Things to Do in DC This Week
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Looking for something specific? Check out these options:
- Museum parties & happy hours
- DC-area BARK Ranger programs
- Hidden gem theaters
- Fall foliage in DC
- 6 best Christmas markets
- 22 holiday pop up bars
Know of something cool happening? Submit an event for consideration!
Table of Contents
Ongoing
- 🤸 The National Building Museum is turning its stunning Great Hall into an indoor ice skating rink with daytime sessions, evening skates, and special toddler time. You’ll get 45 minutes to an hour of skating plus access to all the museum exhibits. This sold out quickly last year! Saturday 12/27-2/8. $20.
- 🖼️ Ruth Orkin’s vintage photos at the National Museum of Women in the Arts capture confident women breaking barriers in the mid-20th century, from Hollywood stars to army corps members to everyday heroes. Her 21 photographs flip the script on how women were typically portrayed, showing them as they really were. Now through Sunday 3/29. $16.
- 🍲 Cozy up in your own private heated igloo at The Watergate Hotel where you and up to five friends can sip festive cocktails and munch on holiday treats. Perfect for a special night out when you want all the winter magic without freezing your toes off. Wednesday 11/26-2/21. $350 food/beverage minimum + $50 rental fee.
- 🎭 Channel your inner detective at Clue at The National Theatre, where you’ll finally find out if it really was Colonel Mustard in the library with the wrench. This stage adaptation of the classic board game promises plenty of laughs before that epic final twist. Tuesday 1/27-2/1. $54+.*
- 🎈 The Washington, DC Auto Show is back with hundreds of new cars, outdoor test drives, racing simulators, and a kid zone with bounce houses. You can actually drive electric vehicles around DC streets and watch artists paint cars in real-time. Friday 1/23-2/1. $16+.
- 🖼️ Grandma Moses: A Good Day’s Work showcases the beloved folk artist who didn’t start painting until her late 70s but became a media sensation with her charming scenes of rural American life. You’ll see 33 of her most celebrated works that blend personal memories with direct observation of nature. Tuesday 11/25-7/12. Free.
- 🖼️ You can see the stunning Oscar gowns worn by Lily Gladstone featuring intricate porcupine quillwork by Indigenous artist Joe Big Mountain. These are the actual custom Gucci gowns she wore to the Academy Awards and Vanity Fair party when she made history as the first Native American nominated for best actress. Through 3/31. Free.
- 🖼️ This new exhibition tells the incredible story of Filipino Americans in California through personal belongings found in mysterious steamer trunks that sat untouched for decades. You’ll see artifacts from what was once the largest Filipino community outside the Philippines, plus learn about the people who helped build California’s agricultural industry. Tuesday 12/23-11/28/27. Free.
- 🖼️ These Experimental Japanese Prints and Photographs at the Sackler Gallery features 17 Japanese artists who layered plastic, foam, and tape onto their prints to create wild, textured artworks that look totally different in person than on a screen. These aren’t your typical flat prints and photos. Through Sunday 2/22. Free.
- 🖼️ See the beautiful world of Japanese tea ceremony with historic tea bowls, scrolls, and utensils that traveled from across Asia to find their home in Japanese tea rooms. You’ll see how these everyday objects became treasured art pieces through centuries of tea gatherings. Through Sunday 4/26. Free.
- 🍲 Dirty Habit’s courtyard transforms into a cozy winter chalet with heaters, festive international dishes, and holiday cocktails like Fireside Cider. It’s first-come, first-served and runs daily through January, so you can pop by whenever the winter chalet mood strikes. Through 1/31. Free.
- 🖼️ A giant 10-foot mistletoe art installation is lighting up Anthem Row through the holidays, perfect for cute photos or romantic moments. Plus there’s a world record kiss attempt happening December 13th if you want to make history with your person! Thursday 11/21 – 1/31. Free.
- 🖼️ Hinckley Pottery is throwing their first show in over five years featuring ceramic work from master potter Jill Hinckley and current instructors. Through 1/31. Free.
