12 things to do around D.C. this weekend
Gear up for a bike festival, a punk-themed dog fest, and a chance to check out some lowriders.
It’s the first official weekend of fall, and with it comes plenty of places to tote around your cardamom maple cappuccino (or PSL — we won’t judge). Gear up for a bike festival, a punk-themed dog fest, and a chance to check out some lowriders.
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 25
Bobbi Brown in Conversation With Robin Givhan
The makeup artist and entrepreneur shares how she came to helm an eponymous beauty empire (and fought off self-doubt along the way) in this book talk moderated by Washington Post senior critic-at-large Robin Givhan. (Sixth & I; 7 p.m.; $25)
Royalty, fate and passion collide. Egyptian actress Samira and her husband, Jason, find their marriage put to the test as they mark the 25th anniversary of Princess Diana’s and Dodi Fayed’s tragic deaths. What begins as a night of remembrance spirals into a charged exploration of love, sacrifice, and the stories history chooses to remember. (Mosaic Theater Company at the Atlas Performing Arts Center, 1333 H Street NE; Now through Oct. 5; $42-$75)
Rik Freeman: Wade in the Waters
D.C. painter Rik Freeman has created multiple large-scale murals in the D.C. area, including at the Barry Farm Recreation Center, the Arlington County Courthouse, and the Benning/Dorothy I. Height Library. At this opening reception for his latest show, the artist discusses how bodies of water are routinely woven into narratives from the African diaspora. (Phillips@THEARC; 6:30-8:30 p.m.; FREE)
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26
Umbrella Photo Fair
Take a stroll past images from dozens of DMV photographers at the opening reception for this three-day show. Need a new piece to spruce up your place? Consider making a purchase; this organizer does not charge participating artists a fee or commission to exhibit. (Gallery Space DC; 6 p.m.; FREE)
The Washington School of Ballet at CityCenterDC
Chassé on over to this open-air shopping center downtown for a spirited start to your weekend, courtesy of a free performance by the 81-year-old dance academy. (CityCenterDC; 5 p.m.; FREE)
Movies on the Plaza: Top Gun
It’s not too late to catch an outdoor film this year! Where better to see the original Top Gun than under the stars? Bring along a blanket or lawn chair to sit on the pavement, and let the movie take your breath away. (Sorry, not sorry!) (Union Market; 7:10 p.m.; FREE)
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 27
Corazón y Vida: Lowriding Family Festival
Fans of lowrider culture (or even the 1975 War song) can cruise around this all-day homage to these custom cars, inspired by a new museum exhibit and featuring live music and the opportunity to connect with local lowriding clubs. (Smithsonian National Museum of American History; 10:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; FREE)
Don’t miss Fusion Festival 2025 on Sept. 27 at Anacostia Arts Center! Power up your skills and connections with hands-on workshops, inspiring speakers including Dr. Lakeysha Hallmon of The Village Market, wellness sessions, and networking. Dive into arts, culture, sustainability, and more while fueling community, creativity, and growth. (Anacostia Arts Center, 1231 Marion Berry Ave SE; Saturday, September 27, 2025 at 9 a.m.; $35)
Eyes on Reading Panel
Education reporter Emily Hanford guides a conversation with neuroscientist Reid Lyon and teacher Margaret Goldberg about the science behind better literacy education. (Planet Word Museum; 10-11:30 a.m. with 9 a.m. pastry reception; $15)
Late Skate
Lace up and get rolling long after sundown at this Anacostia Park rink. No skates? No problem. You can rent them for free via the National Park Service. (Anacostia Park Skating Pavilion; Noon-10 p.m.; FREE)
Boot ’N’ Scoot Country Music Festival
If you’ve been lamenting the dearth of line-dance spots in this town, you’re in luck! This festival’s got a pop-up dance floor with your name on it — along with line-dancing lessons, barbecue, live tunes, and even some trick-roping! (Hi-Lawn; 2-11 p.m.; $19)
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 28
Rock Creek Park Day: B.A.R.K. Ranger Paws and Punk Edition
For the final event of a two-weekend, punk-themed celebration of Rock Creek Park’s 135th anniversary, the park is inviting pups and their people to a slew of dog-centric activities, from wellness info sessions to a puppy photo booth — just don’t forget his studded collar. For those without a furry friend, Homeward Trails will be there with dogs up for adoption! (Rock Creek Park Nature Center and Planetarium; 10 a.m.-1 p.m.; FREE)
D.C. Family Bike Fest
Love a Sunday bike ride? So do the folks pedaling over to this annual event, featuring complimentary tuneups, a kids’ bike parade, and riding lessons for novice cyclists. (Alethia Tanner Park; 10 a.m.-2 p.m.; FREE)
Art as Meditation
Expand (or begin!) your meditative practice with D.C. artist and art therapist Sally Brucker, who will guide you through a seated meditation and silent art-making session. Basic supplies are provided and no experience is necessary. (Rhizome; 9:30-11:30 a.m.; pay what you can)
