13 things to do around D.C. this weekend
Head to a hair show and after party, peruse pottery from local ceramic artists, or look inward at a journaling workshop.
If there's one thing that will always be true about D.C. in any season: There will be a lot of stuff to do. From a free intimate classical concert to a hair show to an art or pottery fair, this weekend has no shortage of options. Start planning now!
Thursday November 14
DC Community Public Safety Forum
Gun violence in D.C. is down nearly 30% this year, but 174 people have still been killed in the District in 2024. This virtual forum from ANC6B and the Greater Washington Community Foundation convenes a panel of gun violence reduction experts to talk about solutions being implemented in D.C. and what’s worked in other cities. Panelists include Patrice Sulton of the DC Justice Lab and experts from violence prevention offices in St. Louis and Indianapolis. (Virtual; 6 p.m. - 8 p.m.; FREE)
It’s the second annual sip & shop event in Dupont Circle, where you can enjoy free wine, tea, and snacks while you do some early Christmas shopping at local businesses. Participating businesses include Copenhaver, Blue Mercury, Spa Logic, and Bloom Boutique. If you happen to be among the first 25 visitors, you’ll even get a free swag bag. (Q St. NW and Connecticut Ave NW; 5 p.m. - 7 p.m. ; FREE)
If you’re looking for a place to debut your slam poetry talent, look no further. Shanklin Hall in Adams Morgan will host an open mic night with a mix of planned performances and walk-on acts, including everything from musical acts to spoken word. Performances will be judged and first place wins a cash prize; there will also be some time for chatting and networking. (Shanklin Hall; 8 p.m. - 10:30 p.m.; FREE)
MLK Docs Presents: Las Abogadas
Part of a free documentary screening series at MLK Library, this event will screen Las Abogadas (The Lawyers), focused on a group of women attorneys working with immigrants desperate to cross into the United States (or to stay here). To watch the trailer click here. (MLK Library Auditorium, 5th floor; 5:45 p.m.; FREE)
Friday November 15
A three-day art and culture fair at Union Market, Umbrella will feature works from more than 100 artists from the D.C. area and elsewhere. Cultural programming will include movie screenings, a panel discussion on the role of art in activism, and a mural tour of Union Market (full schedule here). There will also be art exhibits and pop-up bars from Buffalo & Bergen and Suburbia. (Union Market Dock 5; Nov. 15 - 17, various times; FREE)
A full weekend of perusing pottery: Does this sound like an ideal post-election activity to anybody else? Pottery on the Hill is back with its ceramic wares from artists across the country. ry. The fair runs through Sunday, but Friday there’s a ticketed preview reception featuring a sneak peek of the artists’ work and the first chance to buy some pottery. H’ors d’oeuvres, wine, and beer will be served, and the first 100 attendees will receive a free handmade cup from local potter Dan Finnegan. (Hill Center at the Old Naval Hospital; Nov. 15-17 various times; $45 or FREE)
Saturday November 16
DC Punk Rock Flea Market and Food Drive
The 6th annual flea market and food drive will feature more than 60 vendors selling art and vintage goods. It’s free to enter, but food donations are encouraged to get in; they’ll go to We Are Family DC. They need: whole-grain cereal, pasta, rice, peanut butter, or canned fruits, veggies, beans, or tuna. (St. Stephen and the Incarnation Episcopal Church; 12 p.m. - 5 p.m.; FREE but donate food!)
Anacostia Community Museum Journaling Workshop
Have you had a vague goal to “journal more” in your list of New Year's resolutions for the last five years straight? This event is for you. Fantasy author Danielle Hall hosts a workshop to teach interested people about the benefits of journaling, how to get started, and how to keep going. Journals are provided, but bring along a pen you like. (Anacostia Community Museum; 12 p.m. - 2 p.m.; FREE)
A Latino-run drag brunch with hours of reggaeton and a half-time dance party? Sounds like more or less exactly what the post-election doctor ordered. Proceeds from this brunch will go to the American Immigration Council. (El Rey; 12 p.m. - 4 p.m.; $25 general admission, $39 early bird special including mimosa or margarita pitcher)
Preservation of the Arts Hip Hop Experience
Run by Riddim and Poetry, this collection of arts and culture exhibits at Hook Hall will feature: a music exhibit with an authentic recording booth; a fashion exhibit with clothing from designers like Dapper Dan; a Hip Hop Dance class choreographed by Myrah G; a DJ workshop where you can learn to mix; and a live panel discussion featuring local artists, stylists, dancers, and radio personalities. (Hook Hall; 2 p.m. - 8 p.m.; $20)
Sunday November 17
Head to St. Ann Catholic Church on Sunday afternoon to watch acclaimed cellist Amit Peled and pianist Martin Labazevitch perform an intimate concert program from three different composers: Eduard Grieg, Austrian Gulda, and Gaspar Cassadó. The event is free, but donations are gladly accepted at the door. (St. Ann Catholic Church; 3 p.m. - 5 p.m.; FREE)
Capital City Go-Go Board Game Day
D.C.'s G-League basketball team, the Capital City Go-Go, is partnering with Labyrinth Games & Puzzles for a day of basketball and board games – all in the name of charity. Head to the St. Elizabeths East Entertainment Sports Arena to watch the Go-Go play the Raptors in special Scrabble-themed uniforms. There will be a Boozy Board Game Lounge, board games on the concourse, and a pop-up board game store. (Entertainment and Sports Arena; 3 p.m.; $15)
The Future of Hair: Hair Show & After Party with Backyard Band
If you're an industry professional in hair care or styling, this might be of interest to you. Head to Greenbelt for this hair show and party, where local salons and barber shops will set up for a trade show. There will be mixers, networking opportunities, and an after party featuring Backyard Band and Chalyss Band. You can purchase individual tickets or VIP tables. (Martin's Crosswinds; 7 p.m. - 12 a.m.; $60 - $650)
