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  • Things to do in the DC area: Black Books Matter Fest, Mubadala Citi DC Open … and more! – WTOP News

    Things to do in the DC area: Black Books Matter Fest, Mubadala Citi DC Open … and more! – WTOP News

    Oxon Hill’s MahoganyBooks is celebrating the first-ever Black Books Matter Fest this weekend, plus so many other events are coming up. Check out WTOP’s weekly roundup of area events worth anticipating.

    This year, MahoganyBooks is celebrating with the first-ever Black Books Matter Fest.(Courtesy Kea Taylor of Imagine Photography DC)

    There’s so much to do in the D.C. area in the coming days, and WTOP has you covered with our weekly roundup of area events worth anticipating.

    Check back every Thursday for a roundup of Things to do in the D.C. area.

    Since its establishment in 2021 in Prince George’s County, Maryland, Black Books Matter Day has recognized the diverse authors of the African diaspora, plus the readers who support and are empowered by these literary works.

    For this year’s event, Oxon Hill’s MahoganyBooks is celebrating with the first-ever Black Books Matter Fest.

    In an interview with WTOP, owners and co-founders Ramunda and Derrick Young said that the event on Saturday, Aug. 3, features a vendor market with locally-owned businesses as well as a long list of local, independent authors, which can be found online.

    The inaugural event at 121 American Way in Oxon Hill, Maryland, includes a library card sign-up booth for the Prince George’s County Memorial Library System, a book swap featuring Morgan Menzies’ Pretty Little Bookshelf and a children’s story time with Kenda Bell, author of “Saturday Magic.”

    As part of the event, the community-focused bookstore is also celebrating the 100th birthday of writer and civil rights activist James Baldwin.

    “We really, really upped our inventory to be able to accommodate those who really want to take a little piece of James Baldwin home with them this weekend,” said Ramunda Young.

    Local authors also plan to read passages by Baldwin at the event to share how he’s impacted them.

    Other Baldwin-focused celebrations and commemorations in the D.C. area include the James Baldwin Centennial Series, which runs from Aug. 2 through Oct. 5. This series is hosted by Strathmore, who is partnering with the AFI Silver Theatre and Eaton D.C. to offer a documentary screening, creative writing workshop and a live musical performance, among other events.

    Through April 20 of 2025, the National Portrait Gallery is showcasing “This Morning, This Evening, So Soon: James Baldwin and the Voices of Queer Resistance.” This exhibition, guest curated by Pulitzer Prize-winning author Hilton Als, “explore(s) the interwoven lives of Baldwin.”

    On Thursday, the National Portrait Gallery is also hosting a free to attend poetry slam at the Kogod Courtyard.

    Here’s what else is happening in the D.C. area:

    DC

    Otakon
    The cosplayers are coming! Otakon, the annual, three-day anime convention, returns to the Walter E. Washington Convention Center with a wide selection of special guests who work in the industry, plus an artist alley, gaming hall and a dance. The event spans from Aug. 2 to 4 with single-day tickets that start at $40.

    African Diaspora International Film Festival
    From Aug. 2 through 4, this film festival at George Washington University celebrates the diversity of the human experience of people of color all over the world. Find more details about this event from WTOP.

    Jollof Festival
    Enjoy the delicious flavors of jollof rice at the Dew Drop Inn on Saturday, Aug. 3. General admission tickets start at $20.

    Amapiano Sundays
    Hook Hall on Sunday, Aug. 4, is bringing together food, music and dance from South Africa for Amapiano Sundays. Expect live DJs playing reggae, R&B and amapiano music, plus food vendors with South African and Jamaican fare. Tickets start at $20.

    Mubadala Citi DC Open
    Through Aug. 4, this professional tennis tournament at D.C.’s Rock Creek Park Tennis Center is expected to have an attendance of over 81,000. To be one of those guests, get your ticket while you still can.

    Maryland

    Water Lantern Festival
    In Oxon Hill, Maryland, this event allows the public to come together to release floating water lanterns into National Harbor Southpointe. The event is on Aug. 3 and 4 with tickets that cost approximately $35.

    Hootie & the Blowfish
    Celebrating the 30th anniversary of their album “Cracked Rear View,” Hootie & the Blowfish is performing at Merriweather Post Pavilion in Columbia, Maryland, this Saturday, Aug. 3. Catch Jason Fraley’s full interview with lead guitarist Mark Bryan on WTOP.

    The Howard County Fair
    From Aug. 3-10, the Howard County Fairgrounds is hosting a wide variety of events for summer fun, including square dancing, a “pretty animal contest,” a pie eating contest and equine exhibits, as well as live musical performances. Tickets cost $10 for those age 13 and older and $5 for those ages 62 and older.

    Virginia

    Zine-making workshop
    Independent creatives unite this Friday, Aug. 2, for an art zine workshop hosted by the creator of “Who Cares LOL,” a free zine that dives into Arlington, Virginia’s art scene. The event is at the Museum of Contemporary Art Arlington.

    Tax Free Weekend
    Enjoy shopping without any taxes on Aug. 2 through 4 in Alexandria, Virginia. Find the participating retailers and a helpful map here.

    Say hello to the Hello Kitty Cafe Truck
    This Saturday, Aug. 3, the pretty-in-pink Hello Kitty Cafe Truck is making its return to the D.C. area in Westpost at Arlington’s National Landing in the courtyard near DSW. Those who line up can expect new exclusive merchandise and treats. For those who can’t make it, the truck will make an appearance in Bethesda, Maryland, on Saturday, Aug. 10, at Bethesda Row across from the Apple store. At both events, the truck will be open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. No cash is accepted.

    Have an event you’d like featured in WTOP’s Things to do in the D.C. area weekly guide? Fill out this contact form to have your event considered.

    Get breaking news and daily headlines delivered to your email inbox by signing up here.

    © 2024 WTOP. All Rights Reserved. This website is not intended for users located within the European Economic Area.

    Michelle Goldchain

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  • Things to do in the DC area: Late Skate at Anacostia Park, SAAM Arcade … and more! – WTOP News

    Things to do in the DC area: Late Skate at Anacostia Park, SAAM Arcade … and more! – WTOP News

    There’s so much to do in the D.C. area in the coming days, and WTOP has you covered with our weekly roundup of area events worth anticipating.

    On July 27, the Anacostia Park Skating Pavilion is hosting an all-day, outdoor event called Late Skate, with live DJs, family portraits and, of course, skating.(Courtesy Friends of Anacostia Park)

    There’s so much to do in the D.C. area in the coming days, and WTOP has you covered with our weekly roundup of area events worth anticipating.

    If you’re searching for D.C.-area bars that are staying open late and offering specials during the Summer Olympics, head to this WTOP article for several options to consider.

    Check back every Thursday for a roundup of Things to do in the D.C. area.

    On Saturday, the Anacostia Park Skating Pavilion is hosting an all-day, outdoor event called Late Skate, with live DJs, family portraits and, of course, skating.

    “It’s authentic D.C.,” said Vince Vaise, program manager for visitor service at National Capital Parks-East. “You can hear the music pumping. The pavilion is all lit up like a big Christmas tree. And it’s a lot of fun.”

    Akiima Price, acting interim executive director for Friends of Anacostia Park, told WTOP the event, which goes from noon to 10 p.m., has a wide variety of activities. On the day of the event, the Anacostia Watershed Society offers boat trips for an experience on the Anacostia River, plus KiddieTown offers field games, card games and board games.

    For an intergenerational activity, folks have the opportunity to learn more about hand dancing, or guests can head to the Creativity Zone for “typical arts and crafts,” but “they’re more like coping crafts because we try to make them be activities that people can make and find use even beyond the park,” Price said.

    Vaise told WTOP guests don’t need to own skates to join in on the fun, saying the pavilion offers free “loaner skates.” People can bring their own grill or their own picnic.

    To get to the pavilion at 1500 Anacostia Drive SE in D.C., visitors can use a free shuttle bus or take the Metro to the Anacostia stop, though “it’s quite a walk” from the Metro station to the Pavilion, according to Price. Limited parking is available.

    If you can’t make it to the July event, there will be another Late Skate event at the Pavilion on Aug. 31.

    Here’s what else is happening in the D.C. area:

    DC

    Christmas in July
    Say “merry Christmas” in July at the Heurich House Museum’s Christmas in July event on Thursday. The free event includes a pop-up exhibit from the historic Dupont Circle mansion, a “Little Free Craft Library,” ornament making and treats from Ice Cream Jubilee.