- 🧠 Take a breather from your busy life with these interactive art workshops that teach you how to find more awe in everyday moments. You’ll spend 90 minutes looking closely at a single artwork, sharing thoughts with others, and learning practices to bring that sense of wonder home with you. Friday 10/3 – Saturday 3/14. Free (registration required).
Wednesday 1/28/2026
- 🧠 Learn how to keep your plants thriving through winter at this hands-on gardening workshop where you’ll make a small plant display and take home an air plant. Plus there are healthy mocktails and snacks while you learn low-maintenance growing tips. Wednesday 1/28. Free.
- 🍲 Cook and share dishes from Olia Hercules’ HOME FOOD cookbook with fellow food lovers at this monthly cookbook club. Everyone brings a dish they’ve made from the book, then you all feast together and swap cooking stories. Wednesday 1/28. $15.
- 🤝 Help sort through boxes of DC punk history at the People’s Archive and make music history more discoverable for everyone. No experience needed, just bring your enthusiasm for organizing and maybe learn some cool punk trivia along the way. Wednesday 1/28. Free.
- 🧠 Kick off your New Year goals with a month-long series of free workshops at The Yards covering everything from vision board making to heated yoga to bullet journaling. Each session comes with perks like complimentary wine or smoothies, plus you can sip specialty mocktails at participating restaurants all month long. Wednesday 1/28. Free.
- 🍲 Learn about champagne and sparkling wines from around the world while tasting five different bottles paired with artisan cheeses at The Pembroke. The wine director will walk you through everything from French Champagne to California sparkling wine, plus you’ll meet other wine lovers. Wednesday 1/28. $79.
- 🤸 Yoga with Danya at the GW Cancer Prevention and Wellness Center welcomes everyone, especially beginners who want to try something new in a supportive space. It’s happening at their new Congress Heights location, so you can check out the fresh digs while getting your zen on. Wednesday 1/28. Free.
- 🤓 Time to find out if you remember your elementary school lessons at this Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader trivia night at Penn Social. They’ll put you into teams on the spot, so come solo or bring friends for some friendly competition over math, science, and history questions that might stump you more than you’d expect. Wednesday 1/28. $18.
- 📖 Secretary Janet Yellen and Governor Gary Locke are receiving a major public service award with NPR’s Jenn White moderating a discussion about integrity in government. It’s a chance to hear from two heavy hitters about what good public service actually looks like. Wednesday 1/28. Free.
Thursday 1/29/2026
- 🖌️ Paint a cute snowman while sipping hot chocolate at this cozy winter art session. All supplies and beginner-friendly instruction included, so you can just show up and get creative. Thursday 1/29. Free.
- 🍲 Sip champagne with an actual knight from France’s Confrérie des Sacres at Cork & Fork, where you’ll taste exceptional bubbly and hear stories about centuries-old champagne traditions. Perfect for anyone who wants to feel fancy on a weeknight! Thursday 1/29. $115.
- 🕺 This comedy show promises big swings and hilarious misses from comics who are funny but flawed enough to make you look totally cool by comparison. Plus Kelly’s Irish Times sells onion rings, which honestly might be the real draw here. Thursday 1/29. Free.
- 🖼️ Meet photographer Astrid Riecken at this opening reception where she’ll chat about her moody DC collages that turn the city into a noir film set complete with jazz clubs and neon lights. There’s an artist talk at 7pm plus light refreshments to keep you fueled. Thursday 1/29. Free.
- 🤓 Celebrate National Puzzle Day with fellow puzzle lovers at this cozy library hangout where you can work on puzzles together or fly solo. Bring your own to swap or tackle one of theirs! Thursday 1/29. Free.
- 🧠 Kick off your New Year goals with a month-long series of free workshops at The Yards covering everything from bullet journaling to heated yoga to grocery store tours. Each session comes with perks like complimentary wine or smoothies, plus you can sip specialty mocktails at participating restaurants all month long. Thursday 1/29. Free.
