Recommended DC Archive
Recommend is in our name. We recommend stuff. Here’s what we’ve recommended in the past.
Since you’re reading this, you probably would enjoy Recommended DC: Concerts.
2023
December 20
Free – Witchy Winter Solstice Party at Dew Drop Inn
Embrace the shortest day of the year with some witches. 7 p.m., 21+, no cover
$$ – A John Waters Christmas at Birchmere
Merry Filthmas! 7:30 p.m., 21+, $60+
December 13
Free, All Ages – Demon Pond at Freer Gallery of Art
The worst thing about the free films at the Freer are their infrequency. The other worst thing is my bike got stolen during one of these screenings. Invest in good locks. 2 p.m., all ages, free
$$ – The Mostly Trains Comedy Tour at City-State Brewing
This comedy tour features Dave Ross. Dave Ross is great. So is City-State. 8 p.m., 21+, $25 (includes one free beer)
December 12
$ – Sint Bernardus Abt 12 Day at ChurchKey and The Sovereign
It’s an excuse to drink hard to find Sint Bernardus Abt 12 beer at one, or both, of DC’s finest beer bars. 5 p.m., 21+, prices vary
December 11
$ – Profs & Pints DC: Nightmares Before Christmas at Penn Social
Hail Krampus! 6 p.m., 21+, $17
December 10
Free, All Ages – Sari Sari Pop-Up Market at City-State Brewing
Once again, I love markets, especially ones at breweries participating in this year’s Liquid Advent Calendar. 11 a.m., all ages, no cover
Free, All Ages – Wild Style at Millennium Stage
The Millennium Stage film programming is fantastic. Most shows are sold-out in advance but you’re still be able to see the film if you show up and seats aren’t claimed. 3 p.m., all ages, free
$$ – A Right Proper Birthday Cabaret: Celebrating 10 Years of Whimsy at Right Proper Shaw
We’re big fans of Right Proper. It’s one of the reasons we’re giving away Right Proper beer as part of this year’s Liquid Advent Calendar. Celebrate their first decade with some Big Tomorrow IPA, their newest offering, and an open bar. 6 p.m., 21+, $90
December 9
Free, All Ages – Selections from The Nutcracker at National Theatre
The Saturday Morning Live! series at the National Theatre is a great way to spend a weekend morning and get your kids interested in theatre. Also, it’s free so if they hate it, you didn’t spend any money. 9:30 a.m. and 11 a.m., all ages, free
Free, All Ages – Unni’s Closet & Friends: Y2K Market at Songbyrd
If possible I would attend every single holiday market. I’d buy like 1 thing at each. I just love browsing! 11 a.m., all ages, no cover
$$ – Depths of Wikipedia at Capital Turnaround
If you prefer nerd based humor and like shows that are likely to educate via PowerPoint, here you go! There aren’t a ton of these types of shows. Find your tribe? 8 p.m., all ages, $23+
December 8
Free, All Ages – Takoma Park Gift Market
This annual event is the first event of the season that feels like you’re in the holiday season. The earliest sunset of the year might help with that feeling. 5 p.m., all ages, no cover
Free, All Ages – Lights & Ice: Hanukkah Skate Night at Canal Park Ice Rink
The first 150 people get free skate rentals! Happy Hanukkah! 6 p.m., all ages, free
December 7
$ – Sleaze at DC9
A party so sweaty the walls would sweat, at least when it was still at Wonderland. See if they sweat on 9th and U? 10 p.m., 21+, $5
December 6
Free – Vintage Market at The Dew Drop Inn
I want a world where there’s a well curated vintage market in neighborhood bars every night of the week. We’re getting there. 6 p.m., 21+, no cover
$$ – The Eric Andre Explosion at Fillmore Silver Spring
I’m really hoping there’s no need for a Gallagher-esque tarp. I don’t want to get wet. From anything. 7 p.m., all ages (WTF?), $55+
December 4
$ – National Cookie Day at Potbelly
There are a few places to get a free cookie in DC on National Cookie Day but the Potbelly option does not require downloading an app to get a ‘free’ 300 calories. Use the code COOKIE for a free cookie when ordering online.
December 3
Free, All Ages – Pajamarama throughout Takoma Park
It’s an excuse to let the kids wear pajamas outside and get 10% off at select local businesses. Fingers crossed for relatively warm weather. 8 a.m., holiday market in the Lost Sock Roasters lot opens at 10 a.m., all ages, no cover
Free, All Ages – Winter Wonderland Market at Wonderland Ballroom
Look, if you’re not into holiday markets, you might want to check back in January. I love ’em. I also like holiday markets that raise money for causes like the DC Abortion Fund. 11 a.m., all ages, no cover
December 2-3
Free, All Ages – Native Art Market at National Museum of the American Indian
Get a one-of-a-kind holiday gift and wander around one of the Smithsonian’s best museums. 10 a.m., all ages, no cover
December 2
Free, All Ages – First Saturday at National Gallery of Art
One of the best monthly museum activities for nearly the entire family. It’s best for kids between 2 and 8 but you’ll see folks with younger and older kids having a good, indoor time. 10 a.m., all ages, free
Free, All Ages – Record Fair at Hellbender Brewing Company
If you’re a local parent Hellbender is most likely a regular weekend consideration. If some new vinyl is what the brewery needs to add to get you in the door (like the beer, food trucks, ample outdoor space and NES console isn’t enough), there’s a record fair this Saturday. 1 p.m., all ages, no cover
Free, All Ages – FONA’s Winter Festival at U.S. National Arboretum
If it’s not freezing, spend the day wandering a wonderful use of space. If it’s freezing, buy some stuff from some local vendors and don’t spend the day wandering a wonderful use of space. 10 a.m., all ages, no cover
Free, All Ages – The Parks Holiday Market & Celebration
Do you need another holiday market option? Maybe. I don’t know your buying needs. We like this one because there’s a nice charity component, the celebration is attempting to get gift donations for the Houseing Up holiday gift drive, aiming provide gifts to nearly 1,500 children in their permanent supportive housing program. 11 a.m., all ages, no cover
December 1-3
$ – Heurich House Christmas Markt
50+ chances to find a gift. They’re advertising that many vendors over the 3 day event. 4 p.m., all ages, $2 under 15, $12 16+, free under 2
November 30 – December 2
$$ – Mike Birbiglia at DC Improv
If you prefer to see comics working out the hour rather than the hour in the big theatre the following year (he’ll be at the Warner in June 2024), you want to be at one of these shows. Multiple times, $18, sold out
November 30
Free, All Ages – Planet of the Apes at Library of Congress
The 1968 film was added to the National Film Registry in 2001. 7 p.m., all ages, free
$$ – Washingtonian Whiskey & Fine Spirits Festival at Dock 5
For the people that don’t have work on Friday. 6:30 p.m., 21+, $75 GA, $95 VIP
November 29
What’s going to come first, this event of Santos’ expulsion? 7 p.m., all ages, free
November 28
$ – Right Proper 10th Anniversary Party and Big Tomorrow IPA launch at ChurchKey
Congrats to Right Proper on a decade of great beer! Is this at their Shaw location? Nope! Brookland! Nope! It’s at ChurchKey. Cool. 4 p.m., 21+, no cover
2022
March 27
Free – Shady Pines @ DC9
Spend Sunday dancing to songs most likely older than you on the roof of DC9. 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., 21+, no cover
Get those plants! Buy those plants! Plant those plants! PLANTS!!! 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., all ages, prices vary
$$ – Sons of Kemet @ Union Stage
The ideal band for every outdoor music fest. Regardless of genre, they’d fit. Go dance. 7 p.m., all ages, $25 to $40
All Ages – Oxon Cove Park & Oxon Hill Farm
One of the best places to take kids on a weekend morning or afternoon. It’s much better when it’s the spring. It’s the spring. Let the kid walk around with chickens and pigs. 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., all ages, free
March 26
Free – NoMa In Bloom Festival
We’re in peak bloom. We’re in peak tourists. There should be fewer tourists in NoMa, a neighborhood not too far from downtown but definitely far enough that a stroll on the sidewalk should be easy. Take advantage of this kite-based celebration if you’re a little too hesitant to check out the other kite-based celebration of our All Ages pick. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., all ages, free
A little bit of Alice In Chains, a little bit of Kittie, Canton, Ohio’s Night Goat have a high probability of delivering a set that warrants a noise complaint for Slash Run. 9 p.m., 21+, $10
$$ – Spring Cleaning @ Kennedy Center
Support local artists and make your place look better. All art costs $150 or less and even if you don’t end up taking anything home, a day on The Reach is a good way to waste an afternoon. 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., all ages, art under $150, also Sunday
All Ages – Blossom Kite Festival
I love this annual event. But be weary of getting entangled in kite strings. Regardless of your height, you will get caught. 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., all ages, free
March 25
Free – Fridays@FUTURES: Cyborg Birthday Party
Do androids dream of electric sheep? 7 p.m., all ages, free
$ – Punk House Comedy @ Pie Shop
More punk shows should also include stand up. 8 p.m., all ages, $5
$$ – Perfume Genius @ 9:30 Club
Perfume Genius was supposed to tour arenas with Tame Impala in 2020. You know what happened. 10 p.m., 18+, $30
All Ages – Sing 2 Singalong @ Miracle Theatre
I have no desire to attend this and you probably don’t want to attend this but your kid might. 4:30 p.m., Rated PG, $6
March 24
Free – Trivia Night @ Metrobar
There are multiple trivia nights throughout D.C. every night of the week. Why does this one get our recommendation? It’s outside. 7 p.m., 21+, free
“Skin a Rat” is the best rock song of 2022 thus far. How is this not sold-out? 7:30 p.m., all ages, $18
$$ – Georgian Wine for Ukrainian Peace! Intro to Amber Wine! @ Tabla
Georgian wine is beginning to gain some notieriety for good reason: it’s great. Learn a little more and feel good about imbibing at Tabla. Tickets are pay-what-you-choose and proceeds go to organizations helping refugees from the crisis in Ukraine. 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., 21+, donate-what-you-choose
All Ages – Make and Take – Kites @ Parklands-Turner Neighborhood Library
Kites will come in handy this weekend. 4 p.m. to 5 p.m., all ages, free
March 23
Free – Achúcarro’s 90th Anniversary Tour @ Former Residence of the Ambassadors of Spain
Spanish pianist Raul Canosa performs a recital around Spanish classical music. Big fan of concerts in embassies. Bigger fan of free concerts in embassies. 6:30 p.m., all ages, free
$ – Hana Vu @ DC9
Do you want to sway in a small room? 8 p.m., all ages, $13-15
$$ – Chelsea Cutler @ Echostage
Or do you want to sway in a large room? 8 p.m., all ages, $35.65
All Ages – Cherry Blossoms @ Tidal Basin
We’re at the start of peak bloom. Watch out for tourists.
March 22
Free – DC Francophonie Festival – 14 Jours, 12 Nuits @ La Maison Française
Big fan of seeing films at embassies. Bigger fan of seeing films for free in embassies. 7 p.m., all ages, free
$ – Taj McCoy Savvy Sheldon Feels Good As Hell with Mia Sosa @ Politics & Prose Union Market
For rom-com fans that don’t mind reading more than captions. 7 p.m., all ages, free to $15.99
$$ – Langhorne Slim @ Birchmere
Musicians like Langhorne Slim may have my favorite type of career. Their stuff has the potential to connect with 15-year-olds and 75-year-olds and that’s extremely rare. It’s difficult not to imagine him playing places like Birchmere for the next 40 years. That’s a good thing. 7:30 p.m., all ages, $29.50
All Ages – Nordic Swan @ The Reflecting Pool at The Reach
In commemoration of World Water Day the Kennedy Center is showing this work by Danish artist Thomas Dambo. Through April 18
March 21
Free – 321 day: Free Ice Cream All Day @ Nicecream
Free ice cream. Really.
$ – Oscar-Nominated Short Films @ AFI Silver
The Academy Awards are this weekend. Do your cinema homework and check out the Oscar-nominated shorts at AFI. Animation at 1 p.m., documentary at 1:50 p.m. and live action at 8 p.m. Not rated, $8 to $13
$$ – Mexico in a Bottle @ Mexican Cultural Institute
This one is a no brainer, if you’re willing to imbibe on a Monday night. Enjoy food from Muchas Gracias, Taco Bamba, Oyamel, Bar Clavel, Espita, and 7 Moltin and mezcal from 57 brands. 57. 6 p.m., 21+, $50 to $85
All Ages – Outdoor Story Time @ Woodridge Neighborhood Library
Nice weather means the return of the DC Public Library outdoor story times! Hooray! This is very useful for parents of infants. 10:15 a.m., all ages, free
March 20
Free – Plant Swap @ 3 Stars
Swap a plant.
$ – Vintage & Vinyl @ Slash Run
This monthly series is great and I will continue to purchase t-shirts and pins I like and don’t need.
The weather is appropriate for some pro rugby.
All Ages – NSO Family Concert: Because (World Premiere) @ Kennedy Center
Get the kids interested in classical music as early as possible. The show is recommended for ages 5 and up.
March 19
Free – Ireland at The Wharf
Watch some rugby and drink some Guinness.
$ – Pigs and Pipes @ Dew Drop Inn
Is it a St. Patrick’s Day celebration? Technically, no. Does it offer beer and meat and traditional Scottish music? Yes.
$$ – Mimosa Fest
Sure, why not? Get a Mimosa Fest t-shirt to remember your Mimosa Fest experience?
All Ages – Cherry Blossom Family Celebration @ Smithsonian American Art Museum
Oh yeah, it’s time for the National Cherry Blossom Festival! In person celebrations are back! If you feel uncomfortable not wearing a mask but are afraid people might give you dirty looks or say something because you’re wearing a mask, fuck ’em. Kids under 5 still can’t get vaccinated. Wear a mask.
March 18
Free – NCAA Tournament @ Ivy & Coney
Watch Loyola take on Ohio State at 12:15 p.m. Go Ramblers!
The New African Film Festival kicks off Friday and runs through the end of the month at AFI Silver. We’re recommending this 2021 horror film from Nigeria. Also screens Sunday
$$ – The Runaway soft opening
The team behind Slash Run is bringing the burgers to Brookland. We got a sneak peak and highly recommend you spend some time on 12th St NE. The Runaway is the kind of place every neighborhood needs. It offers good food, good beer, a good looking space and outdoor seating. It’s also got a few features that aren’t needed but appreciated, like a Led Zeppelin pinball machine, performance stage and DJ booth. Reservations available on Resy
All Ages – Friends of the Shepherd Park Library Book Sale
Buy the kid some books. Also Saturday.
March 17
Free – Reykjavik Calling concert @ Songbyrd
One of the perks of living in D.C. is enjoying all of the international artists brought to town by different embassies. Tonight is the first night of the Taste of Iceland and it begins with a free concert featuring Laufey, Anna Gréta and DJ Hermigervill.
$ – ANXO Bottle Shop
The new ANXO bottle shop space on Kennedy St. NW looks fantastic. If you need a reason to drink cider on St. Patrick’s Day, here you go.
$$ – Oliver Tree @ Fillmore Silver Spring
Like Blink-182 in a cowboy hat?
All Ages – Victura Park re-opens
The new-ish Kennedy Center space is beautiful. The rain makes it a little less beautiful but it’s still worth a visit. In honor of the holiday they’re offering bangers and mash, Irish stout beef stew, and potato and leek soup and half-priced drinks from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
March 13
Free – Big Ten Tournament Viewing @ Ivy & Coney
D.C.’s best Chicago/Detroit bar is screening all of the Big Ten Tournament games. Catch the final and enter their March Madness Tournament. 3:30 p.m., 21+, no cover
It’s Daylight Savings Time! Great if you prefer a later sunset, horrible if you want need your kid to go to sleep! Take them to a movie. Maybe sitting in a dark theater will help everyone adjust. 2 p.m., all ages, $6
$$ – Eastern European Wine Tasting: A Fundraiser for Ukraine @ St. Vincent
Petworth/Park View’s finest wine bar/store hosts a tasting with proceeds going to an extremely worthy cause. 4 p.m., 21+, $95
All Ages – Nowruz Festival @ Tysons Corner Center
Happy Persian New Year! It’s back after two years away with music, dance, dramatic performances, a shopping bazaar and costumed characters. Seems great for younger kids. 10 a.m., all ages, free
March 12
Free – Doors Opening Drag Show @ metrobar
Spring is (almost) here! Time for outdoor drag shows! 8 p.m., 21+, no cover
$ – Shannon McNally @ Pearl Street Warehouse
How about some sad country for your aching soul? 8 p.m., 21+, $15
$$ – Maisie Peters @ Byrdland Records
Peters’ Howard Theatre show has been sold-out for quite some time and secondary market tickets are not reasonably priced. Take advantage of her in-store and album singing. It’s highly unlikely she’ll be doing stuff like this next time she’s in town. Noon, all ages, $28 (includes vinyl)
All Ages – Norooz Market @ Monroe Market Arts Walk
Celebrate the first day of spring and support some local businesses. 1 p.m., all ages, no cover
March 11
Free – Lucky – A St. Patrick’s Day Pop-Up @ Wunder Garten
Start celebrating St. Patrick’s Day on the first day of Wunder Garten’s pop-up. 8 p.m., 21+, no cover
$ – Jhariah, Spring Silver, Keep Your Secrets @ Comet Ping Pong
There’s a lot going on with Jhariah’s sound. Imagine early Joe Jackson on speed or Animal Collective as a solo artist. I love it. It’s almost indescribable. 10 p.m., all ages, $15
$$ – Leprous @ Black Cat
I will give metal bands outside of the U.S. way more time to win me over. This group out of Norway won me over. Their sound is quite dramatic and lead singer Einar Solberg gives more of a classic rock singer vibe (think Geddy Lee and Dennis DeYoung) than a Cookie Monster growl. 7 p.m., all ages, $25-$30
All Ages – National Air and Space Museum Reopens
Go while you can. It closes again on March 28. 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., all ages, free
March 10
Free – Naïs au pays des loups @ La Maison Française
The Embassy of Monaco screens this documentary as part of the D.C. Francophonie Festival at the French Embassy. If you don’t speak French, you might want to skip it. It’s in French with no subtitles. 7 p.m., all ages, free
$ – Gustaf, BRNDA, Pussy Noir @ DC9
I like this bill from start to finish. Pussy Noir is a fantastic drag artists, we’ve already praised BRNDA on this site and Gustaf plays some loose and cool indie rock. I would like to attend this show and sway back and forth for a few hours. 8 p.m., all ages, $15
$$ – Oyamel
No chef does more for the world than José Andrés. Support his empire. Bonus, Oyamel is in the midst of their Tequila & Mezcal Festival.
All Ages – U.S. National Arboretum
The weather this weekend is not going to be great. Take advantage of a decent p.m. forecast. Open until 5 p.m., all ages, free
March 6
Free – Georgetown Flea Market
It’s supposed to hit 73 this weekend. Take the family on a stroll through Georgetown and check out the Georgetown Flea Market. 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., all ages, no cover
$ – Miss Tess @ Hank Dietle’s Tavern
It’s drinkin’ and dancin’ music at a tavern meant for drinkin’ and dancin’. 6 p.m., 21+, $15
Hell yeah, improv at the Improv. Their last DC Improv show rightly sold-out in advance and this one should too. Definitely love this one because RIYL writer Haywood Turnipseed Jr. opens. 7 p.m., 18+, $21.52
All Ages – NSO Music for Young Audiences: I Dream of the Moon & Xavier’s New Friends @ Kennedy Center
Get your kids interested in the theater by taking them to the theater, specifically shows for their age group. 1:30 p.m. and 4 p.m., also Saturday, all ages (ideally for ages 5 and up), $20
March 5
Free – Memories Museum @ Songbyrd
I love that venues and bars turn into pop-up markets on otherwise quiet afternoons. It’s a good way to support local businesses that don’t have a physical location and a fine way to meet like minded individuals. 4 p.m., all ages, no cover
$ – BBQT, Teen Cobra, Shawnis & the Shimmers @ Slash Run
I recommend most every Teen Cobra show and have already raved about Slash Run a few dozen times. Get a burger. 9 p.m., 21+, $8
$$ – Andrew Rice The Year That Broke America with Olivia Nuzzi @ Politics and Prose at Union Market
I’m looking forward to reading Rice’s new book about [The year 2000 voice from Conan] the year 2000. It will make me even more depressed. 5 p.m., all ages, $28.99
All Ages – Work It! FUTURES Career Day @ Smithsonian Arts + Industries Building
If you have a kid between 5 and 11, Smithsonian Arts + Industries Building may be their favorite museum. Located down the street from Air & Space, it’s a smaller but brighter. Take them on a day when they can see what they grow into. If they’d rather just look at the big and bright stuff, great. Check out our featured photo. What is that? Ask your kid. Noon to 4 p.m., all ages, free
March 4
Free – Cheers to Three Years @ Silver Branch Brewing Company
One of Silver Spring’s best breweries celebrates three years with liter party today, a giant anniversary bash Saturday and a comedy show Sunday. Stop by for a drink or just pick up a 6-pack of the brand new Dr. Juicy IPA. 3 p.m., 21+, prices vary
Bleary Eyed make the kind of music that’ll help you disconnect from the world. It’s a little dreamy, a little sway-y and a little shoegazey. With a pandemic still going, a world war beginning and winter sticking around, you might need to disconnect. 8 p.m., all ages, $15
$$ – 1830 Vintage
1830 is my favorite furniture/vintage/knick-knacks/home goods store in D.C. It’s only open a few days a month. It’s open today. I’m conflicted about recommending them because their inventory tends to go. Quickly. So, go. Today. As early as possible. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., all ages, prices vary
All Ages – The Lane Social Club
It’s back, baby! We’re very glad it’s back, especially on 40 degree days. 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., all ages, $20 per child for 2 hours
February 27
Free – Hopportunity Release Party @ Right Proper
Celebrate the new collaboration between Black Brew Movement and Right Proper. There’ll be a black-owned brewery swag shop, music from DJ Brimafia, and, of course, beer. 3 p.m., 21+, no cover
Visit Adams Morgan’s newest cafe.
$$ – Alton Brown Live: Beyond The Eats @ National Theatre
I bet stories are beyond the eats. Whimsical stories tangentially related to food. That’s my guess. 2:30 p.m, all ages, $60 to $105
All Ages – Family Movie Night @ metrobar
This screening of The Princess and the Frog is at the friendly friendly time of 4 p.m. because this brewery understands younger members of the family need to be in before before most movie nights begin. 4 p.m., all ages, free
February 26
Free – DC Polar Plunge
Watch people do something cold that helps raise money for the Special Olympics. 1 p.m., all ages, free to $100
$ – Makeup Girl, The Royal Arctic Institute, Hello Lightfoot @ Quarry House
There are no girls in Makeup Girl. 9:30 p.m., all ages, $12
$$ – Omnium Circus Presents I’m Possible @ Capital One Hall
People playing with fire and doing death defying stunts should be a fine distraction, right? 2 p.m., all ages, $31 to $105
All Ages – Mardi Gras Parade @ The Wharf
Can’t make it to New Orleans? Need a World War III distraction? 3 p.m., all ages, free
February 25
Free – loadbang @ Flagg Building, Hammer Auditorium
The Corcoran Music Festival continues with a performance from chamber music group loadbang. Loadband is a music group. 7:30 p.m., all ages, free
$ – Pons, Dead Ringers, Courage Mother @ Slash Run
It’s a good weekend for sloppy, loud, guitar based stuff. We need a release. 9 p.m., 21+, $10
$$ – Da Hong Pao reopens
Eat up. Take advantage of their take-out window. 10 a.m. to midnight, prices vary
All Ages – Paper Quilt Making @ Woodridge Neighborhood Library
Kids will learn about famous African-American quilt makers and make their own paper quilt. 3 p.m. to 5:45 p.m., all ages (the activity is ideally for 5 to 12-year-olds), free
February 24
Free – Throwback Thursday @ City-State Brewing
It’s throwback hits performed by DMV drag queens at a brewery. Cool. 7 p.m., 21+, no cover
$ – Twin Peaks: Fire Walk With Me @ Alamo Drafthouse
“It was a dream. We live inside a dream.”
