper Pride at Mountain Run Winery on Saturday. On Sunday, Prince George’s inaugural pride walk and festival will have music by TRYFE, vendors and resources at National Harbor.

Mark your calendars for D.C.’s big Pride weekend with the Capital Pride Parade (Sat., 6/10) and Festival (Sun., 6/11) — and Wednesday’s edition of our newsletter will share pro tips and all the essential info. Subscribe here.

Herndon Festival

📅 Thurs. to Sun.
📍 Herndon, Virginia
💲 Free entry
🔗 Details

Nothing says summer like carnival rides, live music and all your favorite fair foods.

We love that it’s transit-accessible — there’s even a shuttle from the Silver Line’s Herndon stop. It’s free to visit; rides cost extra.

Hypefoodies x Block Party

📅 Sat.
📍 The Block VA
💲 $5 (Free for kids 17 and younger)
🔗 Details

Hypefoodies is hosting a block party in Annandale to celebrate the restaurants, artists and other businesses that have helped them grow.

Attendees will find food vendors, artists, a DJ and more food-fueled fun from 5-10 p.m. before the party moves into The Block from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m.

Sound Scene

📅 Sat. and Sun.
📍 Hirshhorn Museum
💲 Free
🔗 Details

Live performances, installations and workshops explore the question: What happens after the end? Control (a “gesture-controlled interactive video choir”) and Before the Bulldozers (an augmented reality D.C. history lesson) caught our eye. Registration is recommended.

Strawberry Festival

📅 Sat. and Sun.
📍 Sandy Spring Museum in Sandy Spring, Maryland
💲 $5
🔗 Details

Strawberry treats for all, two stages of live entertainment, plus a petting zoo, carnival games and giant slides for the kids are ripe and ready at the Sandy Spring Museum in Montgomery County. Tickets are $5 per person.

Music Snob Concert Picks

Subhumans, 8 p.m. Saturday, Black Cat, $20: Hardcore punks from England made their mark in the ‘80s but reconvened two decades later and continue delivering their anarchist message live. Details.

More Things to Do in Washington DC

• 🍿 “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon” — Fri, Kennedy Center REACH, free
• CRY ABOUT IT: Taylor Swift vs Olivia Rodrigo DJ Night — Fri., Union Stage, 💲
• Pretty Boi Drag — Fri., A League of Her Own, 💸🚫
• 🏳‍🌈 Fashion For The Fearless — 6/1 to 6/30, The Kennedy Center, 💸🚫
• Glover Park Day — Sat., 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Guy Mason Recreation Center, 💸🚫
• DC Afro Latino Fest — Sat. at noon, Malcolm X Park, 💸🚫
• Open Streets 12th Street NE — Sun., Franklin Street NE to Michigan Avenue NE, 💸🚫
• 👗 Wonderland’s Annual Sundress Fest — Sun., Northwest D.C., 💸🚫 FYI: Fundraiser for DC Central Kitchen
• Uptown Shuffle — Sun., Cleveland Park, 💸🚫
• 📸 Exposed DC Photography Show — Opening reception Sun., Northwest D.C.
• 🥁 Go-Go on the Rooftop with Sirius Company — Sun., 2 p.m., MLK Library, free
• 🏳️‍🌈 DC Different Drummers Jazz Concert — Sun., 3:30 p.m., MLK Library, free
• MC Lyte Presents “I Am Woman: A Celebration of Women in Hip Hop” — Sun., Kennedy Center, 💲💲+

More Things to Do in Maryland

• 🎷 Capital Jazz Fest — Fri. to Sun., Merriweather Post Pavilion, 💲💲💲💲+ FYI: Fantasia, George Bensen, Ne-Yo, Incognito, The Isley Brothers
• Let’s Go Music Festival — Fri. to Sun., Annapolis, 💲💲💲💲+ FYI: +LIVE+, Cold War Kids, 311, Chris Young
• Washington Folk Festival — Sat. and Sun., Glen Echo Park, 💸🚫
• ⚾ Bethesda Big Train baseball — Fri., Sat., Sun.
• Planet Bethesda — Sun., Elm Street Urban Park, 💸🚫

More Things to Do in Virginia

• 🏳‍🌈 Pride in the Vines — 6/1 to 6/30, Loudoun County
• Quarterfest Crawl — Sat., Ballston, 💸🚫
• AutoWorks Festival — Sat., Workhouse Arts Center (Lorton), 💸🚫
• RiverFest & Craft Show — Sat. and Sun., Occoquan, 💸🚫
• 🚲 25th Annual Armed Forces Cycling Classic — Sat. and Sun., Crystal City/National Landing, 💲💲💲

Want to know what’s up for your weekend? Sign up for The Weekend Scene, our newsletter about events, experiences and adventures for you and for your family around the DMV.

Past Events

Cinematery: Tim Burton’s Summer of Surreal

📅 First Fridays of June, July, August, September
📍 Congressional Cemetery
💲 $10
🔗 Details

The Congressional Cemetery’s outdoor movie series begins with Tim Burton’s live-action “Alice in Wonderland.”

Music Snob:

• Moon Walker, 7 p.m. Thursday, Songbyrd, $15/$18: Ambitious and catchy alt-rock born of the pandemic. Big assist from ‘70s nostalgia. Details.
• American Aquarium, 7 p.m. Friday, Union Stage, $25: Wistful alt-country from Raleigh, North Carolina. Front man B.J. Barham is trying to make you cry, but he’ll have you laughing at the same time. Details. 

Six years after the Stonewall uprising in New York, D.C. held its first officially recognized Pride celebration in D.C.

Since “Gay Pride Day” on June 22, 1975, the District’s celebration of the full spectrum of love and identity has grown and welcomes up to a half-million people annually.

When Is D.C.’s Capital Pride Parade 2023?

Capital Pride’s big weekend happened June 9-11, but lots of events are planned throughout June. Check out the photos below:

Be an Ally

Pride Month is a time to celebrate and support the LGBTQIA+ community. In between hitting up the parties and parades, allies can step up in big and small ways.

Patronize queer-owned small businesses, educate yourself, share resources or donate to trusted organizations such as The DC Center for the LGBT Community or SMYAL.

Now, grab your rainbow gear and get ready for these Pride Month events across D.C., Maryland and Virginia.

Pride Month Events in D.C.

Shop Made in DC Proud Showcase

📅 Open throughout June
📍 Shop Made in DC Georgetown
💲 Free
🔗 Details

Stroll through the gallery and support 20+ local LGBTQ+ artists all month long. RSVP is recommended for the opening reception.

Washington Mystics Pride Night

📅  Fri., June 16, 7 p.m.
📍 Entertainment and Sports Arena (Southeast D.C.)
🔗 Details

District of PRIDE Showcase

📅 Thurs., June 29
📍 The Lincoln Theatre
💲  Free
🔗 Details

Pride Month Events in Maryland

Glen Echo Park Pride Family Day

📅 Sat., June 17, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
📍 Glen Echo
💲 Free; registration required
🔗 Details

Bring the kids for hands-on crafts, free carousel rides and rainbow desserts. The Puppet Co. will also offer discount tickets to “DinoRock presents Dinosaur Babies.”

Rockville Pride

📅 Sat., June 24, 1-4 p.m.
📍 Rockville Town Square
💲 Free
🔗 Details

Enjoy live performances, information booths and children’s activities and crafts at Rockville’s family-friendly Pride celebration.

Montgomery County Pride in the Plaza

📅 Sun., June 25, noon to 6 p.m.
📍 Veterans Plaza in Silver Spring
💲 Free
🔗 Details

Baltimore Pride

📅 June 17-25
🔗 Details

Baltimore is hosting tons of Pride events all month long, but the parade and block party are set for Sat., June 24.

Pride Month Events in Virginia

Out & About Festival

📅 June 24-25
📍 Wolf Trap’s Filene Center (Vienna, Virginia)
🔗 Details

Brandi Carlile, Yola, Rufus Wainwright, Lucius and Celisse are among artists performing at Wolf Trap’s festial spotlighting LGBTQ+ artists and allies.

Arlington Pride Weekend

📅 June 23-25
📍 Various locations
🔗 Details

Arlington’s packed Pride weekend starts with The Inaugural Miss Arlington Pride Pageant on Friday. On Saturday, head to Rosslyn Gateway Park for the Pride Festival, then get ready for Sunday mimosas at The Inaugural Arlington Pride Drag Brunch.

Pride in the Vines

📅 Throughout June
📍 15 wineries Loudoun County
🔗 Details

Want to know what’s up for your weekend? Sign up for The Weekend Scene, our newsletter about events, experiences and adventures for you and for your family around the DMV.

Past Events

Pretty Boi Drag

📅  Fri., June 2; Sat., June 17; Sun., June 18, Thurs. June 22
🔗 Details

DC Pride Crawl

📅 Sat. June 3, 2 p.m. to 10 p.m.
📍 Dupont Circle
💲 $20 in advance; $40 day-of
🔗 Details

Tickets get you into bars including Ozio, Public Bar, Tokyo Pearl and The Madhatter, plus raffle entry and deals: $3 Bud Lights, $4 rail drinks and $4 pride shots.

Washington Spirit Pride Night

📅  Sat., June 3
📍 Audi Field
💲 $15+
🔗 Details

ART OUT LOUD: A Rooftop Pride Party

📅  Sat., June 3
📍  Selina Union Market
💲  $25-$45
🔗 Details

This party features music from Farah Flosscett, Alex Love and Les the DJ; live art and installations, plus a maker’s market curated by Femme Fatale DC

Tickets include complimentary cocktails from Disco Mary and Mexican food from Chef Christian Irabién’s Amparo.

Pride at the Mardi Gras Brunch

📅 Sun., June 4, noon
📍 Four Seasons Hotel
💲 $150+ per person
🔗 Details

Jujubee of “RuPaul’s Drag Race” fame will host the brunch, and Dr. Anthony Fauci will receive the inaugural Worthy Mentor Award. The cost of your ticket counts as a tax-deductible donation to Worthy Mentoring, organizers said.

KhushDC Pride Picnic

📅  Sun., June 4
📍  Meridian Hill Park
💲  Free

DC Different Drummers Jazz Concert

📅 Sun., June 4, 3:30 p.m.
📍 MLK Library
💲 Free
🔗 Details

Washington Nationals Night OUT

📅 Tues., June 6
📍 Nationals Park
💲 $17-$84
🔗 Details

Reston Pride

📅 Sat., June 3, noon to 6 p.m.
📍 Lake Anne Plaza
💲 Free
🔗 Details

Alexandria Sixth Annual LGBTQ+ Pride Month Fair

📅 Sat., June 3
📍 City Hall and Market Square (301 King Street, Alexandria, Virginia)
💲 Free
🔗 Details

Music, art, face painting, food and resources including free, confidential health services will be available, alongside a drag queen story hour, spoken word performance and an improv workshop.

Culpeper Pride Festival

📅 Sun., June 4, noon to 5 p.m.
📍 Mountain Run Winery
💲 Free entry
🔗 Details

Enjoy live music and a family-friendly drag show, find resources and community groups and listen to guest speakers

It’s free to attend, but registration is requested and donations to Culpeper Pride are welcomed.

Mountain Run Winery says proceeds from the event will go toward LGBTQIA+ causes including The Trevor Project and starting a youth pride club.

The after-party — a drag show featuring the Queens of Culpeper — costs $10.

Drag Duels Show

📅 Fri., June 2; Sat., June 3 and Fri., June 16
📍 Veterans Plaza in Silver Spring
💲 Free
🔗 Details

Enjoy live entertainment — with a fierce drag competition as the headlining event — plus an artists’ pop-up, adult beverage garden, health screenings and more.

Prince George’s County Inaugural Pride Walk

📅 Sun., June 4, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
📍 National Harbor
💲  Free
🔗 Details

Prince George’s County’s inaugural pride walk and festival will have music by TRYFE, vendors and resources at National Harbor.

Takoma Pride Day

📅 Sun., June 11
📍 The Streetery near 6929 Laurel Ave., Takoma Park, Maryland
💲 Free
🔗 Details

This family-focused Pride Month celebration includes a parade for kids and a street fair with face painting, chalk art and drag queen storytime.

RIOT! The Capital Pride Official Opening Party

📅 Fri. June 9
📍 Echostage (Northeast D.C.)
💲 $35+
🔗 Details

Pride started as a riot, so of course, Capital Pride’s big weekend kicks off with a rebellious dance party led by a star-studded lineup of drag performers including Alaska Thunder—-, Tatiana from “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” Pussy Noir, KC B. Yoncé and JaxKnifeComplex.

Capital Pride Parade

📅 Saturday, June 10, 3-7:30 pm.
📍 Logan and Dupont Circle neighborhoods (parade route map)
💲 Free
🔗 Details

Thousands of members of the LGBTQ+ community and allies will turn out to watch floats, performers and organizations (including NBC4 and Telemundo 44!) march along the 1.5-mile route.

Plans for announcement stands, ADA-accessible areas and a family zone are expected to be released soon.

If you want to start the party early, check out the Crack of Noon Pride Parade Brunch.

Capital Pride Block Party

📅 Sat., June 10, noon to 10 p.m.
📍 17^th Street between P and Q streets NW
💲 Free entry
🔗 Details
🚇 The closest Metro stop is Dupont Circle. Farragut West is about a 13-minute walk away.

Before or after the parade, 17^th Street is the place to be for all-day entertainment, food and two beverage gardens for the 21+ crowd.

The Pride Block Party will kick off with DJs from noon to 3 p.m., followed by local entertainers into the night.

The Capital Pride Beverage Garden will have a view of the Pride Parade from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m., organizers say.

After-party options include:

• Capital Trans Pride Pool Party at Penthouse Pool and Lounge (free, RSVP required)
• Revolution, the Official Capital Pride Saturday Party at WEG (1235 W St NE)

Capital Pride Concert

📅 Sun., June 11, 1 p.m. to 10 p.m.
📍 3rd and Pennsylvania Avenue, Washington, D.C.
💲 Free, VIP and PIT upgrades available
🚇 The closest Metro stops include Judiciary Square, Federal Center SW and Archives-Navy Memorial-Penn Quarter.

Idina Menzel, Hayley Kiyoko, Rina Sawayama, Monét X Change, Debbie Gibson and Shanice will headline the one-day music festival with three stages of entertainment.

Headliners will perform until 8 p.m., then you can dance away the last hours of the weekend with DJ Tracy Young at the Sunset Dance Party until 10 p.m.

The festival is free and open to the public, but you can purchase PIT ($45+) and VIP ($230+) passes for up-close viewing and other perks.

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Foo Fighters frontman Dave Grohl and Mayor Muriel Bowser attended a grand opening ceremony Tuesday morning where Seth Hurwitz — chairman of I.M.P. which owns The Atlantis, the 9:30 Club and The Anthem — cut a guitar string at the venue’s front door.

Paying homage to one local kid the original 9:30 Club helped turn into a rockstar, Hurwitz also unveiled a life-size statue of Grohl. The statue, made by Bernard Pras using found objects, shows Grohl holding a blue guitar and wearing a logo for The Anthem.

“Dave won’t just be christening the room – he’ll be honoring the legacy of a space he attended as a kid and later took the stage of with bands like Scream and Nirvana,” The Atlantis said in a statement.

“I got to witness hundreds of bands that inspired me to become a musician myself,” Grohl said during the ceremony — and that gave him “that feeling of being in this sort of tribe, like we were all in on this big secret.”

The Atlantis hosted one of Foo Fighters’ first shows since the loss of longtime drummer Taylor Hawkins in March 2022. It’s set to be the Foo Fighters’ first D.C. show with new drummer Josh Freese.

The Atlantis said it received about a half-million requests for tickets after dropping its lineup of inaugural 44 concerts — celebrating 44 years since the original 9:30 Club opened. Music fans may have to wait until the fall to snag tickets to a show.

I.M.P. Concerts, which runs the 9:30 Club and The Anthem, tells News4 this first batch of shows is huge “underplays,” meaning the artists could sell out way bigger venues.

News of The Atlantis sent social media spinning into a mosh pit — yes, over the artists, but also over some deep D.C. rock nostalgia.

Here’s a look at the new D.C. venue and why it’s turned up the amps on D.C.’s summer music scene.

Wait, What’s The Atlantis and Why Is It So Nostalgic?

The Atlantis is a 450-capacity venue at 9^th Street NW — right next to the 9:30 Club.

The Atlantis was designed to be a near-replica of the original 9:30 Club that opened in 1980, I.M.P. says, with a capacity of just 200. The location at 930 F Street NW hosted legends in the making including Nirvana, Cyndi Lauper, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Minor Threat and Fugazi for a decade and a half.

Trading large poles obstructing the stage, “gargantuan rats” and an odious stench for more space, the 9:30 Club moved to 815 V Street NW in 1996, according to I.M.P. It can now host 1,200 concertgoers.

Even The Atlantis name is historic reverb, taken from a short-lived venue that preceded the original 9:30 Club in its F Street space, I.M.P. says.

What Can D.C. Expect From the New Venue?

Fans who walk into the new The Atlantis’ will be greeted by the original front door desk from the old building.

“That’s where I begged to be let into shows when I was a teenager,” Grohl recalled at Tuesday’s grand opening. “It was all the misfits, all the kids from the suburbs and kids from town, that found a family together in places like the old 9:30 Club. And hopefully, that tradition will continue.”

Old school cool 9:30 Club fans may be relieved or flabbergasted to learn the new space has a nod to an infamous, view-ruining pole in the middle of the dance floor.

Otherwise, a $10 million investment and design by CORE architecture + design — the architectural firm whose work you may recognize from CAVA, Founding Farmers and minibar by José Andrés — should level up the look of the intimate venue.

Why Are the Foo Fighters Playing at This Tiny Venue?

The Foo Fighters headline the world’s biggest music festivals and sell out amphitheaters — but their show at The Atlantis is much more sentimental than surprising.

Grohl grew up in Northern Virginia and said he discovered the 9:30 Club at 14 years old. Grohl said he saw hundreds of bands at the original 9:30 Club in the ’80s and ’90s — before he played the venue with Nirvana.

He recently called it “our church.”

“That’s where we all played first. That’s where R.E.M. played first. That’s where the [Red Hot] Chili Peppers played first. That’s where Nirvana played first… Magic happened in that room. And if the new room has the same vibe as the old 9:30 Club, you’ll see some real magic there, too,” Grohl said in an April release.

Grohl has become I.M.P.’s go-to guy for headline-grabbing opening nights.

Dave Grohl May 6, 2021

‘From Cradle to Stage': Dave Grohl & His Mom Explore Music Stars' Relationships With Their Moms

The Foo Fighters officially opened I.M.P.’s large D.C. venue, The Anthem, in 2017 and roughly four years later played the 9:30 Club’s first show after COVID-related shutdowns.

Grohl even broke the news about The Atlantis at that 9:30 Club show in 2021, asking the crowd: “We’ll probably be the band that opens that place, too, right?”

Right indeed.

Who’s Playing at The Atlantis in 2023?

The Foo Fighters were the first band to headline The Atlantis stage when the venue opens on Tuesday, May 30.

The Walkmen, Hannibal Buress, Yo La Tengo, The Head and the Heart, Portugal. The Man, Third Eye Blind, The Struts, Joan Jett, Spoon, Billy Idol and Maggie Rogers are just some heavy hitters on the schedule through September — check out the lineup below or on The Atlantis website.

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While the grand opening run is steeped in nostalgia, I.M.P. Chair Seth Hurwitz says The Atlantis isn’t all about the past. The company was looking for a small venue of its own where it could spotlight up-and-coming artists.

“This will be where we help introduce new artists to the world, and their story needs to be told right,” Hurwitz said in a statement.

The next slate of artists set to play this fall and winter at The Atlantis includes G Flip, Generational, Krooked Kings, Pigs Pigs Pigs Pigs Pigs Pigs Pigs, modernlove. and The Moss.

The motto on its logo reads: Where music begins.

How Do I Get Tickets for The Atlantis?

For its debut slate of 44 shows, The Atlantis made tickets available via a Ticketmaster Request lottery.

I.M.P. says the only way to get tickets to those shows now is if someone offers them on the Ticketmaster Face Value Exchange.

“Beware of tickets listed for higher prices on other sites (SeatGeek, StubHub, Vivid, Ticketnetwork, etc) — they are not real tickets and won’t get you into the show,” the venue’s website says.

But for the next slate of shows in fall and winter, fans can simply purchase a ticket (no lottery necessary).

Want to know what’s up for your weekend? Sign up for The Weekend Scene, our newsletter about events, experiences and adventures for you and for your family around the DMV.

Memorial Day weekend traditions are returning with full grandeur, providing many ways to honor the men and women who paid the ultimate sacrifice while serving our country.

The National Memorial Day Concert at the Capitol will welcome an in-person audience for the first time since COVID struck, plus expect the massive Rolling to Remember motorcycle rally and tons of parades.

🌦️ Storm Team4 said Friday and Saturday were the pick days for grilling and chilling. Passing showers are possible from now until Monday, but it won’t be a washout. Here’s the forecast.

📱 Say hi! Tag #4TheScene and @nbcwashington anywhere you share. We may feature you in our newsletter and feeds.

Outdoor Movies

🎬 Roll out the red carpet for outdoor movie season! Outside screenings can be found almost every day of the week — check out our full guide here.

Here are a couple to check out for the remainder of this weekend:

• “Akeelah and the Bee” at National Harbor (Sun.)
• “Princess Bride” at Elk Run Winery in Mount Airy (Sun.)

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DC Black Pride

📅 Through Mon.
🔗 Here’s the full list of events

Back bigger and more proud than ever, DC Black Pride is a weekend packed with resource fairs, parties, brunches, a poetry slam, Pride by the River at Anacostia Park and much more. There’s also Black Parent Pride

Brick City

📍 National Building Museum
📅 Through Mon.
🔗 Details

You can visit New Orleans, the Roman Colosseum, even our very own Lincoln Memorial — all in Lego form — at the National Building Museum starting Saturday. Warren Elsmore, a LEGO fan since childhood, constructed BRICK CITY.

