Your weekend in Borderstan. (Luis Gomez Photos)
From Katie Andriulli. Email her at katie[AT]borderstan.com and follow her on Twitter @kandriulli.
Booze with the pros, a fro-yo-themed scavenger hunt, painting with your pet, and a vinyl extravaganza…consider your weekend sorted.
Friday, June 28
- Chances are you were unaware that Suburbia has begun to dole out delicious frozen drinks, Tecate tallboys and more from an old-fashioned Airstream trailer parked right outside Union Market (1309 Fifth Street NE). Swing by The Washington Post’s Going Out Guide happy hour there tonight from 5 to 9 pm for discounted beverages and a quality hang.
- Speak softly and carry a big drink at the gorgeous new Dupont restaurant Teddy & the Bully Bar (1200 19th Street NW), brought to you by the minds behind the popular downtown joint Lincoln. Did I mention they have a bar menu that includes a gin Rickey on tap?
Saturday, June 29
- The feeling you get from giving back should be enough to motivate you, but it doesn’t hurt when it comes with the promise of free ice cream, either. Head to the The Farm at Walker Jones (131 L Street NW) at 1 pm to work in the community garden, then sample free Ben & Jerry’s ice cream from 4 to 6 pm at the community party immediately following. Just make sure to register in advance to save your spot.
- Booze and frozen yogurt only taste better when you have to work for them, which is why Mr. Yogato’s (1515 17th Street NW) 5th birthday scavenger hunt is so intriguing. Registration for the hunt, which will be at locations around Dupont, starts at 6:30 pm, with drink specials at area bars afterwards.
Sunday, June 30
- Follow in the footsteps of George W. Bush (hear me out) and paint a portrait of your dog today at the ArtJamz (1728 Connecticut Avenue NW) “Paint Your Pooch” event from noon to 2 pm. A $35 ticket gets you two hours of instruction, painting supplies, and a glass of wine, beer or tea. Best of all, furry friends are welcome.
- Get your hands on a copy of this (or, you know, something else) today at the DC Record Fair – Summer Edition at Penn Social (801 E Street NW). Early bird admission between 11 am and noon is $5, and regular admission between noon and 5 pm is $2.
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A Borderstan Weekend. (Luis Gomez Photos)
From Katie Andriulli. Email her at katie[AT]borderstan.com and follow her on Twitter @kandriulli.
Well, we made it another week is ending and we are ready to take upon the weekend.
Friday, June 21
- Will today be the best day of your life? Possibly, if you’re able to plant yourself at The Standard (1801 14th Street NW) early enough to partake in free beer courtesy of Thrillist. They’ll be footing the bill tonight as part of their “Greatest Day of Your Life” promotion.
- Bike around under the full moon then eat some (free!) ice cream at the BicycleSPACE Summer Solstice Firefly Ride and Ice Cream Social, which kicks off at 8 pm at the shop (1019 7th Street NW). Be sure to RSVP in advance so they know how much delicious ice cream to buy.
- Dress up in your best Stefon costume and go check out Seth Meyers (of SNL Weekend Update fame) live tonight at the Warner Theater (513 13th Street NW) at 8 pm. Tickets are $35.
Saturday, June 22
- Here’s yet another reason to day-drink today: ticket sales from today’s DC Bourbon Bash bar crawl will benefit the Lead the Way Fund, an organization that supports Army Rangers, veterans and their families. Tickets are $55, which will get you eight bourbon pours at bars in Dupont, check-in is at 12 pm at either James Hoban’s (1 Dupont Circle NW) or Buffalo Billiards(1330 19th Stree NW).
- Get your square-dance on (no, seriously) at The Great American Square Dance Revival tonight from 8:30 to 11:30 pm at St. Stephen & the Incarnation Episcopal Church (1525 Newton Street NW). Tickets are $5 at the door and you’re encouraged to bring your own drinks and snacks.
Sunday, June 23
- It’s going to be a beautiful day today (probably… I’m writing this on a Thursday, so, you know, meteorological predictions and all that) which means it’s patio time. Check out Borderstan’s own guide to patios in the neighborhood, and the always-solid Bitches Who Brunch ratings of patio brunches to steer you in the right direction.