The criminally underrated film prequel to Twin Peaks is getting the respect it deserves. It took 30 years but so what? If it was beloved at the time, we probably wouldn’t have gotten Twin Peaks: The Return, the best television of the 2010s. 7:30 p.m. and 9:15 p.m., Rated R, $11
$$ – Everything Is Terrible @ Miracle Theatre
If everything is terrible, nothing is terrible. The ethos for EIT is beautiful, finding greatness in the awful. The found footage crew has transitioned from a behind the scenes collective to an immersive performance collective. Watch some truly bad stuff and see some very large felt based creations. 8 p.m., all ages, $23.25
All Ages – National Gallery of Art East Building
Last call (at least through June)! 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., all ages, free
February 20
Free – Vintage & Vinyl @ Slash Run
I’ve been to a few of these and I’ve purchased a gift at every one. Last time was a vintage PBS shirt. Big fan. I do not care if you attend because there’s a limited supply of good stuff so maybe I shouldn’t be recommending this at all. 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., all ages, no cover
$ – Lady Pills @ DC9
Go for the local openers (Den-Mate and Heaven Forbid), stay for the New York based singer-songwriter/shoegaze artist. If you need one song to sell you, I like “Ugly.” 8 p.m., all ages, $15
$$ – F1ght Club: In Grapitol We Trust @ DC Brau
Pro wrestling is back, baby! O’Shay Edwards take on Chocolate City Champion Billy Dixon in a no holds barred Falls county anywhere match inside an excellent brewery for wrestling. The last show there was the first week of March 2020 and 23 months later, it’s back!. 4 p.m., all ages, $20-$40
All Ages – Soko Butcher opening party @ Takoma Park Co-op parking lot
It feels like spring! It’s time for grilled meats out of doors! Noon to 4 p.m., all ages, prices vary
February 19
Free – Remembering Black Broadway @ Lincoln Theatre
The DC Commission on the Arts & Humanities presents this event with author of Black Broadway in Washington, D.C., Briana Thomas. It also features a performance from The Bohemian Caverns Jazz Orchestra. 7 p.m., all ages, free
$ – Prude, Ben Special, June Gloom @ Quarry House Tavern
Quarry House is one of the areas best burger bars. They’re hosting more and more shows that would typically be at places like Slash Run and Comet Ping Pong and as someone that lives slightly closer to Quarry House, I am in favor of this. I enjoy all of the acts but Ben Special is the one that does it most for me. His stuff is a charming version of oddball pop cabaret. 9:30 p.m., all ages, $12
$$ – Goth Babe @ 9:30 Club
I try to not recommend sold-out shows but I like Goth Babe’s chill wave sound and I really want to point out that if you’re thinking about going to a show, you might want to get tickets sooner rather than later. This ticket was originally $20. The cheapest secondary market tickets start at 6x the original price. 6 p.m., all ages, sold-out, secondary market tickets start at $125
All Ages – Torpedo Factory
Take your kids to the room they visit before they fall asleep. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., all ages, no cover
February 18
Free – Songbyrd Karaoke
‘Sing’ your heart out and celebrate the birthdays of John Travolta, Yoko One and Dr. Dre. 8 p.m., 18+, no cover
$ – The Worst Person in the World @ AFI Silver Spring
Nominated for two 2022 Academy Awards, Best International Feature Film and Best Original Screenplay, the Oscar film I want to see the most opens at AFI. Multiple showtimes, Rated R, $8 to $13, through Thursday
$$ – Chris Fleming @ Capital Turnaround
See what you laughed at on the Internet on a stage. 8 p.m., all ages, $38
All Ages – Katsucon @ Gaylord National Hotel and Convention Center
Anime fan? Miss conventions? Wish you were physically closer to a casino? Free to $80, all ages, also Saturday and Sunday
February 17
Free – Underground Comedy @ Reliable Tavern
It’s really nice out today. But it’s going to rain tonight. Go out but go back inside and have a laugh. 8 p.m., 21+, no cover
$ – Illustrating Spain in the US @ Lost City Books
The Illustrating Spain in the US exhibit is on display at the Spanish Embassy. This event will feature artist Anapurna, a contributor to Illustrating Spain in the US, in conversation with Miguel Albero of the Spanish Embassy. 7:30 p.m., all ages, $5 to $25
$$ – Mortified @ Kennedy Center
Remember high school? Remember shame and pain? 7:30 p.m., all ages, $20 to $25
All Ages – Disney on Ice @ Capital One Arena
Thankfully my kid is still at least a year away from enjoying this. It feels like this is inevitable. Sooner or later, every parent will be forced to watch professional athletes glide around inside felt prisons. 7 p.m., all ages, $20 to $55, through Monday
February 13
Free – Super Bowl LVI Party @ DC9
I’ve watched NFL playoff games at the first floor bar of DC9. The TV sound was off and it was great. This will be a little different. 5 p.m., 21+, no cover
$ – Hannah Jaye and The Hideaways @ Songbyrd
Jaye’s music is so pleasant. I hope that’s not an insult. It’s a compliment but could come off as dismissive. It’s just that Hannah Jaye and The Hideaways make the kind of music that’ll get you swaying in your chair or on your feet due to their melodies. 6:30 p.m., all ages, $14 to $18
$$ – Apres Ski @ Wunder Garten
If you want to get in the seasonal mood but don’t want to celebrate Valentine’s Day (‘Love Day’ on Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood for some reason), Super Bowl Sunday or the Winter Olympics, here you go! There’s a hot chocolate bar! Noon to 11 p.m., 21+, prices vary
All Ages – Jurassic Wonder Dinosaur Drive Thru @ Charles County Fairgrounds
If your kid can handle an hour plus drive to see ‘dinosaurs’ while sitting in the car and the hour plus drive back, awesome, here’s a good way to spend Sunday afternoon. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., all ages, $13.50 per car
February 12
Free – Bold Fork Books Valentine’s Day Sidewalk Sale
Need to do some last minute Valentine’s Day shopping? I do. Hopefully I can find something from Bold Fork Books, Each Peach Market, Underground Goods, PLNTR, Petal DC or Chef Koo. If you don’t find what you’re looking for, check out Hellbender’s pop-up market or 3 Stars’ local vendor market in the afternoon. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., all ages, prices vary
$ – Tell All Your Friends: Heartbreak Edition – An Emo vs Pop-Punk Dance Party @ Black Cat
If you like this music, good for you. I stand by my belief that bands like Taking Back Sunday helped kickstart the Men’s Rights Movement. But you do you. 8 p.m., 21+, $15
$$ – Cupid’s Undie Run
This is not a recommendation, this is a warning. Avoid Penn Social and the surrounding area on Saturday afternoon. Related, there’s a separate Cupid’s Bar Crawl scheduled for Dupont Circle so you may want to avoid that neighborhood too. Noon to 4 p.m., 21+, $50
All Ages – Wharf Winter Games
The Olympics are happening! You probably aren’t watching or feel conflicted about watching. I sure do! I will not feel conflicted playing pin the tail on the Husky or ice corn hole or curling at The Wharf because, to my knowledge, The Wharf isn’t perpetrating human rights violations. 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., all ages, free
February 11
Free – Violent-ines Day Massacre @ Red Bear Brewing
Enjoy the newest episode of Drag Race and stick around for some potentially spooky drag (fake blood is mentioned in the event description). Related, Red Bear has some of D.C.’s best buy. If you’re going to get just one, order the 51st State. 10 p.m., 21+, no cover
$ – Punch Drunk Love @ E Street Cinema
Sandler’s best film (Uncut Gems is 2, Billy Madison is 3, Little Nicky is 4, I could go on) and Anderson’s best film (Boogie Nights is 2, Magnolia is 3, There Will Be Blood is 4, I could go on), this midnight screening of Punch Drunk Love is perfect for the couple that doesn’t have kids. Midnight, Rated R, $10.50 to $12, also Saturday
$$ – Lunar New Year Ice Cream Tasting Flights @ Ice Cream Jubilee
It’s going to feel like spring which means eating ice cream in February isn’t a bad idea. 2:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., all ages, $23.10
All Ages – The Lane Social Club
Last call. The Lane has announced they’re closing the weekend of February 13. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., all ages, $20 for 2 hours
February 10
Free – Alice GuZheng Ensemble @ Millennium Stage
I’m incredibly fascinated by the gu-zheng (Chinese plucked zither) and I don’t think I could convince my partner we need one but maybe if I get my kid into them we could get one? 6 p.m., all ages, free
$ – FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup Qualifying Tournament 2022 @ Entertainment and Sports Arena
The tournament kicks off today with Belgium vs. Puerto Rico and continues on Friday and Saturday. 4:30 p.m., all ages, $10 to $30
$$ – Nets @ Wizards
Recommending this because the NBA trade deadline is today and the Nets will most likely look different tomorrow. 7:30 p.m., all ages, sold-out, secondary market tickets start at $9
All Ages – Soko Butcher
Takoma Park has a new butcher shop. Take the kids. They love butcher shops. If they don’t, read them the Richard Scarry book with the butcher shop and they’ll start to love butcher shops. 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.
February 6
Free – Underground Comedy @ The Wonderland Ballroom
Like I said in the intro, Covid cases are going down so, if you feel safe enough, definitely consider this weekly show at Wonderland. 8 p.m., 21+, no cover
$ – Ice Skating @ The Washington Harbour
Skate ’em while you got ’em. 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., all ages, $7 to $10
$$ – National Children’s Museum
D.C.’s newest museum has a Thomas the Tank Engine exhibit. Fine. Just do it. 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., all ages, $15.95 per tickets, we’re putting it in the $$ category since 2-year-olds can’t visit museums without an adult so you’re shelling out at least $32 for your kid to touch a Thomas
All Ages – Custom Valentine Making @ Frying Pan Farm
Let the kids run around Kidwell Farm and Frying Pan Farm Park and once they’re out of energy make them make Valentine’s for you. 10 a.m., all ages, $5
February 5
Free – Hot Cocoa Karaoke Party @ metrobar
You know why I like this Karaoke event more than any other Karaoke event? It’s outside. 6:30 p.m., 21+, no cover
$ – Concrete City, Quattracenta, PLRLS @ Slash Run
I really dig Baltimore four-piece Concrete City. They play kinda jangly, kinda punk rock power pop. Real head nodder stuff. Quattracenta is also from Baltimore and are much darker, much moodier and an appropriate sound for the damp, cold February. PLRLS is from, you guessed it, Baltimore, and a little jaunty, DEVO influenced indie/dance rock. A really quality bill at a really quality bar. 9 p.m., 21+, $10
$$ – The Precious One Apricot IPA – Release Party @ Atlas Brew Works Half Street Brewery & Tap Room
The Precious One is great. Rowdy is better. Hey Atlas, please bring back Rowdy. 3 p.m. to 5 p.m., 21+, $20.22
All Ages – Suns @ Wizards
How can you hate Phoenix’s basketball team (the ownership)? Other than the ownership, they’re great! Fun jerseys, team play, a veteran trying to get one ring before he ends a Hall of Fame career, State Farm, what’s not to love (the ownership)? 7 p.m., all ages, $28 to $888
February 4
Free – Candy Flip Power Hour Party @ Songbyrd
Let’s try it again! It was cancelled last week but Covid numbers are down so let’s hope it happens this weekend. Let’s hope most shows happen this month…Never mind. Sunday’s Songbyrd show is cancelled. Wear a mask. 7:30 p.m., 21+, no cover
$ – Barb and Star Go To Vista Del Mar @ AFI Silver
Like most people I slept on Barb and Star when it was first released. I’m extremely glad I watched it on Hulu. It’s one of the best comedies of the last decade and definitely deserves midnight/late night movie cult status. 9:05 p.m., Rated PG-13, $8 to $13, through February 10
$$ – Candlelight Ballet @ Capital Turnaround
This seems like a perfect early date night. Get your Valentine’s Day date night out of the way (I realize this sounds negative but the holiday is on a Monday which makes it incredibly difficult to plan for and the two days before are the Super Bowl and while it is very possible to avoid the biggest American sporting event of the year, it’s not easy to avoid the people trying to celebrate the biggest American sporting event of the year.). 6:30 p.m., 10+, $60
All Ages – The REACH Winter Lanterns
Did you celebrate Chinese New Year? 5:30 p.m., all ages, free
February 3
Free – Laurie Anderson: The Weather @ Hirshhorn
It’s going to rain all day. Seems like a good day to see The Weather by Laurie Anderson. 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., all ages, free, through July 31
$ – Sleaze @ DC9
It’s going to be warm inside DC9. Very warm. 9 p.m., 21+, $10
$$ – Kacey Musgraves @ Capital One Arena
Mend your broken heart with a broken-hearted performer. 8 p.m., all ages, $60 to $126
All Ages – The Lane Social Club
It’s going to rain all day. Seems like a good day to let the kids play inside The Lane. It’s one of your last chances. The Lane has announced they’re closing the weekend of February 13. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., all ages, $20 for 2 hours
January 30
Free – Yappy Hour @ Wunder Garten
Yes, it’s cold, but chasing after a dog might help you stay warm. Noon to 3 p.m., 21+, no cover
$ – Get Flee Market @ Sandlot Southeast
If you can’t make it to Songbyrd on Saturday, here’s your Sunday flea market/thrift/resale option. Noon to 6 p.m., all ages, no cover, prices vary, RSVP requsted
$$ – Solace Brewing
They open their Navy Yard location this weekend. Stop by after perusing the Get Flee Market. Noon to 10 p.m., 21+, prices vary
All Ages – Washington Auto Show
Take the kids to the final day of the auto show. If they love it and want to come back tomorrow, remind them it’s the last day of the car show. Teach them to enjoy the wow of now. Noon to 6 p.m., all ages, $5 to $15
January 29
Free – Memories Museum: A Vintage Market @ Songbyrd
It’s very cold, seemingly every other show is cancelled due to COVID and you can only spend so much time under heat lamps. Pop ups like this one are a very good way to spend a late January afternoon. 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., all ages, no cover
$ – C’Mon C’Mon @ AFI Silver Spring
The newest Mike Mills film stars Joaquin Phoenix and has two screenings at AFI, one this Saturday and one Tuesday. The trailer is quite good and makes me choke up. Even so, I’ll see anything with Phoenix and I’ll see any A24 release so I’ll definitely see this film and most likely choke up during the screening. 4 p.m., Rated R, $8 to $13
$$ – Flying V Fights: Technical Difficulties
I’m sorry wrestler on this show. I’m betting you scheduled this thinking the Royal Rumble was on Sunday night. Unfortunately, WWE finally realized it’s smarter to have their best event of the year on a date with no NFL games. If you’re not watching the Rumble, you should definitely consider attending a pro wrestling show in your own backyard. Well, not your backyard. This is not backyard wrestling. 8 p.m., all ages, $25
All Ages – Monster Jam @ Capital One Arena
I will absolutely not be attending this show. The fumes are too much. I went once and that’s enough. If you have a strong enough stomach and your kid loves trucks, this is their Super Bowl/Royal Rumble. If you prefer a quiet vehicle option, see our Sunday All Ages pick. Also Sunday, 1 p.m. and 7 p.m., all ages, $20 to $99
January 28
Free – Candy Flip Power Hour Party @ Songbyrd
I’m not a nostalgia guy but I am definitely in favor of 90s techno and 90s bubblegum hits in the dead of winter. Get there early. The first 20 people get a free light-up shot glass necklace. You can use it when watching the Royal Rumble on Saturday and during the AFC and NFC Championship Games on Sunday and the Super Bowl in two weeks! Light-up shot glass necklaces are useful on multiple occasions. 7:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., 21+, no cover
$ – Indré @ DC9
A little Belly, a little OKGo (at least when it comes to their music videos), the Ohio based 5-piece make quality head nodding popular rock and roll. Get there early for locals Teen Cobra. Indré is quite polished and Teen Corba is not. Both are worth your attendance. 8 p.m., all ages, $13
$$ – Last Podcast on the Left @ The Anthem
Good for them! Go listen, laugh and love with some dudes from Brooklyn that love brutal murders. 8 p.m., all ages, $35 to $55
All Ages – The REACH Winter Lanterns
Take a stroll through the pretty lights. Through February 6, 5:30 p.m., all ages, free
January 27
Free – Natural History Museum
I wanted to take my kid to see dinosaur fossils last weekend but the March for Life and an anti-vac rally was last weekend so we stayed the hell away from downtown. Now they’re gone. They should be gone. Open until 5:30 p.m., all ages, free
$ – Cats on Park Avenue and The Cat @ Suns Cinema
It’s cat weekend at Suns. If you’re a cat/film person, great! If you’re not a cat/film person, you’re most likely allergic to cats. 7 p.m. and 9:45 p.m., all ages, $10
$$ – Samia @ Union Stage
Samia makes the kind of music that makes you feel a bit warmer, like it’s nearly summer. It is not nearly summer. It is very much winter. Maybe she’ll play her version of “The Promise” and you’ll feel warmer. 8 p.m., all ages, $22 to $40
All Ages – The Lane
The Lane has announced they’re closing the weekend of February 13. It’s a shame. If they didn’t open right before a global pandemic, they most likely wouldn’t be closing. Take the kid(s) while you can. $20 for 2 hours of open play
January 23
Free – Tea Party @ DC9
See Saturday’s Free.
$ – Profs & Pints DC: Who Owns Dance Moves? @ Bier Baron
I’m extremely fascinated with this topic. It’s another worthwhile entry in the Profs and Pints massive catalogue. 3 p.m., 21+, $13 to $15
$$ – Unconventional Diner
Last chance to take advantage of DC Restaurant Week. Unconventional Diner is offering $70 for 2 take-out three course meal that looks like it’ll hold up well in transport.
All Ages – Suubi’s Sunny Smile – Story Time for Kids and Parents! @ Lost City Books
Yes, more story times! In person story times! Virtual story times are not helpful for toddlers! 2 p.m., all ages, free to $18
January 22
Free – Superstar: A Variety Drag Revue @ Songbyrd
One of two excellent free drag show options this weekend. If you include the Drag Race viewing party at JR’s, you can easily attend three consecutive nights of drag related events without paying a cover. Tip the performers. Tip the bartenders. 10 p.m., 18+, no cover
If you’re interested, get tickets now. Both shows are close to selling out. D.C.’s premiere sketch group Bad Medicine headlines with support from Greensboro’s Trouble With Shapes and Baltimore’s Richard Dreyfuss. 7:30 p.m., 9:45 p.m., 18+, $18
$$ – Shibuya Eatery / Death Punch
The Shibuya Eatery / Death Punch Restaurant Week $25 lunch special is a good deal we like even more because you can get it for take out.
All Ages – Harbor Point Ice Festival
Kids love ice sculptures, right? 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., all ages, free
January 21
Free – The Righteous Gemstones season 2
March for Life is today. Get in the mood with the first three episodes of season two of The Righteous Gemstones on HBO Max. Free if you have someone else’s password
$ – BRNDA, Grocer, You and Me and You @ Pie Shop
I’m a BRNDA fan. It’s why I asked their drummer/singer Leah Gage write a Song I Wish I Wrote. Get there on time for Grocer. They’re really great and I’ve been enjoying their 2021 EP Delete If Not Allowed. 8 p.m., all ages, $12 to $15
$$ – AEW Rampage @ Entertainment and Sports Arena
I hope that asshole fan on Wednesday night didn’t ruin D.C.’s chances for AEW coming to town more often. 8 p.m., all ages, $29 to $90
All Ages – Turkey Thicket Aquatic Center
Today is quite cold, possibly the coldest day of 2022. Turkey Thicket’s indoor pool recently reopened. They have a kiddie pool section. Earlier this week is was very easy for everyone to socially distance. If you really need to get out of the house, this might be a quality and somewhat surprising option. Open until 9 p.m., all ages, free for D.C. residents
January 17
Free – MLK/FBI @ AFI Silver Spring
If you’re not going to volunteer and are comfortable in a movie theater, this is your best MLK Day option. Noon, free, unrated
$ – Philadelphia 76ers @ Washington Wizards
Take in an afternoon game and try to convince yourself Ben Simmons will become a Wizard. 2 p.m., all ages, $11 to $888
All Ages – 2022 MLK Holiday DC 16th Annual Peace Walk
It’s happening rain or shine. Wear boots. 10 a.m., all ages
January 16
Free – Underground Comedy @ Wonderland Ballroom
It returns after a month off due to the obvious. 8 p.m., 21+, no cover
$ – Neckscars @ DC9
Do you like hardcore/metal/rock/whatever that respects their Misfits related origins? 8 p.m., all ages, $12 to $14
$$ – Painting With Goats (Vaccination Required) @ Faith Lutheran Church
I’m including this because Vaccination Required is part of the name of the event. If you want to paint that goat, you better get that vaccine. Noon, all ages, $45 (includes art supplies)
All Ages – FUTURES We Dream Family Day
This place is ideal for 6 to 12-year-olds. Family Days make it even more appealing. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., all ages, free
January 15
Free – Oops! All Vinyls @ Neptune Room
Pay your respects to Ronnie Spector. 10 p.m., 21+, no cover
$ – Brewery Tour + Tasting @ Atlas Brew Works
Learn something and drink lots of something. 4 p.m., 21+, $20
$$ – BENT @ 9:30 Club
It’s the Mid-Atlantic Leather edition of BENT. There’s no way you’re not going to hear “Warm Leatherette.” 10 p.m., 18+, $25
All Ages – Rock the Rink @ The Wharf
If your kid is a Caps fan and you’re not comfortable with them attending a game in person, this is a great option. They can skate, watch the game on a jumbotron and if they’re wearing Caps gear, get $5 off tickets. 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., all ages, $9 to $12, $6 skate rental
January 14
Free – FREEBYRD @ Songbyrd
Lots and lots of Songbyrd shows have been cancelled and postponed due to the obvious. You deserve a cheap drink. Tonight’s FREEBYRD includes raffles, drink specials and music from DJ No Requests. 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., all ages, no cover
$ – The Matrix Resurrections @ Miracle Theatre
We liked it. 7 p.m., $6 to $8, Rated R, also Saturday
I stand with Torres because he stands for Guy Fieri. Somewhat related, I just read In The Weeds by Tom Vitale and Tacky by Rax King. In The Weeds is about Anthony Bourdain and Tacky features a chapter on Guy Fieri. If I had to choose who had the greater impact on society at large, I’m going with Fieri every day. This is not a knock on Bourdain, I’d just rather be happy, drive around the country in a convertible and hang out with my kid. 7:30 p.m., 9:45 p.m., 18+, also Saturday
All Ages – NSO Prelude @ Millennium Stage
If your kid can sit through an hour long classical music show, awesome. If not, the Millennium Stage is in the Kennedy Center and the kid can run around the massive Kennedy Center. 6 p.m., all ages, free
2021
December 15
Free – Screening of Boyo by Samuel Dameus @ Embassy of Haiti
Another week in D.C., another chance to learn about someone else’s culture inside an embassy. 6:30 p.m., all ages, free, also Tuesday and Thursday
$ – The Naughty Nut – A Musical Burlesque @ Bier Baron
We’ve recommended dozens of holiday themed events. Why not a holiday themed burlesque show? 7 p.m., 21+, $20
$$ – A John Waters Christmas @ Birchmere
Waters has been doing this Christmas show for more than two decades. Has he spent more time in the Christmas season than behind a camera? 7:30 p.m., all ages, $55
All Ages – National Christmas Tree and Pathway of Peace
If you prefer lights on trees rather than lights on wiring and inflatables, here’s your free lights option. Dusk to 11 p.m., all ages, free
December 14
Free – Ugly Sweater Drag Bingo @ Red Bear Brewing
Red Bear’s 51st State is one of the best beers out of D.C. Wear one of your not best sweaters, keep your fingers crossed for the bingo ball you need and drink some Red Bear beer. 7 p.m., 21+, no cover
$ – Moreland’s Holiday Toy Drive
Every neighborhood deserves a nice neighborhood bar/restaurant like Moreland’s. They have good food, a quality beer selection and are great with kids. If you need an excuse to visit the restaurant, this Tuesday is their toy drive. Bring a toy for a kid aged 4 to 12 and get a free DC Brau. 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
$$ – Hot 99.5’s Jingle Ball @ Capital One Arena
Go for Megan Thee Stallion. Stay for The Jonas Brothers. 7:30 p.m., all ages, $60 to $400
All Ages – Winter Lights in McLean Central Park
If you’re closer to McLean than The Yards, here’s your convenient free light show option. 4:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., all ages, free
December 13
Free – Songbyrd Music Trivia
Meet some like minded individuals at one of D.C.’s only all ages trivia night. If you’re at all interested, go tonight, it’s the final edition of 2021. 7 p.m., all ages, free
The AFI European Union Film Showcase Centerpiece Screening is the winner of the Golden Lion at the Venice Film Festival. Other than LA and NYC, we get the best screenings. 7 p.m., not rated, $13 to $15
$$ – Metz, Preoccupations @ Union Stage
Both Metz and Preoccupations make music that sounds like a release. It felt urgent and cathartic before the pandemic. It’s now explosive. 7:30 p.m., all ages, $20 to $40
All Ages – Light Yards
There are lots of light shows. Most are drive thru. Most are not free. Light Yards is walkable and free. More light show options below. 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., all ages, free
December 12
Free – Peppermint Mocha Competition @ National Landing
As of this writing it’s very cold outside. Very cold weather makes very warm, sugary drinks taste better. 11 a.m., free, all ages
$ – December Plant Swap @ 3 Stars Brewing
Bring a plant, take a plant, drink some new 3 Stars collaborations. 1 p.m., 21+ but it’s kid friendly, plant swap is free, beer is not free
$$ – Ween @ Fillmore Silver Spring
Listen to The Pod. 8 p.m., all ages, $59.50
All Ages – The Polar Express @ Miracle Theatre
My kid loves trains. Will he love this trip to the uncanny valley? 2 p.m., rated G, $6
December 11
Free – The Procrastinator’s Holiday Market @ United States National Arboretum
How is holiday shopping two weeks before Christmas procrastinating? No! It is not! Regardless of whether or not you need gifts, the arboretum is a great place to take the kids. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., all ages, free
See Au Revoir Simone member Annie Hart. Au Revoir Simone was in Twin Peaks: The Return. Twin Peaks: The Return is the best television since The Sopranos. Anyway, I obviously want to attend this show. 7 p.m., all ages, $13 to $15
$$ – Ring Of Honor Wrestling – Final Battle @ Chesapeake Employers Insurance Arena
Ring of Honor was doing pretty well before AEW came along. ROH is no longer doing well. This is the end of an era, the final Pay-Per-View with a somewhat set roster and a TV deal. Hopefully they’ll continue. Maybe they don’t. 7 p.m., all ages, $30 to $50
All Ages – Old Town Alexandria Christmas Market and Holiday Craft Show
One of many holiday markets (see above), we’re going with this one since Old Town looks prettier in December. 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., all ages, no cover
December 10
Free – Friday Night Lights – Holiday Show @ Union Market
Enchant is a lot. A LOT. If you want less than a lot, this light show is much more reasonable. Also, it’s free. Enchant is definitely not free. 7 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., all ages, free
$ – Alamo Drafthouse Cinema soft opening
D.C. needs more movie screens. This is a very good addition. Bonus, it’s conveniently located near Metrobar and City-State Brewery. Various films and times, $15
$$ – William Elliott Whitmore @ Miracle Theatre
Roots musicians, Americana musicians, folk musicians, whatever you want to call them, maybe missed live performances more than any other type of musician. Whitmore plays music meant for the stage. See him on a stage. 8 p.m., all ages, $22.25
All Ages – Ice Maze @ City Center
Dress warm and wander through an ice maze on its opening day. I’d love to show you what it looks like but there’s only an artist’s rendering which makes it even more intriguing. 4 p.m. to 9 p.m., all ages, free, also Saturday and Sunday
December 9
Free – We Interrupt Your Regularly Scheduled Panel: Future of Food @ Arts and Industries Building
The Smithsonian had one of the best in person programs in D.C. Multiple events on every day of the week made the museums a destination for tourists and locals alike. The pandemic put an end to most in person programming. It’s a welcome sight to see the new/old Arts and Industries host in person events again. 6:30 p.m., all ages, free, RSVP does not guarantee entry
$ – Sleaze @ DC9
A X-Mas version of the XXX* party.
