17 things to do around D.C. this weekend
Dance parties, bottomless wine, movies, and more.
From a basement dance party to Moana under the stars, this long weekend is doing the most — and I’m not mad about it.
D.C.’s got fireworks, sure, but it’s also got a pool party for pups, an unplugged basement dance party, and comedians roasting politicians like it’s their patriotic duty. Whether you’re two-stepping in denim and sequins or on the hunt for natural wine, there’s a pocket of the city waiting just for you. One even comes with unlimited pizza.
THURSDAY, JULY 3
Why Is the Statehood of the United States So Stable?
The day before fireworks fly, this low-key public forum dives into the endurance of American democracy. Expect snacks and a candid exploration of whether the dream still lives. (Free Peoples of Russia House; 5:30 - 8 p.m.; FREE)
The Washington Roast
Bipartisan bashing comes to the stage in this political-roast-meets-town-hall showdown. Comedians impersonate politicians, field audience questions, and battle for the loudest laughs. Think sketch comedy with a security clearance. Hosted by Tim Kardashian, with proceeds supporting Alzheimer’s care through Hilarity for Charity. (DC Improv; 7:30 p.m.; $24)
Movies on the Memorial: Moana
Catch a family favorite under the stars in the U.S. Navy Memorial plaza. Bring a blanket, settle in near the Lone Sailor statue, and enjoy a summer night with Moana on the big screen. The film starts at dusk (though organizers suggest getting there early to snag a spot). (Navy Memorial Plaza; 8:30 p.m.; FREE)
Dog Daze Wine Cabaret
Bottomless natural wine, unlimited pizza, and a live DJ come together at this wine-soaked night out. Graze a snack spread (or two) and dance your way through the night as resident sommelier Amanda Carpenter pours and chats all things vino. (Dog Daze Social Club; 7 -11 p.m.; $42)
FRIDAY, JULY 4
Quilt Portraits: My Life Matters
Set in the quiet beauty of Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens, this mixed-media collage workshop led by artist Denise M. Jones invites participants to explore identity and belonging. Materials will be provided, but participants are encouraged to bring a photo of themselves – along with water and bug spray. The setting is serene, the mosquitos not so much. (Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens, 11 a.m.; - 12:30 p.m.; FREE)
Fourth of July on the Farm
Skip the crowds and celebrate among neighbors with food, fireworks, and laid-back farm vibes. Bring a dish to share and a lawn chair for the evening light show. (Edgewood Community Farm; 6 - 10 p.m.; FREE)
West Porch Fridays
This summertime market brings local makers, growers, and music to Union Station’s west entrance on Fridays (through September). It’s casual, rotating, and perfect for a daytime wander. (Union Market; 11:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.; FREE)
The Garden Open Mic
A weekly open mic where anything goes—poetry, comedy, music, storytelling, and everything in between. It’s all ages and open to anyone who wants to share or simply listen. Whether you’re testing new work or just curious, the mic is yours if you want it. (BloomBars; 7 - 10 p.m.; $10)
Dog Social Yappy Hour & Pool Party
Dogs usually have to wait for that one magical day at the end of the season to jump in D.C.’s public pools. But (leashed and vaccinated) pups can get their day in the sun on July 4, hopping into a series of dog splash pools at Dirty Habit. The Humane Rescue Alliance will also be on hand with adoptable dogs, with a portion of the proceeds going to the organization. And while you enjoy a cocktail, your dog can smush into a pup cup. Win, win, win. (Dirty Habit; 3 -5 p.m.; FREE)
SATURDAY, JULY 5
Community Days at Capital Jewish Museum
Drop into the Capital Jewish Museum for one of its summer community days. The entire museum will be open, including a groundbreaking exhibit exploring the intersection of LGBTQ+, Jewish, and D.C. history — told through photography, oral histories, and archival material spanning the last century. Can’t make it this time? You’ll have two more chances for free admission on August 13 and September 7. (Capital Jewish Museum; 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.; FREE)
Bilingual Storytime
Bring the little ones for a lively, language-rich morning of reading and play in both English and Spanish. Expect stories, engaging activities, and room to roam in the National Gallery’s light-filled atrium. All ages welcome. (National Gallery of Art; 10 -11 a.m.; FREE)
Babes and Barbells
If you lift and like a little sisterhood with your squats, this women-only class is your Saturday start. Learn or refine key barbell moves—think squats, deadlifts, presses—with solid technique and serious energy. For lifters with at least some experience. (Definition of Fitness; 9 a.m.; $14-$25)
Astronaut Class + Sunniva + Lena Traynham
Local music lovers, this one's stacked. Astronaut Class brings space-rock charm to the stage with their debut studio album, 5,4,3,2,1, in tow. They’re joined by Sunniva, a soulful brother-duo blending groove with gentle grit, and Lena Traynham, whose vibrant presence and genre-fluid sound anchor the night. Expect twang, keys, and cosmic energy that feels equal parts basement jam and interstellar mission. (The Pocket; 7 - 10:30 p.m.; $22-25)
Strokes & Lines Basement Party
Imagine a '90s basement jam where phones are off, bodies are close, and the music cuts deep. Hip hop, R&B, house, and reggae from DJ Stylus power this no-frills, all-vibe night. Upstairs: games and open air. Downstairs: rhythm and release. BYOB. (Honfleur Gallery; 5 - 9 p.m.; $0-10)
SUNDAY, JULY 6
D.C. in the National Gallery Tour
Explore how local artists shaped national conversations through color, form, and political context in this two-hour walking tour of both buildings of the National Gallery. Highlights include works by Alma Thomas, Sam Gilliam, and other heavyweights who walked these same streets before changing the art world. (National Gallery of Art; 9:30 a.m.; $35)
Hive Hoedown: Beyoncé Fan Experience
Didn’t snag Beyoncé tickets? No worries. This dance party delivers Cowboy Carter, Renaissance, and Queen Bey energy all night long. Expect a DJ spinning beats, line dancing, Beyoncé-themed everything (bingo, drinks, prizes, you name it) and a showdown for best-dressed stans. (Howard Theatre; 4 - 8 p.m.; $25)
Martin Walker: An Enemy in the Village
If you love a whodunit with food, wine, and small-town politics, meet Martin Walker. The local author brings his latest Bruno, Chief of Police mystery to Politics & Prose for an evening of conversation and French intrigue. (Politics and Prose; 6 p.m.; FREE)
