For Your Weekend: Cherry Blossom Festival to Close With Japanese Culture Fest, Parade
By Sophia Barnes ••
Slather on your sunscreen and soak in some vitamin D on Friday and Saturday: Spring has tentatively sprung. We've got more than two dozen options for your weekend, including the end of the National Cherry Blossom Festival, the Rhode Island Avenue Porchfest and bobblehead day at Nats Park.
Enjoying your weekend cheaply? Here's our top free and cheap picks in D.C.:
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There are so many free and cheap things to do around the District.
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The cherry blossoms won't be back until spring, but the Tidal Basin is a beautiful walk any time of year. Do a loop around the water and you'll see the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial and the Thomas Jefferson Memorial.
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You can bike, run or stroll through the lilies at Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens, where you'll spot marsh birds, lily pads and some gorgeous flowers. It's a National Park and free to visit.
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Summer and fall are outdoor movie season in D.C. Here's a roundup of the summer movies.
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Swing on the pier, attend an event stroll along the water or browse D.C.'s fish market at the waterfront development in Southwest.
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More than 400,000 former service men and women are laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery. Any day of the year, the public is welcome to visit the site. President John F. Kennedy's grave is there, marked by an Eternal Flame. You can also visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and witness the ceremonial changing of the guards at least every hour.
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In the middle of the Potomac River, you’ll find a park that feels miles away from a city. Head to the middle and you’ll find one of D.C.’s less obvious monuments, the Teddy Roosevelt memorial.
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A number of senators, representatives and even the legendary first FBI director J. Edgar Hoover were buried in the cemetery.
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When it gets chilly outside, the U.S. Botanic Garden stays balmy and green. Explore a tropical rainforest, a reconstructed Jurassic landscape, rare and endangered species, orchids and more.
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Housed in a gorgeous building, the National Museum of Women in the Arts highlights the works of female artists. Usually, an adult ticket costs $10 (free if you’re under 18). On the first Sunday of each month, the museum hosts a community day and admission is free.
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The Freer|Sackler galleries display Asian art and artifacts. As with all Smithsonian museums, it's free to visit. The museum also hosts film screenings featuring classic and new movies.
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D.C.’s Union Market features a handful of places to eat, drink and shop. The hub includes more than 40 vendors and hosts events throughout the week. The market is open to the public from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. during the week and from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on weekends. It's closed on Mondays.
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From the Potomac River to 14th Street, you'll find monuments to America's greatest leaders and largest wars. The Washington Monument, which is closed for construction but still viewable from the outside, marks the eastern edge. Walk west and you'll find the epic World War II memorial, where you can snap a picture with the pillar representing your state. The D.C. War Memorial, somber Vietnam Veterans Memorial, haunting Korean War Veterans Memorial and some smaller monuments are found on either side of the Reflecting Pool. The imposing Lincoln Memorial towers over the western edge. You'll find other monuments circling the Tidal Basin, just south of the Reflecting Pool.
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Hang out and marvel at the towering columns at the National Building Museum's Great Hall. If you have children, the open grounds provide plenty of room for playtime.
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Situated near Dupont Circle, but a few blocks away from the rush of Connecticut Avenue, the curved Spanish Steps make for a perfect post-brunch walk.
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Celebrate and learn about the contributions of African Americans through artifacts, interactive exhibits and events at the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
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D.C. can seriously accommodate beer lovers. You can find free tours at 3 Stars Brewing Company, DC Brau, Right Proper Brewing Company and Atlas Brew Works. (Looking for fun stuff outside of the city? See our guides for Northern Virginia here and for Maryland here)
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Retrace the steps of Nicholas Cage -- but don’t steal the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, Bill of Rights or any of the other historical documents. The museum is open daily and is free.