*It’s not actually XXX, it’s just billed as SLEAZE: O’ XXXmas. 9 p.m., 21+, $10
A comic’s comic, Attell is and has been great for over 30 years. I recently read Norm Macdonald’s 2016 book Based on a True Story: A Memoir and would like to know Attell’s thoughts on his inclusion. 7:30 p.m., 18+, $35, through Sunday
All Ages – Create a Battle Plan! @ Takoma Park Neighborhood Library
This is a kid’s event that will teach 5 to 12-year-olds how to, “Create a battle plan to protect your gifts from thieves.” This sounds adorable and confusing! 5 p.m., all ages, free
December 8
Free – Elder’s Corner @ Kennedy Center
Take in a free film on Juju music on the Millennium Stage. 6 p.m., all ages, free
$ – Gorillaz: Song Machine Live from Kong @ AFI Silver
If you’re not yet comfortable with attending a concert in person, attending a screening of a concert might be a good gateway drug. Also, Gorillaz work better on screen than in person. I’ve seen them live and while it’s fun, the visual element is only somewhat represented. On screen is actually best for the fake real band. 7 p.m., not rated, $8 to $13, one night only
$$ – NSO at the Anthem: Ugly Sweater Holiday Concert
‘Tis the season. 7:30 p.m., all ages, $15 to $30
All Ages – Deck the Walls of the Children’s Room @ Georgetown Neighborhood Library
Rather make a festive mess in a place that isn’t your home? 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., all ages, ideally 5 to 12-years-old
December 7
Free – The Muppets Take American History @ National Museum of American History
The upcoming HBO doc about Sesame Street looks excellent. I’ll inevitably watch it and do an extensive deep dive on the second best children’s television show of all time (The host of the best children’s television show of all time is in our feature image). 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., all ages, free
$ – Taco Tuesday @ Silver Branch Brewing Company
Silver Branch is participating in our Liquid Advent Calendar giveaways so we’re big fans. Eat a taco. It’s Tuesday.
$$ – Slow Pulp @ Songbyrd
For fans of Phoebe Bridgers and Bad Bad Habits. Not surprised this one is sold out. I am surprised their Sum 41 cover is good. 8 p.m., all ages, secondary market tickets start at $28
All Ages – United States Botanic Garden
It’s going to be much colder on Tuesday and you may need a plan with a kid friendly destination. Take them to see the trains, specifically the Thomas and Friends trains, at a somewhat enclosed space. By the time they’re cold you can head indoors in one of the many nearby museums. 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., all ages, free
December 6
Free – Trivia @ Wunder Garten
Why are we recommending an outdoor trivia night in December? Climate change. Today’s high is 66. 7 p.m., 21+, no cover
The European Union Film Festival continues with the U.S. premiere of Mitra with a Q&A with filmmaker Kaweh Modiri. 7 p.m., not rated, $13 to $15
$$ – 100 gecs @ 9:30 Club
I’m a Millennial. The popularity of acts like 100 gecs lead me to believe the next generation has superior taste. What is 100 gecs? Noise pop? Synth trash? It sounds like the last 40 years of technology in short blasts. Have fun, kids! 7 p.m., all ages, sold out, secondary market tickets start at $40
All Ages – Lighting of the Menorah @ The Wharf
It’s the final night of Hanakuh. It’s your last chance to see a very big Menorah get lit. 5 p.m., all ages, free
December 5
Free – The 48th Annual Mayor’s Christmas Parade Parade
When I think of Baltimore I think of it during Christmas time. This is one of the reasons why. Baltimore looks best in December. 1 p.m., all ages, free
$ – Profs & Pints DC: Nightmares Before Christmas @ Bier Baron
It’s about Krampus. A neighbor has a Krampus display. My kid things it’s a big Santa sticking its tongue out. He’s not wrong? 3 p.m., 21+, $12 to $15
$$ – Bruno Mars @ MGM National Theatre
Bruno is at National Harbor more than me. I’m cool with it. 8 p.m., 21+, $270 to $600, also Saturday
All Ages – Silver Spring Christmas Market and Holiday Craft Fair
If you didn’t find anything at the Takoma Park edition, head slightly northwest and try again the next day. Noon to 4 p.m., all ages, prices vary
December 4
Free – The District’s Holiday Boat Parade @ The Wharf
It’s a boat parade. More often than not, I’m going to recommend boat parades. 6 p.m., all ages, free
$ – Takoma Park Holiday Art Sale
Peruse wares from 25 local vendors and feel good about your holiday purchase. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., all ages, prices vary
$$ – Steve-O @ Capital Turnaround
The poster child for survival. I have nothing but respect for Steve-O. 7 p.m., 21+, $30
All Ages – Holiday Celebration at The Parks
A giant Christmas tree, a giant Menorah, fire pits, hot drinks, s’mores and more for the family. It’s also a toy drive for Housing Up. A good way to spend the early evening with kids. 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., all ages, free
December 3
Free – Festive Fridays @ Brookland Arts Walk
My kid goes to day care near the Brookland Arts Walk so I’m already biased to like these events. It eats time in a festive way and you might even be able to get some holiday shopping done whilst supporting local businesses. 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., all ages
$ – Found Footage Festival @ Arlington Drafthouse
I wonder if what was once odd is now comforting? Does a 20-year-old find anything weird? It’s not a bad thing, just different than how most 40-year-olds enjoy folks like the Found Footage Festival and Everything Is Terrible. 7 p.m., 21+, $15, also Saturday
$$ – Caroline Polachek @ Lincoln Theatre
I’ve listened to “So Hot You’re Huring My Feelings” quite a few times this year. 8 p.m., all ages, sold out, secondary tickets start at $47
All Ages – Heurich House Museum’s Christkindlmarkt
I love these markets. It has nothing to do with commerce. Sure, they exist to sell things but I rarely buy anything other than one hot drink and one hot whatever-food-they’re-offering. I just love the lights and the sense that the cold can be denied for one more month. 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., all ages, no cover, also Saturday and Sunday
December 2
Free – Disabled Artists Activate @ Millennium Stage
The Millennium Stage has been showcasing artists from around the globe for over a decade. The pandemic put an end to indoor shows. They’re slowly returning and this weekend’s showcase of disabled artists is a welcome return to a sense of somewhat normalcy. 6 p.m., all ages, free, also Friday and Saturday
$ – Cathedral Bells @ Pie Shop
They’re billed as dream pop/shoegaze and that’s why I listened. Glad I did. It’s really quality dream pop/shoegaze. I’m swaying while writing this. I’m listening to “I Don’t Care Anymore.” 8 p.m., all ages, $12 to $15
$$ – Chicago Blackhawks @ Washington Capitals
Go Hawks. 7 p.m., all ages, $20 to $613
All Ages – Menorah Lighting and Clear Harmony Carolers @ Union Market
Whether you prefer to celebrate Hanukkah or Christmas, Union Market has you covered. Lighting at 5 p.m., carolers at 6:30 p.m., all ages, free
December 1
Free – Lighting of the Capitol Christmas Tree
Celebrate the first day of December by looking at something big and bright. 5 p.m., all ages, free
$ – AFI European Union Film Showcase Opening Night: Flee @ AFI Silver
The 2021 Oscar Selection from Denmark opens the AFI European Union Film Showcase. 7:15 p.m., Rated PG-13, $13 to $15, festival runs through December 19
$$ – Jeff Rosenstock @ Black Cat
Post- is the best rock album of 2018. No Dream is one of the best rock albums of 2020. SKA DREAM made me seriously listen to ska in 2021. 7 p.m., all ages, sold out, secondary market tickets start at $48
All Ages – Outdoor Story Time @ Cleveland Park Neighborhood Library
There are multiple outdoor story times on Wednesday mornings but we’re going with the Cleveland Park location since it’s close to the zoo and if the weather cooperates, you might want to take the kid to the zoo afterwards. 10:30 a.m. to 11 a.m., all ages (ideally 2 to 5-years-old), free
November 30
Somebody ask her about the likelihood of a shutdown, please. 6:30 p.m., all ages, free, RSVP does not guarantee seat
Eat a taco or a burger at D.C.’s best burger bar. Related, should a waiter let you know when they’re serving your kid a side of BBQ sauce and the BBQ sauce has whiskey in it? How much booze could the BBQ sauce have? There’s no way a kid could be affected by some BBQ sauce that happens to have some booze in it, right? 4 p.m. to 2 a.m., all ages, happy hour from 4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
The new CHVRCHES is just as good as the old CHVRCHES. Similar to Beach House, they’re delivering an excellent specific type of atmospheric music in their second decade. 8 p.m., all ages, $45 to $75
All Ages – National Menorah on the Ellipse
Celebrate the third night of Hanukkah by looking at something big and bright.
November 29
Free – Adolescentes @ La Maison Française
Enjoy a documentary about two French best friends from ages 13 to 18. Je suppose que cela grandit. 6:30 p.m., all ages, free
$ – DC Cocktail Week
56 bars and restaurants are participating in a week of cocktail specials. If you needed an excuse to try some place new, here you go. I’m interested in checking out The Commodore, Cranes and Crazy Aunt Helen’s. Various locations, 21+, prices vary, through December 5
$$ – Ginger Minj’s Winter Wonderland @ Miracle Theatre
Ginger is great and even after appearing on three seasons of Drag Race, never outwore her welcome. That’s so hard to do! Ginger would have been an excellent season 7 or All Stars season 6 winner. Anyway, go see her Christmas show tonight or tomorrow on Barracks Row. 7 p.m., all ages, $30
All Ages – Winter Festival of Lights @ Watkins Regional Park
Take advantage of one of two free nights at this Winter Festival of Lights. If you’re unsure of its appeal, it’s lights. If you like lights, which I like, here are some free lights! 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., all ages, free
November 28
Free – Hanukkah Bar @ Ivy & Coney
Happy first night of Hanukkah! Celebrate the correct way at D.C.’s finest Chicago/Michigan bar. They’re bringing back the Hanukkah Bar for 2021, reminding people that this city really loved theme bars for some reason. I really love this bar because it’s a reasonable bar that plays the teams I root for. Also, I’ve recommended a dozen different ways to see Christmas lights and if I don’t recommend this and if you don’t consider stopping by while it’s up, you’re a bigot. Noon to 2 a.m., 21+, no cover, through the holidays
$ – 2021 Meadowlark’s Winter Walk of Lights
Yeah, I like lights, OK? I also like botanical gardens. I contain multitudes. 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m., all ages, $16, through January 2
$$ – Holiday Lights on the Farm @ Frying Pan Farm Park
If your kid enjoys the Little Blue Truck books, especially the Christmas edition, they’ll most likely enjoy seeing the lights at a working farm based on farms from the 1920s to 1950s. 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., all ages, $20 to $25
All Ages – Garden of Lights at Brookside Gardens, Montgomery Parks
See above. 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., all ages, $10
November 27
Free – Festive Fireworks @ National Harbor
If you prefer your holiday lights in short bursts beginning at 5:30 p.m. and over by 5:45 p.m., look no further! 5:30 p.m., all ages, free
$ – Lightmare @ DC9
The D.C. band refers to their sound as soulpunk. If you like sax and keys and a little funk and a little ska, you’ll like soulpunk. 8 p.m., 21+, $12
It’s his holiday show but there’s no way he’s not playing “Wicked Game.” 7:30 p.m., all ages, $115
All Ages – The Washington Ballet’s Nutcracker @ Warner Theatre
Opening day and night of Washington Ballet’s version of Nutcracker. Compare and contrast this with the Miami Ballet edition? 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., all ages, $49 to $145, through December 26
November 26
Free – OOPS…I Did It Again 2000 Dance Party @ DC9
Celebrate a free Britney. 9 p.m., 21+, no cover
$ – Dicqbeats, Damages, Virtua @ The Pocket
Celebrate industrial. 8 p.m., all ages, $10 to $15
It’s back and very, very bright. We’re going in early December. We’ll let you know just how bright it is. 4:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., all ages, $29 to $39, through January 2
All Ages – Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting
I don’t typically recommend anything in Reston let alone two events in one piece but if you’re looking to check the parade box and the tree lighting box, this is a good bet. Parade at 11 a.m., mini-train rides until 4:30 p.m., tree lighting at 6 p.m., all ages, free
November 25
Free – Christmas Village in Baltimore
Buy local and see the bright lights. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., all ages, free
$ – Reston Town Center Ice Skating Pavilion
They’re open later this week for the holiday. Whether you want to skate before or after your Thanksgiving gathering, there’s an open session. 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m., all ages, $9 to $17
$$ – Merriweather Symphony of Lights
The tradition continues. Take a post-meal, pre-dessert drive through the lights on opening night. 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., all ages, $20 per car, through January 2
All Ages – U.S. Botanic Garden Outdoor Holiday Display
There’s a Thomas the Tank Engine section. Kids love that show because kids love Thomas the Tank Engine narrator George Carlin. Don’t believe me? Show your kids some Carlin stand-up. They’re big fans. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., all ages, free, through January 2
November 24
Free – Recommend If You Like DJ Night @ Looking Glass Lounge
Hang out with us the night before Thanksgiving. In honor of the holiday celebrated by friends and family sharing a meal, we’ll begin with two hours of music from veterans of Korn’s Family Values Tour. It’s important to maintain friendships. And it’s important to go to therapy. The artists on the Family Values Tour sound like they do not appreciate how therapy can help. 6 p.m. to 11 p.m., 21+, free
$ – Gimme Gimme Disco: A Dance Party Inspired by ABBA @ 9:30 Club
Did you listen to the new ABBA? It’s not bad but I highly doubt this party will focus on new ABBA. 9 p.m., all ages, $17
$$ – Miami City Ballet: George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker @ Kennedy Center
It’s opening night and the first time Miami City Ballet is doing The Nutcracker at the Kennedy Center in over a decade. 7:30 p.m., all ages, $49 to $209, through November 28
All Ages – Local Comic Shop Day
Teach your child that reading is fundamental and the Marvel Cinematic Universe is based on comics/Greek mythology. And buy local.
November 23
Free – FUTURES @ Arts and Industries
The newest Smithsonian exhibit should be a bit quieter the Tuesday after opening weekend. Read Leaving Earth, Doing Laundry and Mushroom Mausoleums: FUTURES at Smithsonian’s Arts and Industries
Go dance to some high end production from a trio of Nashville fellas that appear to enjoy the dancey, hand-clappy sounds of mid 80s pop rock. 7 p.m., all ages, $15
$$ – Teyena Taylor @ Fillmore Silver Spring
Or maybe you’d prefer to sway for some high end production heartfelt slow jams. 7 p.m., all ages, $37.50
All Ages – Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical @ National Theatre
It’s opening night for the critically acclaimed kids musical. If you’d prefer to attend in the afternoon and keep bedtime, there are matinee performances this Friday, Saturday and Sunday. 7 p.m., all ages, $50 to $95
November 22
Free – Mr. Jones screening @ Ukraine House
Watch the 2019 film about the journalist who broke news in the western media of Holodomor-genocide with screenwriter Andrea Chalupa. Not a lot of American cities offer free film screenings at different embassies. 6:30 p.m., all ages, free
$ – Charlotte Cornfield @ Pie Shop
The Polyvinyl artist brings her singer songwriter stylings to Pie Shop. Good for fans of Sharon Van Etten and Cat Power. Also, this might be your best chance to get pie at Pie Shop this week. They’re kinda slammed for holiday reasons. 7:30 p.m., all ages, $14
$$ – Charlotte Hornets @ Washington Wizards
I know it’s early but it’s still impressive the Wizards are currently in first place. 7 p.m., all ages, $12 to $888
All Ages – Ice & Lights: The Winter Village at Cameron Run
If you don’t like Christmas lights, you’re not going to like this week’s recommendations. I love them. I want them up November 1. The bright lights make me feel good and remind of “I Want to See the Bright Lights Tonight” by Linda and Richard Thompson and that’s an amazing song. This recently opened vilage also has an ice skating option, great for people able to balance with ease. 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., all ages, $8 to $20, through January 2
November 21
Free – Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000) @ National Harbor
Year-round outdoor movies, please! 2 p.m., all ages, free
Wear comfortable shoes. 7 p.m., all ages, $20
$$ – Mastadon, Opeth @ The Anthem
Wear earplugs. 5:30 p.m., all ages, $45 to $75
All Ages – FUTURES Remixed: Family Day @ Arts and Industries Building
The long closed Arts and Industries Building is finally re-opening this weekend and Sunday is for the family. The museum already offers lot of kid friendly exhibits but they’re adding some more, like FUTURES Roulette tours, robot races and craft making, making sure there’s something to keep them entertained. Come back to Recommend If You Like tomorrow for more about the new/old museum. 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., all ages (the kid stuff is best for ages 5 and up), free
November 20
Free – Takoma Park Library Celebrates 110 Years of Service
We visit the library most every weekend so we might as well visit during a 110 year celebration. 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., all ages, free
$ – Comedy Potluck @ The Wonderland Ballroom
After five years the monthly variety show bids adieu to Wonderland. Stop by for the last hurrah and here’s hoping they find a new home soon. 6:30 p.m., 21+, no cover
$$ – Friendsgiving @ Astro Lab Brewing
Astro is teaming up with ANXO (DC), Crooked Crab Brewing (Odenton, Md), Fourscore Brewing Company (Gettysburg, Pa), Ocelot Brewing (Sterling, Va), Other Half (D.C.), Sapwood Cellars (Columbia, Md) and Wheatland Spring Farm & Brewery (Waterford, Va) for a friendly afternoon of libation. Buying local means drinking local too. Noon to 11 p.m., 21+, no cover
All Ages – DC Punk Rock Flea @ St. Stephens
Start your holiday shopping. Noon to 5 p.m., all ages, free to enter, but please bring canned food to donate for We Are Family DC
November 19
Free – Superstar: A Variety Drag Revue @ Songbyrd
A free drag show at Songbyrd? Hell yeah. A few weeks ago the venue hosted a free blues show and now this. Kudos to the diverse booking. Rock clubs can program more than rock. 11 p.m., 21+, free
$ – The Sculpture Garden Ice Rink Opens
It’s back, baby! Weather permitting. So glad one of the holiday’s best traditions is returning. Weather permitting. 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., all ages, $9 to $10, $5 skate rental
$$ – ÌFÉ @ Black Cat
ÌFÉ’s music is both futuristic and steeped in traditional Afro-Cuban sounds. It has massive crossover appeal. 8 p.m., all ages, $20 to $25
All Ages – Downtown Holiday Market
It’s back, baby! Even if there’s bad weather, the Downtown Holiday Market will be there for all of your holiday shopping and smells needs. The candied nuts always smell nice. Noon to 8 p.m., all ages, through December 23
November 18
Free – Nikole Hannah-Jones Discusses The 1619 Project @ Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library
The Pulitzer prize winner and Howard University professor discusses The 1619 Project, one of this year’s most talked about books. 7 p.m., all ages, free
I’m recommending the band, not the John Waters’ film or comedy show. For fans of boy bands in small venues. They’re not a boy band but they definitely embrace the boy band sound and production. 8 p.m., all ages, $12 to $14
$$ – Genesis @ Capital One Arena
I’m happily surprised this show has not been cancelled due to Covid. Genesis, even the Phil Collins as lead singer version, has crossed over into critical respectability. If you’re a fan, see this show, you’re not going to get many more opportunities. 8 p.m., all ages, $125 to $500
All Ages – A Drag Queen Christmas Tour @ Warner Theatre
The only ‘adult’ TV my kid watches is RuPaul’s Drag Race, RuPaul’s Drag Race: All Stars, RuPaul’s Drag Race: UK and Drag Race Canada. You too, can be a good parent. 8 p.m., all ages, $35 to $75
November 17
Free – Kingman Explorers @ Kingman And Heritage Islands Park
Learn about the trees on Kingman Island with the kids. This Living Classrooms free program is a great chance to explore one of the more overlooked excellent, free outdoor spaces in the city. 4 p.m., all ages (ideally 5-11), free
$ – Neil Hamburger @ Miracle Theatre
The alt-comic’s comic? The only real fake comedian? The best of the worst? The older I get, the more I appreciate Hamburger. He is a Major Entertainer. 8 p.m., all ages, $20
The beloved musical is a pleasant way to segue back into live theatre. Read Diana Metzger’s I Always Get in for Free: My Return to the Theatre for Signature’s Rent. 7:30 p.m., all ages, $40 to $96
November 16
Free – Fall Wreath Making @ Denizens Brewing Co – Riverdale Park
The wreath making is free, the beer is not. It’s still a good deal. 6 p.m., 21+
$ – Two Faces Comedy Series @ President Lincoln’s Cottage
Go see some stand up, specifically RIYL contributor Haywood Turnipseed Jr., perform at an unorthodox-for-comedy location. 7:30 p.m., all ages, $10
$$ – The Flaming Lips @ The Anthem
The closest thing to a sure thing positive concert-going experience. There’s a good chance you’ll leave with glitter and/or confetti on your clothing. 8 p.m., all ages, $50 to $95
All Ages – Go Go Rhythms Exposed with Dante Pope @ Franklin Park
My kid went to a drum demonstration in September. Two months later, he’s still playing with the sticks he got at the event and uses the couch and chair and stairs and anything else as a drum. So if you don’t want that, proceed with caution. 11 a.m., all ages, free
Free – Roosevelt Aquatic Center
Petworth has a new (kind of) indoor public pool! This is great, especially for people that frequented the Takoma Park indoor public pool since it’s been closed and will be closed until next spring. 6 a.m. to 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., all ages, free for D.C. residents
$ – Dad Sports, Hala @ Songbyrd
Do you enjoy softly swaying back and forth? Maybe gently rocking to and fro? If so, you’ll enjoy Dad Sports. 7 p.m., all ages, $16
$$ – New Orleans Pelicans @ Washington Wizards
Wait, the Wizards are good? Nice. 7 p.m., all ages, $9 to $888
All Ages – United States National Arboretum
See the pretty leaves while you can! Hurry!! The leaves are falling!!! 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., all ages, free
November 14
Free – Glitter Glue @ DC9
A free queer arts and crafts night on the first floor of DC9. BYO crafts but some materials will be provided. 5 p.m., 21+, free
For fans of Kate Bush. This is a big compliment. 7 p.m., all ages, $15
$$ – Hellbender Seventh Birthday
Happy birthday, Hellbender! I’ve been at the bar every month for the last few months and you should be too! Celebrate their birthday with some special releases. 1 p.m. to 8 p.m., 21+
All Ages – Drag Queen Storytime @ Unity Park
The culture wars are never ending. Be on the right side of history. 11 a.m., all ages, free
November 13
Free – Ribbon cuttings throughout Takoma Park
I’m not recommending this because I really want you to witness a local politician cutting a ribbon. I’m including it because a lot of local businesses, specifically Brazilian Bakery, 4 Ur Business, Sugar Braids, Mom & Pops Smoke & Vape Shop, World Fashion, Kidz & Family Dental, Kobe Japan Hibachi Express, Becky’s Hair Salon, AG Healthcare, Canopy Family Care, Lifetime Financial, New Dawn Acupuncture, The Zone Reflexology, Indigro Plants, Carpe Diem Pizzeria, The Fullfillery, Lucky Duck Tattoo, The Loft Collective, Main Street Pearl, Azalea City Nails and the Takoma Montessori expansion opened since COVID and there’s good reason to patronize as many local businesses as possible. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., all ages, free
Jesus Christ, “Swim” is 11-years-old. 8 p.m., all ages, $15
$$ – Adrianne Lenker of Big Thief @ Lincoln Theater
I’m all for every musician playing whatever show they choose but I really hope Big Thief doesn’t break up. Their singles from earlier this year as just as good as the stuff on Capacity. As of this writing, “Certainty” is my favorite song of 2021. 8 p.m., all ages, sold out, secondary market tickets start at $55
All Ages – Hungry Harvest Festival of Goodness @ Culture House DC
This event promises ‘kid stuff’ and sets from Juan Wauters, Frass Green and Proper Nouns. I hope the ‘kid stuff’ isn’t just the indie rock. Noon to 6 p.m., all ages, $10
November 12
Free – UMBRELLA art fair @ Collection 14 Apartments
The first UMBRELLA in 2019 was a big success. Fingers crossed for this turn. 100+ artists will showcase their work in a 25,000 square foot space. In 2019 there wasn’t pent up excitement and frustration due to a global pandemic. Now there is. If you’re not able to get in Friday, consider returning on Saturday or Sunday. 6 p.m., all ages, free, also Saturday and Sunday
$ – Abe Mamet Trio Album Release Party @ Rhizome
See my Thursday $ recommendation. Go enjoy some jazz outdoors. 7 p.m., all ages, $5 to $20
I still think of Beach Bunny as an underground critical darling and then I look at how many Spotify streams they have and realize I’m recommending an already sold-out show. 7 p.m., all ages, sold out, secondary market tickets start at $46
All Ages – Side Yards @ The Yards
The following are included in the event description for Side Yards: contortionists, magicians, escape artists, sword swallowers, aerialists, lollipop lyra performers, jugglers, stilt walkers, bubble artists, tarot card and palm reading, balloon artistry and glitter tattoos. There’s at least one thing in there for every kid. 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., all ages, free
November 11
Free – Veterans Day Concert with the U.S. Navy Band @ Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library
Celebrate Veteran’s Day at the library? 1 p.m., all ages, free
If you like thrash, you’ll like GRISHKA. I like thrash so I like this show. I do think about the bar staff that does not care for thrash. I bartended a free jazz night for years and didn’t like free jazz until I stopped bartending and now I really appreciate free jazz. Maybe it’s the same for thrash. 8 p.m., all ages, $15
$$ – Murder By Death @ Black Cat
I’ve seen Murder By Death nearly a dozen times and I’d like to see them a dozen more. A lifers rock & roll band that’s better on stage. 7 p.m., all ages, $22 to $25
All Ages – Smithsonian National Zoo
Schools are closed. Most day care centers are closed. The zoo is open. 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., all ages, free
November 10
Free – Mama Mia @ Alethia Tanner Park
ABBA recently released new music. Hell froze over. That’s why there are outdoor films in D.C. in November? 5:15 p.m., all ages, free
$ – Silver Synthetic @ Songbyrd
Some pleasant slow core (I doubt they’d classify themselves this way but it’s very nice music to sway to so I call it slow core) on a pleasant Wednesday evening. 7 p.m., all ages, $12
$$ – Eat from your favorite food truck
Sesame Street premiered on November 10, 1969. The show is as relevant as ever, encouraging kids to get vaccinated and exposing some as dumb enough to feud with a six-year-old. The best part of current Sesame Street is the Monster Foodies segment with Gonger and Cookie Monster. In honor of these chefs, eat from your favorite food truck.