Célébrez en Rosé

📍 Merriweather Park at Symphony Woods
📅 Sun.
🔗 Details

Put on your favorite pink outfit to celebrate all things rosé, picnic-style, with Ginuwine, Jacquees, Mannie Fresh and locals UCB and DJ 5’9. It’s happening at Merriweather Park at Symphony Woods; tickets start about $130.

Place Flowers at Arlington National Cemetery

📅 Sun., 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
📍 Arlington National Cemetery 
🔗 Details

Volunteers can help create a special tribute to servicemembers at Arlington National Cemetery. Sign up to participate. Volunteers will need to show a government-issued photo ID and go through a security screening.

National Memorial Day Concert

📅 Sun., 8 p.m.
📍 West Lawn of U.S. Capitol 
🔗 Details

The annual Memorial Day Concert performed on the lawn of the U.S. Capitol is reopening to the public.

Trace Adkins, S. Epatha Merkerson, John Slattery, Dulé Hill, Yolanda Adams, the National Symphony Orchestra and U.S. military bands will salute servicemen and women.

Gates, located at the southwest corner of the Capitol grounds, are set to open at 5 p.m. Expect a security screening.

Memorial Day on the National Mall

📅 Monday
🔗 Details

Wreath Laying Ceremonies

• 9 a.m.: World War II Memorial
• 10 a.m.: Vietnam Women’s Memorial
• 1 p.m.: Vietnam Veterans Memorial
• 1:30 p.m.: United States Navy Memorial
• 4 p.m.: Korean War Veterans Memorial
• 2 p.m.: National Memorial Day Parade

2 p.m.: National Memorial Day Parade

5 p.m.: Taps played across the National Mall

Music Snob Concert Pick

• Indigo De Souza, 7 p.m. Monday, 9:30 Club, $25

More Things to Do in Washington, DC

• 🌭 Hi-Lawn Rooftop Grill-Out & Picnic Party — Through Mon., Union Market, 💸🚫
• “Barry Farm” screening with Junkyard Band go-go performance — Sun., MLK Library (Northwest D.C.), 💸🚫

Events to Honor Memorial Day:

• 🏍 Rolling to Remember — Through Sun.
• 🌹 USAA Poppy Wall — Through Sun., National Mall, 💸🚫

More Things to Do in Maryland

• 🪕 DelFest — Through Sun., Cumberland, 💲💲💲💲+
• 🍷 Caribbean Festival at Linganore Wine Cellars — Sun., Mt. Airy, 💲💲💲

More Things to Do in Virginia

• 🛡️ Memorial Day at the National Army Museum —Through Mon., Fort Belvoir, 💸🚫
  🎡 ViVa! Vienna! fair & carnival — Sun., Historic Vienna, 💸🚫
• 🌳 Art in Nature Festival — Sun., Chantilly, 💲💲
• 🍓 Strawberry Jubilee Fest — Through Mon., Bluemont, 💲
• ⚔️ Virginia Renaissance Faire — Weekends through 6/10, Spotsylvania Courthouse, 💲
• 🚒 Falls Church Memorial Day Parade & Festival — Mon., 💸🚫

Want to know what’s up for your weekend? Sign up for The Weekend Scene, our newsletter about events, experiences and adventures for you and for your family around the DMV.

Tim Burton movies in a cemetery, a foray into French dance and plenty of opportunities to watch “Top Gun: Maverick” and “Minions: The Rise of Gru” are on tap this summer.

Pack your popcorn and check out the movies below — the list is organized by the day of the week, starting with Monday. We’re expecting more movie announcements to bubble up soon, including from the Golden Triangle and Bethesda, so check back for more.

Outdoor Summer Movies in Washington, D.C.

Adams Morgan Movie Nights

📅 Tuesdays, May 23 to June 27
📍 Soccer field at Marie Reed Elementary (Northwest D.C.)
💲 Free
🔗 Details

In need of a good laugh? This year’s Adams Morgan Movie Night’s movie lineup is comedy focused and sure to put a smile on your face. The movie nights will kick off on Tuesday, May 23 with “This Is Spinal Tap” and continue with weekly screenings on Tuesday nights through June 27, capping with the all-star flick “Shrek.”

Go early to hear stand-up comedians perform before each screening.

Movies are free and shown on the soccer field at Marie Reed School. Check out the Brown Bag Movie Meals for dinner from The Diner, Elfegne Ethiopian, Shibuya Eatery and more.

CiNoMatic (NoMA)

📅 Wednesdays through June 7
📍 Alethia Tanner Park (Northeast D.C.)
💲 Free
🔗 Details

We can all get behind this year’s theme, “Villains We Love” and its films including “Cruella” (May 31) and “The Devil Wears Prada” (June 7). Movies begin at sunset; registration is recommended, the NoMA BID says.

Van Ness Main Street Movie Night in the Park

📅 Wednesdays in June
📍 UDC Ampitheater (Northwest D.C.)
💲 Free
🔗 Details

Watch “Back to the Future” (June 21), “Sister Act” (June 28), “101 Dalmations” (1996) (July 19) and “Minions: The Rise of Gru” (July 26) at the University of the District of Columbia’s outdoor amphitheater. There are wooden seats, but you can bring a cushion or blanket to up the “cozy” factor.

You’re allowed to bring food and drinks, including alcohol, organizers say.

Movies on the Pitch

📅 Thursdays, June 22, July 6, Aug. 24 and Sept. 7
📍 Audi Field (Southwest D.C.)
💲 Free, but tickets are required
🔗 Details

Sit on the green at Audi Field to see “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” (June 22), “Jurassic World Dominion” (Sept. 7) and more family-friendly films. Gates will open at 6:30 p.m. ahead of the movie at 7:30 p.m. Concessions will be available for purchase from Audi Field. No chairs or outside food or alcohol are permitted.

Seating on the field is first come, first served, but more seating will be available in the stands.

CAN I KICK IT? Downtown DC Summer Flicks

📅 Thursdays, June 1 through July 13
📍 Franklin Park (Northwest D.C.)
💲 Free
🔗 Details

DowntownDC’s CAN I KICK IT?  movie series is back for its sixth season at Franklin Park — and a DJ will be providing a live soundtrack.

The free event series begins with “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” (June 1) and continues with titles including “Mission Impossible” (June 8) and “Everything Everywhere All At Once” (June 29). Join the crowd for action-packed films, music, nearby food specials and more.

Seating starts at 7:30 p.m. for pre-movie tunes.

Films on the Green

📅 Thursdays, May 25, June 1, June 8 and June 22
📍 Various locations
💲 Free
🔗 Details

Celebrating French dance and cinema, Villa Albertine’s series will show “Sur le Rythme” at the National Sylvan Theatre (June 1), “Trois Nuits Par Semaine” at the Washington Monument (June 8) and “Twist à Bamako” at Anacostia Park (June 22). Films will be shown in French with English subtitles.

Cinematery: Tim Burton’s Summer of Surreal

📅 First Fridays
📍 Congressional Cemetery (Southeast D.C.)
💲 $10 adult/$5 child recommended donation
🔗 Details

Congressional Cemetery is leaning into its spooky surroundings by showing Tim Burton films: “Alice in Wonderland” (June 2), “The Nightmare Before Christmas” (July 7), “Batman” (Aug. 4) and “Dark Shadows” (Sept. 1).

The Drive-In at Union Market

📅 First and third Fridays through July 21
📍 Union Market (Northeast D.C.)
💲 Free walk-ins, or $20 per car
🔗 Details

Films including “King Richard” (June 2) and “Hairspray” (July 21) pair nicely with elevated concessions at Union Market (you can order food online here).

Showings cost $20 per car. Audio is played over the FM radio.

This drive-in is open to those without a car: You can watch on Neal Place for free, and audio will be played over speakers. Alcoholic drinks are only permitted at Neal Place, not in the parking lot.

Extraordinary Cinema at The REACH

📅 Fridays, May 26 to Sept. 1
📍 The REACH at the Kennedy Center
💲 Free
🔗Details

The Kennedy Center will present outdoor films all summer long in its Extraordinary Cinema series. The REACH Video Wall will show classic and modern feature films including “The Iron Giant” (June 30), “Jaws” (July 7), “The Princess Bride” (July 28) and “O Brother, Where Art Thou?” (Aug. 25).

Screenings will begin about sundown or 8 p.m., the Kennedy Center says.

Films at the Stone

📅 One Friday per month (June 16, July 21 and Aug. 25)
📍 Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial (Southwest D.C.)
💲 Free
🔗Details

Catch a film at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial to watch stories of individuals who, against all odds, fought for what was right. The films are “Minions: The Rise of Gru (June 16), “Avatar: The Way of the Water” (July 21) and “The Woman King” (Aug. 25)

The films start at 8 pm. Organizers suggest coming early with blankets or low-profile lawn chairs.

Outdoor Summer Movies in Maryland

Movies in the Parks (Rockville)

📅 Wednesdays, Aug. 2-23
📍 Various locations
💲 Free
🔗 Details

Explore Rockville’s parks to see “The Boss Baby” (Aug. 2, Potomac Woods Park), “The Secret Life of Pets” (Aug. 9, Woodley Gardens Park), “Cool Runnings” (Aug. 16, Montrose Park) and “Raya and the Last Dragon” (Aug. 23, Maryvale Park).

Movies on the Potomac (National Harbor)

📅 Thursday date night movies and Sunday family night movies through September
📍 National Harbor
💲 Free
🔗 Details

Movies on the Potomac are back! Pack your chairs, grab food to go and meet at the plaza’s big screen for free fun with Thursday date night movies beginning at 7 p.m. and Sunday family night movies beginning at 6 p.m. 

All you need to bring is a chair or a blanket to enjoy these free screenings. Food is available to purchase at nearby establishments.

Movies Under the Stars (Potomac)

📅 First Fridays, June to October
📍 Cabin John Village
💲 Free
🔗 Details

Flicks on this summer’s family-friendly lineup are “Moana” (June 2), “Top Gun: Maverick” (July 7), “Toy Story” (Aug. 4) and “Encanto” (Oct. 6).

Summer Movie Nights at the Wine Bin (Ellicott City)

📅 Saturdays through Oct. 28
📍 Ellicott City
💲 Free
🔗 Details

The Wine Bin in Ellicott City, Maryland is hosting free movie nights now through Oct. 29. Viewers can buy wine and snacks including chocolate, cheeses and charcuterie to enjoy while watching a variety of films from classics like “Sleepless in Seattle” (June 24) to new films like “Elvis” (Sept. 2).

Each evening begins with live music. The parking lot closes 90 minutes before showtime.

Movies on the Beach (North Beach)

📅 Third Saturday of June, July, August and September
📍 North Beach (Calvert County)
💲 Free
🔗 Details

Bring a beach chair for family-friendly films including “Sing 2” (July 15), “Turning Red” (Aug. 19) and “Thor: Love and Thunder” (Sept. 16).

FYI: There’s also a Movies on the Beach series in Ocean City, Maryland, if you’re heading to the shore.

Lakefront Live (Columbia)

📅 Various dates through Sept. 22
📍 Downtown Columbia Lakefront
💲 Free
🔗 Details

From the event’s premiere with “Guardians of the Galaxy 2” (May 27) to “Indiana Jones & The Last Crusade” (June 23) to the original “Top Gun” (July 7), Columbia’s series has something for everyone. Movies begin at dusk (8-8:30 p.m.).

Outdoor Movies in Virginia

South Riding Movie Night

📅 Alternating Tuesdays, June 13 to Aug. 8
📍 Town Green or SRC Stage
💲 Free
🔗 Details

Bring a blanket or chairs to watch “Puss in Boots: The Last Wish” (June 13), “Minions: The Rise of Gru” (June 27), “The Bad Guys” (July 25) and more family classics. The movies start at sunset. Check the schedule for the location of each screening.

Mosaic Films in the Park (Fairfax)

📅 Wednesdays, June 22 through Aug. 17
📍 Strawberry Park in Fairfax, Virginia
💲 Free
🔗 Details

The large outdoor screen will show a mix of PG and PG-13 films including “Family Camp” (June 22), “Top Gun: Maverick” (July 6), “Ticket to Paradise” (July 27) and “The Super Mario Bros. Movie” (Aug. 3). Movies are set to begin at 7 p.m.

Rosslyn Cinema

📅 Fridays in June
📍 Gateway Park
💲 Free
🔗 Details

Virginians voted to watch “Encanto” (June 3), “Mamma Mia” (June 10), “Space Jam” (June 17) and “National Treasure” (June 24) at this free series. Each night is set to include extra kid-friendly programming.

Beer and wine sales are set to begin at 6 p.m., and a rotating lineup of food trucks will serve snacks. Movies will begin about sundown.

Family Movie Nights (Tysons Corner Center)

📅 Fridays, May 26, June 30, July 28 and Aug. 18
📍 Tysons Corner Center The Plaza
💲 Free
🔗 Details

Snack on complimentary popcorn and soft drinks while watching “Moana,” “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial,” “The Boss Baby: Family Business” and “Matilda.” Screenings are set to begin at 7 p.m.

Lovettsville’s Summer on the Green

📅 Begins Saturday, May 27
📍 Lovettsville Town Green
💲 Free
🔗 Details

“The Sandlot” is always a good choice to kick off a summer movie series — it’s set to air at 8 p.m. the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend. We expect more screenings to be announced on their Facebook page throughout the summer.

Starlight Cinema (Centreville)

📅 Saturdays, Aug. 5-26
📍 Trinity Centre
💲 Free
🔗 Details

Starting with “Minions: Rise of Gru” (Aug. 5) and sending off summer with “DC League of Super Pets” (Aug. 26), Fairfax County’s outdoor movie series offers a pre-film children’s show at 7 p.m. before the silver screen lights up at dark.

Summerbration (Reston)

📅 Saturdays, May 27 to Sept. 2
📍 Reston Station Metro Plaza
💲 Free
🔗 Details

Get a little wild with animal and adventure family flicks including “Secret Life of Pets” (May 27), “Zootopia” (June 10) and “The Jungle Book” (Aug. 12).

Special Movie + Event nights will feature more fun for the whole family: A service dog training demonstration on June 17, a pet adoption event on Aug. 5, hands-on animal fun on Aug. 19 and an appearance by Princess Moana on Aug. 26.

It’s part of Reston Summerbration which also includes free yoga on Mondays and Wednesdays, trampoline fitness on Tuesdays and live music on Thursdays and Fridays.

Want to know what’s up for your weekend? Sign up for The Weekend Scene, our newsletter about events, experiences and adventures for you and for your family around the DMV.

Did you get your Old Bay tattoo? 🦀 Giddy up, y’all, for some horsin’ around this weekend at the 148th Preakness Stakes, the “world’s largest bounce house” at Rosecroft Raceway or Bethesda’s Greek Festival (no Trojan horse necessary).

🥃 Bourbon is the drink of the weekend, whether you’re sipping at President Lincoln’s Cottage while listening to bluegrass or mixing your own black-eyed Susan cocktail for your Preakness party.

🌂 Thundershowers are possible on Saturday, but your weekend won’t be a washout. Here’s the timing and weekend forecast.

🎂 BTW: Next week is Memorial Day weekend — The Weekend Scene newsletter’s first birthday! Get ready for summer travel ideas, ways to cool down and more. Let your friends know to subscribe here.

📱 Let’s socialize. Tag #4TheScene and @nbcwashington anywhere you share. We may feature you in our newsletter and feeds.

Washington Mystics Home Opener

📅 Friday, 7 p.m.
📍 Entertainment and Sports Arena in Southeast D.C.
🔗 Details

The Mystics face the New York Liberty to open their regular season — and the first 2,500 fans to enter the Entertainment and Sports Arena will get a Brand Anthem T-shirt.

The Mystics won the WNBA title in 2019, but haven’t made the playoffs since. This year, two-time MVP Elena Delle Donne is back after recovering from several injuries. Delle Donne says she’s coming off “the greatest offseason” of her career, which promises some exciting basketball.

Tickets start at $34 before fees.

Here’s how to watch the game.

The Big Bounce America

📅 Weekends, 5/20 to 6/11
📍 Rosecroft Raceway in Fort Washington
🔗 Details

This 16,000-square-foot bouncy kingdom blows up with an obstacle course, ball pits, an inflatable alien and more. Yes, there are timeslots reserved just for toddlers and adults (age 16+). Tickets start at $22.

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Pups in the Park

📅 Friday, 7:05 p.m.
📍 Nationals Park
🔗 Details

‘Nationals Park is going to the dogs (yay!) — or at least, the outfield section is, for the Nats vs. Tigers game. You must purchase a $35 human ticket and a $10 dog ticket, plus fill out and bring a waiver.

ICYMI: Here are 10 dog-friendly outings in the DMV.

Preakness Weekend

📅 Friday and Saturday
📍 Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Maryland
🔗 Details

On top of a Triple Crown race, Bruno Mars, SOFI TUKKER and Zack Bia will perform at the Preakness LIVE culinary, music and arts festival.

Race coverage begins Saturday at 4:30 p.m. on NBC4. Here’s how to watch.

Anacostia River Festival & Flower Power

📅 Saturday, 1-4 p.m.
📍 11th Street Bridge Park in Southeast D.C.
🔗 Details

A big festival along the Anacostia River comes with opportunities to check out community businesses — Anacostia BID has details on specials, discounts and more on its website and Twitter page.

• 🛶 Free canoe rides, fishing workshops (gear provided), plus spoken word and musical performances will be at this National Cherry Blossom Festival event.
• 🌸 Stop by the East of the River market to shop local vendors or the Flower Power station to watch artists at work. Bring a picnic or hit up a food truck.
• 🖌️ Walk a few minutes to the Anacostia Arts Center for first-come, first-served craft classes.

Bourbon and Bluegrass

📅 Saturday and Sunday, 1-5 p.m.
📍 President Lincoln’s Cottage (Northwest D.C.)
🔗 Details

President Lincoln rode his horse from the White House to his cottage, near modern-day Petworth, most days during the summer. Bourbon and Bluegrass is the historic site’s largest fundraiser each year, working to preserve and promote the hidden gem destination.

• 🎤 Grammy Award winner Dom Flemons headlines both nights, alongside Letitia VanSant and The Fly Birds on day one and Adeem the Artist and Nora Brown on day two.
• 🧔 Beard styling from Heritage Barbers, food trucks and exterior preservation tours are on tap.
• 💵 One-day passes for adults start at $86 (it’s $35 plus fees for youth 7 to 20 and is free for kids 6 and younger). Each ticket includes admission, two drink tickets and unlimited nonalcoholic drinks. We’ll call that Southern hospitality.

Music Snob Concert Picks

Caroline Polachek, 8 p.m. Friday, The Anthem, $55-$149

After an acclaimed run with synth-pop band Chairlift, the experimental pop singer found another level as a solo artist. “Desire, I Want to Turn Into You” is one of the best albums of the year. Details. 

Legendary Shack Shakers, 8 p.m. Saturday, Hill Country, $23 (advance)/$30 (door)

Long-running psychobillies boast one of the most entertaining frontmen around in Col. JD Wilkes. Opener Dexter Romweber helped pave the way for stripped-down blues rock acts like the White Stripes, along with the Flat Duo Jets. Details.

Crowded House, 8 p.m. Sunday, The Anthem, $55-$125

Classic ‘80s rock band from Australia returns to the States for the first time in more than a decade after postponing last year. Details.

More Things to Do in Washington DC

• 🔍 Gentleman’s Gambit: A Prohibition Era Mystery: Fri. to Sat., Congressional Cemetery, 💲  
• 🍗 St. Mary Armenian Church Spring Food Festival: Fri. to Sun., Northwest, 💲+
• 🏳‍🌈 Trans Pride Conference: Sat., MLK Library, 💸🚫
• 🎸 Adams Morgan Porchfest: Sat., Northwest D.C., 💸🚫
• 🏮 Fiesta Asia Street Fair: Sat., Northwest, 💸🚫
• 🐲 DC Dragon Boat Festival: Sat., Thompsons Boat Center, 💸🚫
• 🏳‍🌈 The Stride of Pride: Sat., Northwest, 💲+

More Things to Do in Maryland

• 🎩 Miguel Wilson’s DC Black Tie Experience: Fri. to Sun., National Harbor, 💲💲💲💲+
• 🍋 St. George GreekFest: Sat., Bethesda, 💸🚫
• 🏳‍🌈 PrEP for Pride: Sat., White Plains, 💸🚫 FYI: Family-friendly
• 📚 Gaithersburg Book Festival: Sat., Bohrer Park, 💸🚫
• 🎤 The Hall CP’s Gon’ Country!: Sat., The Hall CP, 💲 FYI: Fundraiser for St. Jude’s
• 🍴 Crossroads Community Food Fair: Sun., Takoma Park, 💲+
• 🍿 “Sonic The Hedgehog 2“: Sun., National Harbor, 💸🚫

More Things to Do in Virginia

• 🌷 Lucketts Spring Market: Fri. to Sun. Leesburg, 💲+
• 🍜 Asian Festival on Main: Sun., Old Town Fairfax City, 💸🚫
• 🛍 Spring Makers’ Market at Port City Brewing Company: Sat., Alexandria, 💸🚫
• 🏳‍🌈 Equality Prince William Pride: Sun., Manassas, 💸🚫 FYI: Family-friendly
• 🍷 Spring Wine Festival & Sunset Tour: Sun., Mount Vernon, 💲💲💲 FYI: Fri. and Sat. sold out

Want to know what’s up for your weekend? Sign up for The Weekend Scene, our newsletter about events, experiences and adventures for you and for your family around the DMV.

Mother’s Day is Sunday, and DC Plant Week is a good chance to pick up a last-minute gift or plan a memorable outing for someone that nurtures you.

📱 We want to see more of you —  and your adventures around the D.C. area! Tag #4TheScene and @nbcwashington anywhere you share your life for a chance to be featured in our newsletter and socials.

