12 things to do around D.C. this weekend
Protest, Plants, Picnic.
Summer isn't over yet (don't let them fool you!) and neither is the occupation of our city by armed forces. Celebrate one and protest the other this weekend with dancing, an outdoor concert, and a march from Malcolm X Park.
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 4
The Right Stuff with Astronaut Mike Massmino
Catch a talk by real-life astronaut Mike Massmino and hear about his adventures on two different space shuttle missions. Arrive early to buy concessions and explore the museum’s galleries. (Air and Space Museum; 8 p.m. - 9 p.m.; FREE)
Dodi and Diana
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; Now through October 5; $42 to $75)
Thursday Night Out
It’s the first day of this month-long series celebrating our downtown, held every Thursday in September. This week’s event will feature music from Extended Play and Black Rave Culture, along with a marketplace curated by SAMASAMA. (Chinatown Park & National Museum Building Lawn; 5 p.m. - 10 p.m.; FREE)
Poetry Open Mic
The District’s own award-winning poet, María Fernanda, is hosting an open mic where literary work at any stage (even rough drafts!) is welcome. Sign up on-site for an approximately three-minute slot. (Politics and Prose at Union Market; 7 p.m.; FREE)
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 5
Rebel with a Clause
Grammar and comedy make an unlikely pairing in this genre-bending film by Brandt Johnson. It follows international grammar expert Ellen Jovin as she tours the country exploring English language idiosyncrasies. Johnson and Jovin will host a Q&A and book signing after the screening. (Planet Word; 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.; $10)
Music In The Meadow
Catch a live music lineup inspired by the plants growing in the National Arboretum’s Herb Garden – think ‘Purple Rain’ peppers and ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ sunflowers – brought to you by Route 66 Band and the Friends of the National Arboretum. (National Arboretum; 7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.; $17.85 - $28.52 for adults, FREE for children 12 and under)
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 6
We Are All DC: A National March
D.C.’s neighborhoods and communities are beautiful already — and deserve to be free. Join other District residents at Malcolm X Park for a march to end the occupation. (Malcolm X Park; 11 a.m.; FREE)
Growing Community: The Garden Then and Now
Cultivate your green thumb at this workshop on preparing your home garden for the changing weather and the season's last harvests. (Anacostia Community Museum; 10 a.m.- 12 p.m.; FREE)
Joy of African Movement
Learn contemporary African dances from across the diaspora with Afrochique, the African female choreography team at the University of Maryland. Dancers 16 years old and up can expect a variety of styles, from traditional West African dance to Capoeira to Hip Hop. (Smithsonian National Museum of African Art; 10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.; FREE)
National Book Festival
Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, featuring her new book “Dream Count,” and "Goosebumps" author R.L. Stine are among the many authors at this year’s National Book Festival. Expect author talks, book signings, exhibits, and more. Plan your day with an interactive schedule on the Library of Congress’ website. (Walter E. Washington Convention Center; 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.; FREE).
DC State Fair
Spend your Saturday celebrating the District at the 16th Annual DC State Fair. Expect some of the best art, food, and vendors from across the future 51st state. (680 Rhode Island Ave NE; 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.; FREE)
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 7
National Museum of Women in the Arts’ Free Community Day
Every first Sunday and second Wednesday of the month, visitors can tour the museum, browse the reading room, and do drop-in art activities for free. Check out current exhibitions on the feminist art collective Guerilla Girls and French printmaker Niki de Saint Phalle. Reservations are recommended so you don’t miss out. (National Museum of Women in the Arts; 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.; FREE)
Plant Swap
Just what it sounds like: bring your plant cuttings (or full plants, pots, or accessories), and bring new ones home. Both indoor and outdoor plants are welcome. Beer, wine, cider, and non-alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase. (Atlas Brew Works; 1 p.m. - 5 p.m.; FREE)