    Sober Singles Meet-Up
    At H Street’s nonalcoholic bar, Binge Bar, a sober singles meetup is planned this Friday. Tickets, which cost $25, cover the private event and the first drink.

    SAAM Arcade
    For its eleventh year, the SAAM Arcade returns to the Kogod Courtyard on Saturday with a program that is set to showcase video games as an art form. Partnered with MAGFest in Baltimore, the Smithsonian event includes 20 to 30 classic games and arcade cabinets for the public to enjoy. There is also a selection of innovative games published by nine independent developers, with each fitting this year’s theme, “Adventure Awaits.”

    For folks with sensory processing disorders, the museum is offering “quiet hours” to enjoy the program in a quieter environment. And finally, for those who enjoy live video game music, the Triforce Quartet are performing two sets on the day of the event.

    DMV Made Festival
    Celebrate local music, dance, art and culture with a free daylong event on the National Mall. Find the full details on the DMV Made Festival, which will take place on Saturday, in Jason Fraley’s article for WTOP.

    Kids World
    This weekend, Kids World returns to Franklin Park for a free, two-day, immersive experience for children of all ages. Expect more than 30 activities for kids.

    “Back to the Future: The Musical”
    The Tony Award-nominated Broadway musical version of the 1985 film, “Back to the Future,” arrives in D.C.’s Kennedy Center. The production runs through Aug. 11.

    Maryland

    The Viper Brothers
    Enjoy this ’90s and 2000s rock cover band at Clarksville Commons in Clarksville this Friday. The event is free with blankets and chairs encouraged.

    O.A.R. Summer Tour
    This Saturday, Rockville-based band O.A.R. is heading to Merriweather Post Pavilion alongside multiplatinum artists Fitz and The Tantrums.

    People’s Market
    For more holiday shopping, head to People’s Market at People’s Book in Takoma Park on Sunday.

    Virginia

    “The Arc of Oblivion”
    On Friday, the Alexandria Film Festival is screening this documentary that explores a “filmmaker’s quixotic quest to build an ark in a field in Maine … to illuminate the strange world of archives, record-keeping and memory.”

    Outdoor movie screening
    The film, “Trolls Band Together,” is being presented at Metropolitan Park in Crystal City on Friday. The biweekly outdoor movie series is dog-friendly.

    Arlington Historical Museum
    If you’ve never been, come to the Arlington Historical Museum this Saturday or Sunday for a free, self-guided tour of Arlington’s colorful history. Free parking is available.

    Have an event you’d like featured in WTOP’s Things to do in the D.C. area weekly guide? Fill out this contact form to have your event considered.

    Get breaking news and daily headlines delivered to your email inbox by signing up here.

    © 2024 WTOP. All Rights Reserved. This website is not intended for users located within the European Economic Area.

    Michelle Goldchain

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  • Things to do in the DC area: Blerdcon, Bastille Day … and more! – WTOP News

    Things to do in the DC area: Blerdcon, Bastille Day … and more! – WTOP News

    There’s so much to do in the D.C. area in the coming days, and WTOP has you covered with our weekly roundup of area events worth anticipating.

    Nerds, unite! Blerdcon runs from Friday through Sunday with a widespread focus on everything from video gaming, to tabletop gaming, to anime and manga, to cosplay, as well as music — while celebrating Blerd (a portmanteau of Black and nerd) culture.

    This year, there will be over 100 panels and workshops, often on subjects that have social or niche impact in the community. Also, expect comedy shows, concerts, after-parties and “the largest attached food truck rally of any convention in the country,” according to Hilton George, founder and CEO of Blerdcon.

    A few of the many notable guests and speakers include Phil LaMarr, whose acting has been seen in shows and movies such as “Futurama,” “Samurai Jack,” “Static Shock” and “Pulp Fiction,” among others. Also speaking is Walter Jones, who was cast as the first Black superhero on live-action television as Zack, the original Black Ranger from “The Mighty Morphin’ Power Rangers.”

    “The community is very, very welcoming. And this is not just a nerd space, it’s also a Black space, and everything that comes along with the Black space that people talk about — that feeling of a family reunion, that feeling of recognition and appreciation that we get,” George said. “It’s also an inclusive space. So even if you’re not Black, you are welcome to come to Blerdcon.”

    Over 12,000 guests are expected to attend this year. Badge passes for the event vary in price, depending on the time frame and additional perks, such as autographs and photo ops. The event is located at Hyatt Regency Crystal City in Arlington, Virginia.

    There’s so much to do in the D.C. area in the coming days, and WTOP has you covered with our weekly roundup of area events worth anticipating.

    Check back every Thursday for a roundup of Things to do in the D.C. area.

    Here’s what else is happening in the D.C. area:

    DC

    Bastille Day
    There are several ways to celebrate French culture this Bastille Day around the region. In D.C.’s Tenleytown neighborhood, Fessenden Park is set to be transformed into a “French Quarter” on Saturday with French-themed activities, plus food and live music. Tickets cost $20.

    Elsewhere, there is also a 1.5-mile walking tour on Sunday that begins at Lafayette Square and continues throughout the surrounding neighborhood to explore French-influenced architecture. This tour costs $30.

    (D)rafts and (C)rafts
    The D.C. Brewers’ Guild is hosting this second annual festival on Saturday with dozens of local craft beverage producers and artisan makers. With tickets that start at $20, this event is hosted at Dock 5 in the Union Market District.

    Doubles’ July Market
    Shop at this vintage and artisan pop-up on Sunday at Doubles on Georgia Avenue in Northwest and stay for coffee, natural wine and pizza from Sonny’s Pizza. No tickets are necessary.

    Maryland

    Bastille Day
    For those who would prefer to dance the night away, Maryland’s Glen Echo Park is hosting a Bastille Day ballroom dance event on Sunday with music by Djangolaya. Tickets cost $20 at the door with no partner necessary.

    Babies & Books
    Designed for children ages 3 and under in mind, People’s Book in Takoma Park is hosting a biweekly baby story time on Friday mornings. Free coffee is included for caregivers.

    Smash Bros Tournament Series
    Every Sunday this summer, gamers can congregate at AxGard in Old Ellicott City, Maryland, for a free Smash Bros Tournament Series on a 30-foot projector screen. The tournament is kid and teen-friendly.

    Senior Fitness Class
    On Wednesday, Onelife Fitness is hosting a fitness class for those ages 55 and older. The free class is at National Harbor for all fitness levels, with chairs available to help aid with balance.

    Virginia

    Date Night at the Innovation Studio
    The Museum of Contemporary Art Arlington is hosting a free hands-on workshop on Friday with resident artist Roxana Geffen. The D.C.-based artist will assist guests in creating textile collages.

    Griefcat
    Creative Cauldron in Falls Church, Virginia, is hosting a dynamic duo called Griefcat as part of its summer concert series. Tickets for the event on Friday vary, though those who would prefer to watch the livestream only have to pay approximately $15.

    Tour the oldest house in Arlington, Virginia
    The Ball-Sellers House, which is owned and operated by the Arlington Historical Society, is hosting free open houses every Saturday, now through October. The structure dates back to 1750, so there is no electricity or air conditioning inside. Because of that, the structure is not open during “really hot or really cold weather,” so inquire ahead of time.

    Have an event you’d like featured in WTOP’s Things to do in the D.C. area weekly guide? Fill out this contact form to have your event considered.

    Get breaking news and daily headlines delivered to your email inbox by signing up here.

    © 2024 WTOP. All Rights Reserved. This website is not intended for users located within the European Economic Area.

    Michelle Goldchain

    Source link

  • Things to do in the DC area: Fourth of July, dancing … and more! – WTOP News

    Things to do in the DC area: Fourth of July, dancing … and more! – WTOP News

    There’s so much to do in the D.C. area in the coming days, and WTOP has you covered with our weekly roundup of area events worth anticipating.

    Independence Day is here, and with that comes a slew of events featuring parades, fireworks and family-friendly activities. This past week, WTOP has been featuring these notable events with a list of Fourth of July celebrations in the region, plus a full list of road closures and what’s open or closed this week.

    Stay updated on traffic and weather news by listening to WTOP live on the 8s at 103.5 FM or online.

    There’s so much to do in the D.C. area in the coming days, and WTOP has you covered with our weekly roundup of area events worth anticipating.