This not-so-secret corner of Rock Creek Park is where hundreds of pounds of stones that used to make up America's Capitol Building have been dumped. You can still see some intricate designs. It's near the Rock Creek Park Horse Center — hunt for the Capitol Ruins on Google Maps for an exact location. (Looking for fun stuff outside of the city? See our guides for Northern Virginia here and for Maryland here)
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Rangers offer free guided tours daily of the home of one of history’s most tireless activists. Frederick Douglass lived the last 17 years of his life at Cedar Hill, a now-historic D.C. home.
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This haunting and unique statue offers a place to honor the thousands of of men who lost their lives when the Titanic sank.
This lesser-known memorial outside the National Academy of Sciences honors Einstein and his greatest contributions to physics. Look down and you'll see the skies: the floor is doubles as a star map!
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Eastern Market (225 7th Street SE) is a farmer's market, bazaar and upscale food court all rolled into one. Inside, a number of restaurants sell crab cakes, groceries, freshly cut meats and more. Vendors outside sell unique soaps, clothing, decor and art. You'll find the market open Tuesdays through Sundays. On Sundays, a bustling flea market sets up on 7th Street SE. Across C street, Capitol Hill Books (657 C St. SE) is packed to the gills with literary treasures (and hilariously tongue-in-cheek signage).
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D.C. boasts a robust distillery scene, which one booze-maker said is because it’s the only city in America where you can make and serve alcohol in the same establishment. If you’re in Northeast, Jos. A Magnus & Co., Republic Restoratives and New Columbia Distillers offer free tours, usually on Saturdays. Check with the distillery before heading over.
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Stroll (or bike, if you’re comfortable in traffic) down Massachusetts Avenue from Woodley Park through Dupont Circle, and you’ll pass embassies from every continent. Try to guess the flags as you pass. Each May, they open their doors to the public for free.
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Museums suited to every interest line the National Mall — and all of the Smithsonians are free to visit. The Smithsonian Castle serves as the visitor's center. The Air and Space Museum showcases spacecraft from the Wright era to the space age. For art, check out the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden, the National Gallery of Art and the Freer Sackler gallery. History buffs will love the American History Museum, Natural History Museum, National Museum of the American Indian and the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
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You’ve heard the tale: In 1804, Aaron Burr and Alexander Hamilton entered into a duel that ended in Hamilton’s death. Now, you can see the firearms for yourself among letters and portraits detailing the remarkable life of the former Secretary of the Treasury.
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The Basilica of the Shrine of the Immaculate Conception (400 Michigan Ave. NE) may be D.C.'s most underrated tourist spot. Right off the Brookland station on the Red Line sits one of the 10 largest churches in the world, according to the Basilica's website. If you visit, tour the outside and the lower crypt. But do not miss the upper church, where the ceilings are covered in intricate murals.
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No trip to D.C. is complete without a half-smoke, and the original is housed at Ben’s Chili Bowl. Adorned with a mural celebrating African-Americans legends including The Obamas, Dave Chappelle, Dick Gregory, Mayor Muriel Bowser, News4's own Jim Vance, Chuck Brown's daughter, Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton and Cora Masters Barry. Chili dogs start at $4.40; the Original Chili Half-Smoke is $5.95.
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From the Capitol's old Corinthian columns to photography classes to an azalea collection, the arboretum has more to see than just trees — and yes, it's free.
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D.C.'s Chinatown is small and always bustling. At the intersection of 7th and G streets Northwest, the Friendship Archway and decorated 6-way crossing make great photo opportunities. Stop and listen to the buskers playing music or singing throughout the neighborhood. If you're hunting for Asian flavors, Chinatown Express offers a $6.95 lunch special where you watch the chefs make food. Wok and Roll, China Boy, Penny Whisky and Reren Lamen & Bar are neighborhood favorites. If you like ramen, Daikaya is well-loved among locals and Bantam King serves up tasty bowls alongside fried chicken.
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Watch millions of dollars make their way through the printing press at the Bureau of Engraving and Printing. Free, 40-minute tours are offered year round, but you’ll need a ticket from March 5 to Aug. 21.