- 🕺 Orquesta Manplesa is bringing their live sound to Saint-Ex for a late-night music session that’ll keep you dancing. Thursday 1/29. $10.
- 🤓 Test your random knowledge at this Jeopardy-style trivia night where you can show up solo and get paired with a team or bring your own crew. Categories cover everything from pop culture to current events, plus there are prizes for the winning teams. Thursday 1/29. $18.
- 🍲 Sip wine and nibble White House-inspired bites while learning about presidential dining traditions across history at this guided tasting experience. If you love good wine, history stories, or both, you should RSVP here. Thursday 1/29. $75+.
Friday 1/30/2026
- 🕺 Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater is bringing their incredible dancers to the Warner Theatre for 11 performances, including their legendary piece Revelations that’ll give you chills. This will sell out. Friday 1/30-2/8. $75+*
- 🤸 Pickleball After Dark Social Play brings the fun to Friday night with courts, paddles, and plenty of socializing at Kraken Kourts. Get the chance to meet new people and getting your game on! Friday 1/30. $25.
- 🖌️ Bring your knitting needles and current project to this relaxed stitching circle at the Old Stone House where you can chat about colonial fiber arts while working on whatever you’re making. It’s not a class, just a chill space for knitters of all skill levels to hang out and share stories. Friday 1/30. Free.
- 🛍️ Lucky Girl Market brings 30+ vendors selling Y2K finds, vintage pieces, and handmade jewelry to Hook Hall for a day-to-night shopping party. Early bird tickets get you in at 3pm with snacks and drinks included, or show up after 5pm for free entry. Friday 1/30. $10 early; $0 after 5pm.
- 🤸 Pure Barre meets mead tasting at Clear Skies Meadery for a 50-minute workout followed by drinks. Your ticket covers both the class and a mead cocktail afterward, so bring your yoga mat and your ID! Friday 1/30. $23.
- 🍾 Mix, mingle, and dance the night away at this friendly social where everyone becomes a wingperson for everyone else, then hit the dance floor for some club hopping. Friday 1/30. Free with RSVP, $20 without.
Saturday 1/31/2026
- 🍾 Get ready for a Heated Rivalry Dance Party at DC9 where the dance floor meets the sweetest love story. Saturday 1/31. $5+.
- 🧑🍳 Learn to fold, fill, and cook your own Chinese dumplings with Little Tiger Dumplings at this hands-on class. You’ll make 12 dumplings, get a boba tea, and take home extra wrappers to keep the dumpling party going. Saturday 1/31. $39.
- 🏞️ Chase nine waterfalls through Whiteoak Canyon and Cedar Run on this epic 8.5-mile winter hike that might feature frozen falls if you’re lucky. It’s a challenging trek with stream crossings and steep terrain, but the payoff is some of Shenandoah’s most spectacular cascades. Saturday 1/31. $20.
- 🧠 Create a vision board for 2026 where you’ll cut out inspiring images and quotes to map out your goals for the year ahead. It’s like making a collage of your dreams, and all supplies are provided! Saturday 1/31. Free.
- 🍾 Get ready to perreo because Benito Bowl is bringing the ultimate Bad Bunny party to Public Bar with DJ Enemy spinning all the hits and deep cuts. Themed drinks, decorations, and a night of dancing await! Saturday 1/31. $14.
- 🌲 Bring your extra seeds and swap them for new varieties at this community seed exchange at Mount Rainier Nature Center. Join to diversify your garden and connect with fellow plant lovers before spring planting season kicks off. Saturday 1/31. Free.
- 🌐 History is happening with the Krewe of Pyros’ inaugural Mardi Gras parade in DC, complete with dazzling floats, marching units, and authentic New Orleans energy hitting the nation’s capital. Congressman Troy A. Carter Sr. is the Grand Marshal for this cultural celebration that’s 10 years in the making. Saturday 1/31. Price not stated.