    Check back every Thursday for a roundup of Things to do in the D.C. area.

    Here’s what else is happening in the D.C. area:

    DC

    AfroAmp
    On Saturday, July 6, enjoy this Afrobeats and Amapiano festival with DJs from all over the world. Tickets start at $25 for early birds and $40 for general admission.

    Mousetrap
    Black Cat is hosting at Britpop and Indie dance night on Saturday, July 6, with DJ Mark Zimin and DJ Stereofaith. Tickets cost $10 in advance and $15 on the day of the show.

    Forest Bathing with Sage Raindancer
    Friends of Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens is hosting this forest bathing session on Saturday, July 6, with free general admission. The 120-minute experience will allow guests to “explore and interact with the ponds with childlike curiosity and awe.”

    Dancing on the Waterfront
    Learn how to move in this free outdoor dance class series on Tuesday, July 9. This week’s class will explore Latin and African dance.

    Maryland

    Dino Safari Festival
    LuminoCity’s Dino Safari Festival at Westfield Montgomery Mall opens this Thursday, July 4, and runs through Aug. 4. The Bethesda, Maryland, festival includes more than 70 life-size, animated dinosaurs and immersive ice age animals light sculptures. For extra family fun, there is also a Jungle Explorer Playground along with educational experiences. Ticket prices vary by day.

    Storytime: “Be, Black Girl, Be”
    Author Taylor Darks is hosting a story time at People’s Book in Takoma Park, Maryland, on Sunday, July 7. Her book, “Be, Black Girl, Be,” is a “lyrical and affirming picture book for Black girls … to instill them with confidence.” General admission is free.

    National Harbor’s Kids Day
    Bring your young ones to National Harbor on Tuesday, July 9, for an interactive scavenger hunt with WHUT around the Potomac River.

    Virginia

    An Introduction to American Indians
    Wolf Trap’s Children’s Theatre-in-the-Woods is showcasing a fast-paced, interactive performance featuring Indigenous songs, dances and stories from across the continent. The event is on Friday, July 5, priced at $12.

    Donnell Rawlings
    Actor, podcaster and comedian Donnell Rawlings is heading to The Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia, on Saturday, July 6. His first Netflix stand-up special, “A New Day,” debuted this year, produced by Dave Chappelle. He spoke to WTOP about his upcoming show. 

    Life Drawing
    On Tuesday, July 9, Del Ray Artisans in Alexandria, Virginia, is hosting a life drawing session focused on gesture and short poses. Easels are not provided. All skill levels are welcome. Registration costs $10 for nonmembers.

    Have an event you’d like featured in WTOP’s Things to do in the D.C. area weekly guide? Fill out this contact form to have your event considered.

    Get breaking news and daily headlines delivered to your email inbox by signing up here.

    © 2024 WTOP. All Rights Reserved. This website is not intended for users located within the European Economic Area.

    Michelle Goldchain

    Source link

  • Things to do in the DC area: Museum of Graffiti, Columbia Heights Day … and more! – WTOP News

    Things to do in the DC area: Museum of Graffiti, Columbia Heights Day … and more! – WTOP News

    There’s so much to do in the D.C. area in the coming days, and WTOP has you covered with our weekly roundup of area events worth anticipating.

    The “Sneaker Stories” pop-up at Union Market District. (Courtesy Museum of Graffiti)

    There’s so much to do in the D.C. area in the coming days, and WTOP has you covered with our weekly roundup of area events worth anticipating.

    Check back every Thursday for a roundup of Things to do in the D.C. area.

    This weekend, a space that appears to be a shoe store will open up, but none of the shoes there will be for sale. Museum of Graffiti co-founder Allison Freidin told WTOP that she is opening “Sneaker Stories” at D.C.’s Union Market District, which features art and rare sneakers by some of the world’s most iconic artists within the genre.

    The approximately 1,000-square-foot exhibit will celebrate how graffiti artists have shaped the way that society sees footwear.

    “It’s more about self-expression and street culture, and so we are here to educate and elevate the graffiti art forms so that visitors can learn about what an impact graffiti … has had in all walks of life,” Freidin said.

    As part of the exhibition, there will be a complimentary sneaker customization bar where guests will be able to get brand-new laces, lace locks, lace clips and other charms at no cost.

    Freidin said artists will fly in to also be a part of a panel discussion on Saturday, June 15, speaking about the transition from working in the streets to being tapped by big shoe companies.

    On Sunday, June 16, an outdoor art session will allow creatives to trade books and do sketches for each other.

    The exhibit and accompanying events on 1270 Fifth Street in Northeast D.C. are free. Here’s what else is happening in the D.C. area:

    DC

    Friday Night Dancing
    The Wharf is hosting free, themed dance nights with live music on the second Friday in June, July and August. This Friday, June 14, will feature country line dancing taught by DC Rawhides with music from Human Country Jukebox. The event is family-friendly.

    Garbagefest 6
    On Friday, June 14, this mutual aid benefit show is set for St. Stephen’s Church with punk rock, comedy and “live witchcraft.” The live bands include Messthetics, Massie, and Professor Goldstein with comedian Jenny Cavallero. Tickets are on a donation-based system but must be a minimum of $10.

    Children’s Book and Learning Festival
    Bring your family to the Children’s Book and Learning Festival on Saturday, June 15, for a full day of engaging and educational activities, featuring an exciting lineup of local authors from the Children’s Book Guild of Washington, D.C. and exhibitions from the National Children’s Museum, D.C. Public Library and other local organizations. The event is free, open to the public and located at Wilson Plaza at The Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center.

    Columbia Heights Day
    For the 16th time, this neighborhood festival will welcome over 10,000 visitors for an event filled with local food vendors and artists, live music, a kids stage with live comedy, magic and stories, plus “carnival entertainment.” The event on Saturday, June 15, is at the turf field at Harriet Tubman Elementary.

    CarCoterie
    Witness rare and classic cars at CityCenterDC on Saturday, June 15, for the one-day-only exhibition, CarCoterie.

    Maryland

    Pixies and Modest Mouse
    Head to the Merriweather Post Pavilion on Friday, June 14, to see Pixies and Modest Mouse with special guest: Cat Powers. There are still several tickets left, including on the lawn, which cost $35, not including tax and additional fees.

    Savage Bluegrass Festival
    Four bluegrass bands are ready to hit the stage on Saturday, June 15, at this festival at Savage Mill in Savage, Maryland. General admission tickets for the event cost $20.

    Pride Trivia
    The Pizzeria Paradiso in Hyattsville, Maryland, is hosting drag queen Charlemagne Chateau for a dive into trivia covering everything LGBTQ, including literature, film, TV and music. This event on Tuesday, June 18, will be on a first-come, first served basis. For more Pride events, check out WTOP’s Pride event guide.

    Virginia

    Art After Hours: 50th Anniversary Celebration
    The Museum of Contemporary Art (MoCA) Arlington is hosting an event to celebrate its semicentennial anniversary on Saturday, June 15. The free event includes the opening of their new summer exhibition, which includes work by artists who have exhibited at MoCA Arlington in every decade of its 50 years. There will also be a cash bar.

    Juneteenth Black Heritage Walk
    Starting at Towers Park in Arlington, Virginia, the Juneteenth Black Heritage Walk will span two hours, discussing significant sites nearby. The walk will end at the Black Heritage Museum of Arlington. The free event is on Sunday, June 16. For more Juneteenth events in the D.C. region, stay tuned for another article on WTOP.com with events like this one.

    Fitness at the Fountain
    Virginia’s National Landing is continuing its regular weekly workout series, hosted alongside DC Fray. Running through Aug. 26, these instructor-led classes are free and varied. The class schedule for Monday, June 17, indicates that it will be led by Onelife Fitness.

    Have an event you’d like featured in WTOP’s Things to do in the D.C. area weekly guide? Fill out this contact form to have your event considered.

    Get breaking news and daily headlines delivered to your email inbox by signing up here.

    © 2024 WTOP. All Rights Reserved. This website is not intended for users located within the European Economic Area.

    Michelle Goldchain

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  • 8 Asian festivals to enjoy in the DC area during AAPI Heritage Month – WTOP News

    8 Asian festivals to enjoy in the DC area during AAPI Heritage Month – WTOP News

    WTOP has rounded up eight D.C.-area festivals to celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month throughout the month of May.