All Ages – Outdoor Storytime @ Shepherd Park Library Parking Lot
The D.C. Public Library has multiple outdoor storytimes this Wednesday. We’re going with this one because some are 30 minutes, some are 45 and this one is 60. 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., all ages (ideally 0-5), free
November 9
Free – French Essentials, a film selection curated by Justice G. Breyer @ La Maison Française
Only in D.C. But on French property? Only in France surrounded by D.C.? 7 p.m., all ages, free
Classified as alternative-indie, Jayne’s voice is way more Americana than indie rock. That’s not a bad thing. I wouldn’t be shocked if a Lost Highway/Anti type sound is in her future. 8 p.m., all ages, $12-$14
$$ – The Wallflowers @ Birchmere
No Bob Dylan album has sold more than The Wallflowers second album, Bringing Down the Horse. Let that sink in. 7:30 p.m., all ages, sold out, secondary market tickets start at $90 7:30 p.m., all ages, sold-out, secondary market tickets at $155
All Ages – LOVE HATE in the Square: Art Installation Opening and Happening
Kids love big pieces of art. Even if they don’t quite understand the message, they sure love climbing on stuff. This is a big piece of art they can climb on. 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., all ages, free
November 8
Free – Underground Comedy @ Eaton
Underground Comedy is the producer of this show as well as the name of the show. They produce the best stand up in D.C. Their Monday night show is the most reliable Monday stand up show in D.C. It’s usually sold-out well in advance. 8 p.m., 21+, no cover
$ – Bears Steelers Monday Night Football @ Ivy & Coney
I prefer to watch all Chicago games at Ivy & Coney. If you’re originally from Chicago, you probably do to. 8:15 p.m., 21+, drinks cost money
$$ – The Magnetic Fields @ City Winery
69 Love Songs is still underrated. “I Don’t Want To Get Over You” belongs on commercial radio. 8 p.m., 21+, $55 to $90
All Ages – Books & Baseball @ Washington Nationals Youth Baseball Academy
The 2021 World Series was the worst World Series matchup of my lifetime. The 2020 World Series doesn’t count. The Washington Nationals are the last good World Series Champions. Teach your child baseball. 6 p.m. to 7 p.m., all ages (ideally birth to 5), free
November 7
Free – Twelfth Annual D.C. Tweed Ride
Get on your bikes, and tweed, and ride. 10 a.m., all ages, free
$ – Milwaukee Bucks @ Washington Wizards
The Wiz are good!?! Watch ’em take on the champs. 6 p.m., all ages, $20 to $888
$$ – Hoppy Hour and Meditation with Bunnies @ Aslin Beer Company
I like that breweries are going whatever they can to bring people in. Yoga? Sure. Bunnies? Why not? Yoga and bunnies? Book it. 10 a.m., 21+, $30
All Ages – First Sunday Arts Festival 2021
Take a pleasant drive to scenic Annapolis while leaves look best. Buy some art while you’re there. 11 a.m., all ages, no cover
November 6
Free – Dia de los Muertos Fest @ Catholic University
There’s a lot going on in this event: face painting, mariachi bands, professional folkloric dances, photo booth with characters from Coco and more. 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., all ages, free
$ – Liberation Dance Party @ DC9
When was the last time you went to the long running music video dance party? Before the pandemic? Probably before the pandemic. 11 p.m., 21+, $5 to $8
$$ – DC Beer Fest @ Nationals Park
Drink to your heart’s content (in moderation, only drink in moderation) with samples from over 80 breweries at this beer fest. I also like baseball stadiums being used for more than just baseball. Noon to 3 p.m., 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., 21+, $50 to $80
All Ages – The REDEYE Night Market
The name of this event is a little misleading. It’s more of an afternoon to night market. It begins at 4 p.m. and is family friendly. I’m hoping for nice weather and large turnout. If it works, it’s the type of small business friendly event I hope becomes a monthly or weekly series in different neighborhoods. Featuring chefs, artists and more, there are 50+ participants that make this No Kings Collective event look promising. 4 p.m. to midnight, all ages, no cover
November 5
Free – First Fridays on the Brookland Arts Walk
Wear a jacket, get a beer at Brookland Pint and take a stroll. 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., all ages, no cover
$ – TC Superstar, Mystery Friends @ Comet Ping Pong
Comet recently restarted indoor shows. Nature is healing. 10 p.m., all ages, $12
$$ – Dan Savage’s 2021 Hump! Film Fest @ Black Cat
The festival of homemade smut and smut adjacent films began well before commonplace nudes and the current level of sexual acceptance in most major American cities. It’ll be interesting to see what’s even considered an adult film in 2021. 6:30 p.m. and 9 p.m., 18+, $25
All Ages – Sensory Playtime @ Southwest Neighborhood Library
This is in front of the library because kids under 5 still can’t get vaccinated. Not yet. Soon. Very soon. Jesus, let it be soon. 10:30 a.m., all ages (ideal for kids 5 and under), free
Free – RuPaul’s Drag Race UK: Series 3 watch party @ JR’s Bar
I’m enjoying the UK edition of Drag Race more than classic and All-Stars. Ru seems more involved and happy to be there. Find out for yourself and some possible like minded individuals. 8 p.m., 21+, no cover
$ – Gymshorts, Teen Mortgage @ Pie Shop
Gymshorts are very fun. Teen Mortgage is the best band in the DMV. This will be good. 8 p.m., all ages, $12
$$ – Café Tacvba @ Fillmore Silver Spring
Go dancing. 8 p.m., all ages, $23 to $46
All Ages – Not a Box Play Party @ Eastern Market Metro Playground
We’re starting the what-to-get-the-kid-for-the-holidays talks in our house. I’m advocating for boxes. Kids love boxes. Just give them boxes. 3:30 p.m., all ages (ideal for kids 8 and under), free
November 3
Free – U.S. National Arboretum
We’re hitting peak fall foliage and it’s supposed to be a sunny, clear day. 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., all ages, free
$ – OASIS (I.Olivier / R.Abbasi / M. Sarin) @ Embassy of France
This French jazz trio chose a name guaranteed to have at least one person at every appearance very upset and confused. 7:30 p.m., all ages, $20
$$ – Cheap Trick @ Warner Theater
“He’s a Whore” should be on classic rock radio. 8 p.m., all ages, $55 to $85
All Ages – Friends of Parklands-Turner Book Sale
Buying a book is always a good idea and buying a used book to support a library is an even better idea. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., all ages, books start at $1
November 2
Free – Traditional Day of the Dead Altar @ Mexican Cultural Institute
Pay your respects on a rainy day and after a packed weekend. It should be much calmer midday, midweek. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., all ages, free
Game 6 of the World Series is Tuesday night. I’m not watching because it’s the worst possible World Series matchup. But I still love baseball and I really love going to the batting cages. Hit some dingers. Noon to 9 p.m., all ages, $3 for 1 token
The musical that popularized singing about the length of time some things take is at Signature. Come back to Recommend If You Like for our piece about returning to live theatre. 7:30 p.m., all ages, $40 to $86, through January 2
All Ages – Union Market Story Time
Enjoy a few books and take the kids to the best place to eat in the DMV. 10:30 a.m. to 11:15 a.m., all ages (birth to 5 ideally), free
Free – Dia de Muertos installation by Laura Irene @ Rhizome
This minimalist outdoor installation will run through the month but there’s a special candlelight ceremony and set from Son Cosita Seria for tonight’s opening. 7:30 p.m., all ages, free
$ – An American Werewolf in London @ AFI Silver Spring
Keep the spooky season alive at AFI’s Halloween on Screen series. 9:30 p.m., Rated R, $8 to $13, series runs through November 4
$$ – Quarry House Tavern
Starting today the best burger restaurant in a basement in the DMV is requiring proof of vaccination or recent negative Covid test. Get a burger before walking over to AFI. 4 p.m. to 1 a.m.
All Ages – Día de los Muertos @ National Portrait Gallery
This is actually outside, on the steps of the Portrait Gallery. A community altar will be created and artists Omar Garcia, MasPaz and Guache will project a two-hour live digital painting, video and sound performance. 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., all ages, free, also Tuesday
October 31
Free – The New Woman Behind the Camera @ National Gallery of Art
It’s opening day for this exhibit on the impact women have had on modern photography. The press photos and preview video look excellent. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., all ages, free
$ – Catalytic Sound Festival @ Rhizome
Not everyone wants something spooky on Halloween. An early evening of improvised music is not spooky. 4 p.m., all ages, $5 to $20, also Saturday
$$ – Rocky Horror Picture Show @ Entertainment & Sports Arena
We typically recommend films that are screened outdoors and in movie theaters. This is our first movie-in-an-arena recommendation. Dress up. Obviously. 8 p.m., all ages, $25 to $45
All Ages – Gold Over America @ Capital One Arena
See Simone Biles. Everyone loves Simone Biles. 7 p.m., all ages, $22 to $167
October 30
Free – Spet-tacular Halloween Parade and Costume Contest @ The Parks at Walter Reed
We already recommended a parade for children, it’s time to recommend a parade for four legged friends. And three legged friends. Dogs that only have three legs are still our friends. Noon, all ages, free
$ – Dia de los Muertos @ Petworth Farmers Market
Pick up some groceries and while you’re at it, participate in some altar making workshops, Calavera face painting, enjoy live performances and more. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., all ages, activities are free, groceries are not
$$ – Bad Religion + Alkaline Trio @ Fillmore Silver Spring
This is Halloween, this is Halloween / Pumpkins scream in the dead of night / This is Halloween, everybody make a scene / Trick or treat ’til the neighbors gonna die of fright / It’s our town, everybody scream / In this town of Halloween. 8 p.m., all ages, $38 to $44
All Ages – Oaxaca Month in the United States @ Mexican Cultural Institute
My favorite annual late October tradition in D.C. is visiting the traditional Day of the Dead altar at the Mexican Cultural Institute. Glad it’s back after a year off due to Covid. In addition to the altar, the institute will be celebrating three Oaxacan artists. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., all ages, free, through November 20
Free – Seven Nation Zombie Army @ DC9
This free dance party (if you RSVP before Friday), should scratch a spooky nostalgia itch. 10 p.m., 21+, no cover before Friday, $5 day of
See Hitchcock’s best (?) horror (?) film on the big screen. I’ve seen this more than any other Hitchcock film and while it may not be the scariest, it’s the most mainstream, one of the most easily digestible and often imitated from his massive oeuvre. 7 p.m., all ages, $6 to $8
$$ – Orville Peck @ Baltimore Soundstage
The second tour I wish was coming to D.C. 8 p.m., all ages, sold out, secondary market tickets start at $54
All Ages – Glow in the Dark Egg Hunt Takoma @ Takoma Community Center
Confuse your children! Teach them Halloween is all about finding eggs! 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., all ages, free
Free – The Addams Family (1991) @ Yards Park
An outdoor movie on a beautiful night. Bring a blanket and/or get there early for candy. The first 50 folks to buy Halloween candy or treats from Kilwins will receive a free Capitol Riverfront lawn blanket. 6:30 p.m., all ages, free
$ – 48 Hour Film Science Fiction Horror Project @ AFI Silver Spring
It’s a rite of passage to participate in the 48 Hour Film project series. I’ve done it and glad I did and never showed anyone outside the production the end result because it is not good! Anyway, these screening are fun and if you’re looking for some like minded filmmakers, this is a helpful event. 7:15 p.m., all ages, $8 to $13
$$ – Local H @ Baltimore Soundstage
One of two shows we’re recommending in this edition because the tour is not coming to D.C. Head to Baltimore for Chicago’s finest two-piece. 8 p.m., all ages, $22
All Ages – Halloween Parade and Party @ Shaw (Watha T. Daniel) Neighborhood Library
Let the kid wear the costume all week! Take ’em to a parade everyday! Halloween can be more than one day! 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., all ages, free
October 27
Free – RIYL DJ Night @ Looking Glass Lounge
Hang out with the writers and artists of Recommend If You Like (hello, that’s us) in the basement of the Looking Glass Lounge. 6 p.m. to 11 p.m., 21+, no cover, RSVP requested
$ – Hellbender
I’ve been to Hellbender a couple times in the last few weeks and the brewery still feels like a secret. It’s sort-of hidden in a pleasant way. If you’re looking for a quiet-ish place to enjoy a beer outside, it’s great. We’re recommending the Wednesday open mic night because if you don’t like what you’re witnessing, take home a six-pack of their Next Tropic hazy IPA. Next Tropic six-pack is $13
$$ – Beach Fossils, Wild Nothing, Hannah Jadagu @ 9:30 Club
I know you’re supposed to enjoy club shows more than outdoor festivals but I’ve seen and enjoyed Beach Fossils and Wild Nothing at those type of festivals and wish this shows was in a field in a city in July. Get there in time for opener Hannah Jadagu. Her breezy, jangly guitar driven songs would also work well in a festival setting. 7 p.m., all ages, $30
All Ages – Candy Giveaway @ Marvin Gaye Recreation Center
Get the kids in costume a few days before the big day. When else are they going to wear their Halloween costume? 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., all ages, free
Free – Picnic in the Parks
The pandemic is not over. At least Montgomery Country brought back the Picnic in the Park program, OKing alcohol consumption in 13 public parks. It’s working well, at least at Takoma Urban Park.
The best D.C. tradition that started as a protest and evolved into an official district event. The pre-race showcasing of fashion is just as fun as the actual race. Get there any time before race and enjoy a drink at one of the many, many bars offering High Heel Race specials. But don’t expect to have a good view of the race if you arrive after 8:30 p.m. 6:30 p.m. parade begins, 9 p.m. race, all ages, free but you’ll most likely get a drink
$$ – Ashnikko @ Fillmore Silver Spring
If you’re really into makeup and dressing up in intricate costumes, Halloween or not, and really lewd pop music, you’re going to have so much fun! The cleanup crew for this show deserves a raise. There’s going to be glitter and makeup stains everywhere. 7:30 p.m., all ages, sold out, resold tickets available at $56
All Ages – Boos and Ghouls Halloween Parade @ Petworth Recreation Center
If your kid isn’t in school or day care in the middle of the day on Tuesday, here’s your middle of the day activity. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., all ages but ideally 0 to 5, free
Free – Capital Bikeshare Membership
Metro is screwed up. So D.C. government is offering free 30 day Capital Bikeshare memberships to D.C. residents.
$ – Tonstartssbandht, Dougie Poole @ DC9
There are a few labels I trust and will listen to anything they release. Mexican Summer is one such label. Tonstartssbandht is on Mexican Summer. Tonstartssbandht make really quality, beautiful, kinda slowcore guitar music with gentle vocals. It’s well suited for this weather too. Get there on time for opener Dougie Poole. He plays the kind of country music I wish was on modern country radio but unfortunately is not. In other words, if you like Orville Peck, you’ll like Poole. 8 p.m., all ages, $12
$ – Sonder Bombs, Gully Boys @ Songbyrd
Some sing-a-long pop punk from Sonder Bombs and some Halloween friendly alt rock from Gully Boys make for a good double bill. 7 p.m., all ages, $12 to $14
$$ – H.E.R. @ The Anthem
It’s H.E.R.’s time. The venue and ticket price is a reflects this. 8 p.m., all ages, $80 to $100
All Ages – Hometown Halloween @ Barry Farm
D.C. Parks and Recreation has really good Halloween programming all week. We’ll be highlighting an event everyday. We’re starting with the annual Hometown Halloween. Get some candy and costumes for the kids. 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., all ages, free
Free – DC Zinefest 2021 @ Brookland Arts Walk
Really appreciative to the Zinefest organizers for keeping this outdoors. It makes it way more friendly family and I want kids to get into zines as early as possible. 11 a.m., all ages, free
$ – Activity, Nice Breeze @ Pie Shop
I like this new four piece from Brooklyn/Philadelphia. Trying to find them online is part of the fun. Googling ‘activity band’ is not helpful. 8 p.m., all ages, $12 to $14
$$ – NSO @ The Anthem
Enjoy Tchaikovsky’s Fifth Symphony in a venue typically used for everything but classical. 7 p.m., all ages, $15 to $30
All Ages – Ch/Art Art Walk 2021
October 23
Free – Moon Kissed @ Songbyrd
Songbyrd is hosting multiple free shows, giving you multiple reasons to check out their new home. I like this Brooklyn three piece. They’re kinda low fi electronica with some soaring choruses. 7 p.m., all ages, no cover
The best rock & roll band in/around D.C. celebrates their new record with a free show at D.C.’s best burger bar/venue. I can not recommend Teen Mortgage enough. If you’re comfortable in a small venue, this is a can’t miss show. 8:30 p.m., 21+, no cover, including it in the $ listing because you should always order a burger when at Slash Run (they have vegetarian options)
$$ – 1874 Cup USA v All Blacks @ Fed Ex Field
If you’re going to a rugby match, you might as well see the best rugby team take on the home team. 3 p.m., all ages, $54 to $275
All Ages – HEY! HO! LET’S GO! – Spooky Edition! @ DC9
Costumes encouraged for our kid friendly Halloween event! Kelsey Snell and Brandon Wetherbee (hello) will give kids and their parents a chance to dance at a bar they like without hearing Elmo, Raffi or The Wiggles. Truly an all ages event, introduce your kid to good music and hang out at a bar you frequented before you had a kid. As of this writing, very few tickets remain so if you’re interested, buy ASAP. We’ll most likely sell out before Saturday. 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., all ages, $5
October 22
Free – Pumpkin Decorating Contest! @ Francis A. Gregory Neighborhood Library
Don’t want to spend $50+ to go to a pumpkin farm with one kid? Decorate a paper pumpkin. It’ll last longer and it’s much more affordable. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., all ages, free
$ – Indiana Pacers @ Washington Wizards
I’m a Bulls fan. The Bulls and Wizards haven’t been good at the same time for a long time so it’s always easy to get very affordable tickets when the Bulls play in D.C. It’s great. Anyway, NBA basketball is back, baby! 7 p.m., all ages, $13 to $888
$$ – Wavves @ Black Cat
I know it’s 11-years-old but I still hope they play stuff off King of the Beach. 8 p.m., 21+, $25
All Ages – Howl-O-Ween @ Gateway’s Interim Dog Park
We don’t recommend a lot of events in Rosslyn but we’re not going to pass up an event with dogs in costume. 3 p.m., all ages, free
Free – New Glass Now exhibition preview @ Renwick Gallery of the Smithsonian American Art Museum
Going to a museum for a new exhibit sounds really great in fall 2021. 6:30 p.m., all ages, free, RSVP required
$ – Double E Comedy – Costumed Addition @ Red Bear Brewing
Go see RIYL contributor Dee Ahmed in costume (he’ll be in costume, you can wear whatever you want) and enjoy some D.C. beers. 7 p.m., 21+, $10
$$ – Hasan Minhaj: The King’s Jester @ The Kennedy Center
Minhaj’s White House Correspondence Dinner performance was the third best of all time (best is Colbert in 2006, second best is MacDonald in 1997). I’m focusing more on this than Minhaj’s stand up since all six of these shows are very close to sold-out or sold-out and you’re not going to spend nearly $100 to see someone you don’t already like. 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m., all ages, $45 to $179, also two shows Friday and two shows Saturday
All Ages – Ravens Family Movie Night @ M&T Stadium
This is such a wonderful use of a stadium! Watch Happy Halloween, Scooby-Doo! with the family at 6:30 p.m. Before the film kids can trick-or-treat inside the stadium, pose with the Ravens’ mascot Poe and Ravens cheerleaders and there are prizes for the best Halloween costumes. Hey Audi Field and Nationals Park, please consider doing this in 2022. 5:30 p.m., $10, all ages
October 20
Free – Wednesday Night Mayhem @ Exiles Bar
We don’t usually recommend comedy shows let alone two comedy shows in one night but here we are. This makes this cut because it’s a new mic and we like one of its producers, RIYL contributor Dee Ahmed. Also, comedy show titles are absurd. Mayhem is a black metal band and/or about violence. This is an extremely civil stand up comedy show. 8 p.m., 21+, no cover
$ – Comedy Down @ Dupont Underground
D.C.’s comedy scene is relatively small. You can see the best local comics most every week. You can’t often see them in Dupont Underground. 7:30 p.m., all ages, $10 to $15
$$ – Lucero @ 9:30 Club
A band that’s very good on record but meant to be seen live, Lucero falls into the same category as Old 97s, Murder By Death, The Hold Steady and other bands that we take for granted until they come to town. 7 p.m., all ages, $25
All Ages – Brawner Farm Walking Tour @ Manassas National Battlefield Park
We’re using this walking tour as an excuse to drive around and check out some pretty trees with fall leaves. 11:15 a.m., all ages, free
October 19
Free – Story Time @ Union Market
Go for the story time, stay because it’s the best place to eat with kids in D.C. 10:30 a.m., all ages, free
$ – The Killer That Stalked New York @ AFI Silver
AFI Silver is in the midst of Noir City DC: The Washington DC Film Noir Festival. See a beautiful film about an ugly subject. 9:20 p.m., not rated, $8 to $13, also Monday
$$ – Shannon and the Clams, Baby Alcatraz and the Aurelions @ Black Cat
Gimme that jingly, jangly garage rock. And a beer. Gimme that music and beer and we’ll all dance. 7:30 p.m., 21+, $20
All Ages – Discover Skateboarding @ Skate Park at RFK Stadium
Teach your kid how to skateboard. We’ve been advocating this since day 1. 3:45 p.m., all ages, ideally for kids ages 11 to 19, donation requested
October 18
Free – Exorcist Steps
It’s beautiful today in D.C. It’s better weather than last Monday (it finally feels like fall) and it’ll probably be colder and rainier next Monday. Stroll the steps in ideal weather in the midst of Spooktober.
$ – Profs & Pints: The Macabre Poe @ Bier Baron
I miss college lectures. I do not miss college lecture prices. The Profs & Pints series allows folks like me the chance to kinda, sorta sit in on a class while drinking beer and never getting tested. 6 p.m., 21+, $15
$$ – The Mountain Goats @ Fillmore Silver Spring
The Mountain Goats were one of three major factors that got me back into professional wrestling, around the age of 32. I am completely serious. Their wrestling concept album, Beat The Champ, is a loving and realistic look at a territory wrestler. It doesn’t infantilize fandom or mock the sport, nor does it make it as dire as other serious art about the squared circle, like Darren Aronofsky’s The Wrestler. Like everything else in The Mountain Goats catalogue, it comes from a place of empathy, understanding and genuine love. Six years later, it remains my favorite Mountain Goats record and I highly doubt they’ll play anything from it tonight. 8 p.m., all ages, sold out, tickets start at $40 on Stubhub
All Ages – Crochet Club @ Takoma Park Neighborhood Library
Sometimes stereotypes are true. I am very happy to live in the neighborhood of crocheting lefties. 4:30 p.m., all ages, free
Free – Domingo’s Got Talent @ DC9
Like America’s Got Talent but in person and drag and fun. 7 p.m., 21+, no cover
I love Nothing’s style of metal/shoegaze/stoner rock. This is the best rock and roll guitar sound weekend in D.C. in years. See our next pick for further rock love. 7:30 p.m., all ages, $20
$$ – IDLES @ 9:30 Club
The best rock and roll band in the world plays two sold-out shows at 9:30 Club. If I didn’t have a toddler that’s too young to be vaccinated, I would be at this show. 7 p.m., all ages, sold out, tickets start at $47 on Stubhub
All Ages – Silver Spring Arts & Crafts Fall Festival
Get in the seasonal spirit and buy local. 1 p.m. to 6 p.m., all ages, no cover
Free – Rock the Park @ Franklin Park
Downtown D.C. really wants people to return to downtown D.C. Check out the recently renovated park and enjoy the sounds of DJ Clark Kent, Stretch Armstrong and Tony Touch. 4 p.m., all ages, free
$ – Astro Lab Brewing 3rd Anniversary Party
Silver Spring is rich with very good breweries within a one mile radius. Along with Denizens and Silver Branch, it’s possible to do a very short, hoppy bar crawl up and down Georgia Ave. Celebrate the middle child (Astro Lab is located between the other two) on their third birthday with some limited edition ales. Sessions at Noon, 3:30 p.m., 7 p.m., 21+, $15
$$ – Tampa Bay Lightning @ Washington Capitals
I’m a Blackhawks fan. They were supposed to play in D.C. the weekend of March 13, 2020. That game was not played. In a way, the start of the 2021-22 NHL season, with fans in arenas, is one of my markers for a return to somewhat normalcy. So I’m very excited for this NHL season and based on ticket prices, I am not alone. 7 p.m., all ages, $50 to $600
All Ages – 26th Annual Art Safari @ Torpedo Factory
This is a great family friendly way to spend an afternoon, even more so this year with additional outdoor programming. Noon to 4 p.m., all ages, free, RSVP requested
Free – Knives Out @ Gateway Park
Take advantage of outdoor movies while you can. Also, I think of the Radiohead song every time I see this movie title. 5 p.m., PG-13, free
$ – Frankie & The Witch Fingers @ Songbyrd
Tis the season. 7 p.m., all ages, $15 to $17
$$ – Alan Cumming and Ari Shapiro: Och & Oy! A Considered Cabaret @ The Kennedy Center
Cumming is one of television and film and theater’s finest performers. He’s also my favorite Sesame Street guest star of the modern era. Shapiro is beloved as a host of All Things Considered. You should know if this show is for you. 8 p.m., all ages, $29 to $89, also Saturday
All Ages – DC Bike Party: HALLOWEEN RIDE!
Put on a spooky costume (stay away from capes or anything too free flowing!) and hop on your bike. 7:30 p.m., all ages, free
Free – Amalgama El Prado by Daniel Canogar @ Former Residence of the Ambassadors of Spain
The Cultural Office of the Embassy of Spain is joining the Phillips Collection to celebrate its 100th anniversary with Amalgama El Prado, a project by Spanish artist Daniel Canogar. The Embassy of Spain does some of the most D.C. friendly, free programming. 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., all ages, free
$ – Understory: A Journey Into The Tongass screening @ Rhizome
Outdoor film time is winding down so take advantage of it while you can. 7 p.m., all ages, $5 to $10
$$ – Latela Curatorial’s Second Annual Women in the Arts Launch Party @ The Silva
We’ll always recommend checking out a new art gallery. This is a fine reason to check out a new art gallery in Adams Morgan. The exhibit features works from Kate Fitzpatrick, Rose Jaffe, Jackie Milad, Kate Sable, Lee Nowell-Wilson, and Nastassja Swift. 6 p.m., all ages, $25 to $40
All Ages – Let’s Create!! @ Bellevue (William O. Lockridge) Neighborhood Library
Take the 5 to 12-year-olds to outside the library to make some spooky crafts. 4 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., all ages, free
October 11
Free – U.S. National Arboretum
The leaves may start to change this weekend. Might. 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., all ages, free
$ – Union Kitchen Eckington Place
Union Kitchen’s new grocery/restaurant opens today. Eat local, support local. 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.
$$ – Clutch @ 9:30 Club
I wonder if they still play stuff from Transnational Speedway League: Anthems, Anecdotes and Undeniable Truths. The riffs on the 1993 album are the foundation for an entire subgenre of stoner rock. 7 p.m., all ages, $35
October 10
Free – Moomin Exhibit at National Children’s Museum
Teach the kids about Moomins? We’re more interested in this because it’s part of the Kids Euro Fest. 10:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 2:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m., all ages, free
$ – Watch Houston Astros @ Chicago White Sox at Ivy and Coney
The best bar for Chicagoans currently in D.C. is offering a shot of Malört and an Old Style(ish) for $5 during White Sox playoff games. We’re recommending watching Game 3 in the bar because drinking Malört any time of day is a bad idea but a really bad idea during afternoon games. (Game 1 is Thursday at 4 p.m., Game 2 is Friday at 1 p.m.) Go Sox. First pitch 7:05 p.m., 21+, no cover
$$ – Oyster Wars @ Other Half Brewing
I’ve attended this festival is previous years and if you’re a fan of overindulging in oysters, it’s your favorite day of the year. If you’re more into moderate consumption of oysters, you may prefer the 2021 version. Now it’s an a la carte event which is probably for the best. Noon to 5 p.m., 21+
All Ages – We Are All Connected @ The REACH
This Saturday The Kennedy Center Education Artist-in-Residence Mo Willems will work with invited community members to create a large-scale public art playscape on the REACH Plaza. We’re recommending going the next day since it should be quieter.