- 🖌️ Create your own printing blocks and layer patterns in this hands-on printmaking workshop where you’ll carve, print, and experiment with visual designs. Perfect whether you’re looking to try something totally new or get those creative juices flowing again. Saturday 1/31. $25.
- 🍲 Donutpalooza brings sweet and savory donuts together for a fun swap where you bring homemade donuts and leave with a box full of everyone else’s creations. Plus you get a free drink from Kayu and can compete for the best donut prize! Saturday 1/31. $35.
- 🖌️ Spend a weekend getting your hands dirty with porcelain learning pinching, coiling, and carving techniques from Julie Wiggins, who studied traditional methods in China. You’ll create multiple pieces and explore your creative voice through drawing exercises and hands-on projects. Saturday 1/31-2/1. $300 both days.
- 🧑🤝🧑 This faith-centered tea experience creates a gentle space for women to reflect on their journeys and share stories over high tea and custom keepsakes. Come as you are (in shades of green) for meaningful connection without pressure. Saturday 1/31. $29+.
- 🍾 MUST LOVE BEARDS DC is a gender-balanced day party for Black professionals and creatives where bearded men get free entry and everyone mingles from 4pm to 9pm. It’s been running since 2015 and has that perfect mix of trendy and comfortable energy you want for a Saturday afternoon. Saturday 1/31. $42.
- 🤸 Escape the winter blues with a sound bath experience featuring crystal singing bowls, drums, and guided meditation to help you reset for the new year. Saturday 1/31. $39.
- 🤝 Get your hands dirty for a good cause with vegetation trimming and English ivy removal along the Mount Vernon Trail near Memorial Bridge. You’ll help protect trees from invasive ivy while making the trail safer for everyone. Saturday 1/31. Free.
Sunday 2/1/2026
- 🕺 Sangjaru brings Korean folk fusion to Baltimore mixing traditional Korean instruments with gypsy swing, funk, and rock for something totally unique. The Guardian calls it “thunderous, sawed traditional instruments” meets “spry talking heads-style bass-funk.” Sunday 2/1. $35.
- 🎭 This documentary screening reveals the hidden stories of Black Africans in Renaissance Europe through stunning artwork, plus you get to chat with filmmaker Fred Kuwornu afterward. Perfect for anyone curious about the history that didn’t make it into most textbooks. Sunday 2/1. $20.
- 🖌️ Learn to embroider a sweet Valentine’s Day piece at this hands-on workshop with local maker Miri Artyukhina from Capital Stitch Co. Perfect for beginners who want to make something special to keep or gift! Sunday 2/1. $20.
- 🧠 Can you believe it’s almost planting season? Learn how to root and grow your own raspberry canes in this hands-on workshop that covers everything from dividing canes to pruning tips. You’ll take home a rooted raspberry plant ready for your garden! Sunday 2/1. $10.
- 📖 Author Lonnae O’Neal shares the fascinating story behind her book Bibb Country, where planting lettuce seeds in her backyard led to uncovering generations of family secrets tied to enslavement, emancipation, and the Kentucky Bibb family. This Black History Month event explores how food connects to freedom and identity in ways you might never expect. Sunday 2/1. Free.
- 🤸 After Glow combines a HIIT workout, sauna and cold plunge therapy, plus a singles mixer for people who want to meet others while doing something good for their body. You’ll sweat together, brave the cold plunge, then hang out over coffee and local vendor treats. Sunday 2/1. $35+.
- 🛍️ Planning a wedding and want to see all your options in one place? Check out the Great Bridal Expo where you can meet vendors, sample catering, and score some giveaways while a live orchestra plays. Sunday 2/1. Free.
- 📜 Check out this cool self-guided discovery experience where you’ll hunt for labels around the library showing everyday items invented by African American innovators. Learn how many things you use daily wouldn’t exist without their genius! Sunday 2/1. Free.
- 🧑🤝🧑 Bundle up for a winter hot girl stroll through Malcom X/Meridian Hill Park followed by cozy coffee at Creative Grounds. This is for meeting new friends and getting some fresh air even when it’s chilly outside. Sunday 2/1. Free.