    All throughout May, WTOP is celebrating Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month with stories about the people and places shaping the D.C. region.

    Throughout the month of May, several communities across the D.C. area plan to host a series of captivating festivals, each showcasing the diverse traditions and customs of different Asian cultures.

    WTOP has rounded up eight festivals to celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, with each event offering a wide variety of vendors, live musical and dance performances as well as art displays and artisan shops.

    Prince George’s County’s Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month Celebration

    When: Saturday, May 4

    Where: Harmony Hall Arts Center in Fort Washington, Maryland

    Price: Free

    The deets: Celebrate AAPI Heritage Month with an afternoon filled with live performances, workshops, food and an “artisan shop” with unique finds.

    NVA Thai Street Food & Culture Festival

    When: Sunday, May 5 and Sunday, May 26

    Where: Manassas Museum at 9101 Prince William Street in Manassas, Virginia

    Price: Free

    The deets: More than 30 vendors will come together to offer food, desserts, drinks, souvenirs and more at this festival. Visitors can also expect traditional Thai dances, Muay Thai, traditional instrumental performances and Thai massages.

    IlluminAsia

    When: Friday, May 10, to Sunday, May 12

    Where: National Museum of Asian Art in D.C.

    Price: Free (RSVP recommended)

    The deets: For its second year, the IlluminAsia festival will shed light on mental health and well-being in the Asian, Asian American and diasporic community. This three-day festival will include a guided sound bath, paper flower-making, a “Care Fair” and vendor market with food options, plus “empowerment workshops.” Other highlights include a silent disco and a performance by Mongolian American singer-songwriter TMUUN and award-winning artist and activist Madame Gandhi.

    Nicole Dowd, head of public programs of the Smithsonian National Museum of Asian Art, told WTOP, “The goal is just really to create this gathering space for conversation, learning, mindfulness and then, of course, sharing food and celebrating and having fun around arts and culture activities at the museum.”

    Howard County’s AAPI Festival

    When: Saturday, May 11

    Where: Merriweather Park at Symphony Woods in Columbia, Maryland

    Price: Free

    The deets: The third annual AAPI Festival in Howard County will celebrate the contributions of the Asian American and Pacific Islander community with a variety of food trucks and up to 100 vendors and exhibitors.

    Heritage India Festival

    When: Saturday, May 11, and Sunday, May 12

    Where: Dulles Expo Center in Chantilly, Virginia

    Price: $5 per person per day; free for children who are 5 years old and below

    The deets: Across two days, enjoy the best of South Asia with live entertainment, cuisine and commerce, including apparel, jewelry and home decor. There will be over 275 booths this year with several vendors from India, Pakistan and Bangladesh. There will also be child-focused sections with face painting, henna tattoos and educational toys and games booths.

    Fiesta Asia

    When: Saturday, May 18

    Where: Pennsylvania Avenue, NW between 3rd and 6th streets in D.C.

    Price: $20 for the dance showcase and free for the street fair

    The deets: This annual D.C. festival has been celebrating the diversity of Asian heritage and culture since 2006. This year, the event will kickoff with a dance showcase on May 2 and a street fair on May 18.

    Asian Festival on Main

    When: Sunday, May 19

    Where: Main Street in Historic Old Town Fairfax, Virginia

    Price: Free (but those who register ahead of time will be entered for a raffle)

    The deets: This outdoor, family-friendly event in Fairfax, Virginia, will highlight Asian heritage through approximately 30 food vendors, arts and crafts and other educational activities, plus live dance and musical performances.

    Asia On the Creek

    When: Saturday, June 1

    Where: Carroll Creek Park in Frederick, Maryland

    Price: Free

    The deets: In downtown Frederick, expect a variety of traditional performances, plus a vendor market, cultural art displays and, of course, food.

    Get breaking news and daily headlines delivered to your email inbox by signing up here.

    © 2024 WTOP. All Rights Reserved. This website is not intended for users located within the European Economic Area.

    Michelle Goldchain

    Source link

  • Things to do in the DC area: Maryland Craft Beer Festival, Mother’s Day events … and more! – WTOP News

    Things to do in the DC area: Maryland Craft Beer Festival, Mother’s Day events … and more! – WTOP News

    There’s so much to do in the D.C. area in the coming days, and WTOP has you covered with our weekly roundup of area events worth anticipating.

    Whether you’re looking for a creative way to celebrate mom or somewhere to dish some drama over drinks, you won’t want to miss this week’s local events guide.

    There’s so much to do in the D.C. area in the coming days, and WTOP has you covered with our weekly roundup of area events worth anticipating.

    Check back every Thursday for a roundup of Things to do in the D.C. area.

    Libation lovers should head to Frederick, Maryland, this Saturday for the Maryland Craft Beer Festival. This year, the event includes samples of over 200 beers from 58 Maryland breweries, including some not yet open to the public.

    This is the third year the event has been hosted, and Abby Casarella, event manager for the Brewers Association of Maryland, told WTOP it has nearly doubled in size since its first year, with around 3,500 people expected this year.

    A few of the many notable featured Maryland breweries include Heavy Seas, RAK Brewing Co., Attaboy Beer and Monocacy Brewing Co., with food vendors that include Boxcar Burgers, Cousins Maine Lobster and Pop-up Poutine.

    The event at Carroll Creek Linear Park is also set to offer live music. Tickets start at $45 for a “Tasting Pass,” with “Designated Driver” tickets for nondrinkers costing just $15. VIP tickets are sold out.

    Here’s what else is happening in the D.C. area.

    Mother’s Day events

    Still looking for fun activities to do with your mom or another significant motherly figure in your life? This Sunday, consider these activities.

    First, the National Museum of Asian Art is hosting Mother’s Day-themed activities such as paper flower making. If you’d prefer to work with real flowers, flower shop She Loves Me is hosting a flower arranging basics workshop, with tickets costing $125.

    For a sweet treat, Astro Doughnuts & Fried Chicken in Arlington, Virginia, is offering a doughnut-decorating workshop for $15, with six mini doughnuts included.

    DC

    Sing your heart out
    There are plenty of options around the D.C. area for karaoke, but if you’re looking for a unique experience, consider punk rock karaoke at the Black Cat or 90s R&B karaoke at Songbyrd, both of which happen Saturday. It costs $20 to participate in the Black Cat event, which will go to the Girls Rock! D.C. organization. To enter into Songbyrd’s event, tickets cost $15.

    The Great Brookland Yard Sale
    Several neighbors throughout the Brookland neighborhood are hosting concurrent yard sales on Saturday. Find the map of the participating households here.

    Eurovision Watch Party
    Celebrate this year’s Eurovision without leaving the nation’s capital. Throughout all three floors of the DC9 Nightclub, the Eurovision finals will be played live from Sweden on Saturday. RSVPs are free.

    DISH! The Story Telling Cocktail Hour
    Capitol Hill’s arts and education venue, Hill Center, is hosting “Dish! The Storytelling Cocktail Hour,” an event where talented local storytellers “dish” about their lives over drinks (with nonalcoholic options available). The event is on Wednesday, May 15, with tickets costing $15.

    Maryland

    Bethesda Fine Arts Festival
    On Saturday and Sunday, expect a wide variety of art from 120 artists from around the nation at the Bethesda Fine Arts Festival. The free event in the Woodmont Triangle neighborhood also includes live entertainment and local food vendors.

    Zine Workshop
    The People’s Book in Takoma Park is hosting an adults-only workshop to invite guests to make their own mini-zine. The event on Friday is hosted by Julia Hainer-Violand, a local educator and zine maker. Tickets are free.

    Virginia

    Jazz @ Met
    The National Landing neighborhood in Crystal City is bringing back its free, weekly concert series at Metropolitan Park. Dubbed “Jazz @ Met,” the event returns Thursday with D.C.-based funk, hip-hop and jazz group JoGo Project.

    Dream Interpretation
    On Sunday, Profs & Pints is hosting a discussion on dreams and techniques for making sense of them. Leading the lecture is Richard Bargdill, associate professor of psychology at Virginia Commonwealth University. Advance tickets cost approximately $15.

    Have an event you’d like featured in WTOP’s Things to do in the D.C. area weekly guide? Fill out this contact form to have your event considered.

    Get breaking news and daily headlines delivered to your email inbox by signing up here.

    © 2024 WTOP. All Rights Reserved. This website is not intended for users located within the European Economic Area.

