15 things to do around D.C. this weekend
The rain has been relentless but so is the lineup of reasons to step outside.
We’re deep in that long stretch between spring’s bloom and summer’s sizzle – and yes, the rain is relentless but so is the lineup of reasons to step outside. This week’s options span the gamut from WorldPride celebrations to an immersive sound installation. Whether you’re in the mood to dance, organize, or just wander through something beautiful, you’ll find your place.
THURSDAY, MAY 29
Art and Autocracy in the Americas
Nine artists respond to repression, resistance, and the weight of history in the Americas. At the show’s opening night, expect to find visually arresting work and provocative storytelling that explores how art confronts power. (Amy Kaslow Gallery; 6–7:30 p.m., FREE)
Cocktails & Conversations: Warming Climate, Wilder Weeds
The U.S. Botanic Garden is opening its doors for an evening of conversation about how climate change is reshaping invasive plants and the local ecosystem. After the talk, enjoy after-hours access to the conservatory—drink in hand. Sip, stroll, and reflect on nature’s response to a shifting planet. (U.S. Botanic Garden; 6:30–8:30 p.m.; FREE)
Andy Warhol in Iran
High stakes meets hijinks! It’s 1976, and less than 3 years before her exile, the Empress Farah beckons Andy Warhol to begin pop-art portraits of the royals. When a University student takes Warhol hostage to publicize his group’s demands, a life-or-death struggle ensues over revolution, responsibility, and the arts. (May 29 - June 29; Mosaic Theater Company at the Atlas Performing Arts Center, 1333 H Street NE; $42-$70)
FRIDAY, MAY 30
Mei Semones and John Roseboro
Brooklyn-based songwriter Mei Semones brings her haunting vocals, intricate guitar work, and dreamy pop melodies to D.C. One reviewer of her debut album writes: “This is music that ignores genre lines and embraces the margins of conventionality.” (The Atlantis; 8 p.m.; $26)
DECOLONIZED BEATZ: Indigenous World Pride
This two-day event is billed as a global celebration of Indigenous 2SLGBTQIA+ artistry and resistance. Centering Indigenous queer and Two-Spirit voices, the schedule includes a pop-up market and talks on Friday as well as a film screening and dance party on Sunday night. (Arena Stage and Atlas Performing Arts Center; May 30 and June 1; FREE)
The North Country, Dorinda, and Night Hawk
Homegrown indie and experimental pop take over Pearl Street. This triple-bill from D.C.’s own creative scene promises a night of poetic lyricism and genre-bending sounds too catchy to shake. (Pearl Street Warehouse; 8 p.m.; $26)
1 Year Anniversary: Chamber of Comedy Showcase
Local comics hit the stage to celebrate a full year of bringing on the funny at this monthly showcase in Adams Morgan. You can also check out the venue’s art gallery before heading into the black box theater. (DC Arts Center; 10 p.m.; $15)
Can’t Feel My Face: 2010s Dance Party
Relive the decade of selfies and synth-pop at this all-2010s throwback party. Pull on your best skinny jeans and come ready to dance. Yes, song requests are welcome. (Union Stage; 10 p.m.; $23)
SATURDAY, MAY 31
Break the Current: Youth Band Showcase
Young musicians light up the stage in this showcase at St. Stephen’s. More than just a concert, though, it’s also an opportunity for a series of local organizations to spread the word about their activism and community work. (St. Stephen’s Church; 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m.; FREE)
Jazz in the Heights
A celebration of Ward 8’s sounds and soul, this two-day outdoor festival brings live jazz, local businesses, and community together in one vibrant space. Join neighbors and newcomers alike to celebrate the rhythms of Congress Heights. (Sycamore & Oak; May 31, 11 a.m.-8 p.m. and June 1, 12-6 p.m.; FREE)
Rachmaninoff: Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom
The Capitol Hill Chorale’s season finale promises to be a moving performance of Rachmaninoff’s sacred work in a contemplative setting. There's also an option to watch from home. (Lutheran Church of the Reformation; May 31 - June 1; $30)
Sound Scene 2025: CONNECTED
This popular two-day sonic and sensory arts fest returns to the Hirshhorn with a host of installations, performances, and workshops from artists across the globe. You’ll find profound and often interactive artwork, but plan accordingly: organizers say they broke attendance records at the museum last year. (Hirshhorn Museum; 10 a.m.–5 p.m.; FREE)
Spring Cleaning Swap + Dye Day
One person’s clutter is another’s new favorite. Join this neighborhood gathering to swap clothes, books, crafts, and more—plus try your hand at natural dyeing. (RSVP for location, 1–4 p.m., FREE)
SUNDAY, JUNE 1
Rainbow Pride DC: A Walking Tour
Learn the stories of D.C.’s LGBTQ trailblazers with a guided walk through Dupont Circle, and uncover how queer residents have transformed the city’s political, artistic, and social landscape. The tour includes sites associated with Walt Whitman, Frank Kameny, Langston Hughes and other onetime residents of the District. (Dupont Circle Metro; 10 a.m.; $35)
Pride Family Festival
Celebrate WorldPride with a family-friendly festival at the American Art Museum’s Kogod Courtyard. Enjoy live performances by DC’s Different Drummers, GenOUT (the youth chorus of the Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington, DC), and GRIDLOCK Dance. In between sets, kids can join storytime, hands-on crafts, and a scavenger hunt celebrating LGBTQ+ artists across the galleries. (Smithsonian American Art Museum; 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m.; FREE)
The Crossword Show
This show is a word-nerd fever dream brought to life. Host Zach Sherwin and two comedians tackle a live crossword in this brainy variety show where puzzles meet punchlines. They bill it as “the New York Times crossword meets NPR’s ‘Wait Wait Don’t Tell Me,’ with more rap than you’d expect.” (Planet Word; 7 p.m.; $30)
