As August rolls in, Washington D.C. is buzzing with exciting activities for locals and visitors alike. From themed sports nights to art festivals, there’s something for everyone this weekend.
One of the standout events is Grateful Dead Day at Nationals Park on Friday, celebrating the birthday of Jerry Garcia, the iconic frontman of the Grateful Dead. Fans of the band can enjoy a game against the Milwaukee Brewers, complete with a Grateful Dead-themed Nats jersey for those who opt for a special ticket purchase. Additionally, the event will feature a pre-game performance by Andrew Weiss and Friends, with a portion of the ticket proceeds benefiting the Rex Foundation. More details on ticket availability can be found through their official channels.
For cinema lovers, the African Diaspora International Film Festival kicks off this weekend. This festival is a collaboration between the Africa World Now Project and George Washington University, showcasing films that highlight diverse narratives. The festival opens with selections like “Brides” and “Village Keeper,” and will conclude with a reception and screening of Jayan Cherian’s “Rhythm of Dammam,” followed by a Q&A session with the director. Attendees can find more information on the festival’s lineup online.
On Saturday, The Wharf will be transformed for Shark Week with its “Shark Bites & Brews” event, running from 5-8 p.m. Visitors can take part in various shark-themed activities, including an exhilarating ride on Bruce, the mechanical shark, and games like Pin the Fin on the Shark. Guests will receive complimentary shark hats courtesy of Pacifico, making for a fun evening by the waterfront. More event specifics can be accessed through The Wharf’s website.
Art enthusiasts should not miss the Washington Printmakers Gallery’s 40th-anniversary celebration this Saturday at 2 p.m. This event includes a reception and awards ceremony for the 2025 Peggy Doole Competition and Exhibition “National Small Works.” The exhibition features curated works from over 120 artists across 22 states, including Washington D.C., providing a vibrant snapshot of contemporary printmaking. Further information is available on the gallery’s website.
Sunday offers a unique cultural opportunity with a Free Community Day at the National Museum of Women in the Arts. This month’s event will feature a conversation surrounding book arts and intersectional feminist art-making collaborations, anchored by the exhibit “A Radical Alteration: Women’s Studio Workshop as a Sustainable Model for Artmaking.” Curator and writer Maymanah Farhat will be present, along with Natalie Renganeschi, to engage with the attendees. More details about this enriching experience can be found online.
Pet owners will be delighted to hear about “Pup Meet Up” hosted by The Stacks on Friday evening from 6-7:30 p.m. This free event in the community park space will feature a treat bar, live music, and giveaways. Participants who register for the event will have a chance to win a monthly gift card to a local Buzzard Point restaurant or business, making it a fun outing for both pups and their owners. For registration information, interested participants can check The Stacks’ website.
Finally, those looking for an educational escape can visit the National Air and Space Museum, which has recently opened five new exhibits alongside the Lockheed Martin IMAX Theater and a redesigned entrance. Visitors will find thousands of artifacts, including significant pieces like the Spirit of St. Louis and John Glenn’s Mercury Friendship 7 capsule. More enticing details about the museum’s offerings can be accessed through their official site.
To wrap up the weekend, don’t miss the final Art Walk in The Park at Glen Echo on Friday from 6-8 p.m. Enjoy an evening of open studios and artist demonstrations in the park’s vibrant visual arts studios and galleries, providing an inspiring end to this eventful weekend.
image source from：georgetowner
