13 things to do around D.C. this weekend
See thousands of orchids, make your own candle, or sit down for a game of checkers.
You've made it through another long week of this very long winter. This weekend, manifest spring with a visit to the U.S. Botanic Garden's orchid showcase, get your caffeine fix with a Black-owned coffee crawl, and more.
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 20
Orchids: Masters of Deception
The annual orchid showcase opened last week at the U.S. Botanic Garden, featuring more than a thousand orchids from the garden’s collection. This year’s theme — deception — will showcase the plants' unique ability to lure and captivate pollinators. Expert and budding botanists alike can enjoy the display through April 27. (U.S. Botanical Garden; 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. FREE)
The Washington Roast
Some of the region's top comics will be joining forces for an interactive roast battle and town hall. The audience’s applause level determines the winner of each round, with proceeds benefiting Hilarity for Charity. (DC Improv; 7:30 p.m. $20 - $35)
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 21
Capital Checkers Goodbye Party
D.C.’s legendary checker-playing club is moving out of its Adams Morgan club house and is throwing a part-thank-you, part-goodbye bash on Friday to celebrate four years in the space. They’ll have food, t-shirts for sale, and of course, checkers (if you’re up for the challenge.) The club is also raising funds for a new clubhouse. 1750 Columbia Rd NW, 6 p.m.; FREE)
Sun Gazing
If the weather holds up, end the week on the bright side with the National Air and Space Museum and view the sun through a filtered telescope. Staff will be on-site to answer any questions, and written and touchable explanations are available. (Corner of 7th Street and Independence Avenue, outside of the National Air and Space Museum; 12 p.m. - 3 p.m., weather dependent; FREE)
Open Craft Night at Because Science
Bring your project and a drink (alcohol allowed!) to make progress on your craft in the company of others. This meetup is intended for adult crafters. Some basic art supplies (scissors, adhesives, and electrical wall outlets) will be available. (Because Science; 5 p.m. - 7 p.m.; FREE)
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 22
DMV Coffee Crawl
Celebrate Black History Month with a tour of Black-owned coffee shops in the District. The event will cover Rue Cafe, Little Food Studio, and Buna Coffeehouse. (Meet at Rue Cafe; 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.; FREE)
District Beer Fest
Enjoy beer tastings from some of the D.C. region's best breweries, and learn more about the people who make them possible. Each ticket includes beer tastings, with food available to purchase. (Dock 5 at Union Market; 12 p.m. - 9 p.m.; $35+)
Afro House: Spirit Fest
This one-day festival celebrates Black History Month through “mental health, literacy, and spiritual wellness.” Attendees can expect artisans and small businesses from across the D.C. area, live performances, classes, and workshops. (Anacostia Arts Center; 1 p.m .- 4:30 p.m.; FREE)
Wine Glass Painting & Candlemaking
Gain a new, multi-step creative outlet: learn how to decorate a wineglass with paint and pressed flowers, and then turn your glass into a homemade candle. It’s your choice whether to keep the candle for yourself or give it to a friend who might need a soothing spark in their lives right now. (Steadfast Supply; 2 p.m. - 4 -p.m.; $48)
"Will" (1981) Film Screening & Conversation
When it premiered in 1981, "Will" was the first independent feature film by a Black woman in America. It has now been recently restored and entered into the Library of Congress National Film Registry. The event features an introduction by Dr. Novotny Lawrence, Director of the Black Film Center & Archive, a screening, and a panel conversation. (National Museum of African American History and Culture; 2 p.m. - 4 p.m.; FREE)
Mini-Danza: A Late Night Natural Wine Party
Sonny’s Pizza, a Petworth staple, traditionally hosts an “Abbondanza” daytime wine party — this event is similar, but pared down and at night. Revelers can expect unlimited pours of natural wine, along with charcuterie and slices. (Sonny’s Pizza; 10 p.m. - 11:30 p.m.; $65 - $75)
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 23
Yoga + Sound Experience at the National Building Museum
Unwind with a yoga class among the 75-foot-tall Corinthian columns in the National Building Museum. Yogis of all levels are invited to a yoga flow led by Beth Wolfe, featuring sound practitioner Liat Pisco. (Great Hall of the National Building Museum; 9 a.m. - 10 a.m.; $30)
Black History Month Run/Walk + Party
Celebrate Black History Month with a free run (or walk) event around Northwest D.C. Participants can choose between a 2-mile walk or a 3.1-mile run, enjoy tunes by DJ Bing, and snack on a complimentary breakfast. Free shirts, designed by Chocolate City Relay Founder, Brittany Greene, are available for participants while supplies last. (Franklin Hall; 9:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.; FREE)