October 9
Free – Down in the Reeds @ The Parks at Walter Reed
I raved about the 2019 edition and pleased we’ll be part of the 2021 edition. It’s a great opportunity to check out The Parks at Walter Reed, ideal for families and completely free. 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., all ages, free
See this on the big screen. I’ve seen this on the big screen. There are certain scenes that are better on the big screen. 7 p.m., PG-13, $6 to $8
$$ – Snallygaster
D.C.’s best beer festival returns to Pennsylvania Ave. If you consider yourself interested in brewing, you most likely are already planning on attending. VIP passes are long sold out. 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., 21+, $60
All Ages – Fire Truck Visit @ Mt. Pleasant Neighborhood Library
My kid is obsessed with this very bad children’s book about a kid obsessed with fire trucks. The protogonist dreams about fire trucks and wakes up and imagine he’s a real fire truck! He terrorizes his house as a fire truck, smells pancakes, turns back into a human and eats pancakes. It’s a bad book. It’s fireman propaganda. Anyways, kids sure do love fire trucks! 10 a.m. to 10:40 a.m., all ages, free
Free – In The Cut: A free Dance Party w/ Mathias @ Songbyrd
Mathias is a great DJ so use this as your free opportunity to check out the new Songbyrd. 11 p.m., 21+, no cover
Celebrate the spooky season and the Latin American Film Festival with a screening of the horror thriller, shot in Ellicott City, Maryland, followed by a Q&A with filmmaker Mario Ramos and actresses Yaritza Owen and Diana Pou. 9:30 p.m., not rated, $13 to $15
$$ – Waxahatchee @ Lincoln Theatre
Saint Cloud is one of the best albums of 2020. See Waxahatchee in 2021 at a show that was originally scheduled for 2020. 8 p.m., all ages, sold out, tickets available on Stubhub
All Ages – Smithsonian’s National Zoo
There’s no Boo at the Zoo or Zoo Lights again this year due to COVID and kids still can’t get vaccinated. This is disappointing and makes me like the zoo a hell of a lot more. 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., all ages, free to enter
Free – Rock & Roll Karaoke @ Slash Run
Sing. Sing a song. 8 p.m., 21+, no cover
One of D.C.’s best parties celebrates the season with a spooky theme. [Sexy baby voice] Boo. 9 p.m., 21+, $10
$$ – ilili @ The Wharf
The D.C. outpost of the NYC based Lebanese restaurant opens tonight at The Wharf. It looks gorgeous. 5:30 p.m. to 11 p.m.
All Ages – Southeast Library Play Party @ Eastern Market Metro Playground
Kids aged 7 and under are welcome to stop by the playground and use their minds and bodies to play some games and burn off some after school energy. 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., all ages, free
October 6
Free – Magic Hour @ Wild Days
Enjoy some jazz on the roof of Eaton. 7 p.m., 21+, no cover
$ – Pies N’ Pasties @ Pie Shop
This is an appropriate name for a burlesque show at a pie shop. 8 p.m., 21+, $12
$$ – Rodrigo & Gabriela @ The Anthem
They should be on the cover of Guitar World every month. Related, their version of “The Struggle Within” from The Metallica Blacklist is the second best rendition of a Metallica song on the epic release. The best is Idles’ “The God That Failed.” 8 p.m., all ages, $35 to $55
All Ages – Fantastic Mr. Fox @ Pentagon Row Plaza
It’s the final screening in the Wes Anderson outdoor movie series. I stand by my position that outdoor movies should continue until it’s below 50 degrees. Sundown, all ages, free
October 5
Free – Us @ Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library – Central Library
I’m all for scary movies in October but the main reason I’m recommending this is to check out the recently renovated MLK Library. 4 p.m., Rated R, free
$ – Nina Ryse, Sunk Heaven, Divorce Horse @ Rhizome
Some names are good enough to inspire a listen. Divorce Horse is one of those names. I dig the noise/garage/lo-fi/doom thing they got going on. 6 p.m., all ages, $10
$$ – Zinnia
The folks behind Takoma Bev Co have opened Zinnia, their new beer garden/tavern/restaurant at the former Mrs. K’s Tollhouse. Check it out on a Tuesday because weekends will be much busier. Reservations available for the garden
All Ages – Firefighter Story Time Visit @ Parklands-Turner Neighborhood Library
Recommending this more for the fire truck than the story time. I attended two street fests last weekend with a toddler and the presence of a fire truck is more important than anything else in life. Anything. 10:30 a.m., all ages, free
Free – Wellness in the Park @ Franklin Park
It’s re-opened. Including it for reopening reasons. 6 p.m., all ages, free
Today is National Taco Day. Cool. Eat a taco. I like my local spot. Open until 9 p.m.
$$ – Alicia Witt album release @ Songbyrd
Including for Twin Peaks season 3 reasons. 7 p.m., all ages, $20 to $40
All Ages – Shaw Dog Park and Skate Park
It’s also re-opened. Read this before you take your kid to the skate park.
October 3
Free – Georgetown French Market
This is what happens when a global pandemic shuts down two springs, two summers, one fall and one winter. Every weekend is a plethora of outdoor festivals trying to get their stuff in before the cold sets in. Noon to 5 p.m., all ages, no cover
$ – Fitzgerald’s
I’ve been waiting to recommend this Georgetown restaurant until we had another Georgetown recommendation. Spend the afternoon strolling through the Georgetown French Market and have a drink at the Fitzgerald’s bar before heading home. Their cocktails and desserts are fantastic. Opens at 5 p.m.
$$ – Tinashe @ 9:30 Club
It’ll be bouncin. Also, you want to go to the late show. 10 p.m., all ages, $35, early show sold-out
All Ages – Takoma Park Street Festival
I spend most Sunday mornings at the Takoma Park Farmer’s Market so this is just a bonus street festival. Related, this is the best looking street festival poster of 2021. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., all ages, no cover
October 2
Free – Adams Morgan Porchfest
Also great for families, walk around Adams Morgan and follow the sound. 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., all ages, free
$ – Janel Leppin’s Ensemble Volcanic Ash @ Rhizome
Leppin is a fantastic musician and Rhizome has done some of the best pandemic programming and taken the most pandemic safety measures. Fingers crossed for nice weather. 6:30 p.m., all ages, $10 to $20
$$ – Heartless Bastards @ Union Stage
I hope they still play stuff from The Mountain. 8 p.m., all ages, $30
All Ages – Open Streets Georgia Ave.
The 2019 version was a success and I’m glad to see it back after Covid prevented a 2020 edition. Maybe this will lead to a safer Georgia Ave. for non-drivers. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., all ages, free
Free – You, Me, Them, Everybody Live @ The Wonderland Ballroom
It’s the final You, Me, Everybody Live at The Wonderland Ballroom. After 10 years and 161 shows, the person writing this (Hello, I’m Brandon Wetherbee, I host You, Me, Them, Everybody) says goodbye with Allison Lane, Baby Bry Bry, Haywood Turnipseed Jr., Kevin Tit, Andrew Bucket and Teen Cobra. 6:30 p.m., 21+, no cover
$ – Cruella @ The Drive In at Union Market
Normalize drive-ins. 7:15 p.m., all ages, $20 per car
$$ – The Soul Rebels @ Songbyrd
They sound like a celebration. Songbyrd is going to be loud. 10:30 p.m., 21+, $20
All Ages – WWE Friday Night Smackdown @ Royal Farms Arena
I wasn’t going to put this in the all ages category but I’m stuck at home with a sick kid so we’re watching Sesame Street and during an Elmo: The Musical segment some wrestlers are featured so it’s definitely an all ages attraction. 7:45 p.m., all ages, $20 to $125
Free – Recommend If You Like DJ Night @ Looking Glass Lounge
Hang out with us in the basement/on the back patio of the Looking Glass Lounge. We’ll probably have wrestling on the projector. Actually, we’ll most likely have wrestling on the projector. 6 p.m. to 11 p.m., 21+, no cover
$ – The Congressional Baseball Game for Charity @ Nationals Park
This game is always absurd and I’ve recommended it for multiple publications on multiple occasions but maybe this year’s game shouldn’t happen considering it’s Hell Week? Or maybe you should absolutely attend this game if you care about, I don’t know, a government shutdown, considering it’s Hell Week. 7:05 p.m., all ages, $10 to $15
$$ – Big Freedia @ The Lincoln Theatre
A very fun show in a seated theater. No one will be seated. 8 p.m., all ages, $35
All Ages – Outdoor Toddler Storytime @ Takoma Park Library
D.C.’s oldest library is back, baby! Also, this is great for babies. 10:30 a.m., all ages, ideally for ages 1 to 3, free
September 28
Free – Tacos and Trivia @ Slash Run
The tacos aren’t free. The chance to show off your brain is. 7:30 p.m., 21+, no cover
$ – Boston Red Sox @ Baltimore Orioles
The Red Sox are playing extremely meaningful baseball right now, barely holding on to the last Wild Card spot in the AL. The O’s are not. But they can be spoilers. 7:05 p.m., all ages, $15 to $155
$$ – Rufus Wainwright & José González @ The Anthem
A very pleasant double bill at a seated Anthem show. Unlike our $$ Wednesday pick. 8 p.m., all ages, $55 to $75
All Ages – Bubbles, Bubbles, Bubbles @ Tenley-Friendship Library
Because sometimes it’s worth taking the kids out of the house to enjoy a bubble machine that isn’t at your house because you really need to just get out of the house. 3:30 p.m., all ages, free
September 26
Free – Vintage & Vinyl @ Slash Run
Kinda cheating with this pick since none of the items for purchase are free and none of the food or drinks are free but there’s no cover so I’m including it. I really enjoyed Slash Run’s last edition of this series and see no reason why I won’t enjoy this one. It’s well curated (both in terms of items available for purchase and the DJ), small and affordable. Slash Run is also one of my favorite bars so I’ll hit up as many of these as possible. 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., 21+ to drink, no cover
$ – Boston Bruins @ Washington Capitals
I am very much looking forward to NHL hockey. I’m so looking forward to it I’m recommend preseason action. 5 p.m., all ages, $19 to $352
$$ – Guns N’ Roses @ Royal Farms Arena
Axl Rose is a social justice warrior. I love it and am still surprised. 7 p.m., all ages, $35 to $225
All Ages – The DC Record Fair @ Eaton DC
If you’re planning on coming to our all ages dance party this Saturday at DC9, you’ll most likely be interested in taking your kid record shopping. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., all ages, no cover
Free – Art All Night
The 2021 edition of Art All Night is massive. We’ll be at the Upper George Ave. edition since the person writing this (hello) is hosting their talk show at 6100 Georgia Ave. NW from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. Stop by. It’ll be fun. 7 p.m., all ages, free, check out the DCist map for a detailed map and make your on plan
$ – AFI Latin American Film Festival
The film fest continues with ten screenings all day at the Silver Spring theater. Screenings begin at 11 a.m., $13 to $15
$$ – 3 Stars Oktoberfest
Continue celebrating DC Beer Week at 3 Stars inaugural Oktoberfest. The ticket includes a 3/4 liter commemorative mug with first fill of Festbier. I’ve really been enjoying the local Festbiers around D.C. Noon to 8 p.m., 21+ to drink, $15 ticket, more beer and food is extra
All Ages – HEY! HO! LET’S GO! All Ages Dance Party @ DC9
It’s finally here! We’re giving kids and their parents a chance to dance at a bar they like without hearing Elmo, Raffi or The Wiggles. Truly an all ages event, introduce your kid to good music and hang out at a bar you frequented before you had a kid. 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., all ages, no cover, RSVP required
September 24
Free – Laurie Anderson: The Weather opening @ Hirshhorn Museum
The new Laurie Anderson exhibit opens with extended hours. I am very much looking forward to this exhibit and a return visit. Also happy that it runs through July 2022, giving parents enough time to get their kids vaccinated before the exhibit passes. 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., all ages, free
They’ll be at DC9 and Black Cat soon and most likely opening for some of the folks you’ll see at All Things Go at 9:30 Club within a year. They sound and look like now with all of the influences you want (Prince, Television, Franz Ferdinand, etc.). 8 p.m., all ages, $15
$$ – Outlaw Music Festival @ Merriweather Post Pavilion
It’s Willie Nelson, Sturgill Simpson and more on the first Friday night of the fall. Come on, this one is a no brainer. 4 p.m., all ages, $33 to $164
All Ages – Coco @ UDC Amphitheater
There are a handful of Friday night Art All Night activities but this one takes our all ages pick since it’s a very family friendly film and Mariachi Son de America will be performing for an hour before the film. 7:30 p.m., film begins at 8:30 p.m., all ages, free
September 23
The description of Fioretti’s works, “the artist’s own migration is connected to the migration carried out in previous decades by her family to weave dreamlike spaces and at times spectral moments, photographic perfomances of a body in transit where the place of origin still resonates,” sound meant for these times. 6 p.m., all ages, free
$ – Emo Night Brooklyn @ Fillmore Silver Spring
I do not enjoy this type of music and believe that groups like Taking Back Sunday helped ushered in the men’s rights movement. But people I love do like this music so what are you going to do? 7 p.m., all ages, $15
$$ – Tame Impala @ Capital One Arena
There are very few acts that are better in an arena than a club. Tame Impala is one of those bands. 8 p.m., all ages, $48 to $78
Another reason to love your local library, this activity will encourage children, ideally aged 4 to 12, to recreate some iconic Mexican art. 3 p.m., all ages, free
September 19
Free – 19th Annual Alexandria Old Town Art Festival
Spend the afternoon strolling through the very pretty part of Alexandria. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., all ages, free, also Saturday
The best not-yet-sold-out show of Sunday. 8 p.m., all ages, $13 to $18
The best sold-out show of Sunday. I’m including it because no show is ever really sold-out. Secondary ticket markets exist and to pretend they don’t is silly. 7 p.m., all ages, $40 on Stubhub
All Ages – DowntownDC On Wheels
If you have roller skates or roller blades and can still use them without frequently falling, this sounds excellent. There’s a pop-up roller skating rink all weekend long with DJs and film screenings. I’m recommending the Sunday edition since the malarky that’s going down should be over by Sunday morning. Noon to 6 p.m., all ages, free, also Friday and Saturday
September 18
Free – Little Swap of Horrors @ Black Cat
Has gardening always been on par with zines and songs with three chords? I’m 100% down with more plant swaps in punk rock clubs. 6 p.m. 21+, free with item
Remember when there wasn’t a dozen local breweries and you had to go to places like Bluejacket for really great local beers? I’m glad that isn’t the case anymore and I’m glad Bluejacket is really close to Nats Park. Celebrate Oktoberfest on another 90 degree September afternoon. 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., 21+, prices vary
$$ – Harry Styles, Jenny Lewis @ Capital One Arena
Recommending this for the opener. Go see Jenny Lewis. 8 p.m., all ages, $289 to $1,353 on Stubhub
All Ages – Chevy Chase Day
This event looks just great, full of family friendly and free activities in Chevy Chase. As long as it doesn’t rain, this will be the pick of the day. The H Street Fest would have taken this pick but crazy people from around the country will be headed to the Capital and H Street is unfortunately close to the Capital. 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., all ages, free
September 17
Free – DC PARK(ing) Day
A bunch of parking spots will not be parking spots on Friday. There’s a suggested bike route to check out the temporary art galleries/lounges/seating areas, etc. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
One of two recommendations for Chicago acts in D.C. this weekend. Divino Niño‘s newest stuff is part Beach House, part Tyler, the Creator, part Lil Uzi Vert and really good. 8 p.m., all ages, $15
$$ – Monster Jam @ Hagerstown Speedway
I attended Monster Jam indoors. I DO NOT RECOMMEND ATTENDING AN INDOOR MONSTER JAM. Totally cool recommending an outdoor Monster Jam. 7 p.m., all ages, $23 to $25
All Ages – Monsters University @ Virginia Highlands Park
Once again, outdoor movies should be year round. 6:30 p.m., all ages, free
September 16
Free – Becoming Astrid @ House of Sweden
The film screens on the roof of the embassy. The setting alone should get you interested. 8 p.m., all ages, free, RSVP requested
The burger and craft beer destination is the ideal place to eat a meal and or drink a drink before attending a Charley Crockett show. Which leads up to our next pick…
$$ – Charley Crockett @ Fillmore Silver Spring
Do you enjoy Sturgill Simpson? John Prine? Country with horns? You’ll like Charley Crockett. 8 p.m., all ages, $25
All Ages – Baby Yoga @ West End Library
Babies love to stretch. 1 p.m., all ages, free
September 15
Free – Notre-Dame: Our Lady of Paris screening and director Q&A @ La Maison Française
Is there a better setting for a screening of this documentary? 7 p.m., all ages, free with RSVP
$ – Chicago Fire FC @ D.C. United
The D.C. American football team was supposed to be good but injuries may have already derailed their 2021 effort. The United are squarely in the middle of the MLS pack, which means there’s hope for a better playoff run than the WFT. 7:30 p.m., all ages, $15 to $220
$$ – Daybreaker @ Kogard Courtyard
I am not the kind of person that wants to wake up at 4:30 a.m. to make it to a 6 a.m. yoga class followed by a 7 a.m. dance party inside a museum. But there are lots and lots of people that are so that’s why the Daybreaker IRL return is making the list. These events are good because just based on the time and description, you can get a really good idea of the program and type of attendee. 6 a.m., all ages, $30 to $40
All Ages – D.C. Walls
Take a stroll through NoMa and check out the new art from this annual mural festival (it used to be called POW! WOW!). Through September 18
September 14
Free – Dog Park Opening “Yappy” Hour @ The Parks at Walter Reed
This one is a no brainer if you have a dog and/or enjoy complimentary cocktails. D.C.’s newest dog park opens this week with free drinks and dog treats. 5:30 p.m., all ages, free
$ – Miami Marlins @ Washington Nationals
There’s still time to become a Marlins fan. 7:05 p.m., all ages, $7 to $152
$$ – 25th Season Final Performance @ Kennedy Center
The Bowen McCauley Dance Company has their final performance at the Eisenhower Theater after 25 years. Unrelated, if these performers can wear masks while practicing their art, you can wear a mask. 7 p.m., all ages, $50
All Ages – Story Time @ Union Market
It’s free and on the roof. Once again, enjoy the weather while you can. And eat something. It’s the best place for a picky eater, whether they’re a kid or adult. 10:30 a.m., all ages, free
September 13
Free – Monday Trivia @ Wunder Garten
Play some outdoor trivia while the weather is still nice. 7 p.m., 21+, free
$ – Ratboys, Wild Pink @ Songbyrd
A new venue is always fun to check out (Songbyrd isn’t new but they’re now operating out of the old Coconut Club near Union Market) and I really like Ratboys (I played them on my radio show, What Year Is This?, last week) so this one is a no brainer. 8 p.m., all ages, $15, also Tuesday
$$ – Grand Cata
If you’re headed to the Ratboys show, consider enjoying some really good wine from Grand Cata, located inside La Cosecha. Their selection is really well curated and no one will stop you from enjoying a bottle at one of the outdoor tables. 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
All Ages – Slash Run
Celebrate Slash Run’s expansion news (coming soon to Brookland!) with the entire family on half price burger night. Opens at 4 p.m., all ages, happy hour from 4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
September 12
Free – KiKi @ Wunder Garten
The only D.C. twerking contest held in daylight? 4 p.m., 21+, no cover
$ – Ron Gallo, Becca Mancari, Chickpea @ DC9
Wholeheartedly recommend seeing Gallo and listening to “Young Lady, You’re Scaring Me.” 8 p.m., 21+, $16 to $18
$$ – Adams Morgan Day
It’s free but every year I spend at least $20 at Smash Records and another $20 on food. This could have easily been in our Free, $ or All Ages category too. 11 a.m., all ages, no cover
All Ages – Doggie Day Swim DC @ Francis Pool, Randall Pool, Upshur Pool
Pools closed for humans last Monday. Three pools close for dogs this Sunday. This tradition is nice and makes me smile and I don’t have a dog. Noon to 4 p.m., free, lots of rules for participation so make sure your dog is cool to take a dip before heading out
September 11
Free – Fiesta DC
I’ve attended the festival and the parade and both are colorful and a welcome addition to downtown D.C. 10 a.m., all ages, free, also Sunday
$ – WWE Supershow @ Capital One Arena
It’s never been a better time to be a professional wrestling fan. WWE house shows may be the gateway drug for the non-wrestling fan in your life. Also, don’t let WWE forget about their September 13, 2001 show. Don’t let them forget any of it. 7:30 p.m., all ages, $20 to $115
$$ – Black Cat 28th Anniversary
Celebrate nearly three decades of an excellent rock and roll club with Algiers, Ted Leo, The Owners, Teen Cobra and Anna Connolly. Related, if you’re hoping to get a picture with Dave Grohl this weekend, this is your best bet. After the Foos Thursday show at 9:30 Club, there’s noting on the tour itinerary until next Wednesday. 8 p.m., 21+, $28
All Ages – Soul @ The Parks at Walter Reed
I’m actually recommending it for the pre-film orchestra performance. I attended the August edition and it’s incredibly family friendly. 6 p.m., all ages, free
September 10
Free – The John F. Kennedy Center at 50 @ The Reach
The excellent outdoor summer programming continues with another quality weekend at The Reach. Throwing Shade begins at 7 p.m. and should be fun. 5:30 p.m., all ages, free
Celebrate the long running D.C. indie rock band’s newest release at D.C.’s long running indie rock venue/pizza place. 8 p.m., all ages, $12
$$ – American Ultimate Disc League Semifinal @ Audi Field
This sport is what you think it is and it looks very fun. 4 p.m., all ages, $29
All Ages – Northern Virginia Fine Arts Festival
Teach your kids that good art is whatever art that moves them. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., all ages, no cover
September 8
Free – Kim Sandara – The 270 Million Project / Erica Pixi – Redacted Writingss Closing Reception @ Rhizome
This exhibit looks and sounds really interesting. I’m a big fan of how Rhizome has operated during the pandemic, both for their art shows and concerts. If you’re at all near Takoma Park, consider stopping by. 6 p.m., all ages, no cover, prices vary for art
$ – Meatbodies, Zip-Tie Handcuffs, Teen Mortgage @ Ottobar
I’ll recommend most every Teen Mortgage show, even when they’re the openers. As a parent of a toddler, I actually prefer the opening slot. The kid doesn’t care if I’m out until the headliner wraps. 8 p.m., 21+, $13
$$ – Blue Öyster Cult @ Birchmere
Maybe do feat the reaper. 7:30 p.m., all ages, $65
All Ages – Sensational Play @ Northeast Library
Let the kids play with sensory play materials in the library garden. 11 a.m., all ages, free
September 7
Free – 9/11 @ La Maison Française – Embassy of France
Another chance for an embassy screening, this one is indoors and like everything else we’re recommending, requires proof of vaccination. 7 p.m., all ages, free
$ – Las Gemelas
I finally tried it last week. It lives up to the hype. 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
$$ – Atlas Brew Works
September 7 is National Beer Lover’s Day. Seems like a decent excuse to drink some beer at Atlas and take home a 6 pack of Festbier.
All Ages – Toddler Story Time @ Petworth Library
This outdoor edition is full of stories and songs and the weather is no longer brutally hot so that’s nice. 10:30 a.m., all ages, free
September 6
Free – Smithsonian’s National Zoo
Schools and day cares are closed for the holiday. The zoo is open. 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., all ages, free, passes required
$ – Le Cercle Rouge @ AFI Silver Spring
Proof of vaccination is now required at AFI. 2:30 p.m. and 8:15 p.m., all ages, $8 to $13
$$ – Duke’s Counter
If you’re going to the zoo and need lunch after walking a few miles, just walk across the street to Duke’s. 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
All Ages – Banneker Pool
Last call for Banneker! 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., all ages, free for D.C. residents
September 5
Free – Arlington Labor Day Weekend Festival of the Arts
Take a stroll through Clarendon and peruse some sculpture, pottery, jewelry, photography, mixed-media, painting and more. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., also Saturday, all ages, no cover
$ – Bottomless Mimos-Ha’s: A Stand-Up Comedy Brunch Show @ The Wonderland Ballroom
Have a laugh with Maddy Brannon and Kate Flaherty. Have a drink upstairs at Wonderland. 12:30 p.m., 21+, no cover, food and drink prices vary
I do not like day drinking. For some reason, I do enjoy drinking a beer or cider after a race. Consider this yoga class a race. 9:30 a.m., 21+, $20 ticket includes the class and a post-practice beverage
All Ages – Francis Pool
Last Sunday Francis is open. Get in the water while you can. If it’s too chilly, the nearby playgrounds are really well maintained. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., all ages, free for D.C. residents
September 4
Free – O Black Label: Beyoncé’s B’Day @ TRADE
Happy birthday, Beyoncé! 10:30 p.m., 21+, no cover
$ – FLAMIN’ HOT – A DC Art Exhibition @ Bad Candy
When’s the last time you went to an art show? 5 p.m., all ages, $10
$$ – Forrest Gump @ Southern Maryland Bluecrabs Stadium
Watch the 1994 Academy Award Best Picture in a Minor League Baseball stadium. U-S-A! U-S-A! 8:15 p.m., all ages, $8 to $10, food and drink prices vary
All Ages – Field Day @ The Reach
From 10 a.m. until 8 p.m., there’s something for the entire family outside The Kennedy Center. Whether you’re into yoga, skateboarding or storytelling, this weekend has about a dozen good options. 10 a.m., all ages, free
September 3
Free – You, Me, Them, Everybody Live @ The Wonderland Ballroom
The person writing this hosts You, Me, Them, Everybody. Hello. Come hang out. It’s a talk show. Watch the show and drink some drinks. 6:30 p.m., 21+, no cover
$ – Punkhouse Comedy @ Pie Shop
This punk/stand up show is good because it’s produced by Kevin Tit. He’s great. We’re recommending this edition because it also features RIYL writer Jenny Cavallero. 8 p.m., 21+, suggested donation
$$ – New York Mets @ Washington Nationals
Javy was my favorite Cub so I guess I’m a Mets fan for the remainder of 2021. 7:05 p.m., all ages, $15 to $155
All Ages – Langdon Park Pool
Final Friday Langdon is open for the season. If it’s too cold, just take the entire family to City-State. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., all ages, free for D.C. residents
September 2
Free – Documentary / Festival Launch: Věra 68 @ Embassy of Czechia
Events like these make me glad I live in D.C. Watch an extremely interesting story on the lawn of an embassy. 7:45 p.m., all ages, free
I’m using the Mike Judge film as an excuse to get a drink at Metrobar. 8:30 p.m., 21+, drink prices vary
$$ – Pitbull @ Merriweather Post Pavilion
This tour is entitled “I Feel Good Tour.” I’m glad someone is feeling good. 8 p.m., all ages, $29 to $139.50
All Ages – “Not a Box” Play Part @ Eastern Market Playground
Here’s a nice after school activity for the under 6 set. Kids are encouraged to make, well, anything, out of a box and other simple supplies. 3:30 p.m., all ages, free
September 1
Free – Mamma Mia @ Alethia Tanner Park
Last week’s screening got rained out. Fingers crossed for this week. Mamma mia, we’ve had a lot of rain! 7:35 p.m., all ages, free
Van Campen’s songs are quite chill. They sound nothing like our $$ pick, and they’re chill in a very different way, but they’re still chill. 8 p.m., 21+, $12 to $14
$$ – 311 @ MECU Pavilion
America’s best jam band that isn’t technically a jam band, 311 have been sending out good vibes in 3-5 minute songs for 31 years, all while understanding what makes them good and part of the joke. I recently went to a 311 concert a skeptic. I left a true believer. It was chill. 6:30 p.m., all ages, $24 to $500
All Ages – Outdoor Play Date @ Westminster Park
If it’s not raining and you’re looking for something, anything to do with your 0 to 5-year-old, here you go. 10:30 a.m. all ages, free
August 31
Free – Union Market Story Time
If you’re got a kid that isn’t yet in school, take them to story time at Union Market and check out our all ages pick. 10:30 a.m., all ages, free
Do you also miss Frightened Rabbit? 8 p.m., all ages, $12 to $15
$$ – Alanis Morissette, Garbage, Cat Power @ Merriweather Post Pavilion
I am very much looking forward to when classic rock is Alanis Morissette and Garbage. Cat Power will never be considered classic rock. Not a knock on Cat Power, I just don’t think anything from You Are Free will ever receive heavy rotation. 7 p.m., all ages, $66 to $140.50
All Ages – Union Market/La Cosecha
It’s the best place to take a kid to eat, especially if you also want to eat.