- Be one of the first to check out The Sunshine District (2010 9th Street NW), a brand new live music/food/booze venue soft-opening on Saturday near the 9:30 Club.
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Your weekend in Borderstan. (Luis Gomez Photos)
From Katie Andriulli. Email her at katie[AT]borderstan.com and follow her on Twitter @kandriulli.
Friday, June 14:
- If you haven’t seen Rear Window, you need to seriously re-think your life choices. Luckily, The Heurich House Museum (1307 New Hampshire Ave. NW) is holding free movie screenings in their courtyard on select Fridays this summer, and the Hitchcock classic is on this week’s roster. Gates open at 8 pm.
- The folks at Brightest Young Things are throwing an after-hours bash at the National Geographic Society (1600 M St. NW) from 8 pm – 1 am. A $25 ticket will net you entry to exhibits, samples of punches from around the world, magic shows and more. It’ll be just like Night at the Museum, except, mercifully, with less Ben Stiller.
Saturday, June 15:
- Grab a gin and tonic (on tap!) and ogle the cured meats at Mockingbird Hill (1843 7th St. NW), the homey new bar in Shaw from The Passenger’s Derek Brown.
- Catch dance-y, new-wave rocker Twin Shadow at the Black Cat (1811 14th St. NW) tonight or you’re gonna regret it. Tickets are $20 and doors are at 9 pm.
Sunday, June 16:
- There is a myriad of Father’s Day brunch options out there, but perhaps none more enticing than Italian stalwart Dino (3435 Connecticut Ave. NW) meat-tacular special menu, which features sirloin and eggs, along with their normal repertoire of eggs “san benedetto” (their twist on the classic benedict) and Nutella stuffed french toast.
- Generally speaking, dads love competitive sporting events that will allow them claim they let you win when they inevitably lose. Ergo, mini-golf is the perfect Father’s Day activity. The National Building Museum’s (401 F St. NW) course is open today from 11 am – 5 pm, and it’s only $3 to play when you purchase museum admission (and $5 without), but ticket sales end at 3 pm, so get there early.
- Or, if your dad is more of the strong and silent type, take him to see Superman in IMAX, then treat him to a beer or two (seriously, it’s the least you can do).
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Your weekend in Borderstan . (Luis Gomez Photos)
From Katie Andriulli. Email her at katie[AT]borderstan.com and follow her on Twitter @kandriulli.
Superheroes, spandex, and speakeasies – sounds like a nice little weekend to me.
Friday, June 7
- There are literally a bajillion things going on this weekend around town in honor of the annual Capital Pride celebration, so be sure to check their website for the full list of events. Here are two good ones to help you get things started:
- A Night Out for Trevor, a fundraiser for The Trevor Project at the Palomar Hotel (2121 P Street NW) is being held tonight at 7 pm. Tickets are $75 in advance and $85 at the door, and include an open bar, hors d’oeuvres, a silent auction and more.
- The SPANDEX superhero party sponsored by BYT is being thrown in the old Wonder Bread Factory (which is apparently a thing that exists at 641 S Street NW), and features a very special performance by Sharon Needles. The party starts at 9 pm, and tickets are $20 in advance, or $25 at the door.
Saturday, June 8
- If you’re looking for a no-duh, always fun thing to do this afternoon, be sure to check out the Capital Pride Parade (with grand marshal Wonder Woman herself, Lynda Carter), which starts at 4:30 pm at 22nd & P Streets NW, and then travels through Dupont and up 14th Street NW, from P to R streets.
- Nucky Thompson would approve of the Shaw Main Streets Roaring 20’s Bar Crawl, featuring stops at Bar7, The Passenger and other area watering holes. Check their website for full details and to get your tickets, which are $15.
- If Friday’s spandex party left you wanting another excuse to wear neon, look no further than Policy (1904 14th St NW) which is hosting an “Electric Brunch” from noon to 4 pm today. The $50 entry fee includes bottomless drinks, delish food, BOOZE GELATO and a rye whiskey tasting, and all proceeds benefit local nonprofit DC Greens.