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This church-turned-brilliantly colored art space hosts several free events a month (with cash bars, of course) and gallery viewings on Saturdays and Sundays. It was formerly called the Blind Whino.
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The Highlights Tour allows you to explore the details of the Cathedral's dramatic art and architecture with a guided tour tailored for first-time visitors. Reservations not required for individuals or families, and the tour is free with admission into the church. You can also look on from the outside, where you can see some very unique architectural flair.
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At the Anderson House, a free museum that focuses on all things related to the American Revolution, you'll find antique tapestries, sculptures, portraits and more.
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AFI Silver Theater has plenty of unique choices. The center has two stadium theaters and numerous events. If you’re looking for a movie that hasn’t been in theaters for a while, or a screening of a classic flick, this could be the place where you find it. Ticket prices vary.
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D.C.’s free zoo is one of the world’s best.
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With two locations open and another coming soon, one of D.C.'s favorite independent bookstore offers more than paperbacks and hardcovers. Many of the stores’ guest speaker events are free, but you can also stop by to pick up a new release or grab coffee and a snack at The Den coffeehouse and wine bar (Connecticut Avenue location only).
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You can scope out the architecture or, if you get there early, watch the judges hear a case. The Supreme Court does not offer guided walking tours, but you can visit public portions of the building.
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The Embassy of Canada Art Gallery is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is free to the public. Murals, paintings and more with Canadian ties are on display. The gallery rotates its exhibits, so you’ll be able to visit twice and see different works.
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Whether you’re looking for breakfast, dinner or somewhere to see a show, H Street has plenty of options. You can head to Dangerously Delicious Pies for a delectable slice, Bullfrog Bagels for a New York-style bagel or Granville Moore’s for mussels and other pub-type food. There are performances to see at the Atlas Performing Arts Center and live shows at the Rock and Roll Hotel. On Sept. 15, 2018, the streets will be full for the H Street festival, the biggest neighborhood celebration in D.C.
If you have a plane-lover in your group, head to Gravelly Point for a picnic and skywatching.
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Contact your representative for a tour inside the Capitol, a massive complex connected by underground tunnels. The Supreme Court is nearby, and the neighborhood has colorful homes and the Folger Shakespeare Library, which says it features the world's largest Shakespeare collection, gardens, art and more. Admission is free, but shows are not.
D.C.'s natural oasis boasts hiking trails, picnic areas and more to explore. Space-lovers should make sure to check out the planetarium, which hosts programs on Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday.
Stroll near the waterfront, sip coffee in some of D.C.'s favorite caffeine stops, window shop or just soak in the quaint architecture. Hoof it through the hilly Book Hill Park (1500-1600 blocks of Wisconsin Avenue NW) for incredible views.
D.C. is among the fittest cities in America, possibly because of the bounty of free workout classes. You can find lists of free workouts on Fitverse or The November Project.
There are dozens of talks daily on art, international politics, the environment, history and any other topic you can think of in the city. Most of them are hosted by museums, think tanks and nonprofits for free. CultureCapital.com curates a large list, and you can also check in with major organizations that cater to your interests, including the CATO Institute, Heritage Foundation, Brookings Institute and the Smithsonian.
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Capital Bikeshare Rentals start at $2 for an hour of rides, and new dockless bikeshare companies start at $1 per ride. Wear a helmet and cruise one of the city’s many bike lanes, or head over to Rock Creek Park for a dose of nature.
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Music lovers can go for the free daily performances, but anyone can enjoy the roof deck overlooking the Potomac River.
Free, one-hour walking tours are offered regularly Monday through Friday. With a valid, official ID card, you can sign up for a library card which allows you to access special reading rooms.
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Hit up two museums in one building at the National Portrait Gallery — home to the presidential portrait hall —and Smithsonian American Art Museum, which hosts treasures ranging from gorgeous landscape paintings to mesmerizing folk art.
