14 things to do in D.C. this weekend
Catch a play, start holiday shopping, get out on the ice, and lots more to get into.
Theatre Week is over but the curtain's still up on plenty of plays at multiple venues across the city. It's also opening weekend for the DowntownDC Holiday Market and the ice skating rink at the National Gallery of Art’s Sculpture Garden. Enjoy!
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21
This is the last weekend to catch the Arena Stage production of this gripping play featuring Emmy winner Leguizamo and directed by Ruben Santiago-Hudson. The story follows a Colombian-Puerto Rican laundromat owner (Leguizamo) grappling with business and family hardships. (Arena Stage; Various dates and times; $79+)
Dance like there’s Black people watching
Head to Woolly Mammoth this weekend to catch Second City’s Dance Like There’s Black People Watching, featuring the award-winning improv troupe in a show created especially for the District theater. (Woolly Mammoth Theatre; Various dates times; $40+)
Here’s the situation: five actors perform Shakespeare, but one of them is actually drunk — and the show must go on. Cocktails are available for purchase throughout the show. (Sage Theatre; Various days and times; $67+)
One of the world’s most successful magic shows comes back to the District this week with a brand new production — just in time for the holiday season. Please note: the event contains flashing lights and strobe effects. (The Kennedy Center; Various dates and times; $67+)
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 22
The 20th annual DowntownDC Holiday market officially opens for the season this Friday in the Penn Quarter-Chinatown neighborhood. Attendees can expect more than 100 vendors, a “Winter Chalet” bar by Dirty Habit at Hotel Monaco, children’s games, and a lineup of live musical performances. (F Street NW, between 7th and 9th Streets NW; 12 p.m. - 8 p.m.; FREE)
Have a skip day and spend your morning decorating donuts at Astrobar Beer Hall in Arlington. You get six mini cake donuts and a variety of decorations. Beer and other drinks are available, but not included in the price. (Astrabar Beer Hall; 11 a.m.; $15)
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 23
The ice rink at the National Gallery of Art’s Sculpture Garden opens for the season this Saturday. Rent a pair of skates on-site (or bring your own), glide across the ice, then warm up in the Sculpture Garden’s Pavilion Café. (NGA Sculpture Garden; 11 a.m. - 11 p.m.; $10 - $12 pass and $6 skate rentals)
Shop for Thanksgiving produce at the FRESHFARM ACM Farm Stand, located on the outdoor plaza of the Anacostia Community Museum. Now in its second season, the Farm Stand sources its food from Park View Farms in Poolsville, Md. and neighboring farms. (Anacostia Community Museum; 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.)
Martha’s Table’s Community Harvest Dinner features food from local vendors and dishes that highlight seasonal ingredients. Attendees are welcome to register for the meal or volunteer. (Our Lady of Perpetual Help; 12 p.m. - 4 p.m.; FREE)
The D.C.-born and raised artist MALINDA returns to the District with a 9:30 Club show. The singer/songwriter blends genres from traditional Irish and jazz to Americana folk and musical theater. (9:30 Club; 6 p.m. doors open; $35)
Wunder Garten and Absolut vodka are pairing up for an Oz-themed party — complete with costume themes, decor, and wicked cocktails. (Wunder Garten; 8 p.m. - 11 p.m.; FREE)
Washington Capitals vs. New Jersey Devils
The Washington Capitals are facing off against the New Jersey Devils this weekend. And rumor has it, the home team is celebrating CapsGiving with free ice resurfacer gravy boats for eligible attendees. We had to look up gravy boats, too. (Capital One Arena; 7 p.m.; $65+)
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 24
Join SoFar Sounds for an intimate brunch and music showcase at an undisclosed location in Chinatown. Expect three local acts, a mimosa, and additional food and drinks available for purchase. Per Sofar Sounds tradition, attendees will receive the exact address 36 hours before the event begins. (Undisclosed location; 12 p.m.; $28)
Don’t miss Atlanta rapper and songwriter Tony Shhnow — known for pioneering the plugg sub-genre of trap music — headlining this weekend. (DC9 Nightclub; 7:30 p.m. doors open; $18-20)