🌂 Periods of rain and thunder are possible on Saturday, but you’ll be able to work around wet weather this weekend. Here’s the forecast.

🔮 The lottery for the season’s first Jazz in the Garden concert on 5/19, featuring Martha Redbone Roots Project, is open through Friday at noon.

ICYMI: Check out our top 10 brunches, dog dates, rooftop bars and more.

Kraken Kourts

A 70,000-square-foot pickleball and roller skating complex is opening in D.C. on Friday. Kraken Kourts boasts 14 pickleball courts, D.C.’s only indoor roller skating rink, table tennis, a beer-garden-style tavern, private cabanas and yard games, positioning itself as a new destination for big group outings and birthday parties.

Make reservations for courts ($15-$75 per hour) and skating ($8-$12 for individuals, plus $5 skate rentals), plus cabanas for your crew.

EU Open House — Sat., 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

European Union nations will open their embassy gates for an annual open house featuring snacks. Here’s more info about what embassies will offer, plus a map of participating embassies.

DC Plant Week — Through Sun.

Calling all plant parents and blossoming green thumbs. Little Leaf is sprouting its week of deals, workshops and community events, including plant swaps, the Grounded Day Party and Pop-Up at Selina Hotel (Sat.) and Mother’s Day DIY terrarium classes in Alexandria. Here’s the full schedule and list of store discounts.

JxJ Festival — 5/11 to 5/21

Catch more than 50 film screenings, concerts and talks at the Jewish Film and Music Festival. You’ll find programming in D.C., Maryland and Virginia, including a Saturday performance by the Shalva Band, showcasing the talents of differently-abled artists. Details.

Maryland Craft Beer Festival — Sat., noon to 5 p.m.

Hop up to Frederick to sample some of Maryland’s top brews. Dozens of breweries, including some that aren’t open to the public, will pour more than 200 beers. Tickets must be purchased in advance and cost between $15 for a designated driver and $45 for a tasting pass. Details.

Music Snob Concert Picks

The Iguanas, 7:30 p.m. Thursday, The Hamilton, $20+

The Iguanas play a multicultural blend of roots rock steeped in Latin styles and always with a nod to their hometown New Orleans. Details.

Chisel, 8 p.m. Saturday, Black Cat, $25

Before Ted Leo had his Pharmacists, he was pushing pop punk in this D.C.- based trio. Catchy, heartfelt tunes and vocal harmonies galore. Details.

More Things to Do in Washington DC

• 🌺 Hawaiian Voyaging and Dance: Sat., National Museum of the American Indian, 💸🚫
• 🌹 Georgetown Flower Tour: Sat., 💲💲+
• 🤼‍♂️ Lucha Libre: Sat. and Sun., Hook Hall, 💲💲+
• 🍅 DC Veg Week: Through Sat.
• 🎶 Dia de La Madre concert: Sat., La Cosecha, 💸🚫
• 🎤 Eurovision 2023 Watch Party: Sat., DC9 Nightclub, 💸🚫
• 🧘‍♀️ Mother’s Day Yoga + Crystal Bowl Sound Bath: Sun., National Building Museum,  💲💲
• ☕ Cocktails for Tea Lovers: Sun., Shop Made in DC – Georgetown, 💲💲💲

More Things to Do in Maryland

• 👩‍🎨 Bethesda Fine Arts Festival: Sat. and Sun., Woodmont Triangle, 💸🚫
• 🛍 Takoma Flea: Sat., Takoma Park, 💸🚫
• 📚 Books in Bloom: Sat., Columbia, 💸🚫 FYI: Chasten Buttigieg and Nikki Giovanni headline

More Things to Do in Virginia

• 🔔 Freedom Concert at the Netherlands Carillon: Weds., GW Memorial Parkway, 💸🚫
• 🖌 Late Shift: AAPI Heritage: Fri., Torpedo Factory Art Center, 💸🚫
• 🦖 Jurassic Encounter: Through 5/14, Centreville, 💲💲

Want to know what’s up for your weekend? Sign up for The Weekend Scene, our newsletter about events, experiences and adventures for you and for your family around the DMV.

Live Nation is offering tickets to select shows for just $25. The price includes all fees and taxes where applicable, Live Nation says.

The Live Nation Concert Week deal is valid from Wednesday, May 10 through Tuesday, May 16.

More than 100 concert, comedy and show tickets are on sale in the D.C. and Baltimore areas. You can find all the Concert Week shows here.

Venues hosting select discount performances include Capital One Arena (D.C.), Echostage (D.C), The Warner Theatre (D.C.), Jiffy Lube Live (Bristow, Virginia), The Fillmore Silver Spring (Maryland) and The Theater at MGM National Harbor (National Harbor, Maryland).

D.C. Area Shows for Live Nation Concert Week

Dozens of artists will be participating — here are some of the buzziest concerts you’ll want to know about.

• Smokey Robinson — The Theater at MGM National Harbor — May 20
• Nick Offerman – The Theater at MGM National Harbor – May 26
• Billy Porter – Black Mona Lisa Tour: Volume One — Warner Theatre — June 2
• Logic – Echostage – June 8
• Hot Summer Nights with TLC, Shaggy, En Vogue and Sean Kingston — Jiffy Lube Live — June 9
• Bebe Rexha – Best F’n Night Of My Life — The Fillmore Silver Spring — June 21
• LL COOL J: The F.O.R.C.E. Live — Capital One Arena — July 2
• Fall Out Boy – So Much For (Tour) Dust — Jiffy Lube Live — July 19
• Santana – The Theater at MGM National Harbor, National Harbor MD – July 26
• Snoop Dogg, Wiz Khalifa, Too $hort & More — Jiffy Lube Live — Aug. 1
• Pentatonix – The World Tour with special guest Lauren Alaina — Jiffy Lube Live — Aug. 12
• Joss Stone – Warner Theatre – Aug. 25
• RuPaul’s Drag Race: WERQ The World Tour – The Theater at MGM National Harbor – Aug. 26
• Marco Antonio Solis – Capital One Arena, Washington DC – Sept. 29
• Little Feat – Warner Theatre, Washington DC – Oct. 3 & 4

Want to know what’s up for your weekend? Sign up for The Weekend Scene, our newsletter about events, experiences and adventures for you and for your family around the DMV.

The first weekend of May is here with royal intrigue, international travel within the Beltway and probably a few tequila shots while watching small dogs race on a pier.

⛅ Finally, some decent weekend weather is on tap. Here’s the forecast.

Friday is Cinco de Mayo, then break out your fancy hats Saturday for King Charles III’s coronation and the Kentucky Derby. We have you covered for all of it:

• Salud! Deals, Events and Parties for Cinco de Mayo Around DC
• Grab a Mint Julep at These Kentucky Derby Watch Parties Around DC

⚽ Spirit vs. Wave FC (Sat., Audi Field)

ICYMI: Check out our top 10 brunches, dog dates, rooftop bars and more.

Around the World Embassy Tour — Sat.

Dozens of embassies representing nations from Albania to Zambia will open their doors to show their best culture, food and fun. Around the World Embassy Tour is set for Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., rain or shine. Here’s a map.

Check out what each country is offering in this handy guide, including coronation cake and other tea-time goodies from the U.K.,  Norwegian waffles, Thai massage and Peruvian pisco.

Go early, prepare to wait in line and expect security checks.

National Cathedral Flower Mart — Fri. and Sat.

Purchase spring plants, ride an antique carousel, check out the international floral display and enjoy free entertainment at the National Cathedral’s biggest fundraiser of the year. Admission is free. Details.

Running of the Chihuahuas — Sat.

Look at those little legs go! Go for chihuahua races, stay for a pet photo booth, a dog costume contest and a beer garden. It’s free, plus dog- and kid-friendly. Proceeds benefit Rural Dog Rescue, and News4’s Tommy McFLY will emcee. The event runs 2-5 p.m. Details.

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Centennial Asian Pacific American Heritage Month Festival

The Smithsonian’s National Museum of Asian Art is pulling out all the stops for its centennial celebration through May 14. The museum has packed the next two weeks, with culture, music, food and more. Highlights daily concerts and performances, an art market featuring AANHPI makers on Friday and a family-friendly “Animal Odyssey” tour on Sunday. Here’s the full schedule.

Georgetown Canal Boat — through July 2

Georgetown Heritage’s C&O Canal boat tours will return for a second season sooner than initially expected, setting sail on Wednesdays through Sundays four times each day: 10 a.m., noon, 2 p.m and 4 p.m. Tickets range from $8 for kids to $15 for adults on weekdays and $12-$25 on weekends. Details.

Music Snob Concert Picks

Tired All the Time, 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Pie Shop, $12

Hazy new wave trio from right here in D.C. Opener Cor de Lux from the Outer Banks plays catchy, energetic post-punk. Details. 

Crocodiles, 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Pie Shop, $12/$15

San Diego noise pop that’s like a descendant of The Jesus & Mary Chain. Details.

More Things to Do in Washington DC

• 🥦 DC Veg Restaurant Week (5/6-5/13)
• 🖼 Corcoran’s Next Festival (Through 5/20, 💸🚫)
• 🛍 Smithsonian Craft Show (Through 5/7, National Building Museum, 💲+)
• 🕺 Perreo Disco (Sun., Flash, 💲)

More Things to Do in Maryland

• ⚾ Bowie Baysox vs. Erie (Weds. to Sun., 💲): Rescheduled from last weekend. Glow in the Park on Fri., fireworks on Sat.
• 🍿 “Overboard” (1987) screening (Thurs., National Harbor, 💸🚫)
• 🎡 Landon School Azalea Festival (Fri. to Sun., Bethesda, 💸🚫): For more thrills than florals, check out the carnival with rides. Wristbands cost $50 per day.
• 👟 5K Fun Run/Walk and community health fair (Sat., Largo, 💸🚫)
• 🎸 M3 Rock Festival (Sat. and Sun., Merriweather Post Pavilion, 💲💲💲+): Lineup includes Styx, Kix, Extreme, Warrant and more.
• 🛍 Glen Echo Park Outdoor Marketplace (Sun., Glen Echo, 💸🚫)
• 🍿 “Toy Story” screening (Sun., National Harbor, 💸🚫)

More Things to Do in Virginia

• 🦖 Jurassic Encounter (Through 5/14, Centreville, 💲+)
• ⚔ Revolutionary War Weekend (Sat. and Sun., Mount Vernon, 💲💲)
• 😋 Taste of Tysons Corner (Sat., Tysons Corner Center Plaza, 💸🚫-💲💲+)
• 🍪 Dessert Wars (Sat., Dulles Expo Center, 💲💲+)

Want to know what’s up for your weekend? Sign up for The Weekend Scene, our newsletter about events, experiences and adventures for you and for your family around the DMV.

The holiday celebrates Mexico’s victory over the French Empire at the Battle of Puebla in 1862 and has grown tremendously in the United States. Many restaurants across the country offer deals to celebrate Mexican foot and drink.

No matter how you plan to celebrate, you can discover deals and events in the Washington area.

Cinco de Mayo in the D.C. Area: What to Do Friday

Baja Tap (Northwest D.C.): The Adams Morgan newcomer will offer $10 El Silencio Mezcal limeade, $9 Baja Margaritas, plus $6 tequilas and coronas, along with a DJ, ice luge and photo booth. The rooftop will open at noon.

Blue Rock (Washington, Virginia): Celebrate at Blue Rock’s tasting room and outdoor patio with queso con carne and margarita milk punch. Live music will start at 6 p.m.

Destino (Northeast, D.C.): Swing by Destino on Cinco de Mayo for happy hour that offers $3 off all of their classic cocktails. Other specials include $10 margs, $10 palomas, $9 micheladas, $11 mayahuels and $11 mezcal negronis.

Diablo’s Cantina (MGM National Harbor, Maryland): Party on the patio from 5-8 p.m. with a taco truck, margarita bar and tequila tasting stations. A live DJ will kick up the party after 8 p.m.

dLeña (Northwest, D.C.): Enjoy live mariachi music at the restaurant from 7 to 10 p.m. and happy hour specials at the bar from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Specials include $7 margaritas.

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Hotel Hive Rooftop (Northwest, D.C.): Enjoy live music, unlimited drinks, giveaways and a taco bar from 5 to 9 p.m. Tickets start at $50.

Las Gemelas (Northeast, D.C.): Experience a “Margarita Tap Takeover” this Friday where all the restaurant taps will be replaced with batch margaritas. Prices are $10 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Mi Casa (Northwest, D.C.): Mi Casa will be celebrating Cinco de Mayo all day long with their Fiesta de Bebidas program. Swing by for 90 minutes of unlimited drinks for $34.99 with the purchase of an entree.

Mi Vida 14th Street (Northwest, D.C.): Join a Mexican fiesta on Cinco de Mayo from 3 to 6 p.m. for a complimentary El Tesoro tequila tasting as well as Hornitos tequila margarita specials like the spicy watermelon “Cielo Rojo” for $8 or the orange-flavored “La Buena Vida” for $10. There will also be complimentary light bites.

Sandlot Anacostia (Southeast D.C.): Enjoy tequila specials, food trucks and games starting at 4 p.m.

SUMMIT Rooftop (Northwest, D.C.): Enjoy $15 passion fruit margaritas and $50 pitchers on Conrad D.C.’s rooftop bar with views of downtown D.C., the U.S. Capitol and the Washington Monument.

Taffer’s Tavern (Through May 31, Northwest, D.C.): Celebrate Cinco De Mayo at Taffer’s Tavern with a new fiesta flight and spring menu. Customers can sample four recipes: Blueberry Bliss, Boca Morada, Mangorita and Salt Air Margarita.

Wilson Hardware (Arlington, Virginia): Join them for dinner or happy hour for discounted tacos and $5 margaritas until 9 p.m. Wilson Hardware will be hosting an all-night party the rest of the evening for Cinco de Mayo. The DJ will start spinning at 6 p.m. and continue until close for an all-night dance party.

Happening Saturday

Arlington Margarita & Mimosa Fest (Saturday): Drop in to three bars — Arlington Rooftop, Mexicali Blues and Ragtime — for drink specials. Bar crawl tickets cost $20-$25.99 before fees.

Want to know what’s up for your weekend? Sign up for The Weekend Scene, our newsletter about events, experiences and adventures for you and for your family around the DMV.

NBC4 will begin its Derby Day broadcast at 12 p.m. on Saturday with coverage of the early races leading up to the Triple Crown race. Derby Day coverage can also be viewed on Peacock. Here’s everything you need to know about this year’s race.

If you’re looking for a spot around D.C. where you can sip a mint julep and watch the action — plus show off your best Derby attire — check out these parties, rooftop events and more.

Kentucky Derby Watch Parties Around DC

Kentucky Derby Watch Party

Sat., The Morrow Hotel (Northeast D.C.)

The Upstairs Rooftop hosts a Derby Day party with signature mint juleps, an Instagrammable rose wall and view of D.C. Show off your Derby style in the best hat and best-dressed competitions. Grab a free ticket for standing-room admission. The VIP option ($200 with a $500 food and beverage minimum for the table) includes quick entry, preferred seating and snacks.

Derby Days at National Union Building

Sat., Northwest D.C.

Place faux wagers, watch the race on multiple TVs and enjoy live entertainment. Admission includes a complimentary mint julep and chips for the “bookie bar.” Tickets start at $25.99.

Derby Day at Due South

Sat., Southeast D.C., free registration

A full day of Derby celebrations includes bourbon tastings, themed cocktails and food and a hat contest, plus Woodford Reserve bourbon balls for the first 50 people to arrive.

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The Wave Derby

Sat., Perch SW Rooftop Lounge, $$-$$$

Head to the Cambria Hotel’s rooftop for live music, hors d’oeuvres, yard games and contests, including for the best-dressed couple. Tickets start at $35-$55.

Kentucky Derby Watch Party at metrobar

Sat., Northeast D.C., free admission

Watch the race while enjoying classic bourbon and mint juleps at this outdoor bar.

The Great American Pig Out 5 – Kentucky Derby Edition

Sat., American Ice Company (Northwest), $$-$$$

Come hungry as a horse to this party with a whole roast pig and sides, all-you-can-drink Narragansett drafts, live bluegrass and $10 cocktail specials. Tickets start at $25 for food; bottomless beer is another $25.

Kentucky Derby Day Party at THRōW Social DC

Sat., Northeast D.C., free admission

Watch the race on a 20-foot screen while sipping $13 mint juleps. The rooftop bar and patio are set to be open.

Kentucky Derby Hat Making Party

Sat., Scarlet Oak Restaurant & Bar (Southeast D.C.), free entry

Choose a black or white hat to turn into a Derby-worthy fascinator while trying drink specials: Jefferson’s espresso martini ($16), Smooth Ambler mint julep ($12) and GH Mumm Champagne by the glass ($15).

Talk Derby To Me

Sat., Babylon Futbol Café in Woodbridge

Dress to impress as DJ Big John spins and guests sip signature cocktails. Tickets start at $25-$150. Proceeds benefit the National Brain Tumor Society, organizers say.

Want to know what’s up for your weekend? Sign up for The Weekend Scene, our newsletter about events, experiences and adventures for you and for your family around the DMV.

This popular event runs May 11 from 6 to 9 p.m. in the East Building with a “Homegrown” theme highlighting D.C. culture with art, live performances and activities. The lottery is open until midnight Thursday on the gallery’s website, the National Gallery of Art announced in a release Monday.

“National Gallery Nights on May 11 is a celebration of our city. Performances from Rare Essence and Malik DOPE drummer, plus other experiences, will showcase the people and culture of DC,” Damon Reaves, head of education said in the release. “We anticipate higher demand than usual, and we want to make sure we’ve done what we can to offer equitable access for all Washingtonians. A lottery system gives anyone interested in National Gallery Nights an equal chance to participate.”

The event highlights include:

• Go-go music performed by Rare Essence and Malik Stewart at 6:15 p.m., 7:15 p.m., and 8:15 p.m. 
• Art by D.C. Public School students and special works from local artists in the gallery’s library
• Talks with artists from American University, George Washington University and Howard University
• An art-making activity inspired by the Washington Color School
• A chance to learn about DC murals from Kelly Towles, founder of DC Walls 

Food and beverage will be available for purchase during the event throughout the building and in the Terrace Café and Espresso & Gelato Bar, according to the gallery.

People will be notified of the lottery selection on Monday, May 8 at 10 a.m. If selected, they will receive a unique code to claim up to two passes and register for the event.

The museum will also offer 202 walk-up passes at the East Building entrance on a first-come basis at 5:30 p.m.

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“We are thrilled to bring these strong LGBTQ+ allies and music legends to our Capital Pride Concert Stage this year,” Jerry Houston said.

Gibson achieved superstardom as a teen in the 1980s with hits like “Foolish Beat,” “Only in My Dreams” and “Electric Youth.”

Shanice appeared on “Star Search” at age 11 and went on to international success with the hit single “I Love Your Smile” in 1991.

The free concert returns June 11 from noon to 10 p.m.at Pennsylvania Avenue and Third Street NW.

The full lineup, including the headliners, will be announced soon.

Want to know what’s up for your weekend? Sign up for The Weekend Scene, our newsletter about events, experiences and adventures for you and for your family around the DMV.

Let’s start with gratitude. Thank you, The Weekend Scene readers, for spending your precious free time with us.

We’re elated to share that The Weekend Scene newsletter community has grown to 10,000 subscribers! We couldn’t have done it without you, and your support means so much to us. You can join us here.

We’re celebrating our 10K milestone by releasing ten top 10 lists (yes, we’re extra)! Consider it a love letter to D.C. and The Scene community.

Check out our favorite brunches, kid-friendly activities, day trips and more.

☔ Heads up that rain chances in the weekend forecast (again?!). Here’s the forecast.

⚽ D.C. United vs. Charlotte (Sat., Audi Field)

⚾ Nats vs. Pirates (Fri., Sat. and Sun., Nationals Park)

“The Giz Go-Go Musical” — Fri., Sat., Sun

Dorothy is definitely NOT in Kansas anymore in “The Giz,” showing this weekend only at the Lincoln Theatre. Creator Lovail Long says it’s the first go-go musical and steeped in D.C. flavor. Details.

Hyattsville Anniversary Festival — Sat.

Head to Driskell Park on Saturday for live music, games, food vendors and family entertainment from 4-9 p.m., plus fireworks at dusk. Note that Friday’s movie night was canceled due to rain. Details.

Annie’s 75th Anniversary — Sat., noon to 6 p.m.

Annie’s Paramount Steakhouse on 17th Street NW has been welcoming the LGBTQ+ community since the 1960s. Its diamond anniversary extravaganza will include carnival games, food, a drag performance and more. Details.

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Pink in the Park — Sun., 4-8 p.m.

National Landing’s big cherry blossom festival is finally set to arrive in Long Bridge Park after a weather-related delay. Expect live music by Black Alley, Reesa Renee and more, plus immersive art, a drink garden, food trucks and giveaways. It’s free to attend. Details.

Kids Opening Day at Nationals Park — Sun.

The Nationals are facing the Pirates for three games — and Kids Opening Day is on Sunday  (it’s also a Value Day — aka, you can get discounts on tickets, food and parking). On Sundays, kids are invited to run the bases and players will sign balls. Here’s more info on the experiences.