National Cherry Blossom Festival Closes Out
This is it: the 2018 National Cherry Blossom Festival is comes to a close on Sunday. The cool weather has preserved the Cherry Blossom flowers, but the weekend warm up could bring the blooms to the end.
The Tidal Basin is the quintessential spot for blossom watching, but you can avoid the crowds at these spots:
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Nearly 100 acres of a wide array of plants comprise Meadowlark Botanical Gardens in Fairfax Station, Virginia, but in the springtime, it becomes a haven of cherry blossoms for you to see. The parks are open during social distancing measures, but programs are canceled.
Photo by Paul McClure, Flickr.com, used with permission.
The U.S National Arboretum is a beautiful sight to see year-round, but when it’s surrounded by cherry blossoms it’s even more alluring.
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At Founder’s Park in Alexandria, you can take in fresh air, overlook the water and bask in cherry blossom galore.
National Harbor, in Oxon Hill, Maryland, now boasts 200 cherry trees of their own.
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The grounds of Fort McHenry in Baltimore, Maryland, host cherry blossom trees. While the visitor's center is closed, you can still visit the site.
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Washington, D.C., Maryland and Virginia local news, events and information
The parade runs along Constitution Avenue from 7th Street NW to 17th Street NW. You can buy a grandstand seating ticket starting at $20, or watch between 9th and 15th Streets for free.
"Watch Me (Whip/Nae Nae)" signer Silento, hip-hop group Arrested Development, "The Voice" contestants Billy Gilman and Sarah Potenza are set to make an appearance alongside giant balloons, marching bands and an extreme pogo stunt team.
One $50 ticket gets you admission to the festival, where organizers promise endless refills of wines, ciders and craft beers. There's live music, games and food trucks to enjoy, as well.
After weather pushed back peak bloom twice, visitors were finally able to enjoy the gorgeous sites around the Tidal Basin.
Celebrating the day when 3,185 people who were enslaved in D.C. finally won their freedom, Emancipation Day 2018 will feature music, a parade and fireworks. The parade kicks off at 2 p.m. from 10th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue NW — and you can even sign up to walk with Mayor Muriel Bowser in the procession. Afterwards, Brandy, Angie Stone, Big Daddy Kane and other artists are set to perform. The day caps off with fireworks at 8:30 p.m.
Dozens of artists are slated to perform on porches and stoops along Rhode Island Avenue in Northeast. In addition to music, dancing and poetry, there's also chances to eat, drink and shop. A free shuttle is scheduled to bring guests from the Rhode Island Metro station.
Light City Saturday through April 21, Baltimore's Inner Harbor
Journey to Baltimore for an amazing light displays throughout the harbor.
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The nation’s first large-scale light, music and innovation festival aims to power social change. This year’s theme is “More Love, More Lights!” The artworks will cover topics like sustainability, marine life, Baltimore history and social justice. Photo shows "OUR HOUSE" by Tom Dekyvere.
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All 21 light installations are new to Light City, the statement said. Ten of the artists who created the installations are from Baltimore. Photo shows "House of Cards" by OGE Group.
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Festival food and beverage offerings will feature only local businesses to reflect the city’s thriving cuisine scene, the press release said. Photo shows "The Pool [Reflect]" by Jen Lewin.
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For music and entertainment, the Light Up the Night! Concert Stage will have acts like Grand Master Flash, G. Love & Special Sauce and Kimbra. The Club Light City Stage will feature local talents like TrillNatured, Mighty Mark and DJ LoveGoddess. Photo shows "Peacock" by Tim Scofield and Kyle Miller with Steve Dalenkoff and Will Cocks
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People can also attend Labs@LightCity, a social innovation convention. Speakers will explore the innovations and practices that build stronger, more equitable cities, the website said. Some topics include art, education, food, health, climate change. It will be at the IMET Columbus Center. Photo shows "MoonGARDEN" by Lucion.