Sunday, June 9
- Sample rare Israeli beer and wine and authentic Jewish cuisine today from 12 pm – 5 pm at Union Market (1309 5th St NE) during the [email protected] festival sponsored by the The Jewish Federation of Greater Washington. Admission is free and there will be live music and other family-friendly events happening throughout the day.
- Edward Cullen Ruined My Mother’s Love Life is just one of the 6 original 10-minute plays featured tonight in “Afterwards,” part of the annual Source Festival, which kicks off this weekend and runs throughout the month of June at the Source Theater (1835 14 St NW). Tickets for the 8 pm show are $20 or $15 for students and seniors.
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Your weekend in Borderstan. (Luis Gomez Photos)
From Katie Andriulli. Email her at katie[AT]borderstan.com and follow her on Twitter @kandriulli.
Congratulations! You made it through one of the longest short weeks of the year. Reward yourself with booze on wheels, free museums, and fried chicken.
Friday, May 31
- You haven’t lived until you’ve sipped champagne out of a trailer. Veuve Clicquot’s airstream will help you cross this off your bucket list tonight when it’s parked outside the W Hotel (515 15th Street NW) from 5 to 10 pm.
- It’s going to be HOT so if you prefer to stay inside tonight, I won’t blame you. Just make sure you have some delicious beverages on hand. The Post has a good run-down of not-so-difficult to make cocktail recipes from local bars in case you want to give Sam Adams the night off.
Saturday, June 1
- Score free admission to Dupont and Kalorama’s best museums and hidden gems, including the Phillips Gallery, Dumbarton House, Heurich House and the Textile Museum, from 10 am to 4 pm today (and 1 to 5 pm Sunday) during the Dupont-Kalorama Museum Walk Weekend.
- Get all the bikes, beer, and bands you can handle at The Yards Park (355 Water Street SE), which plays host to New Belgium brewing company’s traveling Tour de Fat from 11 am to 5 pm.
Sunday, June 2
- Dupont’s GBD (1325 Connecticut Avenue NW) has been satiating the masses with their donuts and fried chicken for the past few months, and now they’re winning the brunch scene with their newly launched menu, featuring breakfast burritos, chicken and waffles, bottomless mimosas and rotating brunch punches.
- Eat dogs and help dogs at Vinoteca (1940 11th St NW), which is hosting a special hot dog BBQ today from 3 to 8 pm benefiting City Dogs rescue.
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Borderstan Weekend. (Luis Gomez Photos)
From Katie Andriulli. Email her at katie[AT]borderstan.com and follow her on Twitter @kandriulli.
I know I’m not alone in saying HELLO, THREE-DAY WEEKEND. If you happen to be stickin’ around, you’re in luck, because there is a surplus of fun things going on.
Friday, May 24
- Jazz! The free Jazz in the Garden series at the National Gallery of Art’s Sculpture Garden (7th Street and Constitution Avenue NW) marks the unofficial beginning of summer tonight from 5 pm – 8:30 pm
- New food! Since the city (in theory) should be emptying out, try your luck at one of Borderstan’s bajillion new restaurants, like Ghibellina (1610 14th Street NW), Piola (2208 14th Street NW), or B Too (1324 14th Street NW).
Saturday, May 25
- Bar Crawl! For charity, at a numer of Borderstan bars, kicking off at 4 pm at Tabaq (1336 U Street NW). Tickets are $15.
- Nerd comedy! Chris Hardwick of NerdiSt fame hits the 9:30 Club (915 V Street NW) tonight at 6:00 pm. Tickets are $25.
- Burlesque! NYC review “Burlesque-a-pades” comes to the Howard Theater (620 T Street NW) at 8 pm. Tickets are $25 in advance, $30 at the door.
Sunday, May 26
- Crustaceans! Snag unlimited crabs and fixin’s from 12 pm – 5 pm at Policy (1904 14th Street NW). Tickets are $35.
- Swimming! Adult Swim hosts its first party of the summer today starting at 11 am at the Capitol Skyline Hotel (10 I Street SW). RSVP and more info here.
- Bar Games! Hinge sponsors an all-American BBQ at Jack Rose Tavern (2007 18th Street NW) from 6 pm – 10 pm, with BBQ, an open bar, matchmaking and more. Tickets are $48 in advance and $60 at the door.
