12 things to do around D.C. this weekend
Okaton, bike rides, and a pickle swap.
Despite what some may tell you – summer is not ending. Not yet! Keep this August weekend full with bike rides, Broccoli City, art openings, and a pickle swap.
THURSDAY, AUGUST 7
Art opening: Handle With Care
Artists Abdulrahman Naanseh, Adam Chamy, and Addie Moore will be celebrating their new exhibit – Handle With Care – at Gallery Y, within the Anthony Bowen YMCA. Their work explores fear, displacement, and isolation, and reminds us how community can be a salve to our struggles. (1325 W Street NW; 7 - 9 p.m.; FREE)
Star Trek Trivia
Smart on Spock? Prove your Star Trek acumen with $5 pints and a round of trivia at Atlas Brew Work. If you’re good enough, you could end the night with a $50 gift card. (Atlas Ivy City; 7 p.m. - 9 p.m.; FREE)
FRIDAY, AUGUST 8
Okaton
Friday is the first day of Okatan, the annual convention celebrating Asian pop culture and its fandoms. The volunteer-run event lasts through Sunday, and includes a costume contest, community dance, featured guests, and a gaming hall. (Walter E. Washington Convention Center; 3 p.m. - 10 p.m.; $40+)
Happy Birthday Femme Fatale!
Femme Fatale, the dance party celebrating Black queer and trans people, will be holding its birthday bash at Black Cat. JAM2x and Magic will be DJing, with sets rooted in hip-hop, dancehall, gospel, and more. As one commenter noted: Leos to the front! (Black Cat; 10 a.m. - 2 a.m.; $13)
Grooves in the Grove
Start your weekend with the District’s own Kenny Sway. The singer-songwriter is best known for his “silky falsetto” and R&B tone. (The Grove: 7 p.m - 9 p.m.; FREE)
SATURDAY, AUGUST 9
Trail Riding Basics
Join the Washington Area Bicyclist Association (WABA) to learn how to enjoy the biking trails and multi-use paths in the area. This class is best if you already know how to ride a bike, but are ready to learn more about riding on the trails. (Bridge District; 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.; $10 - $85)
DC Queer Bikes Sober Ride
If you're not feeling trail vibes yet, DC Queer Bike is hosting a Saturday right through Rock Creek Park. There will be a small hill or two, but nothing major. It'll end with a sober social at Pinic Site 8. Bring a snack or pack a lunch, and meet at the Shoreham Exercise Course. (Rock Creek Park; 12 p.m.; FREE)
Broccoli City Block Party
It’s that time of the summer: Broccoli City Block Party is here. Attendees are invited to party all afternoon and into the night with DJs, dancing, food trucks, and pop-ups. As of publication, VIP reservations have all been sold out, but General Admission tickets are still available. (The Bullpen; 2 p.m. - 10 p.m.; $44.99+)
Big Bloom Festival
Now in its second year, the Big Bloom Festival is back. Performers include vocalist IO (formerly AYO) with a Tina Turner tribute, and the genre-defying Experience Band & Show. Food trucks and a moon bounce will also be available. (Good Hope Neighborhood Recreation Center; 5 p.m. - 8 p.m.; FREE)
SUNDAY, AUGUST 10
Pickling potluck
Calling all home fermenters and jarred-goods aficionados. Bring your brines and starters to Rhizome for a fermentation swap. Attendees will be trading recipe ideas, pickling tips, and samples. Anyone (regardless of expertise) is welcome to attend, but do bring something for everyone to try. (Rhizome; 1 p.m., FREE)
Marquee
Catch the world premiere of Marquee, a contemporary ballet, by National Portrait Gallery resident artist Diana Movius. The performance is inspired by the Portrait Gallery’s exhibition of George Hurrell’s portraits of Hollywood’s Golden Age. Note that seating is on a first-come, first-served basis, but plenty of standing room will be available. (National Portrait Gallery; 4:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.; FREE)
Jazzy Sundays in Anacostia
Bring out your lawnchairs because it’s time for free live jazz in Anacostia. The family-friendly event, presented by the Anacostia B.I.D. and DCity Smokehouse, includes local food vendors and occurs weekly through early September. (1234 Marion Berry Avenue Southeast; 4 p.m. - 6 p.m.; FREE)