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Light City 2018 kicked off on April 6 with Neighborhood Lights, where artists were paired with community organizations to create installations at different Baltimore City communities. Photo shows "Drift" by Stephanie Imbeau.
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The festival was started in 2016 by the Baltimore Office of Promotion & The Arts and other partners. Photo shows "OVO" by OVO Collective.
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Last year, it attracted more than 470,000 attendees and generated $44 million in economic impact, according to its website. Photo shows "OVO" by OVO Collective.
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BOPA has awarded funds back to local Baltimore artists since the festival’s beginnings. Photo shows "House of Cards" by OGE Group.
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There will be an opening parade and a closing night fireworks finale. Photo shows "House of Cards" by OGE Group.
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The Light City festival is happening from April 14 until April 21. On Sunday through Thursday, the hours are 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. For Friday and Saturdays, the hours are 7 p.m. to 12 a.m. Photo shows "Suenos" by Edgar Reyes.
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Photo shows "Suenos" by Edgar Reyes.
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Photo shows "Drift" by Stephanie Imbeau.
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Photo shows "L'Envol" by PITAYA.
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Photo shows "Communication Gaps" by GSP .studio
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Photo shows "sono: lumo" by sono: lumo
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Photo shows "my light is your light..." by alaa minawi
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Photo shows "my light is your light..." by alaa minawi
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Photo shows "OUR HOUSE" by Tom Dekyvere
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Photo shows "Kinetic Kauchii/Dekosofa" by Formstone Castle Collective
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Photo shows "The Pool [Reflect]" by Jen Lewin
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Photo shows "Peacock" by Tim Scofield and Kyle Miller with Steve Dalenkoff and Will Cocks
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Tours of the White House gardens are free and open to the public, but even the smallest of guests will need a ticket. Visitors can get free tickets starting at 8:30 a.m. on each of the tour days at the National Park Service tent, near the intersection of 15th Street and Constitution Avenue NW. Tickets are given out on a first-come, first-served basis.
The non-profit A Wider Circle is set to host a Race to End Poverty on Saturday. The organization's founder and executive director, Dr. Mark Bergel, shared details of the race and spoke with News4's Pat Lawson Muse how ending poverty is an achievable goal:
Pat Lawson Muse discusses two community events. The non-profit A Wider Circle is set to host a Race to End Poverty on April 15. The organization's founder and executive director, Dr. Mark Bergel, discusses how ending poverty is an achievable goal. Ahread of the 50+ Employment Fair, Jewish Council for the Aging's Micki Gordon discusses how older adults can discover new opportunities.
Ahead of Emancipation Day, take a scholar-led tour through history at the Hill Center.
Sports and Sporting
The Nationals Friday, 7:05 p.m. — Sean Doolittle Bobble head night Saturday, 1:05 p.m. Sunday, 1:35 p.m. — Jackie Robinson and Black Heritage Day
The Nationals face off against the Colorado Rockies at three home games this weekend.
Nats Park has some very interesting new drinks and bites to try:
Adult juice packs will be on the menu at the District Coolers stand. Flavors include blueberry mojito, raspberry gin rickey, black cherry sling and pineapple tequila.
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The Street Skewers station will serve chicken, beef and vegetable skewers, among other items.
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The team will bring their crab grilled cheese to MLB's FoodFest in New York next month. It's comprised of a crabcake, tomatoes and American cheese on sourdough bread.
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Old Hickory BBQ will offer pulled pork nachos.
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Nathan's -- the Nats' new official hot dog vendor -- will offer jumbo, foot-long and classic hot dogs in addition to corn dogs.
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The Nats partnered with Virginia-based Devils Backbone Brewing Company to create Earned Run Ale, a beer that will be served at the stadium for a second season.
The Capitals have made it to the playoffs! As of writing, $44 tickets are still available for Sunday's game. We'll keep you updated on the results of all games, too.
