21 (!) things to do around D.C. this weekend

This weekend in D.C., every turn offers a different flow. One moment you’re lost in ‘90s nostalgia, the next you’re grooving to marimba rhythms or trading ideas with brainy storytellers. Choose your own adventure — from plant walks to playful comedy, from swapping clothes to swapping perspectives — and you’ll find the city alive with movement and meaning. However you like to spend your downtime, there’s something here to match your mood.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 18

A Night at the Museum: Celebrating 58 Years of ACM
The Anacostia Community Museum has been preserving and amplifying D.C.’s community stories for nearly six decades. Mark the anniversary with live music from Joi Carter and her band, bites from Flavor Hive Food Truck, and a stroll through the exhibit “A Bold and Beautiful Vision,” exploring a century of local Black arts education. Please note this event is 21+. (Anacostia Community Museum; 7-10 p.m.; FREE with reservation) 

Make It Thursday: Notebook Decorating
Start the school year, or take on your next big idea, with a notebook that’s totally your own. This hands-on workshop supplies everything you need to customize a fresh notebook. It’s a low-pressure way to carve out a little time for creativity, and you’ll leave with something useful and personal. (Shop Made in DC Georgetown; 5-7 p.m.; $17.19)

Summer Evening Hours at the Garden
The Botanic Garden is keeping the lights on late with local favorite Chanel Kelly — aka TrapCellist — as she brings her soulful spin on R&B, hip-hop, and classical cello to the Conservatory. Sip a mocktail, grab some gourmet ice cream, and explore the gardens while the sun sets. (U.S. Botanic Garden Conservatory; 5-8 p.m.; FREE)

We Listen & We Don’t Judge: Comedy
Therapy meets comedy at Prima DC with a show that’s equal parts hilarious and unfiltered. Hosts Mike Kurtz and Jasmine Burton lead an evening of stand-up, dating confessions, and tongue-in-cheek “therapy sessions” from D.C. comedians. Expect laughter, a little catharsis, and maybe a matchmaking surprise or two. (Prima DC;  7 p.m. Doors; $13.26)

You Deserve a Laugh: A Free Improv Workshop for Federal Workers
Need to shake off some stress? Say “yes, and” to Washington Improv Theater’s free improv class just for federal workers and contractors. No stage experience required — just show up ready to let loose and surprise yourself. (The Potter’s House Cafe & Bookstore; 7-8:30 p.m.; FREE with registration)

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 19

Back to the Yards
Grab your friendship bracelets and throw it back to the ‘90s with a block party that’s got something for everyone — arcade games, retro board battles, glitter tattoos, and even a superhero costume contest. (The Sundeck at The Yards DC; 5:30-8:30 p.m.; FREE)

Outdoor Movie Night: The Sandlot
Few things feel more “end of summer” than an outdoor movie. Keep the season — and the ‘90s nostalgia — going with the extremely quotable classic The Sandlot, screening at the Bridge District. Popcorn is free, and other food and drinks will be available for purchase. (Bridge District; 8 p.m.; FREE)

Immigration Film Fest 2025: Local DMV Stories
Connect over culture and community while supporting immigrant storytelling in the DMV  in an evening filled with food, film, and conversation. Enjoy dishes from Ghana, Mexico, and Iraqi Kurdistan; get a henna design from artist Amad Mahbub; and stay for a panel with the three featured filmmakers. (The Festival Center; 6-9 p.m.; $10)

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 20

Be a Drummer for a Day 2025
Feel the beat and join the circle at Batalá Washington’s high-energy celebration of Afro-Brazilian culture. Drumming, dance, and community activism come together for a day of rhythm and joy, with donations collected to support Girls Rock! DC and Migrant Solidarity Mutual Aid. Pro tip: Bring earplugs, water, and maybe even knee pads if you’re fully diving in. (Hancock Park; 10 a.m.-1 p.m.; FREE)