    Michelle Goldchain

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  • Things to do in the DC area: DC Beer and Wine Fests, Taylor Swift dance party … and more! – WTOP News

    Things to do in the DC area: DC Beer and Wine Fests, Taylor Swift dance party … and more! – WTOP News

    DC

    D.C. Comedy Festival
    Running through April 13, laugh it up at the sixth annual D.C. Comedy Festival with a myriad of events hosted each day around the District, including Dupont Underground for the festival finale.

    Taylor Swift-themed dance party
    Get your friendship bracelets ready! A week before the release of Taylor Swift’s eleventh studio album, Eastern Market is hosting “Blossoms & Starlight,” a Swift-themed dance party. The all-ages event on Friday, April 12, will include a live DJ with tickets selling for $35 for adults or $20 for those under the age of 18.

    Rat Gallery Spring Show
    The community-supported art gallery, known as Rat Gallery, is opening a new spring art exhibition. With artists Rob Deatherage, Indigo Cristol and Patrick McMahon featured, the event on Saturday, April 13, will feature a variety of mediums, including drawings, paintings and ceramics.

    Sakura Matsuri
    D.C.’s annual Japanese street festival Sakura Matsuri returns this weekend on April 13 and 14. Expect a diverse range of cultural exhibitors and artisans as well as Japanese goods, food and more. Tickets start at $15 for a one-day ticket and $25 for a two-day ticket.

    D.C. Emancipation Day
    On Freedom Plaza, celebrate the end of slavery in the District with a day-long event that includes a parade, concert and fireworks. Mark your calendar for Emancipation Day on Sunday, April 14.

    Maryland

    WoCo Fest
    On Friday, April 12, get your groove on with vast array of talented D.C.-based musicians for the opening day of WoCo Fest. The tickets for the event at AMP by Strathmore in North Bethesda, Maryland, start at $20 per person with a $10 discount for students. Tickets to the livestream cost $5.

    Mount Rainier Garden Crawl
    Celebrate Earth Day with a garden crawl at Joe’s Movement Emporium in Mount Rainier, Maryland, on Saturday, April 13. Expect nature-based workshops, hands-on green activities, giveaways and essential gardening tips.

    Sound & Sense: a Poetry Reading
    The People’s Book store in Takoma Park, Maryland, is hosting an evening of poetry from local writers who have workshopped and read together in the neighborhood. This in-person event on Sunday, April 14, is free, but capped at 50 patrons maximum.

    Virginia

    Friends & Threads Clothing Swap
    Visit any of the three George Mason University campuses on Thursday, April 11, to shop donated new and gently used clothes and accessories. The event is free and open to the public.

    Pink Beats
    Don’t let cherry blossom season end early. Head to Crystal City’s Water Park for an unforgettable lineup of musical guests from the DMV. The event on Saturday, April 13, also includes specials from Water Park food vendors and giveaways. The event is free.

    Washington’s Impressionist Art
    Profs & Pints is heading to Sterling, Virginia’s Crooked Run Fermentation craft brewery for their next lecture. This time, the focus is on understanding French impressionism on display throughout the District. Tickets for the event on Sunday, April 14, cost approximately $15.

    Have an event you’d like featured in WTOP’s Things to do in the DC area weekly guide? Fill out this contact form to have your event considered.

    Michelle Goldchain

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  • Things to do in the DC area: Cherry blossom events, José Andrés’ new cookbook… and more! – WTOP News

    Things to do in the DC area: Cherry blossom events, José Andrés’ new cookbook… and more! – WTOP News

    Cherry blossom season is here, and that means that there is a wide variety of events on the way to celebrate the spring season and the pink flowers that come with it across the D.C. area.

    Cherry Blossom Afternoon Tea at Peacock Alley in the Waldorf Astoria.(Courtesy Waldorf Astoria Washington DC)

    Cherry blossom season is here, and that means that there is a wide variety of events on the way to celebrate the spring season and the pink flowers that come with it.

    There’s so much to do in the D.C. area in the coming days, and WTOP has you covered with our weekly roundup of area events worth anticipating.

    Check back every Thursday for a roundup of Things to do in the D.C. area.

    The biggest, boldest, bloom-iest events

    You can’t go wrong with checking out WTOP’s guide to the National Cherry Blossom Festival, which covers everything from how to get to the National Mall to who is performing this year at the opening ceremony on Saturday, March 23.

    There’s also the National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade that’s scheduled for Saturday, April 13, that will include entertainers like “The Sugar Hill Gang” and American Idol 2023 finalist Colin Stough.

    The Wharf is hosting their annual Bloomaroo celebration, which involves over seven live bands performing on several stages, including Yani the Band, the Chuck Brown Band and Pink PaLiSh.

    Enjoy activities like koi kite decorating, a haiku creation station, karaoke stage, balloon artist, a tea garden with matcha tea sampling and more. The festival has been rescheduled for Saturday, March 30 due to the inclement weather this weekend.

    Other notable upcoming events include Sakura Sunday on March 24 at the National Harbor in Maryland; Petalpalooza on Saturday, April 6, at the Capitol Riverfront, which is capped off with a fireworks show; and the Japanese street festival, known as Sakura Matsuri, on April 13 and 14.

    More Cherry Blossom Festival News

    Notable free events

    First, check out the Blossom Kite Festival on the Washington Monument grounds. The event is planned for March 30.

    The Wunder Garten outdoor beer garden in NoMa is also hosting a myriad of events all month long through April 7 for their Cherryfest celebrations. They involve three weekends of cherry blossom cocktails, cherry blossom beer, a sake bar, trivia nights on Mondays and Wednesdays, as well as a paint and sip event.

    Later, on March 29, dance the night away at the Nicki Minaj Pink Friday Dance Party, hosted in partnership with National Cherry Blossom Festival. Admission is free.

    Benjamin McEvoy, event coordinator at Wunder Garten, told WTOP, “We’ll have tons of pink cherry blossom décor hanging from the ceiling and everywhere. We already have some cherry blossoms on site that are just at peak bloom right now. So, it’s a total cherry blossom experience.”

    Upcoming arts and music events

    On Saturday, March 23, check out National Harbor’s free movie night in celebration of the National Cherry Blossom Festival. The screening is for the romantic fantasy, “Fireworks,” which is from Genki Kawamura, the same producer of the popular animé, “Your Name.”

    Jazz & Blossoms, located at Franklin Park, is a free outdoor extravaganza with a musical backdrop. Alongside the sounds of Grammy Award-winning hip-hop trio Digable Planets and other musical artists along the course of the day, there is also a kid’s zone with face painting, balloon artistry and more. This event is on April 7.

    For the seventh year, ARTECHOUSE is hosting a cherry blossom-themed immersive exhibition. This time, it’s inspired by the Isekai genre of animé. When delving into “ISEKAI: Blooming Parallel Worlds,” guests can also enjoy augmented reality beverages with animations that burst forth from the cocktails while using the ARETCHOUSE mobile app. This exhibition runs through June 1.

    Events perfect for foodies

    The Fairmont is hosting Cherry Blossom Afternoon Tea service on Saturdays and Sundays, beginning March 23 through April 14. The menu includes highlights like lychee and red cherry vanilla blossom macarons and scones flavored with cherry rose and vanilla blossom. Afternoon Tea is priced at $95 per person.

    The Waldorf Astoria hotel is also celebrating with their Cherry Blossom Afternoon Tea in the soaring grand atrium, known as Peacock Alley. High Tea is served on Thursdays through Sundays at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. The experience is offered through June 30 with delights like smoked salmon pinwheel tea sandwiches and cherry orange scones.

    At the Capitol Riverfront, six local restaurants will kick off the season with the “Toast to the Blossoms” cocktail tasting event on March 28. With tickets that cost approximately $40, the event includes a cherry blossom customized cocktail at each of the six stops of the evening. The participating restaurants include: District Winery, Pink Taco, Scarlet Oak, Silver Social, Walters and Tap99.

    If you’re in search of a space that is decked out in blossoms and pink cheer, Residents Café and Bar in Dupont Circle shouldn’t be missed. The drink and food menu are chock full of seasonal selections, such as the Sakura Spritz drink with cherry juice and sakura bitters.

    Silver Lyan in Chinatown is also hosting their Hanami Pop-Up in partnership with Chef Masako Morishita for a limited-edition Japanese menu. The bar is transformed in a cherry blossom fantasyland with a closing party planned on March 30 with live DJs. The food menu includes karaage fried chicken, strawberry fruit sandos and a cocktail menu that includes green tea Jell-O shots.