August 30
Free – Coco @ Downtown Columbia Lakefront
See outdoor films while you still can. 8 p.m., all ages, free
Today is National Beach Day. Go to the beach. 7 a.m. to dusk, all ages, $4
$$ – Comet Ping Pong
It’s the first day of school. Get pizza. Maybe it’ll encourage the kid to participate in the Book It! program.
All Ages – Yerevan
Parent of a kid that will eat more than pizza? Take them to D.C.’s newest Armenian restaurant, now open in Adams Morgan.
August 29
Free – Free Ice Cream and Books @ TP Community Center
It’s exactly what you think it is. 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., all ages, no cover
$ – Carroll County Balloon Festival
Look up! 1 p.m. to 7 p.m., all ages, free to $20
$$ – Clarksville Sunflower Festival
It’s the final weekend for the sunflower festival so if you really want an Instagram of yourself in a field of sunflowers, hurry! 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., all ages, $10 to $100
All Ages – Art Sale @ Midlands
I had a great time at last weekend’s vintage sale at Slash Run so I may try to recreate that this Sunday at Midlands. Local artists will be selling their stuff and a portion of the proceeds will benefit LightHouse. Feel good because you got something you like, supported a local artist and supported an organization that helps individuals and families transition from homelessness. Also, Midlands is mostly outdoors so I’m a fan. Also, if you don’t find anything you like, walk down the street to Underground Goods’ pop-up at Sonny’s Pizza. 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., all ages, no cover, prices vary
August 28
Free – Opera in the Outfield @ Nationals Park
Yes, more events in stadiums when teams aren’t playing, please. There’s no reason Nats Park can’t have an autumn and early spring film series or host D.C.’s big Pride party or food festivals. I know there are already concerts and beer festivals and obviously Nats game, but the stadium is underutilized. Most stadiums are. And Nats Park has more events than most every other MLB stadium. Still, I want more. 7 p.m., all ages, free
$ – Ritmos Raros Tropical Dancefloor Party @ Songbyrd
Just a really well curated night of music from DJs Leon City Sounds (Tropical Beat), Marcello Bentine (Batida DC) and Sir Ramases (Afro Ritmo Records). You’re going to move and hear stuff you haven’t heard. 11 p.m., 21+, $7
$$ – Maryland Renaissance Festival
It’s opening day for the Ren Fest. Real weapons are not allowed. It’s on their home page. Don’t bring real weapons. 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., all ages, free to $21
All Ages – On Deck: Women Shredding Through Boundaries @ The REACH
The Kennedy Center has been knocking it out of the park all summer with their REACH events but this one may be my favorite. This weekend’s On Deck: Women Shredding Through Boundaries features the weekly arts market, Saturday morning yoga, dance classes, a hula hoop class, skateboard instruction, multiple DJ sets and a performance by Washington Women in Jazz. It’s perfect for the entire family and as long as it doesn’t rain, will easily be the most family friendly but not at all lame series of events this weekend. 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., all ages, free, also Thursday and Friday
August 27
Free – All the President’s Men @ Eastern Market
Impeachment used to be a serious thing. 7 p.m., all ages, free
$ – Rachel Levitin, Annie Stokes, BRASSIE @ DC9
I like all of the artists on this bill but I’ve especially been enjoying Annie Stokes. 8 p.m., all ages, $12
$$ – Sampson McCormick @ The Comedy Loft
I love Sampson and glad the former D.C. comic is back home. I recommend Sampson’s shows to a lot of my non-comedy fans for a reason. 7:30 p.m. and 9:45 p.m., two shows Saturday too, 18+ for the early show, 21+ for the late show, $20 and 2 drink minimum
All Ages – DC Public Pools
Some public pools are starting to close this weekend, including the one my family goes to, which is a shame because climate change is real and it might still be 90 at the end of September. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., all ages, free for D.C. residents
August 26
Free – Rolling Warrior: Author Talk with Judy Heumann @ Cleveland Park Library
Heumann will speak about her new memoir, adapted for young readers, about her fight to belong in school and her work as a disability rights activist. Nice and timely for back-to-school season. 4 p.m., all ages, free
$ – Cloud Nothings @ Black Cat
I’ve listened to “I’m Not Part of Me” a few hundred times. It’s pretty great. 7:30 p.m., all ages, $20, $23
$$ – The Princess Bride in Concert @ Wolf Trap
Andre The Giant’s second best role scored by the National Symphony Orchestra. 8 p.m., all ages, $42
All Ages – Summer Soiree @ Common Good City Farm
What a beautiful back-to-school, outdoor event! 5:30 p.m., all ages, free
August 25
Free – RIYL DJ Night @ Looking Glass Lounge
We’re back in the basement/outdoor patio of Looking Glass this Wednesday. Jenn Tisdale, Haywood Turnipseed Jr and I will DJ from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. Jenn’s set is the best: all music by Smiths, nothing by The Smiths. Lots of Will and Willow, no Morrissey. 6 p.m., 21+, no cover
$ – Los Angeles Angels @ Baltimore Orioles
I want to see Ohtani pitch in person. I really want to see Ohtani pitch in person and take home an Ohtani pillow but a trip to LA is more difficult than a trip to Baltimore. 7:05 p.m., all ages, $15 to $130
$$ – The Secret Sisters @ Birchmere
This duo is excellent and make the type of music I want when I want to sad drink. 7:30 p.m., all ages, $29.50, proof of vaccination or negative Covid test required
All Ages – Crazy Rich Asians @ Alethia Tanner Park
If you have a kid old enough to stay awake, take them to as many outdoor films as possible. If you have someone with a 7, 8 p.m. bedtime, these movie nights are still a decent option because there tends to be pre-film programming or activities. This one features lawn games before the film, making it a good all ages option. Film begins at sundown, all ages, free
August 24
Free – NotMyPresident: Five Years of Resisting Trump @ Strongin Collection
The book launch and gallery show opens on Tuesday and there’s also a panel featuring author and photojournalist Geoff Livingston (author of the book NotMyPresident), photojournalist Alex Edelman, @IGDC Founder Holly Garner and award-winning street photographer Mukul Ranjan.
$ – Ted’s Bulletin
It’s National Waffle Day. Eat some waffles.
$$ – Blue Duck Tavern
It’s National Waffle Day. Eat some waffles.
All Ages – Outdoor Family Story Time @ Mt. Pleasant Library
I used to bring my kid to this before Covid. Mt. Pleasant has one of the best story time programs in the DCPL. 10:30 a.m., all ages, free
August 23
Free – Grumbler, The Mostly Dead, Interstate Rivals @ Fort Reno
One final Fort Reno show for 2021. It’s a shame there are only 6 of these. Tonight is a makeup from last week’s cancelled show. Rain cancelled a whole lot last week. It’s supposed to be dry tonight. 6:30 p.m., all ages, free
$ – RASA
The Post’s Gene Weingarten wants to lose his job because yesterday’s op-ed buries a lot of beloved cuisines for clickbait reasons. The biggest WTF is his claim Indian food is, “the only ethnic cuisine in the world insanely based entirely on one spice.” So we’re recommending the best Indian fast causal restaurant in D.C. for our $ spot. And…
$$ – Rasika
RASIKA for our $$ spot.
All Ages – Smithsonian National Zoo
Most every Smithsonian institution is open. I’m one of those parents that don’t feel safe taking my under 12-year-old into any indoor institution that appeals to a ton of tourists. Since the zoo is outside, it’s the only SI I’m comfortable taking my under 12-year-old. Open until 4 p.m., all ages, free
August 22
Free – Underground Comedy @ The Wonderland Ballroom
Now that Wonderland is requiring proof of vaccination, we’re cool recommending their indoor shows. Also, we’re giving away $25 to The Wonderland Ballroom. 8 p.m., 21+, no cover
$ – Legalize it! Lager Launch with DC Brau and National Cannabis Festival @ DC Brau
A new beer is a good reason to visit the very large, very open DC Brau. There’s a talk at 1 p.m. and the Black River Muddy Band performs at 2 p.m. and between the talk and performance guests can participate in an advance tasting of the special label Legalize it! Lager and DC Brau’s Terpene Rainbow IPA. Noon, 21+ to drink, no cover
$$ – AwesomeCon @ Walter E. Washington Convention Center
If you’re comfortable in the Convention Center, you’ll enjoy AwesomeCon. I attended for the comics aspect. I have friends going for specific panels (the Back to the Future panel with Michael J. Fox and Christopher Lloyd (Sunday at 2 p.m.) is the biggest feature of this year’s edition). It’s hard not to enjoy all the cosplay. There’s something for everyone. And you can maybe even incorporate an N95 in your costume? Also Friday and Saturday, $20 to $999, all ages, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
All Ages – Community Scavenger Hunt @ Mt. Pleasant Library
It’s not exactly at the library, the library is organizing the hunt. Participants will explore Mt. Pleasant St. There’s no exact time, giving parents an option for something to take their kid to before or after nap.
August 21
Free – Joe Strummer Birthday Bash: A Tribute Show @ Pie Shop
Wanted Man, The Mighty Stef and The D.C. Specials featuring Skeeter Enoch Thompson play this birthday tribute show to the late, great Clash frontman. Suggested donations will go towards the Joe Strummer Foundation. 8 p.m., all ages, donations welcome
$ – Toward Space, Wild Guest @ Slash Run
It’s Wild Guest’s first show and former Shark Week drummer Dan Newhauser is behind the kid. This should be fun. 9:30 p.m., 21+, $5
$$ – Baby Goat Yoga @ Arlington County Fair
It is what you think it is. Also Sunday, 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m., ages 10 and up, $40, bring your own mat
All Ages – Get On Up @ The Parks at Walter Reed
The newest outdoor movie night has some of the best features besides the movie. Children’s performers Finding Rhythm Collective begin at 5:30 p.m., Butcher Brown takes over at 6 p.m. and the James Brown biopic begins at 8 p.m. Blankets are available (I haven’t seen this feature anywhere else) and folks are allowed to bring their own blankets and chairs. HR Records, 3 Stars, Anxo and Everyday Sundae will be selling vinyl, beer, cider and ice cream. That’s a lot of options for an outdoor movie night. 5:30 p.m., all ages, no cover
August 20
Free – EU (Experience Unlimited) @ The REACH
Don’t Mute D.C. presents one of D.C.’s finest go-go bands at the Kennedy Center as part of their outdoor summer programming. Hell yeah. 7 p.m., all ages, free
$ – Book Smarts @ Queen Bee Book Emporium & Cafe
We’re recommending this small show in the back of a bookstore because it’s hosted by Haywood Turnipseed Jr. Have a laugh, buy a book, go home and read the book you bought. 7 p.m., all ages, $1
$$ – Wilco + Sleater-Kinney @ Merriweather Post Pavilion
If Janet Weiss was still the drummer of Sleater-Kinney, I’d be recommending this for them. Weiss is no longer the drummer of Sleater-Kinney so I’m recommending this for the Wilco of it all. Earlier this week we recommended Dead & Company. I’m thinking Wilco has the potential to be the less druggy, less jammy, equally musically exciting never-ending-touring-American band. Earlier this week I emailed a friend a great Wilco set from 2002 and proceeded to enjoy their 2015 record Star Wars. Not a lot of other acts garner this type of live and studio love. 7 p.m., all ages, $45 to $75
All Ages – City-State Brewing
D.C.’s most kid friendly brewery is putting their Killer Queen arcade machines on free play so take the family, smash some buttons and drink some local beer. 3 p.m. to 11 p.m.
August 19
Free – Ford v Ferrari @ The Wharf
Covid isn’t going away so outdoor movies should continue throughout the fall. In case they don’t, see them while you can. 7:30 p.m., all ages, free
$ – Sun Era, The Missing Peace, Sunday Evening Drive @ DC9
DC9 is requiring proof of vaccination and I like Sun Era, they’re playing my talk show in March. If you don’t want to wait 7 months, I recommend seeing them at DC9. 8 p.m., 21+, $12
$$ – The Gibson
The cocktail bar re-opened last weekend and we wanted to wait to recommend it once the crowds died down. There are still available Thursday night reservations for their outdoor patio. 6 p.m. to 10:30 patio reservations available, 21+
All Ages – Capital Book Fest @ Wilson Plaza
Buy the kid a book at this outdoor book fest. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., all ages, all books $6 or less
August 18
Free – Washington City Paper’s Best of D.C. 2021 Voting Party @ 3 Stars
I was going to include this in the All Ages category because 3 Stars is one of the most kid friendly breweries but it’s going in the free section since the first 100 people get a free drink ticket. That’s a very good free deal. 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., 21+ to drink, regular prices after the first 100 people
$ – Indy Eleven @ Loudoun United FC
I’m enjoying season 2 of Ted Lasso and will be cancelling my Apple+ subscription the day after the season finale. 7 p.m., all ages, $20 to $70
$$ – Dead & Company @ Jiffy Lube Live
I wish I loved the Dead, I really do. I am envious of the many, many, many people that consider themselves Deadheads. Oh well. Go have fun, people that definitely aren’t kids! 7 p.m., all ages, $55 to $908.50, proof of vaccination required
All Ages – Arlington County Fair
It’s the first night of the fair! If it sucks, at least it’s free! I’ve had a ton of fun at fairs and some of the worst days of my life at the fair. So, good luck! 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. (outdoors only, the indoor section opens Friday), all ages, no cover
August 17
Free – Yappy Hour @ Hook Hall
Need to dress up your dog? Need to show off your dressed up dog? Need to show off your dressed up dog in an outdoor beer garden? 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., 21+, free to participate, regular menu prices
$ – Toronto Blue Jays @ Washington Nationals
I would otherwise not be recommending a mid-August game from an intentionally tanking Nats but it’s the Nats annual Night OUT game. If you’ve read Out at Home: The True Story of Glenn Burke, Baseball’s First Openly Gay Player, it’s really remarkable this is part of most every MLB’s team schedule. I highly recommend attending, even if your favorite Nat is now a Dodger (I am rooting for the Dodgers because Max Scherzer remains great to D.C.). 7:05 p.m., all ages, $13 and up
$$ – Modest Mouse @ The Anthem
If most every club in D.C. was not requiring proof of vaccination or a recent negative Covid test, I would not be recommending this show. The Anthem is requiring proof of vaccination. 8 p.m., all ages, $45 to $75
All Ages – Outdoor Printmaking Workshop @ Georgetown Library
I just love the DC Public Library and programs like this, outdoors, targeted to kids ages 6 to 12, make me appreciate D.C. even more. 4 p.m., all ages, free
August 16
Free – Yoga @ Temperance Alley Garden
Check out a community garden, meet your neighbors and stretch. 5:30 p.m., all ages, free
$ – Meditation Mondays @ Meridian Hill Park
If you’d prefer to sit and stay still rather than sit and strech, head a bit north to Malcolm X Park. 6:30 p.m., all ages, donations accepted, crystals available for purchase
$$ – Astor Mediterranean
If you’re doing to that meditation class, walk a few blocks west and hit up Astor after. They have my favorite pizza in D.C. (Egyptian Pizza with eggplant, green pepper, garlic, jalapeno pepper, fresh tomatoes, tomato sauce, mozzarella and feta on square-cut crust) so get a large ($18), a small Sausage & Peppers Pizza ($12), the Astor Vegetarian platter ($10.95) and eat all of it over the course of your next four meals. It’s not exactly a $$ pick but when I order it is. Noon to 9:30 p.m.
All Ages – Burger Night @ Slash Run
This is a completely biased pick (Fun fact: every pick ever is biased). We just had our book swap at Slash Run and it was great. It was fun and the food was exactly what you want and the staff is really good dealing with kids. Half off burger night is always a good decision and it’s finally OK enough outside to eat without melting. 4 p.m. to 2 a.m., all ages, half price burgers with purchase of a beverage
August 15
Free – Ellen Reid SOUNDWALK Socially-Distanced Sound Art @ Wolf Trap
When the iPhone was first released this technology seemed so exciting. If you’ve ever used it, you know how great it can be. Unfortunately, it hasn’t taken off. I’m glad experiments like this are still happening. It’s really ambitious, beautiful stuff. Sunrise to sunset, through September 6, all ages, free
$ – Sausage Fest @ Wunder Garten
Eat some encased meats and drink some beer from Victory Brewing Company (VA), Right Proper Brewing Company (DC), Devil’s Backbone Brewery (VA), and City State Brewery (DC). Noon to 11:30 p.m., also Saturday, 21+, no cover, prices for beer and sausages vary
$$ – Rasika West End
Rasika is on my short list of restaurants I miss due to the pandemic. There is outdoor dining. 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., all ages, $22 Restaurant Week lunch option, 4 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., all ages, $55 Restaurant Week dinner option
All Ages – United States Botanic Garden
The conservatory and public restrooms remain closed but the outdoor garden is open and the high this Sunday is only supposed to be 77. 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m., all ages, free
August 14
Free – Free Comic Book Day
Get your free comics! Buy some comics that aren’t free! It’s like Record Store Day but way better because instead of buying overpriced, pointlessly limited edition records, you’ll read comic books! Seriously, it’s a great, great, great way to get the kid in your life interested in comics. Visit freecomicbookday.com to find your local participating comic book shop
$ – Joy On Fire, Jerry Busher, Insect Factory @ Rhizome
Thankfully Rhizome never stopped doing outdoor shows, which is fantastic considering we’re still in the midst of a pandemic. 6 p.m., all ages, $5 to $20
$$ – Officina
The Wharf is a lot nicer when it’s not 100 degrees outside. It’s supposed to be 80 at 8 p.m. 2 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., all ages, $35 Restaurant Week dinner option and $55 Restaurant Week dinner option
All Ages – DC Strings Family Concert @ Bunn Ampitheatre at Oxon Run Park
DPR’s Family Art and Music Series continues with an outdoor concert. Fingers crossed for no rain. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., all ages, free
August 13
Free – Death Becomes Us & Recommend If You Like’s Friday the 13th Book Swap @ Slash Run
It’s finally time for our book swap! Friday the 13th seemed appropriate for a true crime and horror book swap. 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., all ages, no cover, RSVP requested
$ – Teen Mortgage, Sun Voyager, Swoll @ Pie Shop
Teen Mortgage is the best local band. I would be at this show if I did not have a kid. If you are worried about Covid, Pie Shop is doing all they can to keep things safe, you need to prove your vaccination status and masks are required (they’re required for everywhere in D.C.). Also, there’s an outdoor back patio. 7:30 p.m., $12
$$ – Shibuya Eatery and Death Punch Bar
The Adams Morgan 18th Street outdoor dining situation is pretty good. Enjoy it and enjoy this Restaurant Week option. Noon to 10 p.m., all ages, $22 Restaurant Week lunch option, $35 Restaurant Week dinner option and $55 Restaurant Week dinner option
All Ages – Step Afrika! @ The Reach
Dance with the entire family. Get there a bit early to peruse the arts market. 6 p.m., all ages, free
August 12
Free – Jazz Vortex @ Shepherd Field
Take in a free, outdoor show on the hottest day of the year. Maybe it won’t rain for a fourth straight day? 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., all ages, free
$ – Suns Cinema
Beginning today, the Mount Pleasant theatre is requiring proof of vaccination. I’m recommending the outdoor bar because like attracts like and if you’re not vaccinated, you probably won’t consider drinking at Suns’ bar. 7 p.m. to midnight, 21+, prices vary
$$ – Pappe
Restaurant Week continues through the weekend and we’ll be recommending places we’re comfortable eating at since they have outdoor dining. 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., all ages, $55 Restaurant Week dinner option
All Ages – Ratatouille @ The Wharf
Anyone else see the new Suicide Squad? 7:30 p.m., all ages, free
August 11
Free – Black Panther @ UDC Amphitheater in the Woods
If Covid rates continue to rise, maybe some of these outdoor film screenings can be extended deep into the fall? I’m attempting to write this idea into existence. Park opens at 7:30 p.m., all ages, free
$ – Queer Trivia @ Dew Drop Inn
Try to prove you’re the most knowledgeable person in D.C. Doors at 6:30 p.m., trivia at 7 p.m., 21+, free to play, full bar
$$ – Rocklands Barbeque
I haven’t had a bad meal at Rocklands and the dog days of summer are a great time for barbeque. Head to the Glover Park location and chat with your party about when that Whole Foods is reopening. 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., all ages, $35 Restaurant Week lunch and dinner options
All Ages – Baby & Toddler Storytime on the Lawn @ Georgetown Library
Good for the little ones and the parents that are very concerned about Covid. Masks are mandatory for everyone over the age of 2 and attendance is limited to maintain social distancing. 10:30 a.m., all ages, free, register in advance
August 10
Free – Spray Parks
There’s a Heat Emergency all week. Go to a spray park. 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., all ages, free
If the idea of doing yoga in a classroom is off putting, be glad there are still outdoor options. 6 p.m., all ages, $10
$$ – Mintwood Place
The Adams Morgan restaurant has one of the prettiest patios due to their lighting. The neighborhood bistro led by Chef Harper McClure used to be my neighborhood bistro when I lived nearby and I consistently miss it. 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., all ages, $35 Restaurant Week dinner option
All Ages – The Parks Farmers Market
Take the kid to buy groceries outside and stop by D.C.’s newest park afterwards. The sandbox is neat. 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., all ages, prices vary
August 9
Free – Spray Parks
There’s a Heat Emergency all week. Go to a spray park. 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., all ages, free
If the idea of doing yoga in a classroom is off putting, be glad there are still outdoor options. 6 p.m., all ages, $10
$$ – Mintwood Place
The Adams Morgan restaurant has one of the prettiest patios due to their lighting. The neighborhood bistro led by Chef Harper McClure used to be my neighborhood bistro when I lived nearby and I consistently miss it. 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., all ages, $35 Restaurant Week dinner option
All Ages – The Parks Farmers Market
Take the kid to buy groceries outside and stop by D.C.’s newest park afterwards. The sandbox is neat. 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., all ages, prices vary
August 8
Free – KiKi @ Wunder Garten
Spend the afternoon playing drag bingo and drink some drinks and if you drink enough drinks, dance, at the weekly KiKi. It’s outdoors, making it an even better option. 4 p.m., 21+, no cover
$ – Jaws 3 and Jaws 4 @ Slash Run
Eat some brunch and/or drink some beer and stay out of the water at Slash Run. We’re obviously fans of the place. Obviously. 12:30 p.m., all ages, no cover
$$ – Green Day, Fall Out Boy, Weezer @ Nationals Park
This was going to be one of Nats Park’s big 2020 shows. Now it’s a Nats Park show in 2021. Tickets still remain. Would it be sold out if the Delta variant wasn’t a thing? Will Fall Out Boy even play (they had to pull out of the Boston and New York dates due to Covid)? Will this tour continue? 6 p.m., all ages, $29.50 to $189.50
All Ages – Adams Morgan Drag Queen Storytime
Apparently Sunday mornings and afternoons are our time to appreciate drag queens. Head to Unity Park for story time with Venus and check out the DCPL Book Bike. 11 a.m., all ages, free
August 7
Free – Raga @ The REACH
More Kennedy Center options, this time for the morning crowd. If you’re looking for yoga and dance, look no further. 10 a.m., all ages, free
Looking for a place to eat with the kids before or after our all ages dance party at DC9? Lulu’s is your best local option. It’s a very short walk from DC9 and also offers outdoor seating. Noon to midnight
$$ – Jimmy Buffett @ Jiffy Lube Live
Thanks to my friend Kaylee I have a newfound appreciation for Buffett and all Parotheads. Enjoy summer music outdoors. It’s the best way to enjoy music these days. 8 p.m., all ages, $37 to $150
All Ages – HEY! HO! LET’S GO! @ DC9
Our inaugural all ages dance party is sold out. There are still tickets to our September 25 edition. Get tickets now. It will sell out. 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., all ages, no cover
August 6
Free – DC LINES @ Amy Kaslow Gallery
It’s the final weekend to check out the DC LINES exhibit. 1 p.m. to 7 p.m., all ages, no cover, also Thursday, Saturday and Sunday
$ – You, Me, Them, Everybody Live @ The Wonderland Ballroom
I’ve been hosting this show for the last 14 years. It’s fun. Come on out. Allison Lane, Domingø, Andrew Bucket and Haywood Turnipseed Jr. will be there too. 6:30 p.m., 21+, $5 suggested donation
$$ – Bruno Mars @ The Theater at MGM National Harbor
Mars one of the first artists to perform when MGM National Harbor opened. Now he’s one of the first artists to perform when The Theater at MGM National Harbor re-opens. 8 p.m., all ages, $828 to $878, also Saturday
All Ages – Otakon @ Walter E. Washington Convention Center
I’ve attended many comic and pop culture conventions as an adult and as a kid. I had way more fun at the one’s I attended as a kid. I’m currently looking at a pin I got at Wizard World 1995. I probably spent $20 total over the course of 8 hours. These things seem like they’ll cost a fortune, and they can, but it is possible to have a great time and spend very little dough. Anyway, if you have a kid that’s showing any interest in Asian pop culture and they’re OK in a mask, consider Otakon. 8 a.m. to midnight, all ages, free for 8 and under, $50 children 9 to 12 all three days, $50 13 and up, also Saturday and Sunday
August 5
Free – Library of Congress exhibits
Beginning today, the Library of Congress is once again allowing the general public to check out their exhibits. If you can’t make it inside, come back later tonight for an outdoor screening of Jurassic Park at 8 p.m. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., all ages, free, timed entry pass required
$ – MCHS Yappy Hour @ Denizens
It’s gorgeous today. Maybe adopting a dog would make it even more gorgeous? 6 p.m., 21+, beers from $3.25 to $20
$$ – Twelfth Night @ DC War Memorial
More outdoor theater options, please. 7 p.m., all ages, $10 to $25, through August 15
All Ages – DOUGIE, Outerloop, Chill Parents @ Fort Reno
Take the family to a show. Kids will like Chill Parents. I like Chill Parents. 7 p.m., all ages, donations welcome
August 4
Free – National Portrait Gallery
August 4 is President Obama’s birthday. Head to the National Portrait Gallery to see the America’s Presidents collection. President Obama’s portrait is currently on tour so it’s not on display. I’m including this here to see if you’re actually reading. 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m., all ages, free
$ – Trade
If you want to drink at Trade, you need to prove your vaccination status. Somewhat related, I love the person that asked if there are any pina colada specials in the Instagram post announcing they’re requiring vaccination status. 5 p.m. to 1:45 a.m., 21+
$$ – New Kids on the Block @ Merriweather Post Pavilion
I will recommend every NKOTB show because it allows me to remind you Donnie Wahlberg is married to Jenny McCarthy and she happens to be one of the biggest reasons vaccine hesitancy is a thing. 7:30 p.m., all ages, $33 to $425
All Ages – Storytime at Frager’s Hardware
The DC Public Library presents this storytime for kids ages 0 to 3 in Frager’s outdoor area. Space is limited. So are the opportunities for any events for 0-3-year-olds. 10:30 a.m., all ages, free
August 3
Free – Aliens @ National Building Museum
Can I Kick It? officially wraps up their season (next week’s screening of Starship Troopers is a make up date from a rained out June event) with Alien. This seems like a perfect fit. 7:30 p.m., all ages, free
$ – Pitchers
The Adams Morgan bar is requiring proof of vaccination and mandatory masking (which is true for every establishment in D.C. but unless it’s clearly stated on their site, I don’t believe it’ll be enforced). I would have recommended a visit on Monday since they’re requiring vaccine proof before Ivy and Coney but they’re closed on Mondays. 5 p.m. to midnight, 21+
$$ – Rise Against, Descendents, The Menzingers @ MECU Pavilion
We’re recommending this one because Descendents are great and we’ll be playing their music this Saturday afternoon at our all ages dance party at DC9. Also, I really like The Menzingers. So get there early. Related, anyone else watch a few Lollapalooza sets on Hulu and think you might be watching a super spreader event? Completely torn about this recommendation. I really want this to work out. I am not rooting for another shutdown. 7:30 p.m., all ages, $20 to $50
All Ages – Outdoor Family Story Time @ Mt. Pleasant Library
My favorite of the DCPL story times. The pre-pandemic setting was ideal, large enough to include every kid, ample stroller parking, relatively easy parking and Metro access, good leaders and an always working elevators. Interested to see how the outdoor version works. 10:30 a.m., all ages, free
August 2
Free – Nice Breeze, Black Rails, Clear Channel @ Fort Reno
One of D.C.’s best musical traditions returns with better COVID precautions than most indoor venues. 7 p.m., all ages, no cover, donations appreciated
$ – Insomnia Cookies
Today, August 2, is National Ice Cream Sandwich Day. So eat one.