- Live music! Grab a picnic and head to the West Lawn of the Capitol for the free annual National Memorial Day Concert, from 8 pm – 9:30 pm. More info here.
Monday, May 27
- Giving! Don’t forget what today’s all about. Consider giving back by volunteering, or donate to one of the many awesome organizations that serve our troops, veterans and their families, like the USO, Fisher House, Honor Flight and Companions for Heroes.
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Borderstan Weekend. (Luis Gomez Photos)
From Katie Andriulli. Email her at katie[AT]borderstan.com and follow her on Twitter @kandriulli.
Yes, the Preakness is on Saturday, but luckily it’s only like 3 minutes long, so you’ll have plenty of time for other things this weekend…including craft beers, free museums, and (truly!) guilt-free milkshakes.
Friday, May 17
- Perfectly named local band Lindsay Buckingham Palace plays an early show at Black Whiskey (1410 14th Street NW) at 6 pm. Tickets are $10.
- Slightly more fun than watching 12-year-olds pee their pants with nervousness, the Rock & Roll Hotel (1353 H Street NE) hosts its weekly Rock & Roll Spelling Buzz adult spelling bee tonight at 8 pm (admission is free).
- Admit it, you’re kinda curious to find out what the hell a “Comedy Prom Under the Sea” is. Swing by The Dunes (1402 Meridian Place NW) tonight at 8 pm to find out (admission is free).
Saturday, May 18
- Come for brunch mimosas and stay for the beers at Scion (2100 P Street NW), which is featuring at least three craft beer drafts at 1/2-price all day, as well as other specials, in honor of American Craft Beer Week.
- No more excuses not to be cultured! Several of DC’s museums that usually charge admission (including the fantastic Phillips Collection) are waiving their entry fees today for Art Museum Day.
Sunday, May 19
- The 9:30 Club (815 V Street NW) hosts its annual Sound Bites fundraiser for DC Central Kitchen today at 1 pm. For a $40 donation, you’ll get food from over 25 local restaurants and food trucks, music from 7 local bands and cocktails.
- Swing by Saint Sophia Greek Orthodox Cathedral (2815 36th Street NW) which is throwing its annual Spring Festival today from 12 pm to 7 pm, with tons of delicious food, drinks, live music and more.
- Have a milkshake for dinner (because, why not?) at Shake Shack (1216 18th Street NW), which is running its Great American Shake Sale during the month of May. Donate $2 to Share Our Strength during your visit, and you’ll get a voucher for a free shake ($5 value) on your next visit. It’s a win-win.
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Your weekend in Borderstan. (Luis Gomez Photos)
From Katie Andriulli. Email her at katie[AT]borderstan.com and follow her on Twitter @kandriulli.
Hemingway-inspired boozing, The Boss, air guitar, and celebrating moms…what more could you ask for this weekend?
Friday, May 10
- Drink like Hemingway (well, hopefully not exactly like Hemingway if you want to make it home in one piece) at the Kennedy Center’s (2700 F St) Passport to Paris, Pamplona and Beyond reception tonight from 9 to 11:30 pm, featuring 1920’s cocktails, music and snacks. Tickets are $55 in advance, or $60 at the door. And, if you hit up the new Washington Ballet performance of Hemingway’s The Sun Also Rises beforehand, the event is only $35 with your ticket stub.
- Get your art, music, and dance on for social change at Danceportation tonight at one of Borderstan’s newest haunts, Black Whiskey (1410 14th St). Things kick off at 7:30 pm and tickets are $20, with proceeds benefiting Provisions Library.
- See The Boss (kinda) for a fraction of the price when Springsteen cover band Bruce in the USA takes the stage tonight at The Hamilton (600 14th St). The show kicks off at 8:30 pm, and tickets are $27.50.
Saturday, May 11
- Jet-set like Kanye (but without carbon footprint) when the EU Embassies host their annual open house today from 10 to 4 pm.
- Sample some homemade beer at Meridian Pint (3400 11th St) today during the DC Homebrewers & Sam Adams Homebrew Competition, where the winner will have their beer produced by the Boston-based brewery. The event starts at 1 pm, and brews are free with a $15 donation to Brainfood, a local charity.