    Miscellaneous, but not forgotten

    In Alexandria, Virginia, the cat cafe known as Mount Purrnon is hosting “Purry Blossom Weekend” on March 23 and 24. This weekend-long event celebrates the spring season with cherry blossom-themed food and drink specials, while guests can enjoy reserve time with the feline friends inside.

    The Big Bear Cafe in D.C. is hosting a Cherry Blossom Market on March 23 with several local artisans that will sell everything from flowers to dog treats to vintage clothes and beyond. Find the full list of vendors here.

    Here’s what else is happening in the D.C. area.

    DC

    José Andrés’ new cookbook
    Chef and restaurateur José Andrés recently released a brand new cookbook, “Zaytinya: Delicious Mediterranean Dishes of Greece, Turkey and Lebanon.” In celebration, he will host an evening of interviews, cooking and live music at the Lincoln Theatre on Thursday, March 21. Tickets start at $45.

    DC Sketchfest
    From now through Saturday, March 23, check out D.C.’s first-ever sketch comedy festival at D.C. Improv and the D.C. Arts Center. The event features 100 performers from 22 comedy troupes from all over the U.S. and Canada. WTOP Entertainment Reporter Jason Fraley has all the details you need.

    Georgetown Spring Art Walk
    From noon to 5 p.m. on Saturday, March 23, 10 venues in the Georgetown neighborhood are showcasing a diverse range of artworks with a chance to meet and greet the artists behind them. The event is free.

    Trivia Night: Women’s History Month
    The National Portrait Gallery is partnering with New Columbia Pub Quiz on Tuesday, March 26, to host a trivia game that is themed for Women’s History Month. The free event allows the game to be played individually or in teams of up to six people.

    Maryland

    Comedy night with Nathan Macintosh
    Comedian Nathan Macintosh has performed on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon on NBC, The Late Show With Stephen Colbert on CBS and Conan on TBS. On Thursday, March 21, he will perform locally at Frey’s Brewing Company in Mount Airy, Maryland. Tickets cost $30.

    “Big Fish”
    The Music Center at Strathmore is hosting the musical, “Big Fish,” based on the novel by Daniel Wallace and the film directed by Tim Burton. The theatrical production has music and lyrics from composer Andrew Lippa. Tickets start at $18.

    “A Little Bit of Everything”
    At the Columbia, Maryland, location of Busboys and Poets, enjoy a children’s book discussion that asks readers to celebrate uniqueness. The event on Sunday, March 24, with picture book creator Meghana Narayan is free.

    Virginia

    Meow Meow
    The Australian-born singer, dancer and “post-post-modern diva,” known as Meow Meow, will hit the stage on Thursday, March 21, at The Barns at Wolf Trap in Vienna, Virginia. Tickets start at around $35. 

    Capital Art and Craft Festival
    From March 22 through 24, the Capital Art and Craft Festival will feature over 250 artists and their works at the Dulles Expo Center in Chantilly, Virginia. Tickets for this year’s event starts at $10.

    The Art of Pink
    On Saturday, March 23, in National Landing’s Metropolitan Park, expect a day of shopping with the Sari Sari Pop-Up Market as well as arts activities, a live DJ and a “preview” of a farmers market, plus live mural paintings. The Museum of Contemporary Art Arlington is also allowing guests to dive into the world of digital art with their art activation. Admission to The Art of Pink is free.

    Have an event you’d like featured in WTOP’s Things to do in the DC area weekly guide? Fill out this contact form to have your event considered.

    Get breaking news and daily headlines delivered to your email inbox by signing up here.

    © 2024 WTOP. All Rights Reserved. This website is not intended for users located within the European Economic Area.

    Michelle Goldchain

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  • Things to do in the DC area: St. Patrick’s Day events, Shrek dance party … and more! – WTOP News

    Things to do in the DC area: St. Patrick’s Day events, Shrek dance party … and more! – WTOP News

    Celebrate the luck of the Irish in the coming days with this selection of St. Paddy’s Day celebrations, from parades to dance parties and beyond.

    There’s so much to do in the D.C. area in the coming days, and WTOP has you covered with our weekly roundup of area events worth anticipating.

    Check back every Thursday for a roundup of Things to do in the D.C. area.

    Celebrate the luck of the Irish in the coming days with this selection of St. Paddy’s Day celebrations, from parades to dance parties and beyond.

    First up, NoMa’s outdoor beer garden, Wunder Garten, is hosting a full weekend of St. Patrick’s Day events. Starting on Friday, expect a dance party at Wunder Garten for lovers of the cult hit film, “Shrek.” Come dressed as your favorite character from the movie, and be prepared to groove. General admission is free. Ben McEvoy, events coordinator at Wunder Garten, told WTOP guests can expect specialty cocktails that reference the movies, a live DJ and a costume contest.

    On Saturday, Wunder Garten is hosting live music from 2 p.m. through 6 p.m. with a DJ dance party at 8 p.m. Finally, expect more live music Sunday, plus March Madness showings. McEvoy said there will be green beers available as well as shot skis for Irish whiskeys and stein holding contests.

    In Alexandria, Virginia, Murphy’s Grand Irish Pub is hosting live music all week long, as well as Irish dancers Sunday.

    Elsewhere, the heart of historic Annapolis, Maryland, is hosting a St. Patrick’s Day celebration with a parade. For two days, the music and cultural festival, called Shamrock the Dock, will offer family-friendly fun with face painting, Irish dance lessons, games and music.

    The annual free festival, Ireland at The Wharf, returns Saturday with a Guinness Beer Garden, Irish dancing, live music and more. Find more details on WTOP from Entertainment Reporter Jason Fraley.

    On Saturday, the annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Gaithersburg, Maryland, will kick off at 10 a.m. The parade is expected to include Celtic dancers, bagpipe bands and much, much more.

    Join metrobar and MOVEMAKERS on Saturday for a day filled with wings, whiskey and music. The Wings & Whiskey Day Party includes food trucks, beer specials and games.

    For Sunday, the Profs and Pints lecture series is hosting two St. Patrick’s Day-inspired lectures, one in Sterling, Virginia, on Ireland’s fight for freedom, and another in D.C. that’s an Ireland 101 presentation.

    If you’re in search of a crawl, there are several to expect in the coming days, including the Leprechaun Bar Crawl and the Shamrock Crawl on Saturday, both in D.C. In Clarendon, Virginia, there is also a crawl Saturday.

    Here’s what else is happening in the D.C. area.

    DC

    “Gaza Is Our Home”

    On Friday, the Rhizome arts space in Takoma is hosting a screening and Q&A for the film, “Gaza Is Our Home.” The documentary is described as a “personal look into the lives of those that call Gaza home.” Tickets cost a suggested $5 to $20, or enter $0 to attend without donating.

    “RBG Before She Was ‘Notorious’”

    Profs and Pints is taking a look at the early Ruth Bader Ginsburg and how she got women into the U.S. Constitution. Philippa Strum, author and former director of U.S. Studies at the Woodrow Wilson Center, is presenting on the early career of the groundbreaking lawyer. The event is Tuesday at Penn Social. Tickets cost approximately $15.

    PIX (workshop) 002

    Photography and DIY enthusiasts can come to Eaton House for a hands-on workshop to learn about building your very own photo zine. Don’t know what a zine is? WTOP has you covered. The Eaton D.C. event is for all skill levels on Wednesday. General admission is free.

    Maryland

    Mahalia
    British singer-songwriter Mahalia is bringing her pop, soul and R&B music to The Fillmore in Silver Spring, Maryland, on Thursday. This concert is part of her IRL, or In Real Life, tour stemming from the release of her second studio album. Tickets start at approximately $35.

    Our Community Stories Film Festival
    From Friday through Sunday, this film festival celebrates local independent documentary filmmaking with screenings and filmmaker Q&A . Mostly gathered at Docs In Progress in Silver Spring, Maryland, this film festival features works like “Outside Line,” about a D.C. native who is one of NASCAR’s few Black drivers, and “Neighborhood Power,” about Adams Morgan neighbors’ fight against corporate displacement across generations.

    New African Film Festival
    The AFI Silver Theatre and Cultural Center in Silver Spring, Maryland, is hosting the 20th edition of the New African Film Festival (NAFF). The NAFF will host three U.S. premieres with over 25 upcoming films featured from 16 countries.

