When was the last time you visited some of DC’s iconic monuments or museums? Between COVID, summer travel, humidity, mosquitoes… maybe it’s been a while.
The Air and Space Museum The National Mall building will reopen on October 14 with eight galleries that have been updated and redesigned. Free and timed tickets are now available.
It’s also a great time to rediscover the Kennedy Center, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary with special events this weekend, not to mention major productions of “Hamilton” and “Dear Evan Hansen.”
This weekend you can take revenge “TOO MUCH” by Leonard Bernstein (which debuted at KenCen’s opening gala), visit a new JFK exhibit on the rooftop level, or boogie next door for National Dance Day celebrations.
Be among the first to see it permanent exhibition “Art and ideals: President John F. Kennedy” when it opens Saturday at noon with a ribbon cutting in the Atrium. The 7,500-square-foot gallery includes features that showcase Kennedy’s best speeches or allow visitors to create a self-portrait. Are you traveling with children? Go sailing in the Moonshot Studio on Saturday and Sunday from 11.30am to 4.30pm, or even build a mini boat to sail in the Victura Pool.
Plus, the H Street Festival is back and President Lincoln’s Cottage is hosting a homecoming.
Curious about what’s on our radar for the upcoming weekend? Subscribe to The Weekend Scene newsletter so you don’t miss an inside look at Art All Night, a mountain of activity at the Czech Embassy and the Virginia State Fair.
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What to do in DC this weekend
Free selection
H Street Festival
Saturday, noon to 7 pm
H Street Corridor Northeast
Spend the afternoon dancing, shopping and eating at H Street Fest.
More than 40 concerts, dozens of other performances and local pop-up shops will take over 12 blocks of H Street Northeast Saturday from noon to 7 p.m. It is free and open to the public. Stay tuned to their Instagram for schedule and schedule updates
Homecoming at President Lincoln’s house
Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m
President Lincoln’s Cottage (140 Rock Creek Church Road NW, Washington, DC)
This historic site hosts a full day of family fun. Start the day with a 5K and jog, then enjoy the Petworth Jazz concert, children’s activities, a petting zoo and guided tours of the cottage. Pack a picnic or grab lunch from the food trucks.
“Art and Ideals: President John F. Kennedy”
Saturday, noon
The Kennedy Center
Watch the grand opening of a new rooftop exhibit dedicated to President John F. Kennedy’s patronage of the arts.
Kingman Island Cleanup
Saturday, from 9 to noon
Kingman Island (Northeast DC)
Join the global international coastal cleanup effort this Saturday in DC Breakfast, lunch and supplies will be provided, but please wear closed-toe shoes and bring a water bottle.
Celebrate Petworth
Sunday, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m
800 block of Upshur Street NW
Learn the history of Petworth, hear the bands on the main stage and bark for joy at the Dog Show.
What to do in Maryland this weekend
Frederic’s Great Fair
September 16-24
The Frederick Fairgrounds
It’s a big week at the Frederick Fairgrounds with concerts (including a Sunday set by Joan Jett & The Blackhearts), motorsports, pig races, funnel cakes and rides. Buy tickets online to get a discount.
Festival of Ukraine
Friday, Saturday and Sunday
St. Andrew’s Ukrainian Orthodox Cathedral in Silver Spring
After a special dinner on Friday, enjoy Ukrainian performances, music, food and children’s activities and a beer garden on Saturday and Sunday.
Admission is $20 for adults, $10 for seniors and free for those 21 and under. A portion of the proceeds will go to humanitarian efforts in Ukraine.
Free selection
Fail Festa
Lake Arbor Community Center (Mitchellville)
Sunday, 1-4 pm
Celebrate the start of Hispanic Heritage Month with dancing, live music and food at this family-friendly event.
What to do in Virginia this weekend
Free selection
Dulles Day Airplane Traction
Saturday, from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m
Dulles International Airport
Which group can throw an entire plane 12 feet faster? Watch the competition while enjoying aircraft displays, a classic car show, bounce houses and music, all benefiting Special Olympics Virginia. Parking and admission are free. Bring cash for shopping.
Tysons from Oktoberfest
Saturday, from 2 to 5 p.m
The Boro Tysons
Celebrate Oktoberfest German style without leaving the DMV. The Boro will host a polka concert, games, pretzel necklace making and more for the whole family. There will also be beer, of course. The first 150 people will receive a free branded beer mug.
Admission is free, but you are encouraged register online in advance.