• Where to Eat and Drink Near Nationals Park: New Restaurants, Happy Hours, Brunches
  Nationals Park Guide: What to Know If You’re Going to a Nats Game in DC

More Things to Do in Washington DC

• 🎸 Project GLOW (Sat. and Sun., RFK Festival Grounds, 💲💲💲💲)
• 🥐 Georgetown French Market (Fri. to Sun., Wisconsin Ave NW, 🚫💸)
• 👟 Best Buddies Friendship Walk (Sat., National Mall, 💲+)
• 🏀 50th Annual Hoop Culture Capital Classic (Sat., Entertainment & Sports Arena, 💲)
• 🎶 Petworth Porchfest (Rescheduled from last weekend) (Sat., 🚫💸)
• 🎬 ICYMI: FilmFest DC (Various locations, 💲)

More Things to Do in Virginia

• 🌊 Something in the Water (Fri. to Sun., Virginia Beach, 💲💲💲💲)
• 🍎 Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival (Sat. through 5/7, Winchester, 🚫💸-💲💲)
• 🎸 “Passing Strange” at Sig Theatre (Through 6/18, Arlington, 💲💲💲)
• 🐶 Alx Dog Walk (Sat., Oronoco Bay Park, 💲💲)
• 😋 Taste of Annandale (Sat., Tom Davis Drive, 🚫💸)
• 🎻 Purcellville Music and Arts Festival (Sat., Dillon’s Woods, 🚫💸)
• 🌈 Festival Of Colors Holi DC (Sun., Bull Run Regional Park, 💲💲+)
• 🎨 ICYMI: Art at the Mill (4/22 to 5/7, Millwood, 🚫💸)

More Things to Do in Maryland

• ⚾ Bowie Baysox vs. Richmond (Weds. to Sun., 💲) FYI: Glow in the Park on Fri., fireworks on Sat., meet the team on Sun.
• 🎙 “Dreamgirls” at BlackRock (Through 5/7, Germantown, 💲💲+)
• 🥁 Celtic Festival of Southern Maryland (Sat., Saint Leonard, 💲💲)
• 🐾 Paws in the Park (Sun., Gaithersburg, 💲+) FYI: Montgomery County Humane Society fundraiser

Want to know what’s up for your weekend? Sign up for The Weekend Scene, our newsletter about events, experiences and adventures for you and for your family around the DMV.

The Folger Shakespeare Library, known for having the world’s largest Shakespeare collection, is set to reopen on Nov. 17 after a three-year renovation, according to a release.

The library was established in 1932 by the Folger family and is located in Capitol Hill, just blocks from the U.S. Capitol. It began with the Folger’s collection of Shakespeare works and is now known for its research, theatre, consort and education.

The new space was designed “to create a sense of belonging and inspiration for all who come to the Folger,” according to the release. The renovation’s highlights will include new gardens, two exhibition halls, a hands-on learning lab, research spaces, a café and a gift shop.

The redesign will feature a permanent exhibition where visitors can explore Shakespeare’s works, world and his contemporary connection.

All 82 copies of Shakespeare’s First Folios from the Folger collection will be displayed in the exhibit. The First Folios are his first published collection of plays and there are only 235 copies believed to still exist.

“Henry and Emily Folger’s collection of First Folios have long been a source of fascination,” Eric Weinmann Librarian and Director of Collections Greg Prickman said in the release. “For the first time, we are able to share all of the Folger’s Folios with all of our visitors, no matter if they are longtime lovers of Shakespeare, casual fans, or just plain curious.”

There will be three new pieces of contemporary art. A poem by US Poet Laureate Rita Dove will welcome guests to the west gardens; a piece by artist Fred Wilson will be displayed next to the “Sieve” portrait of Queen Elizabeth I; and a new paper light sculpture by artiste Anke Neuman will hang in the stairwell between the east entrance lobby and historic theater lobby.

The 2023 to 2024 season theme will be “What’s Your Story?” The library plans to bring related performances, exhibitions and events.

The $80.5 million renovation project was funded by philanthropic support and institutional resources.

The library will hold a grand reopening celebration the weekend of Nov. 17.

Details on how to visit the Folger Shakespeare Library once it has opened have yet to be released. Tickets for the library’s events can be found here.

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We think it’s safe to say that brunch is D.C.’s favorite meal. Whether you’re in it for the bottomless mimosas or are looking for a good place for a celebratory meal, you have options in the District, Maryland and Virginia.

Without further ado, here are The Scene’s favorite brunches as of April 2023 (in alphabetical order):

Ala

1320 19th St NW, Washington, D.C.

Three courses of Levantine cuisine plus bottomless mimosas for $44 is a good deal — especially if you make a few trips to the DIY mimosa bar. We like this Dupont restaurant for its food; relaxed, maximalist décor and flexibility. Want a sweet and a savory dish? A mimosa and a bloody Mary? Brunch at 3 p.m.? Vegan and gluten-free options? Go right ahead. Details.

Ambar

Capitol Hill and Shaw in D.C., plus Clarendon, Virginia

Start with a platter of spreads then explore the expansive menu of Balkan small plates. The brunch drink menu has diverse options, too. Details.

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Buffalo and Bergen

Capitol Hill, Union Market

We’re not going to say they’re the best bagels for fear of starting a brawl, but they’re pretty darn good. Belly up to the counter at Union Market and let your imagination run wild with all the options and items to put on a bagel. Details.

Café Colline

4536 Langston Blvd., Arlington, Virginia

Brunch as the French do at this Arlington bistro with a menu of classics including salads, an omelet and the croque madame. Details.

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Franklins

5123 Baltimore Ave., Hyattsville, Maryland

Stop at Franklins Brewery for beer, obviously, and brunch. Indulge in short rib hash or Korean-style fried chicken and waffles. Save room for shopping in their awesomely eclectic general store, too. Details.

Hank’s Oyster Bar

The Wharf and Dupont in D.C., plus Old Town Alexandria, Virginia

You can find good deals on brunch plates including biscuits and gravy ($12) or a smoked salmon Reuben ($15). Wash it down with bottomless mimosas, craft cocktails or a build-your-own bloody Mary that can double as an appetizer. Details.

Joy by Seven Reasons

5471 Wisconsin Ave, Chevy Chase, Maryland

This colorful Bethesda restaurant from the Michelin-starred team behind Imperfecto encourages diners to “have fun, get crazy, be sexy, enjoy.” Go for Latin food, riffs on classic brunch dishes and shareable plates like the colossal short rib sandwich ($65). JOY’s new head Chef William Morles says two must-try dishes are the Joy breakfast (above) and cachapa with pabellón. Details.

Peacock Cafe

3251 Prospect St NW, Washington, D.C.

Two Iranian American brothers started the Georgetown mainstay 30 years ago. It’s just such a wonderful experience, especially in the spring. They serve “happy American” food, and everything has a fun twist. Get the veggie nachos and thank us later. Details.

Spanish Diner

7271 Woodmont Ave., Bethesda, Maryland

It’s never a bad time for José Andrés, but the Flamenco Brunch raises the bar with performances and demonstrations just for kids. The menu is filled with egg-forward Spanish comfort dishes. Details.

St. Anselm

1250 Fifth St. NE, Washington, D.C.

Their brunch has many dinner menu faves with a few before-supper standouts. Think grilled oysters, New York strip, seasonal salads and a “side of bacon” that is a slab of bacon. The Americana decor is great, and the playlist is 🔥. Details.

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Once you’ve been to the National Zoo and all the kid-friendly Smithsonian exhibits and every park in your city or county a thousand times, it’s time to get creative about fun with the little ones.

From free adventures to special museums, we’ve got you covered with ideas.

Things to Do With Kids in Washington D.C.

Washington Nationals Baseball

Nationals Park

Nationals Park hosts Kids’ Opening Day on Sunday, April 30 (it’s also a Value Day — aka, you can get deals on tickets, food and parking), plus special Girl Scout and Boy Scout days through the season.

After every Sunday afternoon home game, kids aged 4-12 are invited to run the bases (families must line up outside the ballpark on the First Street sidewalk. Jr. Nationals Kids Club members get priority). Signature Sundays, the Racing Presidents and a playground near Right Field Gate are all extra fun for kids.

FYI: There’s a strict clear bag policy, but diaper bags are exempt (use ADA/Family lanes at the Center Field and Home Plate gates). Kids under the age of 2 don’t need a ticket.

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Dinos Alive: An Immersive Experience

524 Rhode Island Ave NE, Washington, D.C.

Go face-to-face with massive, realistic dinosaurs while learning about the Triassic, Jurassic, and Cretaceous periods. General admission starts at $21.40 per person; group and family pack discounts are available. This location is open through May. Details.

National Children’s Museum

1300 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, D.C.

Let the little ones loose on a three-story climber and slide, play in the innovation sandbox and test out engineering skills on the “On the Go-go” track. Tickets cost $15.95 per person (kids under 1 are free).

Things to Do With Kids in Maryland

Climb Zone

13200 Mid Atlantic Boulevard, Suite 130, Laurel, Maryland

Harness up to scale walls where the hand- and footholds are doughnuts, dinos, snakes and ladders and other fantastical scenes. Tickets start at $18.99 for ages 2-4 and $27.99 for those 5 and up. Details.

Glen Echo Park

7300 MacArthur Blvd., Glen Echo, Maryland

The fantastically-detailed Dentzel Carousel opens on Saturday, April 29, plus there’s a playground, kid-friendly shows at Adventure Theatre MTC and the Puppet Co. and an aquarium (timed tickets required). You’ll want to wrangle the whole family for a photo in front of the art deco “Cuddle Up” sign before you leave. Details. 

NASA Goddard Space Flight Center — free pick

8800 Greenbelt Road, Greenbelt, Maryland (driving directions)

Aspiring astronauts will love displays on exploring the solar system, The James Webb Space Telescope, entering the immersive Solarium with large-scale digital art using scientific footage of the sun and more. Details.

Things to Do With Kids in Virginia

Super Awesome and Amazing

6805 Industrial Rd, Springfield, Virginia

The St. James packs climbing, Nerf battle zone, a trampoline park, virtual reality games and eSports into a 30,000-square-foot fun center. Admission starts at $30 for nonmembers ($20 for the waterpark). Details.

Huntley Meadows Park — free pick

3701 Lockheed Blvd., Alexandria, Virginia

Try to spot darting tadpoles, soaring birds and other wildlife along the half-mile boardwalk over a wetland sanctuary in Fairfax County. Make sure to climb the observation deck. The park hosts birthday parties and special events like bug catching that will delight little naturalists. Note that dogs are not allowed on the boardwalk. Details.

The Dr. Seuss Experience

Tysons Corner Center

Oh, the places you’ll go! Enter the world of Dr. Seuss at this immersive experience in Tysons Corner Center. Tickets start at $38 for kids and $43 for adults. It’s open through June 30. Details. 

Gravelly Point — free pick

George Washington Memorial Parkway

Pack a picnic and spend an afternoon watching planes take off from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport — the park is just a few hundred feet from a runway. Details.

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Finally, the course we’ve all been waiting for!

Almost all desserts are good desserts, but some stay with you.

Here are some of the sweet treats around D.C., Maryland and Virginia that we just can’t get enough of.

Riso di Brûlée at L’Ardente

200 Massachusetts Ave., NW, Washington, D.C.

Sure, the flaming tiramisu gets all the sparkle on people’s Instagram stories, but don’t sleep on the rice pudding. The confectionary creators at the Capital Crossing destination torch the top of rice pudding with sour cherries and other seasonal flavors for a pop on top. It’s perfect for the kind of person who likes to tell you about the “other really great songs on the album that don’t get nearly enough attention.” Details.

Vanilla Custard at Goodies Frozen Custard & Treats

200 Commerce Street, Alexandria, Virginia

Goodies brought its homemade, Wisconsin-style frozen custard to Alexandria’s bright and retro Ice House in the thick of the pandemic, and you can find its food truck roaming in the summer. If you’re extra hungry, spring for the ice cream donutwich. Details.

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Berger Cookie Pie at Pie Shop

1339 H St. NE, Washington, D.C.

The Berger Cookie Pie is an instant classic, but you can’t really go wrong here unless you leave hungry. Bonus: Pie Shop is also an all-ages music venue! Details.

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Ice Cream Treats at SW Soda Pop Shop

1142 Maine Ave SW, Washington, D.C.

Funnel cake fries topped with ice cream, over-the-top shakes, packed banana splits: The sisters behind this Southwest sweets haven are always creating desserts of our childhood dreams. During the heat of the summer, don’t be surprised to see a line around the block and a herd of happy customers enjoying a cold concoction.

Inventive Doughnuts at Rose Ave Bakery

2633 Connecticut Ave NW Washington D.C.

Can it still be dessert if it sells out by noon? On our list, yes! Inventive sweets like bright purple ube doughnuts, a black sesame-marbled cookie, plus seasonal treats and unique drinks, star at this bakery that arrived at its permanent Woodley Park storefront this year. Details.

All the Pastries at Patisserie Poupon

1645 Wisconsin Ave. NW, Washington D.C.

An old-school French sweets staple in Georgetown. The townhouse on Wisconsin Avenue NW turns out banger buche de Noels, fraisiers and puff pastry towers on preorder. But when you walk in, the daily display case is like something out of a movie that will make you shout oui oui or whatever you recall from high school French class. Details.

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Stuffed Croissants at Sunday Morning Bakehouse at Pike & Rose

11869 Grand Park Avenue, North Bethesda, Maryland

A rotating list of brioche doughnuts is tasty any time of day, and their custom croissants push the boundaries of creative baking mashups. Strawberry croissant pop tart, anyone?

Cakes at Buttercream Bakeshop

1250 9th Street NW, Washington, D.C.

This extra special 9th Street NW staple took a sweet pandemic pivot. Preorders for cakes and sweets is now the way to go, but Chef Tiffany’s goodies are well worth the preplanning.  Not in need of a wedding or birthday cake today? Order kits to make treats like unicorn bars online. Details.

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Chocolate at The Conche

1605 Village Market Blvd SE #J108, Leesburg, Virginia

Triumphs of chocolate tucked in the village at Leesburg. Chef Santosh Tiptur is nothing short of magical. Details.

Nonna’s Cookies at Sfoglina Pasta House

Downtown D.C., Van Ness, Rosslyn

The Italian favorites like tiramisu and panna cotta are really tasty — but don’t sleep on the simple joy of soft and flavorful Nonna’s Cookies, which come in chocolate crinkle, snickerdoodle and lemon ricotta flavors. Sfoglina’s charming decor makes it a good choice for a just-desserts-and-coffee date. Details.

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If you didn’t make plans for a Memorial Day weekend getaway, you’re probably ready to start thinking about summer travel plans.

Fortunately, there are numerous destinations for exploration close to D.C.

Pick a day on your calendar to try out these day trips that are an easy distance from the Beltway.

Strawberry Picking

If summer had a taste, it might be fresh-picked strawberries (especially if they’re paired with ice cream)! Plenty of Maryland and Virginia farms let you pick your own berries.

Great Country Farms hosts a Strawberry Jubilee Festival on Memorial Day weekend (Saturday through Monday) with parades; a Diaper Derby for fast-crawling babies; live music and a pie-eating contest. All season long, you can visit the Farm Play Area for putt-putt, mazes, a ninja course and wagon rides.

Other options in Virginia include Critzer Family Farm (Afton, call for availability); Wegmeyer Farms (Hamilton and Oatlands), Messick’s Farm Market (Bealeton) and Yankey Farms (Bristow).

Pick your own strawberries and peonies at Butler’s Orchard in Germantown. For more Maryland berries, check out Southern Comfort Berry Farm (Bushwood); Baugher’s (Westminster) and ​​​​​Shlagel Farms LLC (Waldorf).

Maryland Day Trips

Wineries

Virginia wines may get more headlines, but Maryland wines are unique — they have their own terroir, or characteristic taste from the local soil. Robin Hill Farm and Vineyards in Prince George’s County has beautiful views and frequent events. Check out the Capital Wine Trail and ten more wine trails statewide. Let a horse be your designated driver with the Brandywine Carriage Tours.

Browse the Maryland Wineries Association website for special events throughout the state.

Calvert Cliffs State Park

Hike through forest, marshland and onto the beach in Calvert County. The park is known for its fossil hunting. Maybe you’ll even find a 15-million-year-old megalodon tooth. There’s a small fee for parking.

Catoctin Mountain Park

The Wolf Rock and Chimney Rock Trail is well worth it — the trail is rocky at points (mainly toward the end) and rated strenuous by NPS, but we say it’s a stunning payoff for an approachable hike. The park also houses trails to Cunningham Falls, the state’s highest waterfall. Here’s a rundown of the East Hiking Trails (There are cute cabins and well-maintained campgrounds if you want to make a weekend out of it, but book ahead). Did you know it’s also home to the presidential retreat Camp David?

Mallows Bay

The largest graveyard of abandoned naval ships in Western Hemisphere waters is now a vibrant nature preserve that can be experienced up close in Charles County. The ships are best seen during low tide. Tours are offered by Atlantic Kayak($60-$80), REI ($120) and occasionally the Potomac Riverkeepers ($100).

Downtown Frederick, Maryland

History buffs have a lot of Civil War-era sites, plus the National Museum of Civil War Medicine, to appreciate. Downtown Frederick has plenty of small-town charm and a robust brewery and food scene — you might see a celebrity chef at Bryan Voltaggio’s Mid-Atlantic restaurant Thatcher & Rye. Options for curated adventures include self-guided art, history and architecture tours. More info.

Harriet Tubman Memorial Byway

Follow in Harriet Tubman’s footsteps through Dorchester County, Maryland. Harriet Tubman Tours offers a variety of options, or you can DIY. The News4 I-Team visited many of the historic sites, which are under threat from rising sea levels.

Virginia Day Trips

Northern Virginia Via the Silver Line

If you’re coming from D.C. or Maryland, you can easily make a day exploring the new Silver Line stops in Northern Virginia. Bring your bike and hop on the Washington and Old Dominion Trail (hop off at Herndon or Innovation Center). You can dodge paying for parking at the Air and Space Museum’s Udvar Hazy Center by taking Fairfax Connector Bus No. 983 from Innovation Center Station.

Middleburg, Virginia

Just over an hour from downtown D.C., Middleburg, Virginia, offers a historic district filled with stories including the year-round holiday shop The Christmas Sleigh, plus unique stories and high-end boutiques. Stop by the AiM Gallery, which recently debuted a new exhibit, and Lost Barrel Brewing, offering beer and hard seltzer flights.

Harpers Ferry, West Virginia

Go for history, adventure and nature an hour from D.C. Harpers Ferry National Park has 22 miles of hiking trails ranging from easy to strenuous and a one-day itinerary of the historic highlights.

The Maryland Heights Trail — leading the picturesque, scenic view of Harpers Ferry on the Maryland Heights Overlook — is a favorite.

The Harpers Ferry Adventure Center (37410 Adventure Center Lane, Purcellville, Virginia) and River Riders Family Adventure Resort (408 Alstadts Hill Road, Harpers Ferry, West Virginia) offer activities including river tubing, zip lining, climbing, white water rafting and bike or segway tours. 

In town, check out a self-guided Black history tour or ghost tour and restaurants with mountain views, including Rabbit Hole.

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Living in D.C. is great, but it’s also expensive. It can seem like walking out the door alone costs you $50.

However, that doesn’t have to be the case — we can have fun while being frugal!

Going beyond the National Mall monuments and museums, we’re sharing our favorite free activities in the D.C. area right now.

Capital Crescent Trail

Walkers, joggers, bikers, oh my! If any of those titles belong to you, then we recommend spending part of a day on the Capital Crescent Trail. It’s a seven-mile, shared-use trail that runs from Georgetown to Bethesda and follows an abandoned railroad. Details.

Comedy

Do you like to laugh? Do you like free things? If you answered no to either of those questions, we are concerned. If you answered yes, there is no other choice but to visit some of the amazing D.C. comedy venues that offer free shows. We recommend checking schedules for Room 808 (Petworth), Hotbed (Adams Morgan), Choir Boy Comedy (various venues) and Underground Comedy (various venues). Capital Laughs is another option; a donation is requested to keep the laughs going.

Kennedy Center: Millennium Stage and the REACH

If you’re anything like us and love a Friday night theater outing or a Sunday matinee, we recommend a visit to the Kennedy Center. The Millennium Stage hosts free performances Wednesday through Saturday at 6 p.m. (reservations reccomneded). The REACH screens films on Sundays at 3 p.m., plus has free dance classes, kids’ activities at the Moonshot studio — and is a good picnic spot. The JFK Exhibit is also worth a stop.

Planet Word

The immersive language museum in the historic Franklin School is a certified hit. The sound-and-touch activated exhibits are both educational and fun — our favorite is a globe lit with 5,000 LED lights that enable messages in about 30 different languages with just a tap of a screen. Details.

Library of Congress

The ornate Library of Congress recently opened its doors to its main reading room to walk-in visitors after years of only allowing entry to those with a photo ID library card (which are available to the public). Visitors can access the ornate room from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. and 2 to 3 p.m. on Tuesdays through Fridays, as well as Thursday evenings from 5 to 8 p.m. for the Live at the Library event series. Make sure to reserve passes in advance. Details.

National Cathedral

3101 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, D.C.

Circumnavigate the formidable building and try to spot its most unique carvings, including grotesques of Darth Vader, Medusa and a rattlesnake (consider bringing binoculars). Then, make sure to visit the Bishop’s Garden, Cathedral Garth and Olmstead Woods. Go on Saturday afternoons to hear a Carillon (bell) recital. Keep an eye on the calendar for special events, including free choral concerts and donation-based organ concerts (note that cathedral general admission is not free — formal tours and tower climbs cost $10-$15).

Open-air Markets

Yes, these markets are filled with vendors who are trying to get you to spend money, but isn’t half the fun of an outdoor market the people-watching and vendor-grazing? If you have enough self-control, these markets can be free and fun! D.C. offers a number of these events weekly, including Eastern Market (with indoor shopping Tuesday to Sunday and an outdoor market on weekends), dozens of FRESHFARM markets citywide, plus the Georgetown Flea Market every Sunday. Leave your credit card at home and take what we like to call a frugal frolic.

Smithsonian National Zoo

D.C.’s very own Smithsonian National Zoo is always a classic and always free of charge. Spend a day with family or friends and take in the diverse range of animals the zoo has to offer. In just the last few months, the National Zoo has welcomed eight new fuzzy babies to the family — seriously way too cute to pass up! You must reserve passes in advance. Pro transit tip: If you get off Metro at Cleveland Park, it’s a downhill walk to the zoo entrance. Details.