Marimba Melodies
Local musical group Marimba Maya AWAL, founded by Julia Sanchez and Luisa Lopez, carries forward indigenous Guatemalan traditions. Take a seat and soak it in — or let the rhythms pull you onto your feet. (National Museum of the American Indian; 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m., 3:30 p.m.; FREE)

Afghan Storytelling and Preserving Culture
To celebrate the online launch of an important oral history project, hear from people working to preserve Afghan music, film, writing, and art. This event highlights the power of storytelling in sustaining identity across borders and generations. (Freer Gallery of Art; 2-5 p.m.; FREE with registration)

Children’s Book and Learning Festival
This festival is designed for curious minds of all ages. Kids can dive into hands-on crafts and learning activities, while adults browse a massive, all-ages used book sale. Plus, meet local authors and illustrators! (Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center, Wilson Plaza; 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; FREE)

Nerd Nite DC
D.C.’s quirkiest lecture series is back — and this round dives into the brave (and bizarre) new world of robot doctors and AI. Expect fast-paced science talks, irreverent humor, and plenty of nerdy side tangents. Please note this event is 21+. (DC9 Nightclub; 6 p.m. Doors; $13.39)

Homecoming at President Lincoln’s Cottage
Family day returns with pony rides, puppet shows, Zumba, crafts, and relays. Explore the same grounds where Tad Lincoln once played, and enjoy food trucks and activities all day. (President Lincoln’s Cottage; 10 a.m.-3 p.m.; FREE)

Movement Fest II: Power in Motion
At this afternoon wellness festival built around movement, healing, and care, free fitness classes will get your energy flowing, while health screenings and healing arts sessions offer ways to tune into your body’s needs. With community-led activities woven throughout, this isn’t just a workout — it’s a collective recharge. (The Square DC; 12 p.m.; FREE)

MLK Library Clothing Swap
Make space in your closet and discover something fresh at this sustainable style event. Bring up to 10 clean, gently used items you’re ready to part with and leave with new-to-you finds from other attendees. Together, we can keep clothes out of the landfill! (MLK Jr. Library; 12:30-3:30 p.m.; FREE, registration encouraged)

Peanut Butter Jilly Time
PB lovers, rejoice: Capitol Jill Baking and Your Only Friend are teaming up for a nutty menu featuring peanut-butter-and-bacon-jam burgers, fancy PB&J cake slices, and peanut cola cocktails. First 20 attendees get gifts. (Your Only Friend; 11 a.m.; FREE entry)

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 21

6th Annual ClayFest DC
Clay takes center stage at this neighborhood favorite, featuring more than 25 local potters showcasing one-of-a-kind ceramics. Beyond browsing and buying, you’ll find live music, food, and the chance to try your own mini clay projects. It’s part art show, part block party, and all about celebrating craft. (Brookland Arts Walk; 11 a.m.-4 p.m.; FREE)

Plant Walk & Nature Journaling with Candise
Slow down and reconnect with the natural world on this guided walk through Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens. Educator and forager Candise Jordan will share plant identification tips, cultural history, and practical uses of local flora. The session ends with nature journaling — bring your own notebook and supplies. (Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens; 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; FREE) 

An Evening with Nikole Hannah-Jones
Busboys and Poets celebrates its 20th anniversary with a conversation that couldn’t be more timely. Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Nikole Hannah-Jones discusses the impact of The 1619 Project on how we understand race, democracy, and American history. Expect a powerful, thought-provoking evening with space for reflection and dialogue. (Busboys and Poets, 14th & V; 5 p.m.; FREE with registration)

Rediscovering the Air & Space Museum
History buffs and aviation fans — this guided tour is for you. Walk through the icons of flight and space, from the Wright brothers’ 1903 flyer to Neil Armstrong’s moon landing spacesuit. You’ll also spot Amelia Earhart’s “Little Red Bus,” Lindbergh’s Spirit of St. Louis, and even an X-Wing from Star Wars. Stay after the tour for an IMAX movie or astronaut ice cream. (Air & Space Museum; 10:30 a.m.; $35)