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From Friday's free showcase to a host of solo shows, the DC Comedy Festival is bringing laughs to restaurants and bars across the city, including Ben's Chili Bowl (H Street location), Red Rocks, Bier Baron Tavern, Busboys and Poets (Mount Vernon location). Many shows cost $10 or $15. Several are free.
Musicians from throughout the U.S. will travel to D.C. in a celebration of symphony orchestras. Tickets are $25 for each show.
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L-R: Wiz Khalifa, Diana Ross, Billie Eilish
New Kids on the Block
New Kids on the Block are returning to Washington, D.C.! The legendary boy band will be here in 2019 — and they're not coming alone. Special guests on the tour include Salt-N-Pepa, Tiffany, Debbie Gibson and Naughty by Nature. Tickets for VIP packages and fan club members went on sale Oct. 9. Tickets opened for the rest of the public Oct. 12.
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Courtesy: Backstreet Boys DNA World Tour
Backstreet's back July 12 at Capital One Arena, alright? And DC can count themselves lucky: This is the boys' first U.S. stop after an extensive European tour.
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Although festival passes are sold out, there are several free-to-the-public performances scheduled, all in celebration of American primitive guitar music. Here's the schedule.
The true hero of "Get Out" will grace Arlington with his comedic routine with 4 shows on Friday and Saturday.
Slow Art Day Saturday, various times at Dumbarton Oaks, the Hirshhorn, National Museum of Women in the Arts and the National Portrait Gallery
Take a deep breath, museum rushers, and spend time contemplating one work for longer on Slow Art Day. If you want a guide, a Hirshhorn Gallery Guide will lead 30-minute dives into different pieces of art. The National Portrait Gallery will help visitors enjoy the experience with music, art and writing activities.
The AFI Silver Theatre and Cultural Center is screening Bollywood classics for another weekend. Movies are in Hindi with English subtitles. The full schedule is here and you can buy tickets here.
A slice of the fantastical and larger-than-life arts festival Burning Man has taken over the Renwick Gallery and even spilled out onto the surrounding streets. Expect a lot of buzz and selfie-takers, but between the virtual reality experience, the epic Grand Salon makeover and the larger-than-life displays, it'll be worth the inevitable lines and crowds.
Check out our first look here:
The Renwick's "No Spectators: The Art of Burning Man" features pieces from the festival and original artworks, like the grand archway pictured above. See the goddesses holding the eyes? Creators Michael Garlington and Natalia Bertotti shared this tip for full enjoyment: peek inside the pupils!
Artist Marco Cochrane's plans to bring a 45-foot statue of a dancing woman to the National Mall didn't work out, but this 18-foot version now has a home in the Renwick. The exhibit will be open until January 21, 2019.
The relaxing cushions and dancing lights on the Grand Salon's ceiling are gone, making way for a detailed wooden display in the style of effigies built at Burning Man.
A detailed light fixture baths the Grand Salon in a mellow light. No worries if you loved the cushy pillows: another room, decked out with pillows and dancing starfish, is devoted to slothful pursuits.
The cautiously carved walls have enough details to keep you gazing all day.
Some of Burning Man's fantastical transportation options are on display, including the "Evotrope."
This bike calls to mind an old-timey movie — literally. The images on the wheel can be viewed in a different light as they spin.
Many pieces play with light, including Trocto, a piece by artist duo Yelena Filipchuk and Serge Beaulieu, the two halves of HYBYCOZO. Even if you don't make it to the Renwick, you can see one of their pieces outside at the intersection of Connecticut Avenue Northwest and K Street Northwest.
"An unintelligible passionate yearning drove them out into the desert - TE Lawrence." Tens of thousands of people fufill that urge annually at the Burning Man Festival, which attracts artists, celebrities and tech company CEOs alike.
The "City of Dust: The Evolution of Burning Man" room delves into the history and culture of the festival.