- 🕺 Drag (the Roof Down) Brunch at Roofers Union brings fierce queens serving face, flips, and flair while you sip $22 bottomless mimosas and bloody marys. Hosted by the fabulous Orpheus Rose, this is brunch with lots of entertainment value. Sunday 2/1. Free.
- 🍲 Beat the winter blues with Fondue February at St. Vincent Wine, where you can get your choice of cheese or chocolate fondue plus a bottle of wine for a special price. It’s basically the perfect excuse to eat melted cheese and drink wine all month long. Sunday 2/1. $55-$75.
Tuesday 2/3/2026
- 📖 A’Lelia Bundles is sharing stories and vintage photos from her new biography about her great-grandmother, the charismatic Jazz Age socialite who threw legendary parties and supported Harlem Renaissance artists. You can explore Hillwood’s mansion and gardens beforehand, then get your book signed after the talk. Tuesday 2/3. $22+.
- 🍲 Celebrate Burns Night with rare single malts and Scottish poetry at Jack Rose Dining Saloon with curated whisky tastings, live Highland music, and Burns-inspired bites. You’ll get to try exclusive Scotch Malt Whisky Society casks while listening to traditional Scottish songs and poetry. Tuesday 2/3. $172.
- 🎭 DC Documentary Club is meeting to discuss a Black History Month film that you’ll vote on and watch beforehand (think MLK/FBI or Hale County This Morning This Evening). Come ready to chat about the film over snacks and drinks with fellow doc lovers. Tuesday 2/3. Free.
Wednesday 2/4/2026
- 🎈 Free chocolate treats every Wednesday in February at the Benning Library to celebrate National Chocolate Month. Just show up and grab some sweetness while supplies last! Wednesdays 2/4 through 2/25. Free.
- 🤓 Get ready to test your knowledge at Historically Black Phrases Live!, an interactive game show celebrating Black culture and language based on the NAACP Image Award-winning book. You’ll laugh, learn, and maybe even win prizes while local favorites join the fun on stage. Wednesday 2/4. Free.
- 🤓 Test your DC street cred at Ask A DC Native, a fun trivia-style competition where locals show off their knowledge of the city’s history, art, and culture. It’s happening at Grounded Cafe in Anacostia, so you can grab coffee while you compete. Wednesday 2/4. Free.
- 📖 Vivian Tu, the internet’s favorite money bestie, is talking wealth-building strategies at Sixth & I with her new book “Well Endowed.” She’ll chat with Hannah Williams about going beyond basic budgeting to create generational wealth for you and your family. Wednesday 2/4. $23+.
- 🧑🍳 Learn to make handmade tortillas and build tacos from scratch with Chef Rachel at this hands-on cooking class. You’ll master cilantro-lime chicken, fresh pico de gallo, and authentic Spanish rice too. Wednesday 2/4. $69.*
- 🧠 Former Wall Street trader Vivian Tu is sharing her money secrets to help you build real wealth and leave a legacy for your family. You’ll get her book signed and can snap a photo too! Wednesday 2/4. $12+.
- 📖 Hear from Deborah Berke, the first woman dean of Yale’s Architecture School and 2025 AIA Gold Medal recipient, as she shares her creative journey and insights on how design shapes our world. Tuesday 2/4. $15.
Thursday 2/5/2026
- 🧑🤝🧑 Here’s a fun twist on dating: bring a single friend for someone else to meet at this Plus-One Party where everyone gets 6-minute mini-dates followed by a cocktail party. You’ll meet 30 people who’ve all been friend-vetted, so you know they’re good humans. Thursday 2/5. $45.
- 🖼️ Celebrate love (including self-love!) at the Phillips Collection’s Valentine’s party with cocktails, music, and interactive art experiences. You can check out two exhibitions while you’re there, plus there’s food and drinks for sale. Thursday 2/5. $20; free for members.
