14 things to do around D.C. this weekend
Laugh with some of the region's best comics, snag a pass to meet the zoo's new giant pandas, or check out a blues-inspired opera.
The weekend is upon us, and you deserve a break. We have plenty of options, from an Emily Woodhull show and Tina Turner musical to a monster truck jam and ABBA-inspired disco party. Have at it!
THURSDAY, JANUARY 23
Historically Speaking: Ida B. Wells
Ida B. Wells will soon be featured on the U.S. quarter. Learn about her history and the broader context of Black women on U.S. money in an event co-hosted by the National Museum of African American History and Culture, the Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum, and the U.S. Mint. (National Museum of African American History and Culture; 7 p.m. - 9 p.m.; FREE)
Emily Woodhull at Pearl Street
Multi-instrumental artist Emily Woodhull will be at Pearl Street Warehouse, where she’ll perform her signature genre-bending alt-rock and alt-country tunes. (Pearl Street Warehouse; 8 p.m.; $18 - $35)
Dukem Ethiopian Restaurant on U Street is hosting a line-up of some of the region’s best comics. The “Dope Comedy Showcase” features Simone, Garrett Harvest, Em Fiske, Noah Mata, Thomas Dykes, D.Lo, and Patty Mata. (Dukem Ethiopian Restaurant; 8 p.m. - 10 p.m.; $15)
FRIDAY, JANUARY 24
It’s the general public’s first opportunity to meet giant pandas Bao Li and Qing Bao in their new home at the National Zoo. Please note that reserved passes are required for entry — and if you are not a fan of crowds, consider waiting a few days before visiting the District’s new best friends. (Smithsonian National Zoo; 8 a.m. - 4 p.m., with last entry at 3 p.m.; FREE)
End your week by reliving the journey of 12-time Grammy Award winner Tina Turner. “TINA - The Tina Turner Musical” is written by Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Katori Hall and features some of Turner’s most popular songs. The play runs all weekend, ending with a 7:30 p.m. show on Sunday. (The National Theatre; 7:30 p.m.; $175+)
By Friday, the Capital One Arena will have turned from a Presidential Inauguration site into a Monster Jam course. Eventgoers can expect trucks to compete while literally crushing any obstacle in their way. (Capitol One Arena; 7 p.m.; $20+)
SATURDAY, JANUARY 25
Culture House is hosting a conversation with Bridget Heidmous about their new exhibition “Legally Blindish: Paintings + Translations,” which explores location, space, and place from the lens of Heidmous, who experienced early and severe vision decline that went undetected. Tickets are not required, but seating will be limited. RSVP to help organizers plan ahead. (Culture House; 1 p.m. - 2 p.m.; FREE with optional donations)
Detroit’s Freda Payne will perform at Blue Alley Jazz, fresh from releasing her 26th album. She might be most recognizable for her 1970's hits “Band of Gold” and “Bring the Boys Home.” (Blue Alley Jazz; 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.; $50)
Lunar New Year with Stephanie Chou
Celebrate the Year of the Snake a little early with a performance by Chinese American jazz composer, saxophonist, and singer Stephanie Chou. The event is currently standing-room only, and there’s a limit of four tickets per person. (The Kennedy Center; 6 p.m.; FREE)
Father-turned-activist Manuel Oliver is performing his “fearless, funny” show at Wooly Mammoth this winter. After losing his son Joaquin “Guac” Oliver in the Parkland shootings in 2018, Oliver channeled his grief into a story about love, life, and a better future. (Wooly Mammoth Theatre; 8 p.m.; $30+, with proceeds benefiting Change the Ref)
Take a chance on a night to remember at the 9:30 Club’s ABBA-inspired disco party. Partygoers can also expect other ‘70s and ‘80s hits from idols like the Bee Gees, Donna Summer, and Cher. (9:30 Club; Doors at 9 p.m.; $35)
SUNDAY, JANUARY 26
Get in a groove by ending your weekend at Hotel Zena, which is hosting a HIIT class featuring DnB EDM (Drum and Bass Electronic Dance Music). (Hotel Zena; 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.; $25)
Witness the world premiere of DELTA KING’S BLUE’S, a “blues opera” by librettist Jarrod Lee with music by Damien Geter. The performance follows the story of Robert Johnson, “who is said to have sold his soul to the devil to learn the blues.” (Martin Luther King Library Auditorium; 4 p.m.; $35)
Toast the end of the weekend with a Sip ‘n Paint led by local artist Emily Gould. All art materials — and a glass of wine — are included. (The Urban Winery of Silver Spring; 5 p.m.; $50)