- The not-as-easy-as-it-looks hobby of air guitar is on display tonight at Solly’s (1942 11th Street) which is playing host to the US Air Guitar Qualifiers at 7 pm (free).
Sunday, May 12
- Just call your mom, okay? Or, if she’s in town, take her out to brunch at one of Borderstan’s finest eateries. Lots of them, including DGS Delicatessen (1317 Connecticut Avenue), Mari Vanna (1141 Connecticut Avenue), and 1905 (1905 9th Street) are rolling out special menus for the occasion.
- Moms overwhelmingly enjoy wine and art (often at the same time). Treat yours to a Bold Strokes painting class at Tel’veh wine bar (401 Mass. Avenue) tonight at 5 pm, and she’ll get in for 50% off the $50 per person entry fee.
- Lots of moms also like birds and other nature-y things. If your mom is one of them, be sure to take her to “Birds of Paradise: Amazing Avian Evolution” exhibition, which is closing today at the National Geographic Museum (1145 17th Street). Tickets are $9 to $11.
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Your weekend in Borderstan. (Luis Gomez Photos)
From Katie Andriulli. Email her at katie[AT]borderstan.com and follow her on Twitter @kandriulli.
Hold onto your hats and livers kids…this weekend is the Kentucky Derby AND Cinco de Mayo, and Borderstan has more than enough fun things on tap for even the most discerning partier.
Friday, May 3
- Hill Country BBQ kicks off its Texas pop up picnic series on the lawn of the National Building Museum (401 F Street NW) tonight from 4 pm to 11 pm. Live music from the Kalob Griffin Band starts at 5:30 pm and there’s no cover.
- Comedian Moshe Kasher, who opened for Aziz Ansari on his recent tour, returns to the District tonight at the DC Improv (1140 Connecticut Avenue NW) with shows at 8 pm and 10:30 pm. Tickets are $20.
- Don your favorite Buffy or Avengers costume (you know you have one) for a chance to win prizes at tonight’s Whedonism II burlesque show at the Black Cat (1811 14th Street NW). Tickets are $10 in advance and $15 at the door, and the show starts at 11 pm.
Saturday, May 4
It’s Derby day! Luckily, the race isn’t until 6:24 pm (and lasts all of 5 seconds) which leaves you with plenty of time to guzzle some mint juleps. Here are just a few places where you can watch the ponies:
- Bayou (2519 Pennsylvania Avenue NW) hosts a Derby party from 3 to 7 pm benefiting the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Ticketsare $20 in advance and $25 at the door.
- Bourbon’s (2312 18th Street NW) 8th annual free bash from 11 am to 7 pm features drink specials and complimentary Kentucky-inspired bites.
- Class it up at the Willard Intercontinental’s (1401 Pennsylvania Ave, NW) annual Bonnets and Bowties party from 4 to 8 pm at the Round Robin bar. Tickets are $75 and include 2 cocktails, food, prizes, live music and more.
Sunday, May 5
Cinco de Mayo: a day when you don’t need an excuse to gorge yourself on guacamole. Here are some festivities happening around the neighborhood (and beyond):
- The Brixton (901 U Street NW) hosts a free “Circus de Mayo” bash from 12 to 8 pm, featuring funnel cakes, a dunk tank, $4 Coronas and boozy sno cones.
- Richard Sandoval’s staples El Centro D.F. (1819 14th Street NW) and Masa 14 (1825 14th Street NW) are both featuring brunch and cocktail specials today, including $5 specialty margaritas, DJs and more.
- Borderstan fave Commissary (1443 P Street NW) will be offering Mexican-themed food and drink specials all weekend, including chilaquiles, and hibiscus margaritas, and their sister restaurant The Heights (3115 14th Street NW) will be holding their annual patio pig roast from 11 am to close.
- Take your pup along for the festivities at the 2nd annual Running of the Chihuahuas at Kastles Stadium (800 Water Street SW). The event, which kicks off at 11 am, is free, but its $20 to enter a dog in the race (all breeds may apply!) All proceeds benefit efforts to build a dog park at the Southwest Waterfront.
- The Howard Theater (620 T Street NW) hosts a Cinco de Mayo themed variety and burlesque show at 8 pm featuring Cherie Sweetbottom and Cherokee Rose. Tickets are $7.50 in advance.