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Teddy Roosevelt Island

This 89-acre island and national memorial located in the Potomac River is not your average park. What was once a U.S. Civil War training camp is now a haven for daytime fun with wildlife viewing, National Park Service ranger-led programs and island safari tours. FYI: Pedestrian and car access is from the Rosslyn, Virginia, area only, but the island is technically in D.C. Don’t forget the sunscreen! Details.

U.S. National Arboretum

Stroll the massive grounds with 9.5 miles of roadways, stopping by collections of azaleas, plants from around Asia, ferns and the iconic National Capitol Columns. Another big highlight is the National Bonsai & Penjing Museum.

Want to know what’s up for your weekend? Sign up for The Weekend Scene, our newsletter about events, experiences and adventures for you and for your family around the DMV.

Goodbye, sad desk salad.

We’ve all (hopefully) encountered veggie-packed plates that are so exciting to eat, sometimes they overshadow any other food on the table.

These are the salads you deserve. Luckily, D.C. area restaurants know their lettuce.

Dirty Caesar at Unconventional Diner

1207 9th Street NW, Washington, D.C.

There’s crunch and cheese and dried tomatoes and crouton dust and a little bit of romaine lettuce sorcery in this downtown dish. Really, all of Unconventional Diner’s menu is imaginative and exciting twists on diner food. But no matter where the main course takes you, a dirty Caesar is a must.

Cogollos a la Brasa at Del Mar

791 Wharf St SW, Washington, D.C.

Yes, $23 for a salad is shelling out a lot of green, but wowsers: the charred romaine, poached strawberries and rhubarb combo with grilled asparagus and Marcona almonds are something of beauty. Plus, in true Del Mar fashion, the salad is plated beautifully with ingredients tucked strategically in between layers of lettuce. Who does that?

Tricolore Salad at Caruso’s Grocery

Washington D.C. and North Bethesda

Matt Adler’s like-your-Italian-nana-used-to-make spot in Southeast has many dishes worth writing home about. Their Tricolore Salad brings creativity to the forefront with endives, radicchio, oranges and the toasted fennel citrus vinaigrette. Fun fact: Caruso’s just opened an outpost in Pike & Rose.

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Tossed Salmon Apple Salad at Neopol Smokery 

Union Market (1309 5th Street NE, Washington, D.C.)

Trek to this corner of Union Market for a sweet and smoky salad with honey dill dressing that will leave an impression.

AP Caesar Salad at All-Purpose Pizzeria

Capitol Riverfront (Also served at All-Purpose Shaw)

News4’s resident foodie Eun Yang says this is her favorite Caesar salad.

Warm Shrimp Salad at Le Diplomate

1601 14th St NW, Washington, D.C.

Eun Yang suggests the delicious warm shrimp salad made with lemon beurre blanc and avocado. Is it an appetizer? Is it a meal? Arguments can be made on both sides. BTW: Le Dip just celebrated its 10th anniversary, and Eun visited for her recent episode of Food Fare (above).

Ensalada de Kale at dLeña

476 K St NW Suite D, Washington, D.C.

Baby kale, pomegranate, Honeycrisp apple, agave-roasted yam, orange balsamic vinaigrette and more fill the bowl at D’Lena in Mount Vernon Triangle. Don’t “leaf” this Richard Sandoval spot known for upscale Mexican cuisine without it.

Tam Som at Thip Khao

3462 14th St NW, Washington, D.C. 

Thip Khao put Laotian food on the map in D.C., and their papaya salad represents the dish that’s ubiquitous throughout Lao and central Thailand. It’s bold and flavored with spicy chili, umami fish sauce, sour lime, tangy tamarind and more.

Salat des Hauses at Old Europe

2434 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, D.C.

A salad that stands out as crave-able on a menu of sausages and schnitzel is something special. The lentils give this vegetarian dish some satisfying protein, while the German cucumber, cabbage and house-made vinaigrette definitely represent the flavor of Deutschland.

Downtown Greek at Silver Social

1250 Half St SE, Washington, D.C.

The whole vibe of Silver Social feels like Silver Diner went to college, then came home for winter break a little cooler and more worldly. The menu is elevated and adventurous while staying true to the roots of great food. We love the Downtown Greek salad — and, of course, the centerfield gate ballpark views. 

Bonus salad: Silver Brasserie in Cathedral Heights has a kale and bleu cheese concoction that’s tasty and feels indulgent… but we can have as much as we want if it’s green, right?

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Getting sprayed by paint cannons, flying high through the air and a larger-than-life scavenger hunt in a historic house are just a few unexpected ways to make memories in D.C., Maryland and Northern Virginia.

If you’re planning a birthday celebration or group outing, it’s all about finding something unique, fun, approachable for a variety of people — and a great photo op.

Check out these fun activities that will scratch your itch for adventure.

Beat The Bomb

20005 Hecht Ave. NE, Washington, D.C.

It’s part escape room, part immersive video game and ends with a paint cannon. Mission experiences start at $44.95, and booking is open now. Details.

Beer Trails

Spanning a county or an afternoon walk these trails offer adventures in sipping and socializing for the responsible explorer. Check out:

• Breweries along the Washington and Old Dominion Trail in Virginia. Bikeablebrews has a thorough guide.
• D.C.’s Metropolitan Beer Trail leads you to some of Northeast’s best local breweries — use the free digital passport to track your progress and get in the running for prizes.
• The Montgomery County Tastemakers Trail includes not just 13 breweries, but also six wineries, two cideries and a coffee stop.

C&O Canal Boat Tours

1057 Thomas Jefferson St NW, Washington, D.C.

Georgetown Heritage’s Chesapeake and Ohio (C&O) Canal boat tours will return for a second season sooner than initially expected. The tours along the Georgetown waterway will resume May 5, but you can book tickets now. Tickets range from $8 for kids to $15 for adults on weekdays and $12-$25 on weekends. Details.

Climb UPton

6060 Wilson Boulevard, Arlington, Virginia

Ever wanted to climb into a game of Mouse Trap? The largest ropes course in the Mid-Atlantic features free falls and ziplines among more than 90 obstacles — and you can choose your challenge: easy, medium or difficult. Prices for a 90-minute climbing passport start at $19.95 for kids 5-7; $39.95 for youth 8 to 15 and $49.95 for adults 16 and up. Details.

Climbing adventures are all over the D.C. area. A few more to check out include Go Ape! (Derwood, Maryland); The Adventure Park (Sandy Spring, Maryland); Terrapin Adventures (Savage, Maryland); Sky Zone (Springfield, Virginia) and Super Awesome and Amazing (Springfield, Virginia).

Dodgeball Archery at Ultimate Archery

22370 Davis Dr., Suite 150, Sterling, Virginia

The nostalgia of dodgeball and the novelty of shooting a bow and arrow merge in a unique activity that will work up a sweat. Ultimate Archery runs a variety of team-based games that all involve letting loose padded arrows at your friends and family. It’s good for adults and kids aged 7 and up. Prices start at $33 per player. Details.

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Mansion on O Street

2020 O Street NW, Washington, D.C.

How many secret doors can you find? One of the most offbeat museums in D.C. encourages you to explore a mansion stuffed with eclectic Americana artifacts. Mansion on O Street admission starts at $30 per person on weekdays. Details.

Perch Putt

1805 Capital One Drive, 11th Floor, Tysons, Virginia

Eleven stories above Tysons, swing through 18 holes of mini golf while snacking on street eats and sipping drinks from the bar. Games start at $15 per person. Details.

Punch Bowl Social

4238 Wilson Blvd. Suite 1180, Arlington, Virginia

Fun in any weather and good for groups, this bar-arcade’s Arlington outpost packs arcade classics, bowling, shuffleboard, karaoke, ping pong and much more under one roof. Make your reservations early, then take some selfies in the retro-designed rooms. Details.

Swingers

Dupont and Navy Yard

Perhaps the biggest name in D.C.’s mini golf renaissance, Swingers now has two locations and still manages to get booked up on weekends. The indoor courses are fantastical and over-the-top, and there’s plenty of room for your group to grab food and drinks before or after the game. Tickets start at $24. Details.

Dr. Seuss Experience

7852U Tysons Corner Center, Tysons, Virginia

Oh, the places you’ll go! The  Dr. Seuss Experience brings to life nine books, inviting kids and adults to meet characters from “The Lorax,” “The Cat in the Hat” and “Horton Hears a Who!” The experience at Tysons Corner Center is open through June. Details.

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President Harry Truman probably never said, “If you want a friend in Washington, buy a dog.” But D.C. still loves its canine friends, and luckily the whole Beltway has plenty of ways to entertain them.

Leash up your good boy or girl and head to these places in D.C., Maryland and Virginia where human’s best friend is more than welcome.

Summertime Pup at Meadowlark Botanical Gardens

9750 Meadowlark Gardens Ct, Vienna, Virginia

The first and third Wednesdays of the month though September, you can bring your dog to Meadowlark Botanic Gardens between 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. Tickets cost $6 per dog, plus $6 for humans 18 to 54, or $3 for adults 55+ and kids 6-17.

Dog owners must sign a risk form and keep their pup on a leash that’s 6 feet long at most. Details.

Bark Social

935 Prose Street, North Bethesda

A dog haven inside Pike & Rose hosts lots of events and offers a menu of drinks and food for two- and four-legged friends. Doggy visitors will need to register, plus get a day pass ($10.99-$14.99 for the first dog) or membership. Details.

Barkhaus

529 East Howell Avenue, Alexandria, Virginia

This dog-friendly bar and restaurant offers an off-leash indoor and outdoor dog park. There are menus of puppucinos, peanut butter snacks and Bark-Ables (Lunchables for pups) for dogs, plus specials and a yappy hour for people. You must register and provide proof of vaccines. Daily passes cost $10, or you can purchase a membership. Details.

Baseball Game: Pups in the Park

Nationals Park (1500 S Capitol St SE, Washington, D.C.)

Bring your dog to Nationals Park! Fur babies can sit in the pet-friendly outfield reserved section during select games. Pups in the Park dates for 2023 include May 19, June 7, Aug. 16, Sept. 5 and Sept. 25. You’ll need to buy tickets for each human ($35) and one for the dog ($10), plus sign a waiver. Proceeds from dog tickets go to the Humane Rescue Alliance. Details. 

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Brookeville Beer Farm

20315 A Georgia Ave., Brookeville, Maryland

Grab your pooch, a pizza and a pint then sit at the outdoor picnic tables. Dogs should remain leashed. Details.

See also: Doc Waters Cidery in Germantown, Maryland.

Congressional Cemetery

1801 E St SE, Washington, D.C.

Pick up a day pass ($15 per dog) or join the K9 Corps to roam the 35-acre historic site. Dogs are not allowed during certain events, including funerals. Text DOG to 515-608-8682 for the latest updates. Details. 

Lost Boy Cider

317 Hooffs Run Dr., Alexandria, Virginia

Grab a cider (including uncommon options like Gherkin pickle and sugar-free) and chill with Sparky while enjoying special weekly events. Details.

Mount Vernon

3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway, Mount Vernon, Virginia

Your pup is welcome to visit George Washington’s historic estate during regular daytime hours. Just stick to the outdoor attractions and follow a few rules. Details.

Swampoodle Park

Corner of 3rd & L Streets NE, Washington, D.C.

Of course, a park named Swampoodle welcomes dogs and even lets them run wild on an agility course. The nonprofit Friends of NoMa Dogs maintains the space. Details.

Wet Dog Tavern

2100 Vermont Ave NW, Washington, D.C. 

Two dog-friendly patios and a weekday happy hour will keep humans and furry friends happy in the Shaw area. Details.

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D.C.’s bar scene is reaching new heights. Nothing lifts our spirits like sipping a cold drink while looking at sweeping views of the District.

Whether you’re looking for a sophisticated date night spot or a place to watch sports, D.C. has a rooftop for you.

Here are The Scene’s top rooftops (in the order they were added to the list):

Whitlow’s DC

📍 901 U St. NW, Washington, D.C.
🔗 Details

Whitlow’s is moving into the space formerly known as The Brixton so it can have more space for live music a few times a month, DJs on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays — and a rooftop serving beach shack vibes.

The menu includes classic bar appetizers ($10-$14), sandwiches ($10-$15), smash burgers ($16+) and entrees ($14-$25), plus fresh, frozen and draft cocktails ($12-$13), beers ($6-$9) and wine ($9).

The spot just reopened in early June with a happy hour menu including $5 rail drinks and draft beers running 5 p.m. to close on Monday, 5-8 p.m. Tuesday to Thursday and 9 p.m. to close on Sunday. Brunch is coming soon.

Baja Tap

📍 2436 18th St., NW Washington, D.C.
🔗 Details

Offering one of the most affordable rooftop happy hours we’ve found — complete with live music — this Adams Morgan newcomer does tacos, tequila and more California-inspired Mexican fare. The regular menu includes seven margaritas by the glass ($10-$14) or pitcher ($39-$54), plus $8 tap beers, $5 tacos… and a festive $85 torre de tacos.

Ciel Social Club

📍 601 K St., Washington, D.C.
🔗 Details

Go here for a good sunset view and late-night hours (until 2 a.m. on weekends) atop the AC Hotel by Marriott near the Washington Convention Center. The cherry blossom-themed food and drink menu offers cocktails for $18-$20, Japanese whiskies, beers ($8), wines ($16-$35) and Red Bull, plus Japanese bites ($15-$27 or $13 during happy hour and late night).

Weekend brunch includes Southern-influenced eats like chicken and waffles ($20) , classic AM drinks and an option for bottomless Campo Viejo ($40) or Perrier Jouet ($120).

Tickets for their Independence Day fireworks viewing party ($180) are on sale through July 3.

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Things to Do DC Apr 24

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Cleveland Park Bar and Grill

📍 3421 Connecticut Ave., NW, Washington, D.C.
🔗 Details

Just in time for NHL and NBA playoffs season! This Cleveland Park bar has 40 TV screens, making it a great choice for catching the game on the partially-covered roof deck. Snack on burgers, sandwiches, pizza and pasta ($13-$21) while sipping a cold one (most cocktails are $13).

Crimson View

📍 627 H St. NW Washington, D.C.
🔗 Details

You’ll find southern appetizers and mains ($7-$17), fresh mixed drinks ($12-$16), beers, ciders and wine, plus a “low to no” proof menu ($10) inside the Motto by Hilton Washington DC City Center hotel.

Lucha Rosa

📍 1011 K St., NW Washington, D.C.
🔗 Details

This bar with Southern Mexican vibes just arrived at the Moxy Hotel rooftop with flavorful cocktails ($16-$20), wines ($16-$19 per glass), bottled and canned beer ($7-$16) and long lists of tequila and mezcal offerings. Entradas, including shrimp or rockfish ceviche, run $16-$18, and individual tacos are $8-$12.

Moonraker at the Pendry

📍 655 Water St., SW Washington, D.C.
🔗 Details

Sweeping views of the Potomac River make this an impressive date spot. The Japanese-inspired menu includes sushi, light bites, handcrafted cocktails ($22), wines by the glass ($20 to $175 for Dom Pérignon Rosé) and Japanese whiskies.

Salazar

📍 1819 14th St. NW Washington, D.C.
🔗 Details

Ring the bell with your ice shot glass, and you’ll feel like you’re in college again. Happy hour runs all night on Thursdays and 4-6 p.m. on weekends. The regular menu includes $6 tacos, big plates ($10-$16+), beers and seltzers ($7-$10) and specialty cocktails ($13-$15).

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Tiki TNT

📍 1130 Maine Ave., SW Washington, D.C.
🔗 Details

The Wharf’s lively tiki bar has a roof deck serving views of the Washington Channel — although we often land on the outdoor patio. Go for tropical drinks, beers and wines, then stay for shareable bowls and snacks.

Zebbies Garden

📍 1223 Connecticut Ave., NW Washington D.C.
🔗 Details

Zebbies Garden is a nighttime into early morning club above the Mayflower restaurant in Northwest. The wildly Instagramable party spot has a retractable roof that makes you feel like you’re not on Connecticut Avenue. Look for them to host themed parties as well like the LGBTQ+ friendly day party “Flower Factory” monthly.

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From the Smithsonian museums on the National Mall to the suburbs of Maryland and Virginia, the D.C. area has a thriving arts scene.

Check out these off-the-beaten-path museums and art galleries to expand your view.

ARTECHOUSE

1238 Maryland Ave., SW, Washington, D.C. 

Every few months, this digital immersive art museum blows our minds with innovative ways to look at the world through a technology and art lens. Plus, sometimes the cocktails dance if you scan them with your phone. Details.

Glenstone Museum

12100 Glen Rd., Potomac, Maryland

The expansive, grassy grounds and distinctive architecture would be worth the trip even before you lay your eyes on the collection of modern art inside. The museum was created by Mitchell and Emily Rales — potentially among the future Washington Commanders owners. Tickets are free. Pro-tip: Reserve passes well in advance, or take the Ride On bus (route 301) for walk-in admission, no reservation required. Details.

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Museum of Contemporary Art Arlington

3550 Wilson Blvd, Arlington, Virginia

Billed as one of the area’s largest contemporary art venues that’s not federally run, the art museum features nine galleries with rotating exhibits from around the world. It’s free to visit. Regular hours are Wednesday through Sunday, noon to 5 p.m. Details.

National Gallery of Art

Fourth St. & Constitution Ave. NW Washington, D.C.

Maybe this massive complex along the National Mall isn’t far from the beaten path, but you’ll need multiple visits to take it all in. Stroll the Sculpture Garden, explore two vast buildings of arts for all ages, take a selfie in the underground moving tunnel of light that connects both buildings, peep the big blue rooster on the roof and try to snag Jazz in the Garden tickets. Whatever you do — stop by the cafe. Delish! Details.

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Pazo Fine Art

4228 Howard Ave Kensington, Maryland

Their Dorothy Fratt exhibit is a great example of how PFA is breaking the mold and bringing unique art experiences to the D.C. area. The gallery is open by appointment. Details.

Pyramid Atlantic Art Center

4318 Gallatin Street, Hyattsville, Maryland

Featuring a gallery with rotating exhibits, public workshops and private or public studio space, the center is bringing new meaning to community art. Details.

Rhizome

6950 Maple St NW, Washington, D.C.

The nonprofit community arts space in Takoma hosts several programs a week ranging from musical performances to artist talks — plus some classes and workshops. Details.

Rubell Museum

65 I (eye) St. SW, Washington, D.C.

The contemporary art museum is housed inside a former school building that counted Marvin Gaye among its pupils. Director Caitlin Berry says it’s the only museum in the District dedicated exclusively to showcasing contemporary art. Adult tickets start at $15, but D.C. residents can visit for free. It’s recommended that visitors reserve passes online. Details.

Torpedo Factory Art Center

105 N. Union St., Alexandria, Virginia

Meet artists and observe makers at work as you browse one of Virginia’s foremost artist havens. The Torpedo Factory says its home to the nation’s largest collection of working artists’ open studios under one roof. It’s free to visit. Details.

Workhouse Arts Center

9518 Workhouse Way, Lorton, Virginia

Performing and visual arts, events ranging from Tai Chi to a beer festival and a history lesson on the women’s suffrage movement at the Lucy Burns Museum make the Fairfax County venue a cultural hub. Details.

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The National Gallery of Art announced Monday that one of D.C.’s favorite free music series will include 12 concerts on Fridays between May 19 and Aug. 4 in the museum’s Sculpture Garden.

The lineup includes seven local bands and genres spanning Latin fusion, zydeco, swing, bluegrass and beyond.

To cope with high demand, the National Gallery of Art will take a page from Beyonce and The Atlantis’ playbook and adopt a lottery system for tickets.

How to Get Jazz in the Garden Tickets

Anyone who wants to attend Jazz in the Garden can join the lottery the week prior to the event. Lottery winners will be notified the Monday morning before the concert.

“Those selected by the lottery may claim up to four free passes, which are required for all attendees ages 2 and up,” the gallery said in a press release.

A limited number of passes will be available at the gate before each show.

Jazz in the Garden Schedule

May 19

Martha Redbone Roots Project, blues

• Lottery opens: May 8, 10:00 a.m.
• Lottery closes: May 12, noon
• Results announced: May 15, 10:00 a.m.

May 26

¡Tumbao!, Latin fusion

• Lottery opens: May 15, 10:00 a.m.
• Lottery closes: May 19, noon
• Results announced: May 22, 10:00 a.m.

June 2

Tobago Bay, Caribbean

• Lottery opens: May 22, 10:00 a.m.
• Lottery closes: May 26, noon
• Results announced: May 29, 10:00 a.m.

June 9

Chelsey Green and the Green Project, contemporary jazz

• Lottery opens: May 29, 10:00 a.m.
• Lottery closes: June 2, noon
• Results announced: June 5, 10:00 a.m.

June 16

The Muneer Nasser Quintet, a Juneteenth celebration

• Lottery opens: June 5, 10:00 a.m.
• Lottery closes: June 9, noon
• Results announced: June 12, 10:00 a.m.

June 23

Nathan and the Zydeco Cha Chas, zydeco

• Lottery opens: June 12, 10:00 a.m.
• Lottery closes: June 16, noon
• Results announced: June 19, 10:00 a.m.

June 30

D’DAT , Indigenous fusion

• Lottery opens: June 19, 10:00 a.m.
• Lottery closes: June 23, noon
• Results announced: June 26, 10:00 a.m.

July 7

Alex Minasian Quartet, jazz

• Lottery opens: June 26, 10:00 a.m.
• Lottery closes: June 30, noon
• Results announced: July 3, 10:00 a.m.

July 14

Ultrafaux Ensemble with Hot Club of Baltimore, Roma swing

• Lottery opens: July 3, 10:00 a.m.
• Lottery closes: July 7, noon
• Results announced: July 10, 10:00 a.m.

July 21

DuPont Brass, eclectic soul

• Lottery opens: July 10, 10:00 a.m.
• Lottery closes: July 14, noon
• Results announced: July 17, 10:00 a.m.