$$ – Ivy and Coney
One of my favorite bars is one of a handful of bars requiring proof of vaccination beginning this weekend. I’m recommending them here, before the proof of vaccination, because I still feel relatively comfortable in the back area since it’s technically outside. It can be in the $ category but every time I go I spend more than $20. 5 p.m. to 2 a.m., 21+
All Ages – Night at the Museum – Battle of the Smithsonian @ Marie Reed
It’s a kid movie set in D.C. and there are free cookies until they run of out free cookies. If your kid is awake, take them to get a free cookie and let them know Smithsonian doesn’t mean one specific museum. 8:30 p.m., all ages, free
August 1
Free – Domingo’s Got Talent Tea Party @ DC9
Hell yeah, more stuff like this. Domingo’s Got Talent is, “a queer-centric open stage event for the performing arts,” so think open mic with some vetting. Most open mics have no vetting, which makes them entirely unpredictable. With some sense of control, this looks excellent. 7 p.m., 21+, no cover
$ – Bottomless Mimos-Ha’s: The Return of Stand-Up Comedy Brunch @ The Wonderland Ballroom
Maddie Brannon and Kate Flaherty host one of the funnest stand up shows. It happens to also be the earliest. 1 p.m., 21+, no cover, full menu available and if you’re drinking multiple drinks you’ll probably get to the $$ minimum
$$ – Untitled: Dave Chappelle Documentary Film @ The Kennedy Center
I do not feel comfortable recommending Chappelle at The Anthem, the same weekend D.C. is bringing back the mask mandate. I’m slightly more comfortable recommending this because there’s less drinking at The Kennedy Center than the music venue so maybe people will keep their mask on? 8 p.m., all ages, $59 to $99
All Ages – Playground Popsicle Party @ The Parks at Walter Reed
A new park is always a welcome addition to any and every neighborhood. Add in popsicles and a toy bulldozer and I’m 100% in. 4:30 p.m., all ages, free
July 31
Free – The World’s Children’s Festival @ National Mall
This outdoor fest is three days long and appears good for people looking for family friendly activities and require an outdoor setting. The Saturday programming, Creativity & Imagination Day, is best for my family. There are ten scheduled performances and even more workshops to keep everyone entertained. 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., all ages, free
$ and $$ – Record Exchange Silver Spring and Quarry House Tavern
Celebrate the life of ZZ Top’s Dusty Hill by drinking some good Texas beer, eating red meat and buying some vinyl made by a trio fueled by Texas beer and red meat. Record Exchange Silver Spring open noon to 6 p.m., Quarry House Tavern open 4 p.m. to 1 a.m.
All Ages – Roving Leaders Day @ Langdon Park
DC Parks has been doing a ton of family friendly, outdoor programming. This is another good example. Hopefully it continues throughout the fall. Noon to 5 p.m., all ages, free
July 30
Free – Air and Space Museum reopens
Godspeed. Please wear a mask indoors. 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., all ages, free, timed entry passes no longer required
Nature is healing. 8 p.m., 21+, $15
$$ – Chicago Cubs @ Washington Nationals
Will this game even happen? Will enough Nats be Covid-free to field a squad? Is this the last game Max Scherzer is a Nat? The last game Javy Báez, Kris Bryant and/or Anthony Rizzo are Cubs? We’re publishing this on Thursday and by the time you read this all of these folks may be on other teams, maybe the same team, maybe the San Francisco Giants. 7:05 p.m., all ages, $27 to $105
All Ages – D.C. Legendary Musicians @ The Kennedy Center
This weekend’s Millennium Stage booking is excellent and each day is a good option. We’re going with the Friday evening performance since it’ll be slightly cooler than the Saturday day performances. 5 p.m., all ages, free
July 29
Free – The Sounds of Music audience singalong @ Library of Congress
Outdoor movies should be movies you’ve seen before, preferably movies you know and love. The Sound of Music qualifies for most people and a singalong on the lawn probably sounds pretty good to you if you’re a fan of The Sound of Music. Gathering on the lawn begins at 6:30 p.m., all ages, free
$ – Throwing Shade @ Cloak & Dagger
Dance while you can. 9 p.m., 21+, no cover, $8 Dahlia Tequila Cocktails from 9 to 11 p.m.
$$ – The War and Treaty @ Wolf Trap
The married duo that’s better live comes to Vienna. 8 p.m., all ages, Tickets start at $27
All Ages – National Gallery of Art Concerts in the Sculpture Garden
Another sign things are getting back to normal (please wear a mask indoors (I know this show is outdoors)). The series returns with Bombay Rickey. Gates open at 5 p.m., all ages, free, passes required for attendees ages 2 and up
July 28
Free – RIYL DJ Night @ Looking Glass Lounge
Come hang out with us in the basement of the Looking Glass Lounge. We’ll play music we like and pro wrestling will be on the projector. 6 p.m. to 11 p.m., 21+, no cover
$ – “Les Colombes” (The Doves) – Daytime Exhibit Walk @ National Cathedral
If you’re unfamiliar with the National Cathedral, they have some of the most impressive large scale art and light programs in D.C. Really. Take a talking tour of the current Doves exhibit. 11 a.m., all ages, $10
One of the most pleasant rooftop settings in D.C., enjoy some jazz and cocktails. 7 p.m., 21+, $16 cocktails, $8 beer, no cover
All Ages – Elena Moon Park and Friends @ Filene Center
Take your kid on a musical journey through Asia with a performance from Park. She’ll be performing songs, “from northern Japanese sea shanties to Tibetan jump rope rhymes; joyous Korean harvest sing-alongs; Taiwanese train songs; and much more.” 11 a.m., suggested ages 2 to 9, $12 to $20
July 27
Free – Back to Summer Rec Party @ Bald Eagle Woody Ward
The DC Park District block parties show lots of photos with fun water activities and guess what, it’s still hot on Tuesday! Stay cool. 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., all ages, free
$ – CatVideoFest 2021 @ AFI Silver Spring
The CatVideoFest 2021 is only at AFI Silver Spring for two more nights. If this is for you, you know it’s for you. 7 p.m., also Thursday at 3 p.m., $8 to $14, all ages
$$ – Miami Marlins @ Baltimore Orioles
We’re recommending this game for three reasons, 1. The O’s have some of the best giveaways in the MLB, 2. The O’s just swept the Nats so give them some more respect and 3. You should at least consider becoming a Marlins fan. 7:05 p.m., all ages, $15 to $130
All Ages – Summer Fun at Parklands-Turner – Pee Wee Craft
That Google commercial with the kid leaning about and falling in love with leaning about octopi really gets me. So I’m completely fine with recommending this craft time in which kids will make their own octopus. 10:30 a.m., all ages, free
July 26
Free – Freer Gallery of Art
I’m torn about this recommendation. I’m assuming most everyone visiting the Freer that can be vaccinated is vaccinated. But I’ve also visited every Smithsonian and know that not everyone is on the same scientific page. But I’m still wearing an N95 and everyone in my local grocery store is still wearing masks. But not everyone visiting a Smithsonian is a local. But it’s really hot outside and museums to feel coolest on hot days. But really hot days tends to mean larger crowds. Understand the conflict? 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., all ages, free
$ – Promising Young Woman @ AFI Silver Spring
I think Promising Young Woman deserves all of its acclaim and I know this is a controversial opinion. I also think Bo Burnham’s Inside is the best piece of pandemic art and that is also a controversial opinion. 8:30 p.m., also Tuesday at 3 p.m., $8 to 13, Rated R
$$ – Olympic Viewing @ Midlands
I’m conflicted about the Olympics for multiple negative reasons. But I’m still watching because what all of these athletes are doing is awe inspiring. I’m conflicted about indoor dining because I have a kid too young to be vaccinated. But I’m vaccinated and feel OK with outdoor dining. Which means all roads lead to Midlands, a bar I’ve recommended on multiple occasions for sports viewing.
All Ages – Splash Park and Ice Cream
The Post recently published a very helpful piece about splash parks with nearby ice cream. There’s a heat emergency today in D.C.
July 25
$ – Marian McLaughlin @ Rhizome
I’ve enjoyed McLaughlin’s style of folk/Americana for years. I’ve only seen her indoors and an outdoor set at Rhizome seems like a good fit. 4 p.m., all ages, $5 to $20
$$ – New York Red Bulls @ D.C. United
Season 2 of Ted Lasso begins on Friday. If you want to scratch that soccer itch, head to Audi Field. Related, you might like to read Love, Death, And Baseball or: How A British Person Learned To Stop Worrying And Love America’s Pastime. 8 p.m., all ages, $30 to $240
All Ages – Takoma Park Farmers Market
This is a great option every week because in addition to the market there’s the Takoma Urban Park less than a block away and Main Street Pearl’s back yard couldn’t be better for the pre-teen set. Add in Rhizome’s Indigo & Shibori 101 workshop and you could easily spend all morning and afternoon in a three block radius, outdoors, never bored. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., all ages, prices vary at each stand
July 24
We recently recommended Azure Wolf at DC9. It only seems right to recommend Azure Wolf at Black Cat. 8 p.m., 21+, $15
$$ – Washington Nationals @ Baltimore Orioles
We almost recommended this game in The Best MLB In Stadium Giveaways of 2021 because the Jim Palmer Bobblehead giveaway looks fantastic. If you’re interested in a Beltway rivalry and a Hall of Famer bobblehead, look no further. 6:35 p.m., all ages, $30 to $200
All Ages – Storytime on the Lawn @ Georgetown Library
My kids naps during most DCPL events so anything before noon on a weekend is a night sight. This morning event is aimed for kids aged 3 to 5 but who says 2 and 6-year-olds can’t join? 10 a.m., all ages, free
July 23
Free – Renwick Gallery of the Smithsonian American Art Museum
Most Smithsonian’s no longer requite passes. Attend at your own risk/comfort level. I’m still wearing an N95. 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., all ages, free
$ – Maya Milan @ DC9
More R&B and pop shows at DC9 is a welcome addition to the excellent 9th St. NW venue. $12, all ages, 8 p.m.
$$ – Barred in DC Streetcar Bar Stroll
Barred in DC is one of D.C.’s finest resources for local bar culture. Join them on this unsanctioned Streetcar bar crawl. If you can’t join them when the festivities begin at 8 p.m., don’t worry, there’s a schedule on the event page. 8 p.m., 21+, you determine how much you spend at each bar, no cost to participate
All Ages – Lion King @ Ft. Lincoln
The Roving Leaders Youth Movie Night continues with the live (?) animal version of the Disney classic. When the sun goes down, all ages, free
July 22
$ – Robert Randolph & the Family Band @ Entertainment & Sports Arena
Another venue is returning to somewhat normalcy. The Entertainment & Sports Arena is welcome back D.C. residents and tourists with four nights of extremely affordable shows. Robert Randolph kicks things off tonight with Junkyard Band Friday, Thievery Corporation Saturday and Jason Cerda Sunday. $5 to $20, all ages, 7 p.m.
$$ – The Sovereign
It’s finally back. One of D.C.’s best beer lists is once again available. Open for dinner from 5 p.m. until late, Wednesday through Sunday
All Ages – Urban Forests @ Bellevue (William O. Lockridge) Library
It’s a tree themed storytime that encourages kids to explore trees! That’s so pleasant! It shouldn’t be too hot around the start so get in your outdoor time before the weekend makes it less and less pleasant. 1 p.m., all ages, free
July 18
Free – Drag Bingo @ Slash Run
We love Slash Run, it’s why we have an event there next month. And we love Drag Bingo because it’s truly democratic, unlike trivia, which is rigged. 7 p.m., 21+, no cover
$ – Rosie Cima & What She Dreamed @ DC9
Our final DC9 recommendation of the weekend, this one is the easiest. Rosie Cima recently performed on my talk show (You, Me, Them, Everybody – listen on iTunes and Spotify) and was excellent. See her with the full band this Sunday on 9th. 8 p.m., 21+, $12
$$ – Big Tony and Trouble Funk with special guest Sugar Bear @ Wolf Trap
D.C. go-go legends in a beautiful setting. This is an easy pick. 8 p.m., all ages, tickets start at $22
All Ages – Brothers Brau & Friends @ DC Brau
The long standing D.C. brewery kicks off their summer Sunday concert series. I’m very much looking forward to another weekend afternoon option that involves craft beer and kid friendly activities. I am that type of dad/stereotype. I’m OK with it. 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., all ages
July 17
Free – ¡Viva Cultura!: A Celebration of Latinx Arts and Culture @ The Reach
The Reach has been doing some excellent and eclectic programming and this weekend’s celebration continues the tradition. It’s a good option for kids, too. 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., all ages, free
I’ve been writing nice things about Andrew Grossman and The North Country for years so it’s quite nice to see them return to a real, indoor stage at a real, good club. 7 p.m., 21+, $12
$$ – Born In Flames @ Suns Cinema
As of this writing tickets are still available for this screening. They won’t be for long, since re-opening this month most every Suns screening has sold-out. 10:15 p.m., 21+, $10, cocktails are $13
All Ages – Outdoor Story Time @ Petworth Library
The return of story time is one of the highlights of 2021. 10:30 a.m., all ages, free
July 16
Free – Washington Monument reopened
Live like a tourist. Maybe this will happen? 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., all ages, free but $1 per ticket registration
$ – Azure Wolf @ DC9
We’re recommending multiple DC9 shows this weekend because 1. It’s Independent Venue Week, 2. The shows are good and 3. We actually go to shows at DC9 (we’re DJing an all ages dance party there August 7, RSVP now!). 8 p.m., 21+, $12
$$ – Joyelle Nicole Johnson @ Room 808
Underground Comedy’s shows for touring comics return with Brooklyn’s Joyelle Nicole Johnson in a new space on Upshur. Things are getting back to normal. 8 p.m. and 10:30 p.m., 21+, $20, also Saturday
All Ages – 2021 Lotus and Water Lily Festival @ Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens
Enjoy the extended Friday hours at the Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens and see the summer lotus and lily blossoms. Extended hours are 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., all ages, free
July 15
Free – Shrek @ Library of Congress
Shrek is in the National Film Registry. I’m crediting these guys… 8 p.m., all ages
$ – The Yards’ Cookie Jamboree
Support the Girl Scouts and support your sugar cravings with cookie-themed cocktails, friendship bracelet making and scouting activities at this evening event. Proceeds go to Girl Scout Nation’s Capital so feel good about your cookie consumption. 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., all ages, free to $35
$$ – DISTANCE FREQUENCIES: TRANSMISSION @ Great Lawn at the Parks at Walter Reed
Rorschach Theatre concludes its DISTANCE FREQUENCIES series with this run at The Parks. The description, “Explore DC history both real and imagined in this original work of magic realism with a sound track of DC punk and go-go,” seems like a good fit for this new/old setting. 8 p.m., all ages, $30 for seniors and students, $40 for adults, through July 31
All Ages – Sock Monsters @ Parklands-Turner Library
If you’ve got a 6 to 12-year-old that doesn’t mind making art from socks, do I have a free event for you! 1 p.m., all ages, free
July 14
Free – Golden Triangle BID TriFit Pilates Class
Did you take too many swings at the batting cages and are sore in places that usually aren’t sore? This might help! 5:30 p.m., advance registration required
$ – Hudson Valley Renegades @ Wilmington Blue Rocks
There’s a heat emergency in D.C. this week. Head to the beach. How about a Delaware beach? How about after you go to the beach you see a Minor League Baseball game (MLB games don’t return until Thursday and that’s just a Yankees Red Sox game, everyone else returns Friday)? How about a Minor League Baseball game that has $2 beer before first pitch? 7:05 p.m., all ages, tickets from $13 to $17
$$ – Faster Pussycat, Enuff Z’Nuff @ Tally Ho Theater
This recommendation is about knowing who you are. I recently read Nöthin’ But a Good Time: The Uncensored History of the ’80s Hard Rock Explosion (it’s the hair metal version of Please Kill Me) and I left with a newfound respect for acts like Faster Pussycat and Enuff Z’Nuff. I also rewatched The Decline of Western Civilization Part II and am rooting for all survivors of all scenes. If you like these bands, you already know about this show. If you dismiss these bands, think about why (I know why they’re not my cup of tea, I’m not advocating for problematic artists or material, I’m just trying to write something positive about a genre that’s not for me). 8 p.m., all ages, $25
All Ages – Songs in the Garden @ Cleveland Park Library
Kid won’t sit through a story time? They might like to dance and sing through a music performance. 10:30 a.m., ages 2 and up, free
July 13
Free – BINGO @ Union Market
Ever feel like this city is too full of too smart nerds? The kind of nerds that excel at trivia night and make you never want to go to trivia night? Say hello to BINGO, baby! 6 p.m.
I am one of those people that think Citizen Kane is one of the best films of all time so I’m 100% on board with AFI’s Citizen Kane/Mank double programming. 3 p.m., $8 to $10, also screens Monday, Citizen Kane screens Monday and Tuesday
The Home Run Derby is Monday night. You might want to hit some dingers on Tuesday. I’ve spent a birthday here, my birthday, an adult person’s birthday, hitting. I wish there was a batting cage in every neighborhood. There are not. That’s why I drove 25 miles from D.C. to this facility. D.C. needs more batting cages. American needs more batting cages. 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., $1 for 1 token, $5 for 6 (I realize you don’t need to spend more than $20 at a batting cage but I always do and that’s why it’s in the $$ category.)
All Ages – Outdoor Pre-school Story Time @ Parklands-Turner Library and Mt. Pleasant Library
I love, love, love the DC Public Library and am very, very, very happy it’s warm enough for outdoor story times. 10:30 a.m., Parklands-Tuner ages 2 to 5, Mt. Pleasant ages birth to 5, free
July 12
Free – Adams Morgan Movie Night @ Marie Reed Field
This year’s edition of the Adams Morgan Movie Nights kicks off with a screening of the doc Punk the Capital. The first 150 people will also get a free cookie from Insomnia Cookies so this counts as a double free recommendation. Film begins about 30 minutes after sunset, all ages
$ – Underground Comedy @ Wild Days in Eaton DC
Underground Comedy finally returns to Eaton. We’re getting back to normal. No cover, 21+, $8 beer, $16 cocktails
$$ – We, The Pizza
The fence around the Capitol is finally down. Go get a pizza from We, The Pizza and eat it where there used to be a fence. 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., $21 for medium, $24 for large pizzas
All Ages – Burger Night @ Slash Run
This is one of the very few places I took my kid before the pandemic and since the pandemic. Thanks to outdoor dining, it’s as safe as you can be while eating out with a kid at Slash Run. And Monday night is burger night at Slash Run. And our next book swap is at Slash Run. We tend to recommend places we actually frequent. 4 p.m. to midnight, all ages, half price burgers with purchase of a beverage
July 11
Free – Underground Comedy @ The Wonderland Ballroom
Underground is slowly returning to multiple stages and that’s a good thing. This edition is their first show back at the Columbia Heights spot. 8 p.m., 21+, no cover, RSVP encouraged
$ – Dupont’s Basement @ Dupont Underground
I’ve missed events like this. Dupont Underground is turning into an arts market for 18 vendors. According to the event page the offerings are vague but, “fancily strange,” which is fine by me. Noon to 5 p.m., all ages, registration encouraged
$$ – Ring Of Honor presents Best In The World @ Chesapeake Employers Insurance Arena
On day one of this magazine we wrote about the benefits of attending a pro wrestling event with the family. This is the first in the area since our launch. We recommend heading to Baltimore. 7 p.m., all ages, tickets start at $30
All Ages – Adams Morgan Drag Queen Storytime
We’ve recommended multiple library events this week so it makes sense to close with an event partially presented by the D.C. Public Library. We’re grateful for warmer weather, even if it’s brutally hot, if it means more storytimes. 11 a.m., free
July 10
Free – Play Day in the Park @ Black Hill Nature Programs
Montgomery Country Parks are also slowly reopening facilities and presenting programs for all ages. This is a good option if you’re looking for toddler entertainment. This event includes prompts and materials are targeted towards kids ages 1-3 but all ages welcome. Also, it’s a park, so you can also just go to the park to do whatever you usually do at a park. Maybe throw a frisbee? 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., all ages
$ – Chicago White Sox @ Baltimore Orioles
This afternoon game is also Birdland Hawaiian shirt giveaway day. I am a Chicago White Sox fan so I do not see one good reason not to attend this game. 4:05 p.m., all ages, tickets start at $20
$$ – Rosebud Baker @ DC Improv
Do you like Bill Burr? You might like Baker. I like Baker. 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m., 18+, tickets start at $25 with 2 item minimum, also Thursday and Friday
All Ages – Friends of Southeast Library Pop-up Summer Book Sale
We’re hosting a book swap this week. Of course we’re recommending a book sale. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., books start at $1
July 9
Free – Cléo de 5 à 7 @ La Maison Française – Embassy of France
We have an absurd amount of great outdoor film programming in beautiful locations. 8:45 p.m., all ages
Getting back to normal. Unrelated, AC/DC’s 1980 “Back In Black” is a great song by Australia’s greatest rock band that also is highly uncomfortable considering the very recent death of their former lead singer. Bon Scott, lead singer of AC/DC belts out “Highway to Hell” in 1979, dies of alcohol poisoning in 1980, and AC/DC’s new lead singer Brian Johnson belts out “Back in Black” in 1980. This pandemic is lasting longer than AC/DC mourned their lead singer. Then again COVID was handled way faster in Australia. 8 p.m., 21+, no cover, RSVP requested
$$ – deadmau5 @ Echostage
Who doesn’t like fun helmets? 9 p.m., 18+, $80
All Ages – Richmond Flying Squirrels @ Bowie Baysox
We like Minor League baseball, remember? We’re going with this AA game because you get a Top Gun themed bobblehead of Austin “Gloveman” Hays. 7:05 p.m., all ages, tickets start at $8
July 8
Free – The Princess Bride @ Library of Congress
We have an absurd amount of great outdoor film programming in beautiful locations. 8 p.m., all ages
$ – Recommend If You Like Cookbook Swap @ Anxo Cidery & Tasting Room
Got a cookbook you’re never going to use? Bring it to ANXO and take a different cookbook home from ANXO! Also, drink some cider. ANXO makes good cider. 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., all ages, no cover, RSVP requested
$$ – DCSPC Presents Lucian Perkins @ Slash Run
I will always prefer to attend events with Pulitzer Prize-winning photographers at bars I like. 8 p.m., $15 but we’re including it in $$ since you’re going to get at least a beer or a burger, 21+
All Ages – “Not a Box” Play Party @ Southeast Library
I love the DC Public Library and their outside the box programming. 10:30 a.m., free, ages 6 and under preferred
July 7
Free – The Franciscan Monastery in Brookland
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it every July until I can no longer say things: I do not like fireworks. So if you’re looking for someplace quiet in D.C., consider the Franciscan Monastery in Brookland. I went there a lot with my kid last summer when we didn’t know if we could look at anyone else without getting COVID. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., free, all ages
$ – Capital Cup: D.C. United International Friendly Doubleheader @ Audi Field
Find yourself getting into soccer after watching some EuroCup? Find out if you’re a fan in person! 8:30 p.m., all ages, tickets start at $14
$$ – Watchhouse (formerly Mandolin Orange) @ Wolf Trap
Big name acts are slowly returning. Slowly. 8 p.m., tickets start at $27, all ages
All Ages – Fizzy Science! @ Cleveland Park Library
Librarians help kids make fizzy sidewalk chalk! Sure, that can be a thing! 4 p.m., free
July 6
Free – P&P Live! & DCPL Present Justin A. Reynolds & Pablo Leon
We try to only recommend in person events but we’re making an exception for this program since the first 100 young people (in this case, ages 8 to 12) to register for the event will receive a free copy of new Spider-Man graphic novel, Miles Morales: Shock Waves. I got into comics between the ages of 8 and 12 and when you’re between the ages of 8 and 12 and you own a comic book, you’re more likely to read that comic book. As an adult, I love the utility of services like Marvel Unlimited, but I can’t imagine falling in love with a hero or title without first reading it on actual paper. 4 p.m., all ages, register to receive a free comic
$ – Kannapolis Cannon Ballers @ Fredericksburg Nationals
It’s Two Dollar Taco Tuesdays, presented by Chancellor’s Village! Which means $2 tacos, $2 churros and $2 tickets at a single A baseball game. Minor league baseball rules. 7:05 p.m., all ages, tickets start at $2
$$ – NBA Finals Game 1 @ Midlands Beer Garden
D.C. doesn’t have a Phoenix Suns or Milwaukee Bucks bar so if you’re a Suns or Bucks fan, sorry. I’m going with Midlands for watching the game because I’ve watched World Series games and College football games at Midlands and space and TV sight lines are never a problem. And if you’re still weary of drinking indoors at a bar, there’s ample seating outside and even if you find yourself stuck inside, the ceilings are tall and the front facing windows are massive and usually open. Midlands opens at 3 p.m., tip off is 9 p.m., 21+
All Ages – Terrific Tuesdays: Craft Time @ Anacostia Library
I spent the first 8 months of my kids’ life utilizing the wonderful in person activities at multiple D.C. Public Library branches. Then the pandemic happened and all the wonderful in person activities morphed into really caring people doing their best virtually. Which wasn’t ideal. We’re getting back to normal with some D.C. Public Library activities this week, all outdoors and weather dependent. In other words, fingers crossed for no rain. 10:30 a.m., free
July 4
Free – National Mall Fireworks
Stuff goes boom. 9 p.m., all ages, get there early if you want a spot
$ – The Great American Ice Co. July 4th Cookout
This all day celebration is what is sounds like, American Ice Co. is going to grill. A good option if you’re planning on watching neighborhood fireworks rather than anything on the Mall. Noon until after fireworks, 21+, dogs welcome
$$ – Los Angeles Dodgers @ Washington Nationals
The 2020 World Series champs visit the 2019 World Series champs. Also, Kyle Schwarber is absurdly hot. Also, it’s a day game so you can avoid horrific fireworks related traffic. Also, Budweiser is giving away a free 25 oz. beer to every 21+ ticket holder. There are many good reasons to attend this game. 11:05 a.m., tickets start at $23
$$$ – Tiki TNT
One of Esquire’s Best Bars in America hosts their 3rd annual 4th of July BBQ & Fireworks Viewing Party. The ticket includes a cocktail, a barbecue dinner and a seat at the bar with a view of the fireworks. 8 p.m., 21+, $50 to $100
All Ages – Capitol Hill Community 4th of July Parade
Beginning at 10 a.m., this is the best all ages option for kids and/or adults that may not like fireworks but still want to participate in July 4 festivities. 10 a.m., free, all ages
July 3
Free – Lost Birthday Club @ DC9
It’s the final edition of DC9’s Lost Birthday Club, a no cover chance to make up for your missed 2020 or 2021 birthday party. 9 p.m., 21+, RSVP requested
Thinking about heading to the beach this holiday weekend? 3 p.m., all ages, $8 to $13
$$ – Backyard Band & Black Alley @ Fillmore Silver Spring
The Fillmore is back! Live concerts are coming back! 8 p.m., all ages, $27.50 to $30
$$$ – Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street in Concert @ Wolf Trap
Meat pies! Happy America weekend! 8 p.m., all ages, $42 to $77
All Ages – Fourth of July Parade of Houses
Stroll through Takoma Park and look at some patriotic houses. From July 2 to 5, make your own parade. Check the site for a listing of all the houses. Related, Takoma Park has no scheduled fireworks planned for this July 4 weekend and that makes me very happy. Did I mention I don’t like fireworks? Moving on…
July 2
Free – You, Me, Them, Everybody Live @ The Wonderland Ballroom
The person writing this (Hello.) is the host of this show. He’s been doing this show for 13 years. He’s writing in the third person, which is weird. Anyway, this is the first live show since the pandemic. It’s been 489 days between shows. That’s too long. Join me (Hello again) with Allison Lane, Haywood Turnipseed Jr., Kate Flaherty, Mathias DC and Rosie Cima. 7:30 p.m., 21+, RSVP requested
$ – Shady Vibes @ American Son
The Voice season 15 finalist Bryan Lee performs at this edition of the sidewalk concert series. No cover, cocktails are $15. 7 p.m., all ages, reservations requested
$$ – Wonder Woman 1984 @ The Drive-In At Union Market
Too hot to sit outside and watch a film? How about sitting in an air conditioned car? Make sure you get whatever you want to eat and drink from Union Market before the film begins, the space closes at 9 p.m. Lot opens at 8 p.m., closes at 8:50 p.m., film begins at 9 p.m., $20 per car
$$$ – Lucky’s Crab House Crab Feast
If you’re already planning on seeing Wonder Woman 1984, maybe you’d be interested in an all-you-can-eat crab feast at Union Market? 4 p.m. to close, $50 per person, beer and cocktails extra
All Ages – Glow In The Park @ The Adventure Park
Want to do something at night with the kids that’s light related but not fireworks? How about ziplining and neon colored lights? $19 ages 5 and 6, $56 ages 7 and above, ages 5 and up, 6 p.m. to 8:20 p.m.