And just in case you need a bit more:
- Take in some family-friendly music and carnival games (and a Moonbunce!) at Stead Park (1625 P Street NW) from 11 am to 3 pm.
- Break out your finest casual wear for Wonderland’s (1101 Kenyon Street NW) annual Sundress Fest starting at noon. All proceeds go to the local charity Ayuda, which works with low-income immigrants in the DC area.
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Your weekend in Borderstan. (Luis Gomez Photos)
From Katie Andriulli. Email her at katie[AT]borderstan.com and follow her on Twitter @kandriulli.
So, this weekend is the White House Correspondents’ Dinner, aka the only time you could potentially wait in line for the bathroom with Jaime Lannister, or fight for a cab with Olivia Pope, so try to be on your best behavior (and tweet any celeb sightings to me at @kandriulli so I can live vicariously).
Friday, April 26
- Drinking a beer next to a sword swallower: as awkward, or more awkward than it sounds? Find out tonight at the Bier Baron, when they play host to Philly’s Olde City Side Show at 9 pm. Tickets are $10 in advance, $12 at the door.
- Since 90s clothes are back in style for some unfathomable reason, it won’t be hard to pick out an outfit for tonight’s No Scrubs dance party at the 9:30 Club. Tickets are $20 and things kick off at 9 pm.
Saturday, April 27
- It’s not even Mayo yet, let alone Cinco de, but that doesn’t mean you can’t drink margaritas anyway. Enjoy eight different kinds at venues across Borderstan at the Margarita March which begins at noon today at Alero on U Street. Tickets range from $20 to $50, and a hangover is included.
- Completely terrify yourself about the onset of spring and the impending birdocalypse at a free screening of Hitchcock’s The Birds at the National Gallery of Art at 2 pm.
- Artist Kreg Kelley will have an opening reception for his spring art exhibition, “Memento Vivere,” from 6-10pm at MOVA Lounge. He will be displaying many new works, and donating a percentage of sales to City Dogs Rescue and the Trevor Project.
- Rooftops, drinks and interactive art abound at the soft-opening of Art Soiree’s Saturday Night Rooftop Fusion party tonight at 7 pm the Beacon Hotel. Entry is free with RSVP. More info here.
Sunday, April 28
- Learn how to make a Betty Draper-approved Mai Tai at Hank’s Oyster Bar’s cocktail class today at 4 pm. Tickets are $45 and space is limited, so call them at 202-462-4265 to reserve your spot.
- Indulge in some guilt-free shopping at Cause Philanthropub’s first ever Marketplace, which will feature food, drinks and local vendors. It’s free and runs from 2 to 5 pm.
Bonus! Monday, April 29:
- One of the best bars in Borderstan, Dodge City, celebrates its 3rd birthday tonight at 8 pm with $4 DC Braus, drink specials, DJ sets and delicious grilled meats all night long.
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Your weekend in Borderstan. (Luis Gomez Photos)
From Katie Andriulli. Email her at katie[AT]borderstan.com and follow her on Twitter @kandriulli.
It’s officially springtime in DC, which means that the cherry blossoms fanny-packed tourist hoards have descended upon us. Escape from them this weekend at one of these happenings, hand-picked with love, just for you, by me:
Friday, April 19
- Cult of personality: 80s staple Living Colour headlines tonight’s early show at 6 pm at the 9:30 Club (815 V Street NW). Tickets are $25.
- Strippers and raffles and contortionists, oh my: Get a little bit cray at Titled Torche’s burlesque and variety show tonight at the Black Cat (1811 14th Street NW). Tickets are $15 and doors open at 9 pm.
Saturday, April 20
- Compete for a cause: Join in the charity bocce tournament (at Wallenberg Park near the National Mall) benefiting the nonprofit Move for Hunger. It’s $35 to register and things kick off at 11 am.
- Nerd alert: DC finally got its very own comic and pop culture festival, Awesome Con, which makes its debut at the DC Convention Center (801 Mount Vernon Place NW) today and tomorrow. Tickets range from $15 to $75.
- Show off your subtitle reading skills: Check out some of the best international films around at Filmfest DC, which closes tomorrow.