    Rhiannon Giddens
    At the Music Center at Strathmore in North Bethesda, Maryland, the Grammy-nominated folk musician Rhiannon Giddens is performing from her third solo album, “You’re the One.” This album combines blues, jazz, Cajun, country gospel and rock. The performance is Monday with tickets that start at approximately $40.

    Virginia

    Arushi Mudgal
    As one of the foremost talents in the field of the classical dance style of India, Odissi, performer Arushi Mudgal is bound for The Barns at Wolf Trap in Vienna, Virginia, on Friday. Tickets start at around $30.

    Egg Hunt
    Celebrate Easter with this family-friendly egg hunt at Lost Boy Cider in Alexandria, Virginia. On Sunday, expect face painting, DIY crafts, goody bags and more. Preregistration is recommended for adults, and tickets are required for kids.

    Sound Bath at Workhouse Arts Center
    Members of the public are invited to be “immersed” in soft sound vibrations for 60 minutes in a sound bath hosted at the Workhouse Arts Center in Lorton, Virginia. Chairs are provided, but guests are asked to bring a mat, blanket and pillow for comfort. The session costs $35.

    Have an event you’d like featured in WTOP’s Things to do in the DC area weekly guide? Fill out this contact form to have your event considered.

    Get breaking news and daily headlines delivered to your email inbox by signing up here.

    © 2024 WTOP. All Rights Reserved. This website is not intended for users located within the European Economic Area.

    Michelle Goldchain

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  • Things to do in the DC area: Artomatic, music and culture festivals … and more! – WTOP News

    Things to do in the DC area: Artomatic, music and culture festivals … and more! – WTOP News

    There’s so much to do in the D.C. area in the coming days, and WTOP has you covered with our weekly roundup of area events worth anticipating.

    A mural that will be featured in Artomatic in 2024. (Courtesy Artomatic)

    There’s so much to do in the D.C. area in the coming days, and WTOP has you covered with our weekly roundup of area events worth anticipating.

    Check back every Thursday for a roundup of Things to do in the D.C. area.

    For the first time since 2017, Artomatic is returning in person to the District, starting Friday, March 8. Artomatic is an artist-run, unjuried, multimedia arts event that first launched in 1999.

    For several years, Artomatic stood as one of the hottest, moving art exhibits in the region with hundreds of visual and performance artists featured. During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Artomatic took a break from in-person events, but this year, it will be hosted at 2100 M Street NW in D.C.

    “When you go here, it’s like an adventure, “Patrick Oberman, executive director of Artomatic, said.

    Oberman said there is a wide variety of mediums featured along with live performances. This year, there will be four stages — one for spoken word and theatrical productions and three stages for music, dance and performances.

    Artomatic runs through April 28. Find Artomatic’s full spread of events online.

    Here’s what else is happening in the D.C. area.

    DC

    Tudor Nights
    Tudor Place in Georgetown is hosting an event on Thursday dedicated to historic cocktail recipes with an opportunity to see rarely displayed objects and ephemera from the Tudor Place Collection & Archive. Tickets cost $25 for nonmembers, $10 for students or free for members.

    International Women’s Day
    Don’t miss the several celebrations of International Women’s Day in the District. On Friday, March 8, the National Museum of Women in the Arts has events all day long, from yoga to flash tattoos to a keynote speech. Shop Made in D.C. is also hosting the opening night for SHE: DC, the largest women and nonbinary people only art show in our area.

    Learn about these and other Women’s History Month events on last week’s Things to do in the D.C. area guide on WTOP.

    ISEKAI: Blooming Parallel Worlds
    It’s that time of year again — when ARTECHOUSE revives their annual celebration of cherry blossoms with a brand new exhibit. Fusing art and technology, “ISEKAI: Blooming Parallel Worlds” focuses on the Isekai genre of anime, which is when a character is transported into a new life. This exhibit runs from Saturday, March 9, through June 1.

    Rolling Cocoa Festival
    On March 9, this Ghanaian music and culture festival at The Anthem features artists like Stonebwoy, Black Sherif, R2bees, Kidi, Camidoh, Kwesi Arthur and more. Remaining tickets start at approximately $139.

    Stage Fright Comedy Night
    Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day early with a St. Paddy’s edition of the live comedy show hosted by Stage Fright. General admission is free for the event at Sudhouse D.C. on Monday, March 11.

    Maryland

    NüMB: The Nü Metal Band
    If you’re a big fan of bands like Korn, Limp Bizkit, Slipknot, System of a Down and Linkin Park, consider heading to Rams Head Live! on March 8 to see Baltimore, Maryland-based cover band NüMB. Tickets cost $15.

    Ladysmith Black Mambazo
    Enjoy native South African musical traditions at The Music Center at Strathmore with an a cappella performance by Ladysmith Black Mambazo. The group is known for having collaborated with Paul Simon on his album “Graceland,” as well as being recognized as cultural ambassadors to the world by Nelson Mandela. The performance is on Friday, March 8. Tickets start at around $38.

    “Becoming Ourselves”
    Celebrate the beauty and joy of artists who are trans and nonbinary with the “Becoming Ourselves” art exhibition at Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Rockville, Maryland. The exhibit runs through March 31.

    Virginia

    “Starry Starry Nights” dinner with Chef Rob Rubba
    In Washington, Virginia, The Patty O’s Cafe in Little Washington is hosting a program called “Starry Starry Nights,” where Michelin rated D.C.-based chefs are celebrated with a cocktail reception followed by a dinner with dishes from their restaurants’ “family meal,” or the meal typically prepared for restaurant staff prior to service. On Monday, March 11, Chef Rob Rubba of D.C.’s famed Oyster Oyster restaurant will be the honoree of the evening. Reservations cost $185 per ticket.

    Flamenco Night
    El Mercat in Rockville, Maryland, is hosting a flamenco night on Tuesday, March 12. To enjoy the dancing and the music of the evening, reservations are encouraged, though not required.

    Zachary Oxman
    On Wednesday, March 13, artist Zachary Oxman will host an artist talk in Reston, Virginia, to discuss the 20th anniversary of the installation of “Untold Stories,” otherwise known as “Bronze Bob.”

    Have an event you’d like featured in WTOP’s Things to do in the DC area weekly guide? Fill out this contact form to have your event considered.

    Get breaking news and daily headlines delivered to your email inbox by signing up here.

    © 2024 WTOP. All Rights Reserved. This website is not intended for users located within the European Economic Area.

    Michelle Goldchain

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  • How Chef Wolfgang Puck prepares for the Academy Awards Governors Ball – WTOP News

    How Chef Wolfgang Puck prepares for the Academy Awards Governors Ball – WTOP News

    “This is not my first rodeo,” Austrian-born chef and restaurateur Wolfgang Puck, told WTOP about catering the Academy Awards Governors Ball.

    HOLLYWOOD, CA – FEBRUARY 18: Master chef Wolfgang Puck (C) prepares samples from the menu for display during the 88th Annual Academy Awards Governors Ball press preview at The Ray Dolby Ballroom at Hollywood & Highland Center on February 18, 2016 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)(Getty Images/Kevork Djansezian)

    For Wolfgang Puck, catering the Academy Awards Governors Ball is a familiar walk in the park.

    “This is not my first rodeo,” the Austrian-born chef and restaurateur told WTOP.

    This should be no surprise because 2024 marks the 30th year that Wolfgang Puck Catering has worked at the Governors Ball — the annual party that is hosted after the Oscars.

    Puck told WTOP that even before he got the chance to cater for the annual event, he hosted Oscar after-parties for a decade at his Beverly Hills restaurant, Spago, alongside Irving Paul “Swifty” Lazar, who he described as a “super agent.”

    Talent agent Lazar is known for having represented several well-known stars, such as Madonna, Truman Capote, Joan Collins, Cher and Gene Kelly, among others. Two years after Lazar passed away in 1993, Puck catered the Governors Ball for the first time in 1995.

    This year, there will be six buffets and a variety of appetizers to go around. The menu, which was created by Puck and chef Eric Klein with pastry design by Kamel Guechida and Garry Larduinat, includes luxe dishes, such as gold-dusted truffled popcorn, Korean steak tartare on puffed rice and desserts, such as an elderflower champagne parfait with a raspberry espuma.

    According to Puck, though, one of the all-time favorite dishes that he serves is the chicken pot pie.