July 1
Free – Apollo 13 @ Transit Pier at The Wharf
The space program is one of the best things this country has ever done. So start your Independence Day celebration with an outdoor screening of Apollo 13. Related, if you haven’t seen the documentary Apollo 11, watch it. Film begins at sunset, unclaimed seats become first come, first served beginning at 8 p.m.
$ – Model Home, Lightmare, Greenss @ Rhizome
Rhizome has four shows over the next four days. Catch a show while you can. The venue will most likely have to move within a year. 7 p.m., all ages, $5 to $20
$$ – Ryan Hamilton @ Arlington Cinema & Drafthouse
Fan of Jim Gaffigan? Like Seinfeld but more of his stories than one liners? You’ll most likely like Ryan Hamilton! 7 p.m., all ages, $25, more shows Friday and Saturday
$$$ – Captain White’s Seafood City
If you really want to celebrate America, eat local seafood. If you really want to celebrate D.C., buy local seafood at the wharf that’s been around way, way, way longer than The Wharf. Prices change depending on availability but 1/2 bushels tend to start around $85. Call ahead to place your order.
All Ages – RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars 6 Viewing Party @ Duplex Diner
Last week I said I would not get Paramont+ to watch this season of All Stars. I may have spoken too soon. The first episode wasn’t bad! I forgot how professional the classic and All Stars casts are compared to the U.K., Canada and Down Under editions! Anyway, I might be watching every week and if your kid is still awake after 8 p.m. and can handle a diner full of viewers, take them to Duplex. I’ve enjoyed watching Drag Race here so much I forgot my card and had to go back the next day. I was 100% sober. I did not drink any alcohol. I just got so into the episode I forgot to take my form of payment home.
I’m including this in the all ages category because if your child is not awake at 8 p.m., you can always watch the episode with them the next day. And kids should watch Drag Race. 8 p.m., all ages, no cover
June 30
Free – Portrait Drawing & Identity Exploration Workshop @ Petworth Neighborhood Library
Talented D.C. artist Rose Jaffe leads this outdoor workshop, limited to a class size of 12, so if you’re interested, RSVP ASAP. 4 p.m., all ages
$ – College Park Aviation Museum
It’s too hot outside. This museum has some of the biggest ceilings so if you’re worried about COVID, at least there’s that? 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., $2 to $5, all ages
$$ – National Aquarium
It’s too hot outside. So head to Baltimore’s best museum and the best reason to visit the Inner Harbor. If you’re worried about COVID, visitors over 5 have to wear a mask. But have you seen this enforced anywhere, let alone a dark aquarium? 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., $29.95 to $39.95, all ages
All Ages – DPR Outdoor Pools open six days a week
We could have included this in the Monday section but my preferred pool is not open on Monday (Upshur rules), so we’re including it here. Also, Wednesday is going to be the hottest day of the week so it’s the most pool appropriate day of the week. Check your preferred pool for hours.
June 29
Free – Summer of Soul @ Transit Pier at The Wharf
Fresh off its AFI DOCS screening, the new doc from Ahmir Questlove Thompson, his directorial debut, is fantastic. We’ve seen it and it’ll be the music doc of the year. We usually wouldn’t recommend seeing a new film outdoors but since this is a doc about an outdoor music fest, it’s appropriate. Also, if you’re already interested in this, you’ll want it more than once so if you miss something, you’ll catch it during the next screening. Films like this are incredibly rewatchable.
$ – 80s Movies Trivia @ Crooked Crab Brewing Company
We’re using this trivia event as an excuse to check out the microbrewery. It’s summer, which means it’s time to check out as many breweries as possible whilst winning as many trivia contests as possible. 7 p.m., trivia contest is free but you’re most likely going well out of your way to a new brewery so you’re most likely buying a 4-pack ($14 to $21), 21+
$$ – Jonathan Coulton @ Birchmere
I’m sorry about the cancellation of Ask Me Another, Ask Me Another fans. At least you can still see Jonathan Coulton live, in concert. 7:30 p.m., $35, all ages
All Ages – G. Neri and Jesse Joshua Watson present Concrete Cowboy
We try to only recommend in person events but we’re making an exception for this program since the first 100 young people to register for the event will receive a free copy of Concrete Cowboy. Related, if you have a small person and haven’t singed them up for Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, do it. Kids love getting mail and will love receiving their own book every month. 4 p.m., free, registration necessary
June 28
Free – EURO 2020 Watch Party @ Wunder Garten
If you caught the end of Saturday’s Italy vs Austria game, you know how easy it is to get sucked into this tournament. If you’re not already interested, Wunder Garten is donating $1 to DC Scores for every Dogfish Head Beer purchased, so maybe the youth sports aspect will pique your interest. Croatia vs Spain at noon, France vs Switzerland at 3 p.m., 21+
Last week we recommended Smoke & Barrel’s re-opening. We were wrong. If you’ve ever worked in a restaurant, you know how the smallest things can cause delays. But it seems like they’re completely open, at least according to their site. So once again, if you’re a vegetarian or vegan, Smoke & Barrel may be more your speed. Also, the space is great, especially the basement, if you’re looking to meet up with folks that may have kids.
$$ – New York Mets @ Washington Nationals
It’s Davey Martinez World Series Bobblehead Night at Nats Park! If you followed the 2019 Nats season or read Buzz Saw: The Improbable Story of How the Washington Nationals Won the World Series by Jesse Dougherty, you’d know that the manager of the 2019 club definitely deserves their own bobblehead. Also, bobbleheads are typically the best giveaways at any game. I do have an apron from a Dodgers game that is pretty cool but unless you’re grilling, you probably want the bobblehead. 7:05 p.m., tickets start at $14
All Ages – Painting for Pride @ Kennedy Recreation Center
I’m 38. I can not say the teenage version of myself thought I’d see the day when there’d be month long Pride celebrations, especially ones for teens, especially events held on the the anniversary date of the Stonewall riots. This afternoon event is both in person and via Zoom. Good for all ages with outdoor games, free food, tie-dye opportunities and more. Noon to 3 p.m., free
June 27
Free – Georgetown GLOW
It’s your last chance to check out the spring version of Georgetown’s neon art fest. It’s the seventh edition of the series and features eight art works, including six by locals. Dusk until 11 p.m., all ages
Of all the films in this year’s excellent AFI DOCS slate, this is the film I’m most interested in viewing. Any subject can make for a good doc but already fascinating topics are ideal and pro wrestling makes for the best documentaries. Regardless of your interest in and around the squared circle, this film should pique your interest. It follows three luchadoras living in border city of Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, in their quest for wrestling relevance and literal survival. 5 p.m., $11 to $13, all ages
$$ – Indoor and Container Gardening 101 @ H St. Farms
(You may want to read our All Ages picks first.) Did you attend the seed swap and realize you’re not sure what to do with those seeds? Or you don’t have a garden? Or you have a garden but you’re not good at gardening? Maybe a much smaller version of a garden, something in a container, will work? 1 p.m., $20 for class and planter to take home, all ages
$$$ – New Hampshire Fisher Cats @ Bowie Baysox
Minor league baseball games rule. The tickets are cheaper than MLB games, the food and drinks are cheaper than MLB games and the promotions are great! Today’s game is a Latin Baseball Celebration and a Kids Replica Batting Helmet Giveaway! That’s an awesome giveaway! Bring the kids! Get them a helmet! I don’t think you can ever buy a minor league team helmet! 1:35 p.m., all ages, $8 to $18, we’re including it in the $$$ category since you’re most likely not going alone and most likely are going to drink beers and eat hot dogs
All Ages – Seed & Plant Swap 2021 @ H St. Farms
Did you go overboard in the spring and bought too many seeds? Get rid of your guilt purchases and pick up someone else’s! This is great regardless of your garden/pot situation. See our $$ pick on why. Noon, all ages
June 26
Free – Sound Scene @ Dock 5 @ Union Market
The annual sound festival returns with two days of programming, one in person on Saturday at Dock 5, one virtually on Sunday. The outdoor-ish setting and experimental nature of the music makes it appealing to both audiophiles and kids. If you’re comfortable with indoor dining, Union Market offerings make this a potentially perfect all day event. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., all ages
We interviewed Searchers director Pacho Velez earlier this week so we’re obviously recommending the docs only in person AFI DOCS screening. 8:15 p.m., $11 to $13, all ages
Oh He Dead is a very good band on record and a better live band. 8 p.m., $15 (we’re including this in the $$ because we’re assuming you’ll buy at least one drink, bringing us well into $$ territory), all ages
$$$ – Grazie Grazie
Last week The Washington Post’s Tim Carman wrote about the 25 best sandwiches in the DMV. He included the Russoniello from Grazie Grazie. I agree. The sandwich costs $12.50 but I haven’t had any of their food since fall 2019 so the next time I’m going, I’m getting at least two of these and a bunch of their sides. I really like the sides. If you’re going to Oh He Dead at Union Stage, this is a very good pre-show option. According to Google Maps, they’re .1 miles apart. 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.
All Ages – 17th St Pride Block Party
My kid got a Pride tattoo last weekend and now he has a taste for fake ink. Fingers crossed for temporary tattoos. If you’re interested in more than temporary tattoos, restaurants and bars will be offering specials all day. A few hours later, at 8:30 p.m it’s movie and picnic night at Stead Field. Noon to 5 p.m., all ages
June 25
Free – JALSA (Remixed) @ The Reach
The Kennedy Center is partnering with the Smithsonian Asian Pacific American Center for, “a weekend of celebratory sounds, storytelling, and dance affirming the creativity, joy, and resilience of Global South diaspora and BIPOC communities in the DMV.” This outdoor, free event will feature performances from Huda Asfour and Walking in the Air. Stick around for the Arts Market on the REACH Plaza. 5 p.m., all ages
$ – Carni Klirs, Privacy Issues, Ejjing @ Rhizome
If you’re a fan of experimental noise music, you’ll be hard pressed to find a better show this weekend. The show is a tape release show for Dissolution, the new work from Klirs. 6:30 p.m., $5-$20, all ages
$$ – The Public Option reopens
The brew pub reopens this Friday. We are returning.
$$$ – Les Femmes @ Bad Candy
The show is only $10 but if you’re interested in the art, you’ll get to the $$$ tag. Very much looking forward to checking out the gallery. I’ve walked by a few time before last week’s launch and based on what I’ve seen through a window and on friends Instagram stories, there’s a lot to like. 7 p.m., $10, all ages
All Ages – Market SW
There are a few pop-up markets this weekend but we’re recommending this one since it’s outdoors and begins early enough for kids, 4 p.m., and runs late enough for an adult date, 10 p.m. 4 p.m.-10 p.m.
June 24
Free – RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars Season 6 premiere viewing party @ Trade
I will not be signing up for Paramount+ to watch All Stars, especially when the international versions of Drag Race on the WoW app are so much better, but I will consider attending viewing parties. 8 p.m., no cover, 21+
AFI DOCS continues throughout the weekend at AFI Silver Screen and virtually. Our recommendation for tonight is Storm Lake, a film about a small town paper and the family that’s trying to hold it all together. Relevant for anyone that reads news. 8 p.m., $11-$13, all ages
$$ – Columbia Room Spirits Library reopened
The Columbia Room Spirits Library reopened last night. We are returning.
$$$ – Nore Davis @ DC Improv
Nore is a very funny comedian but we’re mostly recommending it because RIYL writer Haywood Turnipseed Jr. opens. 7:30 p.m., $50 table for 2, 2 item minimum, 18+, two shows Friday and two shows Saturday as well
All Ages – Smithsonian National Zoo
Since the pandemic is winding down, I do not mind sharing this not-really-a-secret. It’s not difficult to obtain National Zoo passes if you don’t need a parking pass. Even if you’re driving, you do not need a parking pass. Sure, it may be slightly more convenient to pay $30 to park slightly closer, but guess what, a visit to the zoo requires lots and lots of walking, regardless of where you park. If you reserve a free timed pass and park behind the zoo, in Lanier Heights, you’ll walk .2 miles more, not spend $30 on parking and be able to go to the zoo whenever you want. There tends to be a large amount of tickets for the free timed pass every single day. There are hundreds available for Thursday as of this writing. 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., free, passes required
June 23
Free – Moonstruck @ UDC Amphitheater in the Woods
Outdoor movie season is starting to kick off and we like this one because it’s in an ampitheater and the description actually encourages what everyone is already doing, “We encourage everyone to bring a picnic – dinner, drinks, or snacks from one of our local eateries to enjoy before or during the film.” No need to pretend you’re not drinking wine when you’re clearly drinking wine! Doors open at 8 p.m., film at 9 p.m., reservation required
$ – FATHOM @ AFI Silver Spring
AFI Docs is back! One of D.C.’s best festivals is partially at their flagship theater and partially online. It begins on June 22 but June 23 is the first day of in theater screenings. I’m looking forward to the 2022 edition when, fingers crossed, all of the films will be available to be seen in a movie theater. 5:15 p.m., $11 to $13
$$ – The Goodbye Party @ Comet Ping Pong
We’re recommending this sold-out show because RIYL writer Jenny Cavallero is opening. Also, we’re recommending sold-out shows since you may want to plan further ahead so you’re able to get tickets next time. $15 to $60, 2 drink minimum, 21+
All Ages – City-State Brewing
We visited the new Edgewood brewery over the weekend and it’s a very welcome addition to both the D.C. beer and D.C. family-friendly scene. The beers have variety, enough to satisfy those that crave heavy IPAs and those that prefer lighter, summery (Can a beer be summery? (Is summery a word?)). The setting is perfect for kids that love trains. Facing the Red Line, with the Metropolitan Branch Bike Trail below, little ones will be happy running up and down the patio, yelling and pointing at moving people and things. If you’re worried about brining the kid indoors, you don’t need to worry about that here. The garage style doors remain open, giving a massive amount of ventilation inside and there’s no shortage of places to stand on the very long patio. 3 p.m. to 11 p.m.
June 22
Free – Can I Kick It? Starship Troopers @ National Building Museum
Can I Kick It? live scores films, so don’t attend if you’re committed to hearing every line of dialogue. Also, do not attend free, outdoor film is you’re committed to hearing every line of dialogue. 7:30 p.m. seating begins, sunset film begins, all ages but Starship Troopers does have nudity so parent however you see fit
It costs $10 but it comes with a ‘complimentary’ Truly to the first 25 people and you’d be hard pressed to find a Truly for less than $10 on The Wharf so if you look at it that way, the class is free? 6 p.m., $10, 21+
$$ – Royal
One of the very few things I miss about going to an office is having meetings at places like Royal. The all day spot, great for breakfast and lunch with co-workers and people you like a lot more for dinner, is open everyday at 10 a.m. The Michelin Guide also says very nice things about the Le Droit Park restaurant. And if you’re a RIYL Patreon patron, you can win a $25 gift certificate to the Royal this week. 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
All Ages – Wheaton Regional Park
Monday is going to very hot. Tuesday is going to be much cooler and possibly much rainier. Yet we’re still recommending the Wheaton Regional Park for multiple reasons. Most of the playgrounds (there are multiple playgrounds) are shaded which means a light drizzle isn’t so bad and there’s a train for kids! Summer hours went into effect last week which means you can now take your kid, or any kid (You don’t have to be a parent to take a kid on a train, you just need permission from their caretaker), on the extremely cute train. The train can not operate when there’s condensation on the tracks so keep that in mind if you’re hoping the covered train is a good rainy day activity. In other words, this now rambling recommendation comes with a precipitation warning. Train operates from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., longer hours on the weekend, ages 2 and up, $2.50 per ride, tickets may be purchased online, you might want to command+f the date you’re looking for, the order page is not listed chronologically
June 21
Free – First Day of Summer Party @ Jeni’s
Free ice cream. Free ice cream!
Last week we recommended getting Federalist Pig for Father’s Day. This week we’re recommending a different BBQ restaurant located two blocks away. If you’re a vegetarian or vegan, Smoke & Barrel may be more your speed. Also, the space is great, especially the basement, if you’re looking to meet up with folks that may have kids.
$$ – Schitt’s Creek Trivia @ Mess Hall
We’re glad to see Mess Hall emerging from the pandemic. They’re teaming up with Port City Brewing and hosting trivia in their open-air garage bay. Because it’s Mess Hall, quality food options will be available, Detroit style pizza by Motown Square Pizza and taco truck La Michoacana. Doors open at 6 p.m., trivia at 7 p.m., 21+, $15 per team member, food and drink available for purchase
June 20
Free – Visit the National Gallery of Art East Building The East Building of the NGA opens this Friday and as of this writing, passes are still available for Father’s Day. Take the entire family to see the big, blue chicken.
$ – Shady Pines: 80s Rooftop Tea Dance @ DC9
Returning to DC9 will be very, very nice. We would have recommended Thursday night’s return of SLEAZE but it’s sold out. We would have recommended Saturday’s night’s return of Peace Pit but it’s sold out. We’re fine recommended Shady Pines. Matt Bailer is an extremely fun DJ and the rooftop is near perfect. It’s one of the reasons we have a dance party there on August 7. 3 p.m., $5, 21+
$$ – Yappy Hour @ Wunder Garten
It’s really nice outside and it’s really nice to drink beer with your dog. The dog shouldn’t drink beer. There’s $5 select beers, $15 treat flights for the dogs and complimentary pupucinoos during Yappy Hour, which seems nice? Noon to 3 p.m., $20 for a beer and pup flight
$$$ – Federalist Pig Father’s Day Brunch Package
I’ve been enjoying Federalist Pig since the day they opened. I covered their opening. Hell, I liked them even before they existed, when pitmaster Rob Sonderman was at Hill Country. I’m letting you know this because Federalist Pig’s food, while meant to be eaten the day it’s made, freezes extremely well, so a $100 meal meant for brunch will be good for much longer than Father’s Day. Order by July 17, pick up July 19, $100
All Ages – Moechella Unity Fest @ Gateway Pavilion
Celebrate Father’s Day with the whole family while celebrating D.C.’s musical form with an all day event featuring EU & Sugar Bear, Junkyard, TOB and more. If you’re looking for similar programming, Moechella also has quality shows on Friday at Audi Field from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. and the Million Moe March from Black Lives Plaza to 14th and U starting at 2 p.m. Noon to 8 p.m., Free
June 19
Free – Juneteenth Community Day @ 3 Stars Brewing
Celebrate Juneteenth at 3 Stars with music from Beat Konductaz, live artwork and spoken word and Black vendors and Black-owned businesses selling goods and foods, including brewers Soul Mega DC. Noon to 8 p.m., no cover
$ – Washington Nationals vs. New York Mets @ Nats Park
Take your dad (or whomever you consider your dad (you know what, take whomever you want (or just go to the game alone, it’s actually not a bad time))) to a Father’s Day Weekend double header. 1:05 p.m. and 6:05 p.m., $13-$525
$$ – Black Women Breaking Ground @ Kennedy Center
One of D.C.’s finest cultural institutions is celebrating Black Music Month with a concert from Angélique Kidjo, Estelle and Valerie June. It’s also one of the first indoor concerts since the start of the pandemic. 8 p.m., $25-$60
$$$ – D.C. United vs. Inter Miami CF @ Audi Field
Get in the mood for Ted Lasso Season 2. 8 p.m., $30-$250
All Ages – Silver Spring-Takoma Thunderbolts vs South County @ Montgomery Blair Stadium
If the idea of a double header at Nats Park sounds too expensive or too much of a production, consider the considerably smaller, considerably more affordable T-Bolts double header. Tickets are $6 for adults and $2 for children ages 6 to 18. If the kids are wearing their baseball uniforms, they’re free. What’s better on Father’s Day weekend than free baseball if your kids dress up as baseball players? 4:30 p.m., 7:30 p.m., Free to $6
June 18
Free – Punk the Capital screening and panel @ Metrobar
This is an easy double recommendation. Punk the Capital is a doc about late 70s D.C. punk and Metrobar is that new bar centered around a used Metrocar. I want to check out the film and I want to check out the bar. Two birds, one rock no brainer. 8:30 p.m., 21+
$ – Cal Folger Day, Myles Manley, Rosie Cima & What She Dreamed @ Rhizome
Takoma Park is lucky to have Rhizome. The DIY venue has coped with the pandemic better than most every venue and their programming hasn’t taken a hit. This three act bill, two of which features folks currently living in Ireland, is worth your time. Don’t sleep on opener Rosie Cima & What She Dreamed. They might be the easiest act to see if you’re based in D.C. (I’m assuming you’re not a frequent traveler to Ireland), but that doesn’t mean showing up late is OK. If you can’t make it to Friday’s show and are looking for Saturday shows, there’s a really well curated nine hour fest we would have recommended if not for baseball. 6:30 p.m., $5-$20
$$ – The Anonymous Lover in concert by the National Symphony Orchestra @ Wolf Trap
Don’t yet feel entirely safe sitting in a theatre while people really open their mouths and project? Wolf Trap is outside! 8 p.m., $32-$77
All Ages – National Museum of Natural History
This Smithsonian Institution re-opens today, Friday, June 18, and is only open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., which means it’s ideal for local kids and still off the radar for most tourists. 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., no cover, passes required
June 17
Free – World Refugee Day: Together We Heal, Learn, and Shine @ The Reach Plaza
The Kennedy Center’s Millennium Stage presents, “three days of fun and inspiration to celebrate the courage and resilience of people who have been forced to flee their homes due to war, persecution and violence.” Details are TBA but if you’re unsure of the programming, consider attending based on Millennium Stage’s history of quality booking. 5:30 p.m., Free
$ – Suns Cinema Streatery Opens
The best movie theater in Mt. Pleasant now has a streatery. If you’ve ever enjoyed a drink inside at Suns, you’ll probably like one outside of Suns! Tonight is opening night and it’ll be open Thursdays, Friday and Saturdays from 6 p.m. to midnight.
Hopefully these things stick around indefinitely. Sure, it’s a little more difficult to park, but you probably weren’t going to find parking directly in front of anywhere you’re trying to go in D.C. 6 p.m. to midnight, 21+, $3 to $11 beer, $7 wine and canned margaritas, $13 cocktails, $18 Champagne
$$ – Emmy Blotnick @ DC Improv
The Improv is open and possibly back to full capacity by this weekend’s shows. The Late Show writer returns to the club, this time in the big room. 7:30 p.m., $50 table for 2, 18+, also Friday and Saturday
$$$ – Oyster Oyster opening night
We enjoyed Oyster Oyster years ago when they were part of Mess Hall’s New Kitchens on the Block. They’re finally opening tonight. That’s not a knock on a restaurant for not opening on time. The fact that they’re opening at all is fantastic. Unfortunately, you’re probably not going this weekend. The restaurant is offering a ticketed 6 course dinner menu and all seatings this weekend are sold out. We’re mentioning this in case you want to dine at Oyster Oyster next weekend. As of this writing, there are only 2 remaining seatings Friday, June 25 and Saturday, June 26 is already sold out. 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., $70 per ticket, $55 beverage pairing per person
All Ages – Capital Book Fest @ Woodrow Wilson Plaza
Every book is $6 or less. Teach your kid that used books are just as good as new books. In fact, they’re the exact same. The words in used books are the same words in new books. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
June 16
Free – Recommend If You Like launch party @ Looking Glass Lounge
Kinda had to pick this one. Come hang out with us. Tell your friends. 6 p.m., no cover
$ – Mystery Friends @ Comet Ping Pong
Comet’s outdoor show series continues with Mystery Friends. Should outdoor continue indefinitely? 7 p.m., $15-$60
$$ – Comedy Kumite 30 @ DC Improv
If you’re not coming to our launch party, go see RIYL contributor Haywood Turnipseed Jr. at the DC Improv. 7:30 p.m., $36 table for 2, 2 item minimum, 18+
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