Some Burning Man costumes go far beyond your typical trendy fest-wear.
Consider your flower crown one-upped.
Desert fashion for the heat-proof.
One million people are expected to visit the Burning Man exhibit, Kim Cook, the director of art and civic engagement for the project told reporters.
The exhibit is meant to connect anyone to the Burning Man experience — even if you're on the East Coast or can't afford a ticket.
Pictured above, a ferocious art car.
The virtual reality experience is one of the most innovative parts of the museum: a 2-minute, immersive experience that brings you to the desert.
No spoilers, but note the red dot on the floor. Step on one during your visit for a Alice In Wonderland-esque surprise.
The exhibit extends out onto the surrounding streets for a public art exhibit called "Beyond the Renwick. Above, a likeness of Maya Angelou. Check out the map of outdoor exhibits here.
Meet Lucinda and Tom, two crows who have moved in downtown. Check out the map of outdoor exhibits here.
This cute, waving bear has fur made of pennies.Check out the map of outdoor exhibits here.
Right on Connecticut and K streets, HYBYCOZO's Golden Spike honors where math and art meet.Check out the map of outdoor exhibits here.
Artist Kate Raudenbush explored: What would a modern monument to technology look like years after humans left the temple behind? Check out the map of outdoor exhibits here.
Artist Kate Raudenbush shows off the hourglass inside "Future's Past."
Inside or out, the Renwick's exhibit is infinitely Instagram-able.
Stuff your face for a good cause at this all-you-can-eat (and drink) crawfish celebration. Proceeds from tickets, which are $90 in advance or $100 at the door, benefit the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation.
p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Follow landscape architect Ron Henderson’s journey following the cherry blossom trail from southern to northern Japan. His sketches exhibit not only looks at the trees themselves, but how they’re cared for. This exhibit — and all the others! — is free.</span></p>
<p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Saturday and Sunday in Foggy Bottom</span></em></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Enjoy afternoon tea in one of the Cherry Blossom Domes (previous known as the Igloos). Rentals for two to eight people start at $100. They’re also offering a </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/135945050556034/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">flower crown making class</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> (times vary).</span></p>
<p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Saturday (12 p.m. to 8 p.m.) at RFK Stadium</span></em></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Sum 41, Shaggy and Less Than Jake headline this one day festival of beer, music and of course, Irishness.</span></p>
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<p><a href="http://www.ballyshaners.org/parade/"><strong>Alexandria St. Patrick's Day Parade</strong></a></p>
<p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Saturday (11:30 a.m.) in Old Town Alexandria, Virginia</span></em></p>
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<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Looking for some chill, Irish-themed fun? Alexandria’s St. Patrick’s Day parade kicks off at 1:30 p.m. from King Street and St. Asaph Street. The fun continues afterwards with a car show. Go early for the Fun Dog Show.</span></p>
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<p><a href="http://lindypromo.com/washington-dc/barcrawl_dc-st-patricks-day-bar-crawl-in-washington-dc-3-17"><strong>St. Patrick's Day Irish Stroll Bar Crawl</strong> </a></p>
<p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Saturday (1 p.m.) in Dupont Circle, Northwest Washington DC</span></em></p>
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<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A </span><a href="http://lindypromo.com/washington-dc/barcrawl_dc-st-patricks-day-bar-crawl-in-washington-dc-3-17"><span style="font-weight: 400;">bar crawl entry ticket</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> will get you cover-free entry to 10 participating bars, including Decades, Dirty Bar, Living Room and Barcode. Drink specials include $3 beers, $4 specialty beers and $5 mixed drinks. Tickets cost $20, but </span><a href="http://lindypromo.com/washington-dc/parties_washington-dc-st-patricks-happy-hour"><span style="font-weight: 400;">combo tickets to the Friday night party and Saturday bar crawl cost $15.</span></a></p>