- And, since it’s 4/20: Get your fill of pizza and beer tonight at Comet Ping Pong (5037 Connecticut Ave NW) which is hosting WONK N’ ROLL, an American University battle of the bands benefiting the local nonprofit the Free Minds Book Club. The show kicks off at 10 pm, and tickets are $10.
Sunday, April 21
- Celebrate Earth Day: Hit up the grand opening of Glen’s Garden Market (2001 S Street NW), which will feature free snacks, coffee and more throughout the day
- Greek out: Buy some delicious honey, olives and more at Zaytinya’s Agorá outdoor Greek bazaar, running from 11 am to 4 pm today (701 9th Street NW).
- Brunch hard: Fight for a table outside at Borderstan’s epic new French bistro Le Diplomate (1601 14th Street NW).
Also…
If you’ve already given blood, you can help support the families most impacted by the tragedy in Boston by donating to charities like the One Fund Boston, the fund set up by Boston-based company Technology Underwriting Greater Good (TUGG), and the Salvation Army’s Emergency Disaster Services fund. Or consider giving to the Boston Children’s Hospital, which has set up a special marathon giving fund.
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Weekend Warrior: Dinosaurs and Don Draper Edition. (Luis Gomez Photos)
From Katie Andriulli. Email her at katie[AT]borderstan.com and follow her on Twitter @kandriulli.
Well, it’s a new month guys. Another chance to turn it all around. April started out a little rough, but have no fear: it’s national grilled cheese month, and nothing can go wrong during a month devoted to cheese and bread. It’s just science. So let’s stock up on some sottocenere (it’s cheese with truffles in it… NBD) and get ready for the weekend.
Thursday
Now that I’m 30, I’ve realized that one of the things I miss most about childhood — other than my Lisa Frank trapper keeper with the neon penguins hugging — is making useless friendship crap… err… crafts at summer camp. Drop $20 for tonight’s “Handi-hour” from 5:30 to 8 pm at the Smithsonian’s Renwick Gallery, and you’ll be provided with everything you need to pretend to be Ke$ha get crafty: glue sticks, glitter, feathers, and alcohol.
Friday
I know you’re probably sick of hearing about this from me, but hold on to your butts guys: Jurassic Park 3D is finally here. I’m so excited about this, I’m even considering travelling to Silver Spring, or (shudder) Virginia, to see it in IMAX. Who am I kidding… not even the promise of 50 foot tall velociraptors could get me to do that.
Saturday
Upon Googling “DC Meet Market” I was pleasantly surprised to discover that it is not, as the name would suggest, another ill-conceived DC dating website, but rather a lovely outdoor market located in the heart of Borderstan (15th and P NW). The Meet Market kicks off its 2013 season today from 11 am to 5 pm with more than 40 of DC’s finest artisans and food vendors and live music… the perfect opportunity to pick up that overdue baby shower/wedding/bar mitzvah/graduation/birthday gift.
Sunday
Now that “The Walking Dead” is on hiatus (RIP major-character-who-shall-not be-named-because SPOILERS, but seriously, why are you not watching this show by now?) the cycle of depressingly awesome Sunday night TV begins anew with “Mad Men,” which kicks off its 6th season tonight.
In honor of the occasion, swing by one of Don Draper’s favorite 5 martini lunch establishments, P.J. Clarke’s, which opened a DC location not too long ago, and has a pretty killer bottomless brunch. And if you’re really feeling inspired later and/or like filing your taxes drunk, break out the jumbo ice cubes and bitters and whip yourself up an Old-Fashioned or two.
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Weekend Warrior lays out local options for you. (Luis Gomez Photos)
From Katie Andriulli. Email her at katie[AT]borderstan.com and follow her on Twitter @kandriulli.
In typical fashion, my body has decided to wait until the beginning of spring for me to come down with a vicious cold. While convalescing, I’ve done more crappy TV watching than usual (which is to say, a LOT). Inspired by the impending release of Jurassic Park in 3D, I even rented the sequel The Lost World, which just does not hold up (Julianne Moore’s character is supposed to be dating Jeff Goldblum?! Does not compute.)
