Summer Restaurant Week

Kick off your weekend by indulging in Washington DC's renowned Summer Restaurant Week, a biannual celebration of the city's diverse culinary scene.

Over 350 restaurants across DC, Maryland, and Virginia will offer specially priced multi-course dinner menus. It's an excellent opportunity to revisit a beloved local spot or discover a new gem.

Participating restaurants will offer multi-course dinner menus for $40, $55, and $65 per person. Many also offer optional cocktail, wine, or non-alcoholic pairings. This event is a staple for locals to experience fine dining at a special price point.

DCBX Latin Dance Festival

Dive into the vibrant world of Latin dance at the DCBX Latin Dance Festival.

Ranked as one of the best Latin dance festivals in the U.S., DCBX features concerts, dance contests, and workshops across various venues. Friday night will be filled with high-energy bachata, salsa, and other Latin rhythms, perfect for both seasoned dancers and those looking to soak in the lively atmosphere.

Expect live music, DJ dance parties, and opportunities to learn and practice various Latin dance styles. The festival draws a large and enthusiastic crowd, making it a significant cultural and nightlife event for locals.

Cultural Food Festival

Embark on a global culinary journey at the Around the World Cultural Food Festival.

This popular event allows you to explore the cultures of over 20 countries through native dishes, beverages, and captivating performances. It's a fantastic way to experience diverse traditions without leaving the DC area.

The festival runs from 11 AM to 7 PM and is free to enter, with food and drink available for purchase. It’s a family-friendly event showcasing the rich cultural diversity of the region through food and entertainment.

National Book Festival

Immerse yourself in the literary world at the Library of Congress's National Book Festival.

This free annual event brings together bestselling authors, poets, and illustrators for talks, panel discussions, and book signings. The 2025 theme, 'Everyone Has a Story,' celebrates storytelling in all its forms, featuring over 120 writers across various genres.

This festival is a major cultural highlight for book lovers, offering unique opportunities to engage with prominent literary figures. It features multiple stages, a book fair, and activities for all ages. Arrive early for popular sessions.

Family Puppet Show

Enjoy a charming performance of 'The Selfish Giant's Garden' at The Puppet Co.

This production brings Oscar Wilde's classic tale to life through intricate puppetry, offering a delightful and imaginative experience for audiences of all ages. It's a cherished local institution for family entertainment.

The Puppet Co. is known for its high-quality puppet shows that engage both children and adults. Glen Echo Park itself is a historic and artistic park with other attractions, making it a lovely destination for an afternoon outing.

Opera in the Outfield

Experience the grandeur of opera under the stars with the Washington National Opera's annual free broadcast of 'Porgy and Bess.

' Gather at Nationals Park for a memorable evening of music, community, and outdoor entertainment. This acclaimed production offers a unique way to enjoy classic opera.

This popular event is free and open to the public, drawing a large crowd of locals. Bring blankets or chairs for seating on the outfield. Concessions are available. It's a fantastic way to enjoy a cultural highlight in a relaxed, open-air setting.

Delighting Krishna Exhibit

Spend your morning exploring 'Delighting Krishna: Paintings of the Child-God' at the National Museum of Asian Art.

This marks the last day of the exhibition, featuring 14 pichwais, large devotional paintings depicting the Hindu Pushtimarg community's relationship with the child-god Krishna. These pieces, dating from the 18th to 20th centuries, offer a rare glimpse into a rich artistic tradition.

This is a unique opportunity to see these significant works as the exhibition closes. The museum offers a serene and insightful cultural experience. Allow ample time to fully appreciate the intricate details and accompanying narratives.

Reopened Air & Space Galleries

Rediscver the wonders of flight and space exploration at the National Air and Space Museum.

Five new galleries, anticipated to open in 2025, bring thousands of artifacts back on display. See iconic items like the Spirit of St. Louis, the North American X-15, and John Glenn's Mercury Friendship 7 capsule, along with new additions.

As a local, this is a perfect chance to re-engage with one of the Smithsonian's most popular museums, experiencing its newly updated exhibits. It's a truly immersive experience for all ages, offering a fresh perspective on human innovation in air and space.

Water's Edge Exhibit Opening

Be among the first to experience 'Water's Edge: The Art of Truman Lowe,' a new exhibition opening today at the National Museum of the American Indian.

This exhibit showcases the work of Truman Lowe, a Ho-Chunk artist known for his sculptures and installations inspired by water and natural landscapes. It offers a profound reflection on the environment and Indigenous perspectives.

This opening day provides a unique opportunity to be part of the inaugural viewing of a significant new exhibition. Lowe's work is celebrated for its spiritual depth and connection to nature, offering a contemplative and enriching end to your weekend.