- 📖 Watch a documentary about Paul Laurence Dunbar, the first African American poet to gain international fame, followed by a Q&A with filmmaker Frederick Lewis. You’ll learn about his complex life, his marriage to writer Alice Ruth Moore, and how his work still inspires artists today. Thursday 2/5. Free.
- 🧑🤝🧑 Ever wondered what it’s like to have honest conversations about death over tea and cake? Death Cafe at Congressional Cemetery creates a safe space for these meaningful discussions in one of DC’s most historic burial grounds. Thursday 2/5. $5 suggested donation.
- 🧑🤝🧑 Mix art appreciation with meeting new people at this 30s & 40s singles happy hour at The Phillips Collection featuring drinks in private art parlours followed by live music throughout the museum. Thursday 2/5. $45.
- 🕺 Kick back with smooth R&B tunes and good drinks at this grown folks happy hour that’s all about classic and new hits in a chill atmosphere. Perfect for winding down or getting your evening started right. Thursday 2/5. Free.
- 🧑🤝🧑 Remix OUTings is a curated friendship-building series for queer women and sapphics 35+ who want real connections through small group hangs at cool DC spots. You’ll get matched with 6-10 likeminded folks for three Thursday meetups, plus a final mixer where all groups come together. Thursday 2/5. $160.
- 📜 Check out this display about a century of Black History commemorations in the gorgeous Great Hall at the Library of Congress. You’ll learn how Carter G. Woodson’s “Negro History Week” from 1926 grew into the Black History Month we know today. Thursday 2/5. Free with timed-entry pass.
- 🧠 Get your Valentine’s Day questions answered at this anonymous Q&A with sex and relationship therapists at MLK Library. Write down whatever you want to know and let the experts tackle it in a fun, sex-positive setting. Thursday 2/5. Free.
Friday 2/6/2026
- 🍾 Pick your team (Hudson, Connor, or Francois) and throw on your hockey gear for this Heated Rivalry-themed dance party featuring queer pop anthems and tracks from the hit show. Think Gaga to RuPaul, plus all the steamy romance and hockey energy you can handle. Friday 2/6. $34.
- 🕺 Every(body) Wants to Be a Showgirl brings together top Black burlesque artists from across the US for an exhibition and live performance celebrating Black artistry in the historic Dupont Underground tunnels. You can catch the opening night show or check out the exhibition any weekend through March 1. Friday 2/6. $6.
- 🧑🍳 Learn to make fresh mozzarella from scratch in this hands-on class where you’ll heat, stretch, and shape cheese like a pro. You can customize your creation with herbs, citrus zest, or chili flakes. Friday 2/6. $75.*
- 🕺 Get ready for some serious country music magic when Heaven Forbid teams up with Ramona & The Holy Smokes and Rebecca Porter & The Rhinestone Roses at Pie Shop. You’ll hear everything from anti-fascist cowboy crooning to “Mexi-tonk” sounds and Appalachian honky tonk that’ll keep you dancing all night. Friday 2/6. $21.
- 🕺 Experience Destiny’s Child like never before with a candlelight string quartet covering all the hits in an intimate setting at the Destiny’s Child: Iconic Reimagined Tour Washington DC. Friday 2/6. $53.*
- 🕺 A string quintet is covering all your favorite Destiny’s Child hits by candlelight, and yes, that includes “Say My Name” and “Bootylicious.” Plus Mathew Knowles (Beyoncé’s dad) will be there as a special guest. Friday 2/6. $53+.*
- 🧠 Learn to make perfect French macarons from scratch with Chef Dobbie guiding you through every step, from meringue to piping. No experience needed, and you’ll actually know how to make these fancy treats at home afterward. Friday 2/6, 2/12, 2/26, 2/27. $69.*
- 🕺 Get ready for some serious country talent when Heaven Forbid teams up with Ramona & The Holy Smokes and Rebecca Porter & The Rhinestone Roses at Pie Shop DC. You’ll hear everything from anti-fascist cowboy crooning to “Mexi-tonk” sounds and Appalachian honky tonk that’ll keep you dancing all night. Friday 2/6. $21.