<p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Saturday (2 p.m.) Dupont Circle, Northwest Washington D.C.</span></em></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Participants have access to more than 16 bars, including Public Bar, Eden, Kabin and Heist. </span><a href="https://tickets.theshamrockcrawl.com/event/washington-dc"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Anyone with a ticket</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> gets a refillable shamrock mug, party favors, $2 beers, $4 shamrock shots and $5 Irish Car Bombs. $35 in advance; $40 day of.</span></p>
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<p><a href="https://dupontunderground.ticketfly.com/listing"><strong>Sights & Sounds: Ireland Today</strong><span style="font-weight: 400;"><br /></span></a><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Friday (7 p.m.), Saturday (10 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.) and Sunday (4 p.m.) in Dupont Circle</span></em></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Dupont Underground is hosting artist Solas Nua to discuss her project exploring video art in Ireland. </span><strong>Friday</strong><span style="font-weight: 400;">, Nua will discuss her work ($10). On </span><strong>Saturday</strong><span style="font-weight: 400;">, you can stop in and enjoy the exhibit. From 10 a.m. to noon, the exhibit is free and offers activities geared towards kids. After noon, it costs $15. On </span><strong>Sunday</strong><span style="font-weight: 400;">, you can catch short films at the Irish Short Film festival ($8).</span></p>
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<p><a href="https://www.nbcwashington.com/entertainment/the-scene/St-Patricks-Day-Washington-DC-Maryland-Virginia-Bar-Crawl-Parade-Specials-476983663.html"><span style="font-weight: 400;">We have a roundup of the best brunch specials and drink deals right here.</span></a></p>
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<p><strong>Rage… against injustice, with music or by smashing a printer</strong></p>
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<p><a href="http://www.thearcdc.org/events/breathe-musical-0"><strong>Breathe: The Musical</strong></a></p>
<p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Friday, Saturday and Sunday (8 p.m.) at THEARC (1901 Mississippi Avenue SE, Washington, D.C.)</span></em><span style="font-weight: 400;"><br /></span><span style="font-weight: 400;">Howard University alum Cleavon Meabon IV wrote and directed this play, which follows a family of sharecroppers in the early 20th century as they struggle under Jim Crow injustice, KKK attacks and police brutality. </span></p>
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<p><a href="https://rageroommd.com/"><strong>Rage Room of Maryland</strong><span style="font-weight: 400;"><br /></span></a><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Friday (4 p.m. to 8 p.m.) and Saturday (1 p.m. to 8 p.m.) in Glen Burnie, Maryland</span></em></p>
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<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Grab your friends and vent some frustrations! Full-service packages start at $25. You can BYOB (bring your own breakables) starting at $10.</span></p>
<p><strong>Celebrate makers and creators</strong></p>
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<p><a href="http://invention.si.edu/about/events/innovative-lives-how-women-shaped-alcohol-industry"><strong>Innovative Lives: How Women Shaped the Alcohol Industry</strong></a></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Enjoy craft beer and custom cocktail tastings while learning about the history of booze from four women whose life work is to brew and distill. Tickets are $40 and include appetizers and drinks.</span></p>
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<p><a href="https://africa.si.edu/events/"><strong>The “Real Life” Warriors of Wakanda Tour</strong></a></p>
<p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Saturday (3 p.m.) and Sunday (3 p.m.) Smithsonian National Museum of African Art on the National Mall</span></em></p>
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<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Discover the true inspiration behind the afrofuturist world of Wakanda by exploring historic African art. This awesome, free tour fills up fast, so RSVP soon.</span></p>
<p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Sunday (11 a.m. to 5 p.m.) George Mason University campus, Fairfax, Virginia</span></em></p>
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<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Whether you’re interesting in older crafts like spinning yarn and woodworking, or are looking ahead to robotics and auto hacking, the Maker Faire promises something for you. This all-ages event costs $15 for an adult, $5 for kids or $36 for a family of five.</span></p>