    Puck told WTOP that he remembers Prince Albert of Monaco asking him when he was going to open a restaurant in Monaco with the prince recalling the chicken pot pie that was served at the Oscars.

    “It’s really interesting how people remember the dishes,” Puck said.

    Puck said that his team of chefs comes from all over the world — London, Istanbul, Los Angeles and beyond. There are approximately 600 servers and bartenders with a guest list that totals more 1,500.

    With the long schedule of the day’s events, Puck said, “Everybody’s hungry” by the time the after-party starts, but “people never go home hungry.”

    The stars are typically up early in the morning to get their hair, makeup and outfits ready before arriving for the preshow in the early afternoon, with the ceremony starting around 5 p.m. PST. This year, however, the Academy Awards will start an hour earlier on Sunday, March 10, at 4 p.m. PST and 7 p.m. EST.

    Earlier this year, Puck and his son, Byron, sat down with WTOP to discuss his family legacy and the potential for new restaurants. Learn more about how he has been a mainstay of D.C.’s food culture for several years now and his expanding interest in it.

    Get breaking news and daily headlines delivered to your email inbox by signing up here.

    © 2024 WTOP. All Rights Reserved. This website is not intended for users located within the European Economic Area.

    Michelle Goldchain

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  • Things to do in the DC area: Women’s History Month events, film festivals, art … and more! – WTOP News

    Things to do in the DC area: Women’s History Month events, film festivals, art … and more! – WTOP News

    As March approaches, the D.C. area gears up to celebrate Women’s History Month with a diverse array of events. From thought-provoking panel discussions to inspiring exhibitions and beyond, the region offers plenty of opportunities for individuals to honor the achievements of women.

    As March approaches, the D.C. area gears up to celebrate Women’s History Month with a diverse array of events. From thought-provoking panel discussions to inspiring exhibitions and beyond, the region offers plenty of opportunities for individuals to honor the achievements of women.

    There’s so much to do in the D.C. area in the coming days, and WTOP has you covered with our weekly roundup of area events worth anticipating.

    Check back every Thursday for a roundup of Things to do in the D.C. area.

    Here’s a roundup of some of the most anticipated Women’s History Month events happening in and around the nation’s capital.

    First, join the National Museum of Women in the Arts (NMWA) on Friday, March 8, to celebrate International Women’s Day with in-person and online events throughout the day. These events include morning and afternoon yoga, flash tattoos by local artist Bibi Abelle and “spotlight conversations” with NMWA staff at 10 a.m., noon and 4 p.m. There will also be a virtual keynote from Ferren Gipson, a British American art historian, writer and artist. Find the full itinerary here on NMWA’s website.

    Later in the month, the Environmental Film Festival is hosting a screening and conversation of “Queens” at the NMWA on March 28. The film is about “matriarchies and female leaders in the natural world” with narration from actress Angela Bassett.

    On March 8, Shop Made in D.C. is hosting the opening night for SHE:DC, the largest women and nonbinary people only art show in our area. Tickets cost $15 to $20. SHE: DC will open the show online beginning March 8 and in person on March 10, running through March 31.

    At the Flashband Showcase at Black Cat on March 2, expect several hits by legendary women artists and female-fronted bands covered in a power-packed, all-ages event. Advance tickets cost $20, while day-of tickets cost $25.

    Femme and nonbinary creatives will be celebrated on March 6 at a women-only sip and shop fundraiser, titled She Night Out. Hosted at Shop Made in D.C. in Georgetown, attendees will enjoy SHEspritz cocktails from Pratt Standard Cocktail Company, cake from Capitol Jill Baking and 15% off all products from artists in the store. Tickets cost $30.

    The National Portrait Gallery hosts its annual Women’s History Month Festival on March 9 in the Kogod Courtyard, featuring performances and workshops from The Washington Ballet, art activities, spotlight talks, scavenger hunts and story times. The event is free, but be sure to reserve your spot ahead of time.

    Dupont Underground’s second annual all-women’s exhibition, titled, “Thoughts, Questions & Shit to Say,” celebrates the region’s diverse narratives from various cultural, social and economic backgrounds. Tickets for the opening night on March 8 cost $10 for general admission or $8 for students, seniors and military members. The exhibition runs through April 7.

    Shop Made in D.C. is also hosting a conversation with several artists and a networking happy hour at La Cosecha on March 22. A week later, on March 29, Shop Made in D.C. is also hosting a microgrant happy hour where guests will vote on which grant finalists should take home $1,000 grants. This event will also include food, spirit and wine tastings.

    Regarding Her, a nonprofit organization of women-owned food and beverage businesses, has so much planned for its third annual Women’s History Month Festival. Expect specials from women throughout the month and the region, like a pizza collaboration between Pizzeria Paradiso and Ben’s Chili Bowl with a pizza made with Ben’s half-smokes, chili, cheddar cheese, onions and a drizzle of yellow mustard sauce for a unique, but very D.C., dish.

    Regarding Her is also hosting a cooking and collaboration event on March 5 with Chef Seng Luangrath of Thip Khao (tickets $125), a deep dive into the world of women in Japanese sake with sake sommelier Louie Anne Batac-Nguyen on March 8 (tickets $75) and a collaboration dinner at Centrolina on March 10 (tickets $150). Find the full lineup of Regarding Her’s events and collabs here.

    Here’s what else is happening in the D.C. area.

    DC

    Kara Swisher
    Sixth & I is hosting the award-winning journalist, host of “On with Kara Swisher” and co-host of “Pivot” on Thursday, Feb. 29. Presigned books will be available at the event for purchase with a book signing following the event for those who would like their book personalized.

    “Star Power” exhibit
    The National Portrait Gallery is showcasing photographs from Hollywood’s Golden Age by George Hurrell. Running March 1 through Jan. 5 of next year, the exhibit will feature film icons like Jean Harlow, Bill “Bojangles” Robinson, Greta Garbo and James Wong Howe.

    “Bond in Motion” exhibit
    Opening Friday, March 1, this temporary exhibit at the Spy Museum features 17 full-sized vehicles that were used in the 60 years of James Bond films. Find the full details on WTOP.

    Ponzi Day
    In honor of the birthday of the infamous swindler Charles Ponzi, Atlas Brew Works is offering unlimited draft beer, wine & single mixed drinks on Saturday, March 2. Tickets cost approximately $35.

    “Book of Mormon”
    Ding dong! Have you heard that the “Book of Mormon” musical tour is on its way to the National Theatre? WTOP’s Jason Fraley will fill you in on what you should know about the comedy production.

    Maryland

    DakhaBrakha
    For a full-sensory experience, head to the Music Center at Strathmore in North Bethesda, Maryland, to see this internationally acclaimed quartet from Kyiv, Ukraine. DakhaBrakha blends traditional Ukrainian folk music with sounds and instruments from around the world. Tickets for the performance on Friday, March 1 range from $28 to $78.

    Play In A Day
    Within a 24-hour span of time, six professional D.C.-area theater companies write, direct, rehearse & perform original plays for the 15th annual Play in a Day event. This year, the companies’ work will culminate at Imagination Stage in Bethesda, Maryland, on Saturday, March 2. Tickets cost $18.

    “Elephant & Piggie’s: We Are In a Play!”
    Based on the Elephant & Piggie books by Mo Willems, this family-friendly, vaudevillian theater production is playing at Maryland Ensemble Theatre in Frederick, Maryland, through March 17. Tickets cost $20 for adults and $17 for children, military members and seniors.

    Virginia

    Writing Your First Romance Novel
    Authors Lenora Bell and Charis Michaels meet at Old Town Books in Alexandria, Virginia, on Thursday, Feb. 29 for an evening of guidance as they answer questions about writing one’s first romance novel. Tickets cost $25.

    “Seussical”
    For more family fun, head to the Unitarian Universalist Church of Arlington, Virginia, for the Chalice Theatre production of “Seussical.” The program runs from March 1 through 16.

    St. Patrick’s Day Parade
    With pipe bands, Irish dance schools and a host of performers in tow, celebrate St. Patrick’s Day early at this parade in Alexandria, Virginia, on Saturday, March 2. The event is free.

    Have an event you’d like featured in WTOP’s Things to do in the DC area weekly guide? Fill out this contact form to have your event considered.

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    © 2024 WTOP. All Rights Reserved. This website is not intended for users located within the European Economic Area.

    Michelle Goldchain

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