July 28

The 8 Ohms Band, horn-heavy funk and soul

• Lottery opens: July 17, 10:00 a.m.
• Lottery closes: July 21, noon
• Results announced: July 24, 10:00 a.m.

August 4

The Seldom Scene, bluegrass

• Lottery opens: July 24, 10:00 a.m.
• Lottery closes: July 28, noon
• Results announced: July 31, 10:00 a.m.

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Between sell the team tees, unfulfilled Atlantis tickets, Erykah Badu tour news, the Dave Thomas Circle rename and an All Things Go lineup that slays… it’s been a week!

The weekend will start off blazing (by April standards). 🥵 Keep an eye on rain chances, too. Here’s the forecast.

National Cannabis Festival — Sat.

The National Cannabis Festival is coming back to RFK Stadium on Saturday. Not only is it the sole ticketed cannabis event of its size in the country, but it’s also the only one owned and run by a team of Black and Brown women.

On top of that, it’s probably the only festival where 2 Chainz and Sen. Chuck Schumer are on the same bill — How very D.C.!

• 🎤 Juicy J, Free Nationals, Backyard Band, Everyday Everybody, Nkula, Cumbia Heights, FootsXColes and DJ Farrah Flosscett round out the all-day concert lineup.
• 🍕 The fest will also host a Munchies Zone, Grower’s World, exhibitors and nonprofit groups.
• 💵 Tickets start at $85 for GA. You and your buds can get a discount on a four-pack.
• 😋 See also: Munchies for all, citywide, at 420 Food Week.

Petworth Porchfest — Sat.

Born of the pandemic, Petworth’s Porchfest returns for a third year. Take an afternoon stroll to catch some of more than 100 bands performing from porches throughout the neighborhood. Details.

Georgetown House Tour — Sat.

Go inside some of Georgetown’s most attractive and historic homes. Attendees can first stop by St. John’s Church to pick up Georgetown House Tour Magazine, then walk to the featured homes within a six-block radius. Purchase tickets in advance ($55) or day-of ($60) and include the Parish Tea at historic St. John’s Church. Details.

PNC Parkway Classic — Sun.

Run a 10-mile road race or 5K along the George Washington Memorial Parkway, then join the after-party at Oronoco Bay Park. Organizers say it’s “among the most scenic and spacious distance races on the East Coast.” There’s a fun run for kids, too. Details.

“Aladdin” — Through April 30

Fly your magic carpet into a whole new world at The National Theatre. The hit Broadway production is finally granting wishes in the D.C. area. Details.

🤑 Budget hack: Enter the Digital Lottery for a chance at $25 tickets, and check out our guide to finding cheap theater.

The National Capital New Play Festival — Through May 7

The Roundhouse Theatre in Bethesda is showcasing new works including two world-premiere plays, the dark comedy “Jennifer Who Is Leaving” and a Native American activist’s true story in “On the Far End,” plus free developmental play readings. Details.

More Things to Do in Washington DC

• 🎬 FilmFest DC (Various locations, 💲) — FilmFest DC Director Tony Gittens shared the top titles you need to watch.
• 🖼️ Last Chance — Zenith Gallery Presents: Black Like Me (Closes Saturday, Northwest D.C., 🚫💸)
• 🌎 The Yards Earth Day: yoga and “Wall-E” screening (Sat., Northeast, 🚫💸)
• 🌎 City Ridge Earth Day Weekend Festival (Sat. and Sun, Northwest, 🚫💸)
• 🍷 DC Wine Fest (Sat., Union Market, 💲💲💲)
• 🌎 Living Earth Festival (Sat. and Sun., NMAI, 🚫💸)
• 🅱️ Bingo and A Show With Tara Hoot & Friends (Sat., Southeast, 💲)
• 🛹 How D.C. Moves Party at metrobar (Sat., Northeast, 💲💲)
• 👟 Sneaker Garden Party at WILD DAYS (Sun., Northwest, 💲💲)

Things to Do DC Mar 1

Spring Bucket List: Festivals, Flowers and More Things to Do Around DC

Washington DC Apr 18

Growing the National Cannabis Festival

More Things to Do in Maryland

• 🌷 GreenFest 2023 (Sat. and Sun., Wheaton, 🚫💸)
• 🌎 Grow Boldly Earth Day Festival (Sat., Columbia, 🚫💸)
• 🐕 Beaglefest dog playdate and rescue fundraiser (Sat., Greenbelt, 💲)
• 🌎 Earth Day Weekend Volunteer Day with Byrd’s Nest Box (Sat., Upper Marlboro, 🚫💸)

More Things to Do in Virginia

• 🎨 Art at the Mill (4/22 to 5/7, Millwood, 🚫💸)
• 🏠 Del Ray Guided Passive House Tour (Sat., Alexandria, 🚫💸)
• 🍷 Loudoun County Barrel Tasting (Sat., 💲💲💲)
• 🐑🍷 Hoover Ridge Wool and Wine Festival (Sat., Madison, 💲)
• 🎤 BMC Presents Open Mic Night (Sat., Woodbridge, 🚫💸)
• 🌎 Earth Day Every Day Festival on Langston Blvd (Sun., Arlington, 🚫💸)
• 🧱 Architecture Month: Alexandria Walking Tour (Sun., Old Town, 💲)
• 🥦 Fairfax Veg Fest 2023 (Sun., Herndon, 🚫💸)

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Maggie Rogers, Carly Rae Jepsen and Mt. Joy are among the top-billed acts for Saturday.

Lana Del Rey, Boygenius (the supergroup made up of Julien Baker, Phoebe Bridgers and Lucy Dacus), MUNA, Arlo Parks and more will take the stage on Sunday.

Here’s the full lineup:

The festival is set to return to Meriweather Post Pavilion in Columbia, Maryland, on Saturday, Sept. 30, and Sunday, Oct. 1, marking its first year as a two-day event.

Tickets will range from $105-$450 for a one-day pass or $185-$375 for a two-day pass before fees. The fan presale begins Thursday at 10 a.m., and the general sale will begin Friday.

All Things Go teased that 2023 would be “the biggest All Things Go ever” with 32 artists on multiple stages.

All Things Go has stood out among festivals for packing its schedule with female headliners. Maggie Rogers has headlined before, along with Melanie Martinez, HAIM, Lorde and Mitski.

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The tours along the Georgetown waterway will resume May 5, Georgetown Heritage said in a surprise announcement.

The canal boat, fittingly named the Georgetown Heritage, debuted last April after a decade-long hiatus of tour boats on the Georgetown portion of the canal.

When closing out its inaugural season in October, the organization announced that it wouldn’t be able to relaunch until 2025 due to a restoration project.

However, after changes in construction schedules, the canal will be filled with water and tours are set to resume in 2023.

Canal tours will set sail on Wednesdays through Sundays four times each day: 10 a.m., noon, 2 p.m and 4 p.m.

The boat’s launching point is on the canal between Thomas Jefferson Street and 30^th Street NW next to the C&O Canal National Historical Park’s Georgetown Visitor Center.

Tickets range from $8 for kids to $15 for adults on weekdays and $12-$25 on weekends. You can book them online.

The vessel is a re-creation of a packet boat that was used in the beginning days of the canal. It’s 80 feet long and 12 feet wide with modern features like quiet electric motors, a sound system and bathrooms.

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In delicious news, we’re teaming up with the Restaurant Association of Metropolitan Washington to let YOU choose your Favorite Gathering Place, Best Brunch, Best Bar, Favorite Fast Bites and Hottest Sandwich Spot in the 2023 RAMMY Awards.

Thanks to all who made nominations — now, go vote for winners here (and snag reservations at finalists’ tables before they’re gobbled up)!

☔ Storm Team4 Meteorologist Chuck Bell says your weekend plans might need to be flexible due to rain chances, but there will be dry time. Here’s the forecast.

Flower and Garden Festivals Around DC

If the cherry blossoms whetted your appetite for picnics bursting with blooms and flower-filled selfies, plant some of these ideas in your weekend planner.

• Leesburg Flower and Garden Festival (VA): This free festival is great for a day out with friends and family on Saturday and Sunday. Vote in The People’s Choice Landscape Competition, shop 125+ plant sellers and other vendors, or enjoy music, entertainment, a kids’ play area and a rooftop beer garden. It’s set to happen rain or shine. Here’s the schedule and parking info.
• National Botanic Garden (VA): During the Spring into the Gardens event, explore the unique gardens in Chantilly that are predominantly made from reclaimed materials. Tickets cost $20-$24 before fees.
• Virginia Tulip Festival: If you want to pick your own tulips, check out Burnside Farms’ Festival of Spring in Nokesville, Virginia, to stroll through fields with more than 150 kinds of tulips and 30 varieties of daffodils through 4/26. Tickets range from $19 to $31 per person.
• 90th Historic Garden Week (VA): Join walking tours stopping by gardens at historic properties across Virginia, including Old Town Alexandria and Front Royal. Here’s the schedule and ticket info.
• Spring Garden Market (VA): The American Horticultural Society hosts its annual plant sale and garden marketplace at River Farm on Saturday and Sunday. Entry is $5 per person or $20 per car; proceeds support the nonprofit. Tickets are available now.
• Brookside Gardens (MD): From azaleas to viburnums, more than a dozen flowers bloom here in April. Want to grow your plant knowledge? Check out the Introduction to Plant Propagation class on Saturday ($40).
• Hillwood (DC): Browse the formal gardens and greenhouse all season long, or check out the Gardener’s Focus Tour — Spring Designs on Saturday at 2:30 p.m.
• Dumbarton Oaks (DC): Spring garden tours are ongoing. You must buy tickets in advance for $7.

DC Emancipation Day Festival and Fireworks — Sat. and Sun.

D.C.’s joyful celebration of slavery’s abolition in the Capital has deep roots dating back to the 1800s.

The festival kicks off Saturday with a parade at 2 p.m., followed by a free concert featuring Dru Hill, Rakim, Black Alley and more. The day ends with a bang of fireworks at 8:30 p.m.

Sunday starting at 9 a.m. on Black Lives Matter Plaza, you’ll find free fitness classes, music, praise and games for kids.

Here are more details

Sakura Matsuri Japanese Street Festival (DC) — Sat. and Sun.

Dubbed the largest celebration of Japanese culture in the U.S., you’ll find live performances, martial arts demonstrations and vendors along Pennsylvania Avenue. Single-day tickets are $12 if you purchase in advance through Friday, then $15 during the weekend. Details.

Savor Bowie (MD) — Sat. and Sun.

This free food, wine and music festival features complimentary wine tastings, two stages of music, local food and artisans in Bowie Town Center. Proceeds benefit Concerts for Causes. Details.

Jim Vance Media Program Video Showcase & Awards Fundraiser (DC) — Sat.

The Jim Vance Media Program will honor the class of 2023 with a student video showcase. News4’s Tracee Wilkins will serve as emcee. All proceeds from ticket sales benefit the Jim Vance Scholarships at Archbishop Carroll High School. Here’s more information.

More Things to Do in Washington DC

⚾ The Nationals play a weekend series against the Guardians, with a Josiah Gray bobblehead giveaway on Saturday and Value Day on Sunday. Here’s our Nats Park guide.

🏈 D.C.’s last game of the regular XFL season is going down at Audi Field. Did you know the Defenders are actually… good? Like #1 good.

• 🖼️ Free pick — Adams Morgan Art Walk: Through April 28
• 🍻 2023 Metropolitan Beer Trail: Passport becomes available Fri.
• 😂 Stand-Up Showcase: Thu. to Sun., DC Improv, 💲💲
• 🥚 Free pick — Spring Celebration & Egg Roll: Sat., The Parks at Walter Reed
• 🌈 Holi Fest DC 2023: Festival of Colors: Sat., Northwest,💲💲
• 🛍️ Emancipation Day Mini Markt: Sat., Heurich House Museum
• 🖼️ Free pick — Art Enables new exhibits: Opens Sat., Northeast D.C.
• 🛍️ Free pick — PLUSH DMV’S Plus Size Clothing Swap: Sat., Femme Fatale DC
• 🌸 Free pick — National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade: Sat., downtown D.C.
• 😂 Capitalism: The Game Show — A Comedy Competition: Sat., City-State Brewing, 💲
• 🖌️ Free pick — Crafternoons at Shop Made in DC Georgetown: Sun., Northwest
• 🎵 Free pick — Music at the Monastery: Sun., Northeast D.C.

Things to Do DC Mar 1

Spring Bucket List: Festivals, Flowers and More Things to Do Around DC

More Things to Do in Virginia

• 💨 Big Lick Comic Con: Sat. and Sun., Dulles Expo Center, 💲💲
• 📚 Free pick — BLK Author Expo Woodbridge: Sat., Lake Ridge
• 🍎 NOVA Cider Festival: Sat., Centreville, 💲💲💲
• 💃 Free pick — Spring Fling Fest at The Lot: Sat., Arlington
• 🍒 Free pick — Cherry Blossom Jubilee at Torpedo Factory: Sun., Alexandria

More Things to Do in Maryland

• 🍷 A Maryland Wine Experience: Sat., Annapolis, 💲💲💲+
• 🎷 College Park Jazz Fest: Sun., The Hall College Park, 💲💲
• 🛍️ Market on The Street: Sun., Takoma Park
• 🎵 Free pick — Sunday Serenade: Sun., Cabin John Regional Park
• 🎹 Free pick — Road Trip Poets at BabyCat Brewery: Sun., Kensington

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The Restaurant Association Metropolitan Washington (RAMW) announced finalists for the awards on Monday — including restaurants and bars nominated by the public on NBC Washington’s website.

The public voting categories are Favorite Gathering Place, Best Brunch, Best Bar, Favorite Fast Bites and Hottest Sandwich Spot. You can vote on the finalists here until May 31.

Finalists in other categories, including wine program of the year and chef of the year, were chosen by restaurant industry insiders.

The winners will be named June 9 at the Washington Convention Center in a ceremony hosted by News4’s Eun Yang and Jummy Olabanji.

Here’s the full list of 2023 RAMMY Award finalists, plus eligibility details, according to RAMW.

2023 RAMMY Award Nominees

Joan Hisaoka Allied Member of the Year: The award is presented to an associate member who best exemplifies commitment to and support of RAMW. This award recipient is determined by the Executive Committee of RAMW.

• Ecolab
• Harmony Group
• Keany Produce and Gourmet
• MarginEdge
• Saval Foodservice

New Restaurant of the Year: A restaurant that must have opened between January 1, 2022 and December 31, 2022 and already distinguishes itself as a pacesetter in food, beverage and hospitality. The nominee must be a current member of RAMW.

• Bar Ivy
• Causa/Amazonia
• Nama Ko
• Opal
• Rania

Cocktail Program of the Year: The establishment is distinguished by the quality, diversity, clarity and value of its craft cocktail program, evaluated separately from its beer, wine or other beverages. Nominees may be bars, restaurants, or any foodservice establishment with an exemplary cocktail program. The nominee continues to break new ground in the education of its staff. The nominee must be a current member of RAMW and must have been in business a minimum of one year by December 31, 2022.

• Jane Jane
• Salt
• Service Bar
• Silver Lyan
• The Green Zone

Beer Program of the Year: The establishment is distinguished by the quality, diversity, clarity and value of its beer program. Brewery restaurants and brewpubs are eligible for this category and will be judged based on the diversity and quality of their craft beer. The nominee continues to break new ground in the education of its staff. The nominee must be a current member of RAMW and must have been in business a minimum of one year by December 31, 2022.

• Boundary Stone
• Lost and Found
• The Midlands Beer Garden
• Shelter
• Solace

Wine Program of the Year: The establishment is distinguished by the quality, diversity, clarity and value of its wine program. The nominee’s wine program best suits the cuisine and style of the restaurant while enhancing the dining experience. Wine bars are eligible for this category and will be judged based on the diversity and quality of their offerings. The nominee continues to break new ground in the education of its staff. The nominee must be a current member of RAMW and must have been in business a minimum of one year by December 31, 2022.

• Era Wine Bar
• Lulu’s Wine Garden
• Primrose
• Reveler’s Hour
• St. Anselm

Rising Culinary Star of the Year: The nominee is an “up and coming” chef who demonstrates exemplary talent, shows leadership and promise for the future. The nominee must have been based in the Metropolitan Washington area for a minimum of two years. The nominee must be a current member of RAMW, or be employed by a member business.

• Marcelle Afram, Shababi Palestinian Rotisserie Chicken
• Masako Morishita, Perry’s
• Kat Petonito, The Duck & The Peach, La Collina, The Wells
• Jessica and Alfredo Solis, Anafre, Mariscos 1133, Mezcalero
• Elias Taddesse, Mélange, Doro Soul Food

Favorite Gathering Place: This nominee is a restaurant rooted in its neighborhood where guests come to eat, drink, and get together with friends over and over again. The great atmosphere – indoors or outdoors – and good vibes are as important as the food and drink. The nominee must have been in business a minimum of one year by December 31, 2022.

• Chef Geoff’s
• Crazy Aunt Helen’s
• Moby Dick House of Kabob
• Ruthie’s All Day
• Tiki on 18th/The Game Sports Pub

Best Brunch: The nominee is a restaurant that demonstrates a high standard of dining excellence and service for its brunch in a formal, upscale, or casual environment. Brunch may be offered as full-service, buffet, or prix fixe. The nominee must have been in business a minimum of one year by December 31, 2022. 

• Circa
• Founding Farmers
• Maiz64
• Seasons at Four Seasons
• Urban Roast

The Scene Apr 10

2023 RAMMY Awards: Voting Now Closed; Winners Announced July 9

Best Bar: The nominee is an establishment whose primary focus is beverages in a casual or upscale environment, with or without food. Patrons are there for the drinks, the atmosphere, decor, and the hospitality. The nominee must have been in business a minimum of one year by December 31, 2022. 

• Exiles
• Ivy and Coney
• McClellan’s Retreat
• Metrobar
• Tap99

Favorite Fast Bites: This nominee is a delicatessen, quick-serve restaurant, bakery, mobile food vendor, or coffee shop (with food menu) that demonstrates a dedication to good food and good service in a fast-casual environment. The nominee must have been in operation for a minimum of one year as of December 31, 2022.

• Chef Skip 202
• RASA
• Roaming Rooster
• Spice Kitchen West African Grill
• Stellina Pizzeria

Hottest Sandwich Spot: This nominee is a casual restaurant, quick-serve, or mobile food vendor with a menu dedicated to creative and delicious sandwiches that demonstrate excellence and skill. The nominee must have operated a minimum of six months between January 1, 2022 and December 31, 2022.

• Compliments Only
• Fight Club
• FishScale
• Grazie Grazie
• Soko Butcher

Employee of the Year: The nominee is a non-managerial front or back of the house employee who serves as a model employee by displaying outstanding service, an excellent work ethic and a positive image. The nominee must be a current member of RAMW, or be employed by a member business.

• Kodjo “Olivier” Etenda, The Popal Group
• Crescencio Martinez, All Purpose Shaw
• Nabil Moussa, Le Diplomate
• Guillermo Mendoza, The Red Hen
• Veronica Rodriguez, Truluck’s Ocean’s Finest Seafood

Manager of the Year: The nominee is a non-owner manager or general manager in the food service industry who displays the highest level of professionalism and leadership. This person must be an inspiration and mentor to all his/her co-workers displaying outstanding service, an excellent work ethic and a positive image. The nominee must be a current member of RAMW, or be employed by a member business.

• Brittany Dye, Circa Foggy Bottom
• Christine Kim, Service Bar
• Snjezana Jaksic, Ambar Clarendon
• Javier Perez, Jaleo
• Cesare Sanchez, Maiz64

Service Program of the Year: This nominee is a restaurant that demonstrates a high standard of excellence in service across the restaurant – from the reservation process, to the host station, to every element of the dining experience. The nominee must be a current member of RAMW and must have been in business a minimum of one year by December 31, 2022.

• Chef Geoff’s
• Joe’s Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab
• Lutèce
• Reveler’s Hour
• Unconventional Diner

Casual Restaurant of the Year: The nominee is a restaurant that demonstrates a dedication to dining excellence, service, and value in a casual environment. The nominee must be a current member of RAMW and must have been in business a minimum of one year by December 31, 2022.

• Bammy’s
• Destino
• Maketto
• Pennyroyal Station
• Tonari

Upscale Casual Restaurant of the Year: The nominee is a restaurant that demonstrates a high standard of dining excellence and service in an upscale casual environment. The nominee must be a current member of RAMW and must have been in business a minimum of one year by December 31, 2022.

• Anju
• Dauphine’s
• L’Ardente
• Moon Rabbit
• Rooster and Owl

Pastry Chef or Baker of the Year: The nominee is a restaurant pastry chef or baker who prepares desserts, baked goods, or breads and demonstrates a high standard of excellence and culinary artistry. The nominee serves as an inspiration to other food professionals. The nominee must have been a pastry chef or baker for the past three years with a minimum of one year based in the Metropolitan Washington area. The nominee must be a current member of RAMW, or be employed by a member business.

• Rochelle Cooper, The Duck & The Peach, La Collina, The Wells
• Sam Cooper, Bread Alley, Le Diplomate, St. Anselm
• Bridie McCulla, Liberty Restaurant Group
• Mary Mendoza, Bantam King, Hole in the Wall, Tonari
• Teresa Velazquez, Baked and Wired, A Baked Joint

Formal Fine Dining Restaurant of the Year: The nominee is a restaurant that demonstrates a high standard of excellence in food, service and atmosphere and shows dedication to sophisticated culinary techniques in a fine dining environment. The nominee must be a current member of RAMW and must have been in business a minimum of one year by December 31, 2022.

• Blue Rock
• Jônt
• Oyster Oyster
• The Dabney
• Xiquet by Danny Lledó

Chef of the Year: The nominee is an executive chef or chef de cuisine who demonstrates consistent standards of culinary excellence. The nominee displays a dedication to the artistry of food and may be from any type of establishment. The nominee must have been a chef for the past five years with a minimum of two years based in the Metropolitan Washington area. The nominee must be a current member of RAMW, or be employed by a member business.