- 🍾 Lace up for a Valentine’s-themed roller skating party with throwback R&B, hip-hop, and Afrobeats spinning until late. Bring your own skates if you have them since rentals are first come, first served. Friday 2/6. $18.
- 🧑🤝🧑 This red-themed singles party at Zooz Cocktail Garden lets you choose gold wristbands if you’re looking to meet someone special or black if you’re just there to vibe and support friends. The Tulum-inspired spot has Instagram-worthy cocktails, icebreaker games, and that Miami waterfront feel right on The Wharf. Friday 2/6. $17.
Saturday 2/7/2026
- 🍲 Perfect for Valentine’s season, this Georgetown Chocolate Tour takes you to local businesses for sweet treats around the neighborhood. It’s like a progressive dinner but with chocolate at every stop! Saturday 2/7. $66.
- 🧠 Swap seeds, pick up new gardening tips, and meet fellow plant lovers at the WG Seed Exchange happening at Green Spring Gardens. Saturday 2/7. $18+.
- 🖌️ Learn how to turn your worn-out clothes into works of art at this drop-in clothing repair workshop where you’ll try techniques like sashiko stitching and needle felting with expert “Mend-tors.” Perfect for anyone who wants to give their favorite pieces a second life! Saturday 2/7. Free.
- 🧑🤝🧑 Bring 10 pieces from your closet you don’t wear anymore and swap them for fresh finds at this sustainable clothing exchange with a DJ, matcha bar, and local art at HOMME Gallery. It’s like a fun treasure hunt where everyone wins and nothing goes to waste. Saturday 2/7. $13.
- 🧑🤝🧑 Ring in the Lunar New Year at this singles mixer with complimentary dumplings and shooters at Bar Chinois. Think table games, icebreaker challenges, and a relaxed way to meet new people before Valentine’s Day hits. Saturday 2/7. $15+.
- 🕺 Get ready for some seriously silly entertainment at Cupboard’s Cabaret, an alt-comedy night featuring clown acts, burlesque, and a literal troll under a bridge. It’s the kind of absurd fun that’ll have you laughing at things you didn’t know were funny. Saturday 2/7. $12.
- 🛍️ Skip the big crowds and check out this cozy Valentine’s mini market hopping between three cute Old Town Fairfax boutiques for vintage finds, handmade gifts, and hot chocolate. Plus you can grab special chocolate bars that might have golden tickets for prizes, all supporting local charities. Saturday 2/7. Free.
- 🕺 Torath Ensemble is bringing Arabic music, whirling dance, and live poetry to Arlington for a night that’ll transport you from Cairo to Baghdad. It’s an immersive experience that combines all the senses for something truly special. Saturday 2/7. $35.
- 🍲 Explore Little Ethiopia on this guided food tour that takes you from U Street to 9th Street through the largest Ethiopian community outside Ethiopia. You’ll taste authentic dishes while learning about Ethiopian culture and history. Saturday 2/7. $71.*
- 📜 Learn about the civil rights history of Glen Echo Amusement Park through this award-winning documentary screening. You can catch it at two different showtimes, so pick what works for your schedule. Saturday 2/7. Free.
- 🍱 Matcha Pop-Up featuring specialty matcha lattes inspired by Thai desserts that are bright, creamy, and perfectly sweet. Perfect for matcha lovers looking for something different! Saturday 2/7. Price not stated.
- 🍾 THIQUE is celebrating their first birthday with a dance party designed specifically for plus-size queer folks and allies. Expect body-positive beats from three amazing DJs and plenty of cake to go around. Saturday 2/7. $10-15.
- 🎭 The Enchanted Mermaid by Beale Street Puppets features beautiful Bunraku-style puppets telling the tale of a cobbler trying to free a cursed mermaid from a wicked lord. The 45-minute show uses elaborate miniature castle sets and is perfect for families with kids 4 and up. Saturday 2/7-3/1. $18.