• Matt Adler, Caruso’s Grocery
• Matt Conroy, Lutèce
• Ryan Ratino, Bresca, Jônt
• Jon Sybert, Tail Up Goat, Reveler’s Hour
• Kevin Tien, Moon Rabbit

Restaurateur of the Year: The nominee must be a working restaurateur or restaurant group who sets high standards in restaurant operations and entrepreneurship. Candidates must have been in the restaurant business for a minimum of 5 years in the Metropolitan Washington area. The nominee must be a current member of RAMW.

• Kyle Bailey, Jon Ball, Jeremy Carman, Gavin Coleman, and Paul Holder, Long Shot Hospitality
• Greg Casten and Tony Cibel,  Fish and Fire Food Group
• Andrew Dana and Daniela Moreira, Timber Pizza, Call Your Mother, Turu’s, Mercy Me
• Zubair, Omar, Fatima, and Shamim Popal, The Popal Group
• Rose Previte, Compass Rose, Maydan, Kirby Club

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So what better icon to carve onto the building than Darth Vader, the infamous villain from “Star Wars?”

According to National Cathedral chief of communications Kevin Eckstrom, the Sith lord looms over the north side of the Cathedral because of a 1985 contest sponsored by children’s magazine National Geographic World.

The magazine took submissions from readers, and then counted votes for the different options to decide what stonemasons would actually carve. Darth Vader came in fourth, “but don’t tell him that,” Eckstrom said. Vader is already on the dark side — literally, keeping watch on the north side of the Cathedral, which gets less light.

Other winners of the contest, affixed since 1986 to nearby gablets on the building, include a toothy man holding an umbrella, a girl with big teeth and braces, and a raccoon. Despite Vader being the only pop-culture figure decorating the building, Eckstrom says the Cathedral has never heard from Disney or George Lucas about any copyright concerns.

“We’re assuming 30 years in, that they’re all right with that,” he said.

The “Star Wars” villain is just one of the many intriguing carvings that decorate the building.

What Counts as a Gargoyle?

“All gargoyles are grotesques, but not all grotesques are gargoyles,” Eckstrom explained.

Around 1,130 of the carvings on the building are grotesques, which, according to Eckstrom, mainly serve as decoration. They can look like animals, humans, humanoids, or “crazy devilish looking things.”

Gargoyles are a subgenre of grotesque that serve a functional purpose, and there are about 112 of them on the National Cathedral. They’re used as part of the rain gutter system.

Gargoyles are grotesques that have pipes in their mouths, and they carry water away from the building. The gargoyles on the highest level funnel the water to the next layer of gutters and gargoyles further down, creating “a cascading system of gargoyles that ultimately push the water down to the ground level,” Eckstrom said.

That’s a very important function to avoid damage on a building made of carved stone.

“One of the worst things you can have in a stone building is water,” Eckstrom said.

The gargoyles tend to be larger than the grotesques, generally between two and three feet in size. But beyond that requirement, “there was no rulebook” for the stonemasons carving the creatures.

“Sometimes, you know, they would get instructions like, ‘oh, make it look like this person,’ or, ‘we want to represent'” a particular idea or concept, Eckstrom said.

Historically, during the medieval era, gargoyles were “a way that the church adopted popular culture,” Eckstrom said.

“There was a belief in evil spirits, and so they put these gargoyles, these scary-looking creatures, on the building to repel the evil spirits,” Eckstrom said. “That’s originally why they were sort of spooky looking.”

The National Cathedral’s gargoyles, mostly carved in the 1960s, ’70s and ’80s, tend to be more whimsical than frightening, Eckstrom said. And for the most part, “the carvers were really allowed to let their imagination run wild.”

The caveat was that the designs did have to be approved by the head stonemason at the time of construction — and there is at least one gargoyle that didn’t make the cut, according to current Head Stonemason Joe Alonso.

Rejected Gargoyle

That gargoyle is a grimacing skeleton, with a bulbous head, hollow staring eyes, large molars and knobbly, visible ribs.

“This guy was supposed to actually go up on the west towers,” Alonso said. But the gargoyle, as Alonso heard it, was rejected because of the way it was carved.

“Whenever you carve something on the outside of the building, it has to be carved in a way that the water will wash over it, flow over it,” Alonso said.

Unfortunately, the nooks and crannies in the gargoyle’s ribs and the flat surface of his head meant that “this could have potentially held water, and would not have shed the water properly,” Alonso said. “So they rejected it.”

The carver created another gargoyle that did go on the building, according to Alonso, but the first rejected creature has floated around the National Cathedral over the years. At one point, the gargoyle was sold to someone who rigged it up near their backyard swimming pool, Alonso said — but when the buyer moved, they donated it back to the Cathedral.

“The poor guy has had quite a journey all his life,” Alonso said, patting the gargoyle’s skeletal head.

Meet “Decap”

“Decap” is another gargoyle that has seen his fair share of trouble.

Originally known as “Bat-like,” according to a gargoyle guidebook published by the Cathedral in 2003, Decap got his nickname because he was decapitated during the region’s infamous 2011 earthquake.

That magnitude-5.8 quake, which lasted about 58 seconds, did significant damage to buildings around D.C. Taller structures took the biggest hits, as the energy from the earth searched for outlets and traveled up the highest buildings.

Decap’s home on the west side of the south transept puts him right under on of the large pinnacles that came loose and twisted around in 2011.

“All that energy, it’s like a giant hand took that big pinnacle and spun it counter clockwise,” Alonso said.

The gargoyle’s home was on a balcony about 20 feet below that twisted pinnacle.

The twisting meant “some big chunks of stone came off the columns… and probably a big sized chunk of stone, probably 30- [to] 40-pound hunk of stone, came down just right and struck him in the head and snapped it off very cleanly,” Alonso said.

Miraculously, none of the falling stones hurt anyone in their journey down to earth, and Decap’s head didn’t even make it all the way to the ground.

“Luckily, the lead drain pipe that runs through the gargoyle’s mouth held the head,” Alonso said. “It was dangling off the pipe for two and a half months until we were able to get up there with a crane that October.”

The painstaking repair work on the National Cathedral is still ongoing, twelve years after the earthquake. It’s cost about $24 million so far, with about $14 million worth of repair work still to go, mostly in the central tower, Eckstrom said.

Some of that work includes internal reinforcements in the form of stainless steel rods, which will keep the stone pinnacles and spires secure should another earthquake strike the D.C. area, Eckstrom said.

Other repairs are more aesthetic. Alonso and his crew are fixing Decap this summer, as they perform other work on scaffolding high up on the south transept.

“We’ll do a little re-capitation of the head,” Alonso said. “We’ll drill some stainless steel rods in there, and pins, and use a special epoxy that we use on stone, and we’ll get him back good as new.”

“Then his name will be changed to Recap,” Alonso said.

Decap was one of only two gargoyles, out of the 112 on the building, that were damaged in the quake.

The other, known as “Flat-nosed Humanoid,” is missing a chunk from its left arm — likely also due to a piece of stone falling from above, Alonso says. That gargoyle is still solidly attached to the building.

“One of our stone carvers, very talented guy, Andy, will be up there this summer carving a new arm form,” Alonso said. “So what he’ll do is cut out a pocket and graft a block of stone in the place where the arm was, and then he’ll be able to re-carve the arm using, I guess his right arm, as an example.”

Where Are the Gargoyles?

With a grand total of 1,242 gargoyles and grotesques on the National Cathedral, there’s no shortage of carvings for visitors to seek out.

Other notable gargoyles and grotesques include:

• Medusa: This gargoyle is the personal favorite of Alonso, “if I had to choose one,” he said. He helped install her on the southwest tower, and she was among the last gargoyles to be carved for the Cathedral back in the 1980s. “She is just magnificent. Snakes in the hair, the whole deal.”
• Rattlesnake: If Eckstrom had to pick another favorite carving after Darth Vader, he said he’d go with the rattlesnake on the north nave. Rattlesnakes are indigenous to North America, Eckstrom explained, and the carvers wanted to add “a distinctly American animal on the Cathedral.”
• Donkey and Elephant: It’s D.C., so of course the Cathedral has a nod to American politics. On the south nave, a trumpeting elephant and a donkey with its ears thrown back are carved onto each corner of the gablet. They were added during the 1968 election.

Some of the gargoyles and grotesques can be spotted from the ground. The National Cathedral’s website has an interactive map here, which you can use anytime during the dawn-to-dusk visiting hours of the Cathedral grounds.

If you want to get closer to the high-up carvings, like Darth Vader, however, the Cathedral offers a special “Angels and Monsters Tower Climb” a couple of times per month during the spring and summer. You can buy tickets for about $50 here, but be warned — tickets sell out fast, according to Eckstrom.

You won’t be able to head up on the scaffolding, but to get to the high-up balconies, tour-takers need to climb steep steps and walk through narrow hallways and doors, so it’s not ideal for anyone claustrophobic or afraid of heights.

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If you’re looking to stroll through fields of endless blooms, pick your own flowers or snag a few Instagram pictures, check out Burnside Farms in Nokesville, Virginia.

The farm’s Festival of Spring kicked off on Tuesday, and Burnside Farms estimates it will last until April 26.

“Our spring season only lasts about 3 weeks and exact timing is very hard to predict as these flowers bloom according to the spring weather patterns and Mother Nature is in charge of that,” the farm’s website reads.

Burnside Farms says they’ve planted more than 150 kinds of tulips and 30 varieties of daffodils.

“It’s like Holland in Virginia,” Burnside Farms says.

Timed tickets are available now and range from $19 to $31 per person. Each ticket includes five flowers per visitor. Here’s more information.

If you catch tulip fever during your visit, Burnside Farms has a passport for unlimited access to the spring and summer festivals starting at $70.

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Oh, the pastel places you’ll go this weekend.

Beyond Passover dinner and Easter brunch, our top picks for this weekend are a PEEP show and Dr. Seuss-themed adventure in Northern Virginia, cherry blossom fireworks along the Anacostia River and a beer festival taking over Nationals Park.

⚽ DC United, 🏀 the Wizards and 🏒 the Capitals have home games.

🧣 Get ready to show off your favorite spring jacket: This weekend will be cool. Sunday is looking better for outdoor plans. Here’s the forecast.

Peep Week (Through Sat., Occoquan)

A sugar rush of cuteness! See PEEPS® dioramas in shops around Historic Occoquan and at the Occoquan Town Hall. It’s free to visit. Vote on your favorite for a chance to win $100 gift cards.

Want to make a day out of your trip to Occoquan? Rent kayaks or paddleboards at Occoquan Regional Park (note age requirements). Workhouse Arts Center also hosts an art walk Saturday evening.

The Dr. Seuss Experience (Opens Fri.)

Oh, the places you’ll go inside Tysons Corner Center. Truffula Trees, costumed characters and Seuss-themed rides inspired by nine different books are coming to life through June. Tickets run $27.20-$34.

DC Beer Fest (Sat.)

Head to Nats Park to sample beers from dozens of craft breweries while enjoying dueling pianos, cover bands, DJs and food trucks. GA tickets start at $50. There are two sessions: noon to 3 p.m. and 5 to 8 p.m.

And if you need brunch before you go, check out our guide to eating and drinking in Navy Yard.

Petalpalooza (Sat., 1 to 9 p.m., Capitol Riverfront)

This cherry blossom-themed festival will bring interactive art installations, stages with live music, a beverage garden and more to five zones around the Capitol Riverfront area.

The Official National Cherry Blossom Festival Fireworks Show will fire at 8:30 p.m., visible along the Anacostia River — including in Anacostia Park.

Festival highlights:

• Absolutely Dragulous and ‘90s cover band White Ford Bronco are set to perform at Diamond Teague Park
• For kids, check out sports mascots at the Navy Yard/Ballpark Metro, circus-style performers at The Great Lawn and crafts at Diamond Teague Park
• Sip from a cocktail bar and coffee sample station at Tingey Plaza

More Things to Do in Washington DC

• 🌷 Dutch Tulip Days (Through Fri., Kalorama neighborhood, free)
• 🐶 Paws & Petals Yappy Hour (Fri., metrobar, free)
• 😆 Dark Comedy Show (Fri., Tokyo Pearl, 💲)
• 🌳 Community Tree Planting (Sat., Mount Olivet Cemetery, free)
• 🎷 Jazz & Blossoms (Sat., Franklin Park, free)
• 🕺 “Introduce your kid to good music” dance party (Sat., DC9, 💲)
• 🎸 British Rock: Bangers & Mashups Presented by 7DrumCity (Sat., Pearl Street Warehouse, 💲)
• 😆 Hell Is Real: A Live Comedy Show (Sat., The Public Option, free)
• 📽️ “Ramen Heads” screening (Sun., National Museum of Asian Art, free)
• 🔹 Indigo & Shibori 101 workshop (Sun., Rhizome DC, 💲)

National Zoo Mar 31

Important List: Here Are the Newest & Fuzziest Babies at DC's National Zoo

Things to Do DC Mar 30

Virginia Tulip Festival Set to Bloom in April

More Things to Do in Maryland

• Bikini Kill (Thurs., Fillmore): The Scene’s Music Snob says the riot grrrl pioneers’ concert is a bucket list show.
• 🧗 Glow in the Park (Fri., Sandy Spring, 💲💲💲): Zipline and climb after sunset in a glowed-up at The Adventure Park at Sandy Spring.
• 👟 Walking Tour: The Lost History of Frederick Douglass & Frederick City (Sat., Frederick City, 💲)
• 💃🏿 Celebrating African Rhythms through Dance & Song (Sat., Brookville, free)

More Things to Do in Virginia

• 🌷 Virginia Tulip Festival (Nokesville, 💲💲)
• 🦾 CHARGED UP robotics competition (Fri. and Sat., EagleBank Arena, free)
• 😆 Rhodeside Comedy Bunker 13: Chris Alan (Fri., Arlington, 💲)
• 🐰 Easter at The Perch (Sat., Capital One Center, Tysons, 💲💲)
• 🌸 Springfield Town Center Blossom Fest (Sat., Springfield, free)
• 😆 Comedy Karaoke Trivia Funtime Show (Sat., Arlington, 💲)

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Whether you are looking for an upscale environment to something more casual, there is an option for everyone. Here are some of Washington, D.C.’s best brunch and dinner specials.

Bourbon Steak (Northwest D.C.): Chef Michael Mina’s American Steakhouse at the Four Seasons in Georgetown is offering a three-course pre-fixe brunch menu for $130 per person.

CUT by Wolfgang Puck (Northwest D.C.): For $115 per adult and $65 per child, order a pre-fixe brunch menu featuring Maine lobster bisque and pork belly Benedict.

Estuary (Northwest D.C.): Enjoy an Easter brunch starting at 7 a.m. that includes the complimentary dessert bar. At the rooftop bar Summit from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Conrad D.C. will be hosting an egg hunt for kids under 10. The bar will offer sparkling wine and rosé to adults.

Gravitas (Northeast): Celebrate Easter Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. with a three-course brunch from chef Matt Baker. Children’s meals are available as an add-on option.

Things to Do DC Mar 30

Virginia Tulip Festival Set to Bloom in April

Washington DC Mar 29

Where to Eat and Drink Near Nationals Park: New Restaurants, Happy Hours, Brunches

JÔNT (Northwest D.C.): Chef Ryan Ratino is offering a twenty-course tasting menu only at JÔNT. Reserve your spot for 4:30 p.m. or 7:15 p.m.

Le Clou (Northeast D.C.): Located in the Morrow Hotel, get an Easter Sunday brunch with dishes such as eggs Benedict and jambalaya. Also, enjoy a raw bar and carving station.

Moon Rabbit (Southwest D.C.): Enjoy Easter brunch by either dining in or taking out from chef Kevin Tien’s holiday menu. The menu features a three-course brunch with dishes like curry hot cross buns and leg of lamb.

Osteria Morini (Southeast D.C.): Enjoy Italian fine dining at The Yards from 5 p.m. until 10 p.m. on Easter Sunday. Easter special dishes include short rib-filled ravioli and braised lamb shank.

Theismann’s Restaurant (Alexandria, Virginia): Eat breakfast then join an Easter egg hunt and basket-making on Saturday and Sunday from 8 to 10 a.m. Children can meet and take photos with the Easter Bunny, too. Tickets are $61 for adults and $34 for children.

The Restaurant at Blue Rock (Washington, Virginia): Celebrate Easter with a special multicourse dinner and wine-pairing. The menu includes morel mushroom risotto and roasted Atlantic monkfish. Reservations are $135 per person. The wine pairing costs $89.

Rooftop Terrace at the Kennedy Center (Northwest D.C.): Visit the Kennedy Center for $75 bottomless mimosa brunch, which includes all the coffee and juice you’d like to drink. For the table, enjoy sharable plates like cheese and charcuterie and jumbo shrimp cocktails. The main course includes Chesapeake crab hash and Colorado roasted lamb.

Quadrant (Northwest D.C.): Enjoy afternoon tea with Quadrant’s “Tea Time” menu on Saturday and Easter Sunday from 2 to 4 p.m. Tea menu includes Taiwanese oolongs and Chinese white tea.

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The highly-anticipated venue will be a near replica of the original 9:30 Club and host up to 450 concertgoers on 9th Street NW.

The Foo Fighters will play the new venue’s first show nearly two years after frontman Dave Grohl revealed the news at a surprise 9:30 Club concert while reminiscing about the legendary venue’s original location (and smell) at 930 F Street NW, calling it “our church.”

“That’s where we all played first. That’s where R.E.M. played first. That’s where the [Red Hot] Chili Peppers played first. That’s where Nirvana played first… Magic happened in that room. And if the new room has the same vibe as the old 9:30 Club, you’ll see some real magic there, too,” Grohl said.

The Atlantis is not only hosting a sort-of homecoming for Grohl, who grew up in Northern Virginia. It’s also set to be one of the band’s first shows since their longtime drummer Taylor Hawkins died while on tour in March 2022.

The rest of the inaugural summer lineup is stacked with talent capable of selling out much larger venues, including The Walkmen, Rainbow Kitten Surprise, Pixies, Yo La Tengo, Marc Roberge of O.A.R., Darius Rucker, Tegan and Sara, Portugal. The Man, Thievery Corporation, Joan Jett, Gary Clark Jr., Billy Idol and Maggie Rogers.

Interest in tickets — which are $44 before fees — is expected to be high, and The Atlantis is launching a lottery system via Ticketmaster Request.

Fans have until Friday at 11:59 p.m. to select which shows they’re interested in. Concertgoers can pick up to 12 shows, or request a pass to all 44 shows (face value: $2,420).

If a fan is selected from the lottery, their credit card will automatically be charged. Sales will be finalized and tickets are set to be distributed starting Monday and continuing for the next four days, The Atlantis says.

If you don’t get tickets, never fear. Several of the artists will perform at one of I.M.P. Concerts’ other venues, such as The Anthem or the actual 9:30 Club, while they’re in D.C.

Once The Atlantis gets through their big-name debut summer, they hope to book smaller artists who will someday play their larger venues.

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Passover is a week-long holiday that is celebrated by Jewish people each spring to commemorate their freedom from slavery. On Passover, Jews use the foods on the Seder plate to retell the story of their exodus out of Egypt.

Check out these last-minute Passover dinner options around the D.C. area to enjoy:

Call Your Mother Deli: Pecan matzo brittle will be available in-store from Wednesday, April 5, through Thursday, April 13 from their multiple locations in Maryland, D.C. and Virginia.

CMB at Home: Take home your Passover dinner from April 5 through 13. The four-course meal package serves two people, or order entrees just for yourself. Highlights include slow-roasted brisket and grilled lamb sirloin with gremolata.

Jewish Veg Zeder: Don’t miss Jewish Veg’s third annual vegan Zoom Seder Thursday, April 6 at 6:30 p.m. You will have the opportunity to choose breakout rooms to play games, sing, and share recipes. Tickets are $18.

Joe’s Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab (Northwest D.C.): Enjoy Passover dinner on Wednesday, April 5 and Thursday, April 6 from 4 to 9 p.m. with many items such as gefilte fish with red beet horseradish and herb-roasted chicken. The dinner is $69.95 per person and $29.95 for children under 12. Carry-out is also offered.

Passover Seder 2023 with American Friends of Lubavitch (Northwest D.C.): Join an in-person Seder beginning at 8 p.m. on Wednesday, April 5 and at 8:45 p.m. Thursday, April 6. Adult reservations start at $72.

Sababa (Northwest D.C.): Dinner specials during the duration of Passover, available for dine-in or pickup. A la carte dishes such as matzo-crusted chicken schnitzel with sweet corn tahina and braised beef brisket, range from $12 to $28.

Teddy & The Bully Bar (Northwest D.C.): This American restaurant is offering a sit-down Seder spread on April 5 and 6 from 4:30 to 9 p.m. Take-out and delivery options are also available. The Seder dinner is $55 per person and $25 for kids.

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Guests are invited to walk around the grounds and enjoy the gardens, including the Rose Garden, White House Kitchen Garden, Jacqueline Kennedy Garden and the South Lawn, from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on either day.

The event is free and open to the public, but timed tickets are required for all attendees, including children.

The National Park Service will distribute same-day tickets starting at 8:30 a.m. this Saturday and Sunday until they run out. Ticket distribution will be at a tent outside the White House Visitor Center at 1450 Pennsylvania Ave. NW.

The entry point for all guests is located on 15th Street NW, between E Street NW and Constitution Avenue. Before you go, take a look at the list of items you can’t bring to the White House grounds (including bags or backpacks larger than 18″x13″x7″).

If you can’t make it, or if you miss out on tickets, your next chance will be in the fall. White House Garden Tours are generally available one weekend each in spring and fall, typically in April and October, the NPS says.

The White House will also host members of the public for its Easter Egg Roll on April 10, but the ticket lottery for that event has already closed.

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Happy spring break/”stand on the left” season, D.C.! No joke: How is the first weekend of April already (almost) here?

We’re rating the weekend weather a 6/10: We’ll start with warm temps, plus showers late Friday and early Saturday. Sunday will be chilly and breezy. Here’s the forecast.

Spring is in full swing around D.C.

• ⚾ It’s baseball season! The Nats face the Braves on Thursday (1:05 p.m.), Saturday (4:05 p.m.) and Sunday (1:35 p.m.). Here’s our guide to Nats Park and opening weekend. Check out Opening Day specials or where to eat and drink near Nats Park.
• 🌸 Cherry blossom viewing time is winding down, but you can still join the fun by checking out mini blossom kite festivals in a dozen neighborhood parks on Saturday, or the Spring Wine Fling, where restaurants offer $55 two-course, two-wine dinners. Don’t forget these can’t-miss cherry blossom events and cherry blossom food & drink specials. The Credit Union Cherry Blossom 10 Mile & 5K is also happening this weekend.
• 🌷 The Virginia Tulip Festival is coming up in April, with ticket sales starting Friday.

Things to Do in Washington DC

Free pick — We Who Believe in Freedom: Black Feminist DC (Opening ceremony Thurs., MLK Library): The National Women’s History Museum’s first full exhibit honors Black women who fought for freedom and liberty, including Anna Julia Cooper, Eleanor Holmes Norton, Mary Treadwell and Nkenge Touré, for fellow citizens in the District and beyond. After the opening night celebration and ribbon cutting, you can visit the exhibit during the MLK Library’s normal hours. It’s set to be open until September 2024.

Free pick — Cherokee Days Festival (Fri. to Sun., National Museum of the American Indian): Art demonstrations, musical performances and storytelling take over the museum’s atrium.

Washington DC Mar 29

Where to Eat and Drink Near Nationals Park: New Restaurants, Happy Hours, Brunches

Cherry Blossoms Mar 22

Say Cheers to Cherry Blossom Food and Drink Specials in the DMV

Cherry Night (Fri., various venues): Clubs and bars across D.C. are throwing cherry-themed parties in honor of the National Cherry Blossom Festival. Just to name a few options: Wunder Garten is throwing a Nicki Minaj dance party, Dirty Habit is featuring a special menu of Japanese eats and Hook Hall is hosting a silent disco.

Free pick — White House Spring Garden Tours (Sat. and Sun.): The White House only opens its gardens and South Grounds to the public a couple times a year, tops. Timed tickets will become available at the White House Visitor Center at 8:30 a.m. — line up early!

Free pick — Marvin Gaye Birthday Celebration (Sun., Sandlot Anacostia): The outdoor venue at 633 Howard Road Southeast will be celebrating Marvin Gaye’s birthday with live music and entertainment from noon to 5 p.m. Sunday (there are also events happening at the Tysons and Georgetown locations).

Free pick — NoMa in Bloom Festival (Sat., Alethia Tanner Park): Bring a kite to fly, or stop by for live music, an artisan market, a live chalk mural creation and food.

Free pick — National Gallery First Saturday (Sat., National Gallery of Art): Register for a presentation and book signing by “plantfluencer” and “Living Wild” author Hilton Carter (1 p.m.), dabble in screenprinting or hear gallery talks by violinist Peter Sheppard Skaerved. Kids can enjoy films and making flower collages.

Cherry Blossom Wine & Beer Festival (Sat., National Union Building, 💲💲💲): Grab your friends to sample unlimited wines, craft beers and ciders while enjoying live music. Tickets start at $60.

Free pick — Bloomaroo (Sat., 2-9 p.m.): The Wharf’s cherry blossom celebration will feature two stages of live music; activities including matcha tea sampling and a karaoke stage; a beer garden and fireworks at 8:30 p.m. Entry is free. 

Music Snob pick — Sunset Rubdown (Sat., 8 p.m., Howard Theatre, 💲💲): These Montreal art rockers reunited for a 2023 tour. Their initial, critically acclaimed run in the 2000s was a side project for Wolf Parade’s Spencer Krug, centered by his unique vocals and quirky-but-catchy compositions.

Free pick — Oxon Run Pinknic & Kite Fly (Sun., Southeast D.C.): Free food and kite kits will be available, or you can shop at the Ward 8 Vendor Market, enjoy live performances and join various family-friendly activities.

Pigs Pigs Pigs Pigs Pigs Pigs Pigs (Sun., 8 p.m., DC9, $15): Pigsx7 revives their native England’s 1970s-’80s heavy metal (stoner leaning), with crunchy riffs and a sense of humor.

Free pick — Ay-Ō’s Happy Rainbow Hell (Smithsonian’s National Museum of Asian Art)

Things to Do in Virginia

Mr. Leesburg Pageant (Sat., Leesburg, 💲): Crooked Run Fermentation hosts the “first annual” pageant where a panel of judges will figure out who deserves the Mr. Leesburg title. Proceeds from the event benefit charities for at-risk women and youth, organizers say.

FXBG Brewfest (Sat., Fredericksburg Fairgrounds, 💲💲): Sample craft beers from Virginia and nationwide, in addition to cides, spirits and wine. Tickets are $30 in advance or $40 day-of.

Free pick — Pink in the Park (Sat., Arlington): One of the National Cherry Blossom Festival’s premier events comes to Long Bridge Park. Enjoy a day of live music, including Crush Funk Brass and Black Alley, a beer and wine garden, immersive art installations and giveaways.

Free pick — Manassas 150th Birthday Celebration (Sat., Jennie Dean Park): Local bands, hayrides, kids’ games, fireworks and more excitement can be found at Manassas’ big birthday bash.

Del Ray Dog Fest (Sun., George Washington Middle School parking lot, 💲): Bring your pup for yoga, doggy snack tastings, pet portraits, a dog fashion show, the Distracted Dog Race and more howling good times. Tickets cost $10-$15 and benefit rescue organization Project Second Chance. Dog Fest runs 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., then local participating restaurants and bars are set to offer Yappy Hour specials 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Things to Do in Maryland

Free pick — Y2K Pink Party (Sat., 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., Bethesda): Boy bands unite! Who better to host an LFO and O-Town concert at Westfield Montgomery mall than Chris Kirkpatrick of *NSYNC and Jeff Timmons of 98 Degrees? Entry is free.

Melwood’s 2nd Annual Eggstravaganza (Sat., Nanjemoy): Melwood Recreation Center’s egg hunt aims to be inclusive to all children. Families can also enjoy carnival rides and games, food trucks, face painting, a petting farm and more springtime fun from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Registration is free, but required, and families are asked to bring a nonperishable food item to donate.

Six Flags America opens for Scream Break (4/1 to 4/10, 💲💲): The park will be open daily through April 10, then will keep weekend hours through May.

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D.C.’s cherry blossom season is in full swing, but just across the state lines, preparations are underway for Burnside Farms’ Festival of Spring in Nokesville, Virginia.

Daily tickets for the Virginia Tulip Festival are on sale now for $19-$23 before fees.

“We release tickets about a week at a time. Check for new ticket releases each Wednesday at noon,” Burnside Farms said.

Burnside Farms says they’ve planted more than 150 kinds of tulips and 30 varieties of daffodils.

“It’s like Holland in Virginia,” Burnside Farms says.

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Opening day is expected to be sometime in the first week of April and typically lasts for 21 days after, according to Burnside Farms’ Instagram page.

“The exact day next week is still TBD and depends on how much color we see in the fields later this week,” Burnside Farms said on Monday.

Timed tickets range from $19 to $31 per person and include five flowers per visitor. Here’s more information.

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What’s the Nationals Schedule 2023?

You can see the rest of the Nats’ 2023 regular-season schedule online here, and tickets are available online here.

What’s New at Nationals Park in 2023? What About Food Options?

You’ll find new concession stands this year, including a lot more grab-and-go options. The Nats hope that will keep lines moving faster and cut down on the time it takes people to get their food.

More local restaurants will also be featured throughout Nats Park. Newcomers this year are Swizzler, Capo Italian Deli and Jammin’ Island BBQ.

There will also be new beer vending kiosks. The Beer Market has AI and scanners, which park officials hope will help streamline the process.

Mar 22

What Are the Key Dates for the 2023 MLB Season? From Opening Day to World Series

Washington DC Mar 29

Where to Eat and Drink Near Nationals Park: New Restaurants, Happy Hours, Brunches

Budweiser released limited-edition MLB cans for 14 teams, including the Washington Nationals. You can purchase the memorabilia cans in Nats Park and wherever Budweiser is sold.

A new “gamified” recycling initiative acts as a raffle. Any fan who recycles during the game and uses the approved recycling containers will automatically be entered into a chance to win tickets to the next Nats game.

Around Nats Park, nearly a dozen new food and drink options have arrived since the last Opening Day. Here’s where to eat around Navy Yard.

Hey, Do You Have a Seating Chart for Nationals Park?

Why, yes, we do. (More accurately, the Nats’ website does.)

It is here.

What Can We Expect from the Team in 2023?

Last year, the Nationals compiled the franchise’s worst record (55-107) since moving to Washington in 2005. In all likelihood, it will be an uphill battle for the organization again this year.

The biggest difference in Opening Day rosters from 2022 to 2023 is the absence of Juan Soto. Washington dealt the star outfielder, along with first baseman Josh Bell, to the San Diego Padres before last year’s trade deadline. The Nationals landed a haul of prospects in the trade, but it could take a while before those young players are truly able to impact winning at the major league level. Still, the growth of Cade Cavalli, CJ Abrams, Carter Kieboom and more are enough of a reason for Nats fans to tune in this season.

Manager Davey Martinez will trot out a familiar face to start the year. Patrick Corbin will make his second straight Opening Day start when the Nats host the Atlanta Braves at Nationals Park. The veteran lefty led the majors with 19 losses last season and had a career-worst 6.31 ERA.

One big thing working against the Nats in 2023 is the loaded NL East, which featured two 101-win teams and the eventual National League champions in 2022. The New York Mets went on a free agent spending spree and got Justin Verlander to take the place of Jacob deGrom. The Braves have locked in their core and are just a season removed from a World Series title. The Philadelphia Phillies went all the way from a wild card to the World Series last postseason before falling to the Houston Astros in the Fall Classic. Even the Miami Marlins finished 14 games ahead of the Nats in the division standings last season.

You might also notice a small update on players’ uniforms: The team will wear “TNL” patches on their uniforms all season, in honor of Ted Lerner, the Nats’ founding owner, who died in February at 97.

What’s the Best Way to Get to Nats Games? Are There Parking Garages?

You have plenty of options, including:

Metrorail: If you’re taking Metro, the closest station is Navy Yard-Ballpark on the Green Line, which is just a block from Nats Park. Another option is the Capitol South station on the Orange, Blue and Silver lines, which is a 15-minute walk from the ballpark.

Metrobus & Circulator: Several Metrobus routes serve the area. See timetables here and a map of all Metrobus routes here. You can also get to the ballpark via D.C.’s Circulator. The Union Station-Navy Yard route drops off riders at the M Street and New Jersey Avenue SE entrance to the Navy Yard Metro station. Find more info here.

Parking Garages: You can buy parking passes for covered or uncovered parking ahead of time online here. Drive-up parking is available on a game-by-game basis and is not available for all games. Note that Nats parking facilities are now cashless and will only accept credit cards. All lots will open 2.5 hours prior to the start of each game and will close an hour after the end of each game. Tailgating is not permitted at Nats parking facilities.

Bicycle: Have your own bike? Nats Park has a free bike valet in Garage C, at the corner of N and First streets SE. You’ll find the access point on First Street, to the left of the garage’s vehicle entrance. Want a short-term bike rental? Capital Bikeshare has four docking stations around Nats Park: 1st & N streets SE; 1st & K streets SE; 3rd & Tingey streets SE, and M Street & New Jersey Avenue SE.

Rideshare and Taxis: You can rideshare or take a taxi to Nats Park. Getting dropped off a block or two away could save you time and money sitting in traffic. After the game, you can catch a cab at the taxi stand on the north side of M Street SE between South Capitol and Half streets SE. If you want to Uber or Lyft home, Nationals Park recommends you don’t order a rideshare vehicle to South Capitol Street because it’s very busy. Try walking a few blocks north.

Water Taxi: The Potomac Riverboat Company offers water taxi service from Georgetown; Old Town Alexandria, Virginia, and National Harbor, Maryland, to the Diamond Teague Park pier, located across the street from Nationals Park. You can see the route and buy tickets here.

What Giveaways Are at Nationals Park? When Is Pups in the Park for 2023?

You’ll find plenty of promos and special events all season long, starting with Opening Day (naturally!), when the first 20,000 fans to arrive will get free T-shirts.

After that, other highlights include:

• April 15: Giveaway: Josiah Gray Bobblehead (first 20,000 fans)
• April 16: Pups in the Park; Value Day
• April 28: Giveaway: Nationals Fedora (first 20,000 fans)
• April 30: Kids’ opening day with a giveaway: kids’ rally cap (first 10,000 fans age 12 & under); Value Day
• May 12: Fireworks Friday
• May 19: Pups in the Park
• May 20: Star Wars Day with giveaway: dueling Hawaiian Shirts: Dark Side vs. Light Side (first 10,000 fans will receive one of two shirts)
• May 21: Teddy Handmade by Robots vinyl figure (first 10,000 fans ages 3-12)
• June 2: Fireworks Friday; U.S. Navy Day
• June 6: Night OUT; giveaway: Screech Night OUT bobblehead for Pride Month (the Night OUT VIP package includes a T-shirt and a $5 donation to Team DC per ticket)
• June 7: Pups in the Park
• July 3: Freedom Fireworks
• July 8: Harry Potter Day (giveaway: Harry Potter house scarves; first 10,000 fans will receive one of four scarves)
• July 17: Giveaway: Teddy & Abe Racing Presidents bobblehead (first 20,000 fans)
• Aug 16: Pups in the Park; Marine Corps Day
• Aug. 12: Giveaway: George & Tom Racing Presidents bobblehead (first 20,000 fans)
• Aug. 19: Caturday (Note: $5 towards each ticket goes towards the Humane Rescue Alliance. You cannot actually bring your cat!)
• Aug. 31: Ladies’ Night
• Sept. 5: Pups in the Park
• Sept. 23: Pups in the Park

On Value Days, tickets start at $9. Select concessions (25-ounce cans of domestic beer until the end of the 7th inning; hot dogs, fountain sodas and bottled water) are 40% off if you place a mobile order using the code VALUE. Select items at the Main Team Store are also 40% off, and parking for $10 is available in Lot W. Find more info on Value Days here.

Does Nationals Park Still Have COVID-19 Protocols?

Nats Park is again operating at full capacity. There are no vaccine or mask mandates in effect at this time, according to the Nationals’ website.

All Nationals employees are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

What’s the Clear Bag Policy at Nationals Park? What Else Can You Bring, and What’s Prohibited?

Yes, the clear bag policy is still in place, with limited exceptions.

You may bring:

• certain bags:
  • clutch bags 5″x7″x¾” or smaller
  • clear plastic, vinyl or PVC bags measuring 16″x16″x8″ or smaller — but any buckles, grommets, hardware or other décor can’t conceal any part of the bag
  • diaper bags or bags used for ADA/medical reasons measuring 16″x16″x8″ or smaller
  • bags purchased inside the Nats Park complex during the game will be tagged and permitted for that day only
• clear, factory-sealed or empty plastic water bottles no larger than one liter, juice boxes, insulin containers and baby food
  • Note: only one water bottle per person will be permitted
• single-serving food items, if they are contained in one of the approved bags under the Nationals’ current bag policy, or carried in your hands so the food items can be screened by security
• collapsible umbrellas

You may not bring:

• metal or glass containers of any kind, except for those mentioned above
• food items not adhering to the food policy above
• bags not adhering to the bag policy above
• non-collapsible umbrellas
• soft-sided coolers, hard coolers or ice chests
• brooms, poles or staffs of any kind
• weapons (including pocket knives), fireworks and other illegal substances
• camera lenses greater than eight inches, tripods, monopods and selfie sticks
• animals (except service animals)
• beach balls and other inflatable items
• laser pens and laser pointers
• baseball bats (however, baseball bats purchased inside the Nats Park complex during the game will be tagged and permitted for that day only)
• alcohol not purchased at the Nats Park complex
• noisemakers not provided by the Nationals
• skateboards, hoverboards, helmets and wheeled footwear
• drones or other unmanned aerial vehicles
• self-defense sprays (such as pepper spray and mace)
• toy guns (including water guns) and toy knives
• Any other item deemed dangerous, inappropriate or otherwise violating Nats Park’s Guest Conduct Policy

What’s the Weather Forecast for Opening Weekend?

Storm Team4 says high wind, rain chances and big temperature swings could have an impact on any weekend plans! Keep an eye on the forecast and gear up properly.

How Did the Nats Opening Day Go?

Major League Baseball’s official Opening Day was Thursday, March 30, and the Nats were in town for their first games this season! Including Opening Day, the Nats played six straight games at home to begin their season: back-to-back series against the Atlanta Braves (March 30; April 1, 2) and the Tampa Bay Rays (April 3, 4, 5).

Nats pitcher Patrick Corbin made his second straight Opening Day start this year. Festivities included a Budweiser Clydesdales procession led by Nats 2019 World Series champ (and “Baby Shark” aficionado) Gerardo Parra.

Ukraine’s ambassador to the United States, Oksana Markarova, threw out the ceremonial first pitch, and delivered a message of hope for her country in the midst of war.

“We fight for the values: freedom, democracy,” Oksana Markarova told News4’s Tommy McFly after her first pitch.

Ultimately, the Nationals lost to the Braves 7-2.

Manager Dave Martinez called repeated miscues “kind of disappointing,” but added: “These are going to be some of the growing pains we have. They’re teaching moments. We’re going to teach them and we’re going to get them to understand.”

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Whether you’re hunting for something new, a great bottomless brunch or a happy hour running on weekends, you have options.

Let’s play ball!

Top New Restaurants in Navy Yard

Ten new restaurants have cropped up in the ballpark area since last year’s Opening Day, according to the Capitol Riverfront Business Improvement District (and we were far from starved for great spots then).

A huge bar fashioned like an in-ground pool welcomes visitors to Royal Sands Social Club, while an upstairs bar grants a view of Nats Park’s main gate. Drinks beyond mimosas appear on the bottomless Darty Brunch menu. It costs $30.99, plus the purchase of an entrée. From 4-6 p.m. on weekdays, grab $5.50 beers, $9 cocktails, $6 shots and $9-$12 plates from the happy hour menu. For late-night weekend “pool parties,” Royal Sands often books DJs.

Pink Taco promises its signature blossom-hued tacos, Mexican dishes and margaritas, plus lit weekends between liquid brunch and late-night DJs. The happy hour menu, available 4-6 p.m. Monday to Friday, includes an $8 quesadilla, $5 beers and $10 margaritas.

Duke’s Grocery, well-known for its Proper Burger, is debuting a Mule Bar at its Navy Yard location that just opened this month. It’s also a good choice for a long-lasting happy hour: noon to 7 p.m. on weekdays.

Takoda Restaurant and Beer Garden branched out from its original Shaw, bringing burgers, wraps and salads to the corner of First and N streets SE. Saturday and Sunday bottomless brunch ($53) includes three courses and endless mimosas. Happy hour runs 4-6 p.m. Monday to Thursday.

Chicken + Whiskey serves Peruvian-style food, plus happy hour deals including 25% off whiskies and $9 cocktails on N Street SE, diagonal from the Main Box Office. Happy hour runs all day Monday, then 3-6 p.m. Tuesday to Friday.

Maryland-born chain The Greene Turtle offers some of the cheapest happy hour prices we’ve found around Nationals Park, including $3 select shots and tall drafts, $4 tots, $5 signature cocktails and wines and $15 Bud Light buckets from 3-6 p.m. Monday to Friday (mainstay Walters is another cheap option, with $5 draft beers, house wine and rail cocktails from 4-7 p.m. on weekdays).

Silver Diner arrived in D.C. with something for everyone: all-day breakfast and brunch, a kids’ menu, healthier “flexitarian” dishes, Blue Plate Specials discounts, a large drink menu — and a patio. Head upstairs to Silver Social for a great view of Center Field Gate.

Looking for something unique to do? Swingers offers three crazy golf courses, craft cocktails and elevated street food bites. You can go in for sips and snacks without booking time on the mini golf course.

More Bottomless Brunches in Navy Yard

Agua 301: Bottomless mimosas or sangria go for $20, or spend $4 more to choose between margaritas and bloody marys.

Due South: Bottomless mimosas will set you back $29. They come with waterfront views and elevated Southern cooking.

GATSBY: The ‘20s-themed restaurant doesn’t just do bottomless brunch (available for $27.99 with any entrée). You can indulge in bottomless select drinks with your dinner for $38.99.

Jackie American Bistro: If you need more than a mimosa, go here to sip endless select cocktails ($55 per person).

Weekend and Game Day Happy Hours in Navy Yard

The Bullpen: Any time the Nationals are playing a home game, you can grab $5 drinks at this outdoor venue during the 3^rd to 7^th innings.

District Winery: During Nationals home games, head to District winery within the two hours before or after a game for happy hour prices, including $5 beers, $7 wines, $10 cocktails and half-off select bottles. On any Sunday from 3 p.m. to close, pick up half-priced bottles of wine with a minimum $20 food purchase.

Hatoba: Happy hour deals on drinks lasts all day on Saturday and Sunday, ranging from $4 Busch Light and Landshark to $6 rail drinks to $9 cocktails to $25 bartender’s choice buckets.

Mission: Supersize your happy hour with 22-ounce beers for $9, cocktail pitchers for $26-$27, and more specials from 4-6 p.m. daily — including weekends and game days.

Tap 99: Discounts on select beer, cider, seltzer, cocktails and shots are available 4-7 p.m. Sunday to Friday and 2-8 p.m. on Saturday.

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