- 🕺 Every(body) Wants to Be a Showgirl brings together top Black burlesque artists from across the country for an exhibition and performance series celebrating Black artistry in the historic Dupont Underground. You can catch the opening show, browse the exhibition on weekends, or join the artist talk for deeper conversations about this incredible art form. Saturday 2/7. $6.
Sunday 2/8/2026
- 🕺 Learn the history of blues music with live performances from the Washington Jazz Arts Institute at MLK Library. Perfect way to celebrate Black History Month with some toe-tapping, hand-clapping good times. Sunday 2/8. Free.
- 🐾 Bring your pup to watch the Puppy Bowl at metrobar’s Yappy Hour where well-behaved dogs can hang out while you grab drinks and soak up all the adorable puppy energy. Perfect way to ease into Super Bowl Sunday with maximum cuteness and zero pressure. Sunday 2/8. Free.
- 🐾 Your dachshund (or any pup, really) can find their Valentine at this adorable wiener dog meetup complete with free doggy snack packs and hot chocolate for humans. Sunday 2/8. Free.
- 🖌️ Create your own hand-knit heart-shaped pillow at this cozy crafting session perfect for couples, friends, or families. All supplies included, and no knitting experience needed! Sunday 2/8. $34.
- 🧑🤝🧑 Bring up to 5 pieces you’d gift to a friend and swap them for new treasures at this Sunday brunch clothing swap at Baruch Café. You’ll get to enjoy good food and community while giving your clothes a second chance at love. Sunday 2/8. Free.
- 🧠 This Galentine’s yoga workshop at The Morrow Hotel combines a heart-opening vinyasa flow with a social hour featuring a DIY flower bar, premium matcha, and love note station. You’ll love this if you’re a solo adventurer or if you have friend groups looking to slow down and connect. Sunday 2/8. $35.
- 🧑🍳 Perfect your chocolate game with this hands-on cake decorating class where you’ll make an elegant chocolate wrap cake topped with modeling chocolate roses. You’ll learn from a pro decorator and take home your delicious creation in time for Valentine’s Day. Sunday 2/8. $145.
- 🛍️ Club Fleur’s vintage Valentine’s pop-up in Georgetown is perfect for finding unique pieces for yourself or your favorite person. Browse vintage finds while sipping drinks in this Georgetown spot. Sunday 2/8. Free.
- 🍾 Chadwicks is throwing the ultimate game day party with bottomless wings, nachos, and quesadillas while you watch the big game on Old Town’s biggest screen. Perfect excuse to eat way too much food and cheer really loudly with your neighbors. Sunday 2/8. $23.
- 🕺 Award-winning traditional musicians Joe Newberry and April Verch are bringing fiddle tunes, clawhammer banjo, and step dancing from the Ozarks and Ottawa Valley to Hill Center’s intimate Stone Room concert series. You’ll hear original songs mixed with timeless classics, plus stories that connect you to the heart of this music. Sunday 2/8. $23.
- 🤸 Celebrate friendship and self-love at this Galentines Day sculpt and breathwork class that combines low-impact movement with guided meditation. Sunday 2/8. $26.
- 🧑🤝🧑 Social Sips & Bites is taking over El Ray for the Super Bowl with big screens, good food, and the kind of crowd that makes watching the game way more fun. Whether you’re there for the touchdowns or just the halftime show, it’s going to be a good time. Sunday 2/8. Free.
- 🖌️ Bud & Boujee: Galentine’s Edition is back with premium roses, cocktails, and that “I needed this” energy where you’ll create your own luxe floral arrangement. Sunday 2/8. $105.
- 🧠 Learn how to grow your own strawberries at this hands-on transplanting workshop where you’ll dig up and take home two plants to get started. Perfect timing to get them established before winter so they’ll come back strong next spring. Sunday 2/8. $10.
* Items marked with an asterisks contain affiliate links (for which I earn a small commission at no additional cost to you) or sponsored. Events are featured based on if I find them interesting and think others will too, regardless if they are affiliate or sponsored.