Anyway, I may not emerge from my Dayquil-induced haze in time for the weekend, but that doesn’t mean YOU can’t have fun. Just think of me and the dinosaurs while you’re knocking ’em back.
Thursday
Pro tip: Room & Board, the massive furniture store on 14th Street, has an awesome roof deck and will even give you free bottled water if you behave yourself while browsing. Tonight from 6 to 9 pm, they’ll stay open late to play host to a fundraiser for Collective Action for Safe Spaces, an awesome DC nonprofit aimed at reducing and preventing public sexual harassment and assault. Tickets to the event, which features a set by DJ vANNIEty Kills, live music by Siné Qua Non, treats, drinks and free massages(!) are $25.
Friday
Have you always wanted to drink a beer named after Oscar the Grouch? Not really? Well, either way, you’ll get your chance at Scion tonight, where Oskar Blues Brewery will be rolling out limited edition brews (including an oSKAr the G’Rauch cask) as part of the ongoing Craft Brewers Conference.
If you’re not a Sesame Street aficionado, there are plenty of other beer events around town that will fit the bill, including a Drink Local! tap takeover at Meridian Pint featuring DMV area breweries, and an Avery Brewing Co. tap takeover at Churchkey. Check out today’s schedule for all the info.
Saturday
Most of you know Aziz Ansari from Parks and Recreation, where he plays the imminently quotable Tom Haverford. But what you may not know is that he’s as disillusioned and confused about our modern existence as you are I am. Treat yo’ self and snag a ticket for his 10 pm show tonight at DAR Constitution Hall.
Sunday
My life hasn’t been the same since I was made aware of the existence of this photo of George W. Bush from the White House Easter Egg Roll in 2008. But there are other nice things about Easter too, like wearing pastels, spending time with family, and of course, brunch. There are a ton of options around town today, most of which still have spots available if you act quickly.
For my money though, you can’t beat Tabard Inn, whose cozy atmosphere is matched only by the insane deliciousness of their homemade donuts.
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Weekend Warrior: Is it spring yet? (Luis Gomez Photos)
From Katie Andriulli. Email her at katie[AT]borderstan.com and follow her on Twitter @kandriulli.
Oof… you guys, this has been a rough week. We found out that Punxsutawney Phil is a damned dirty LIAR, the Cherry Blossom peak blooming dates have been pushed back, and to add insult to injury, a new dating site launched that exploits two of the only good things we have left in our lives: carbs and caffeine. Anyway, point is, I need a drink. And I’m guessing you do, too, so let’s get to the listings.
Thursday
John Corbett is best known for playing Carrie’s err…rustic? boyfriend Aidan on Sex and the City, but apparently he also sings country music because he will be performing live in concert tonight at Hill Country. I have literally no basis to recommend this other than that if it sucks, you can always pound a few PBR tallboys and an order of chili mac and high-tail it out of there.
Doors open at 10 pm and tickets are $20… a small price to pay for what will probably be an epic people-watching experience.
Friday
Drunk people and art: it’s a pairing as timeless and sloppy as Snooki and JWoww, and the folks behind the ARTINI gala at the Corcoran tonight know that better than anyone. Get your tickets ($125) in advance for the fête, which features creative cocktails from the city’s best mixologists, hors d’ouvres, live music, dancing, and most importantly, the opportunity to get drunk in a pretty cool museum.
Saturday
For the first time in awhile there’s not one, but TWO movies opening this weekend that have piqued my interest: Admission, which stars Tina Fey and Paul Rudd (and therefore can’t not be delightful in every way) and Olympus Has Fallen, which is essentially a Michael Bay movie directed by Antoine Fuqua (Training Day), meaning that there is an outside chance it won’t suck. Have some popcorn and high fructose corn syrup for dinner and make it a double feature… because you’re worth it.
Sunday
Like most Borderstanis, it’s a tall order to get me to go to Georgetown at any time, let alone in the morning… on a weekend. But since you didn’t go out last night (right?) you should be able to get out of bed at a reasonable hour, which means you’ll be primed for the Georgetown Cupcake Walk, which starts at 10 am at Dumbarton House (grab your tickets for $20 here).
Eat three cupcakes for breakfast (which you will acquire during stops at Georgetown Cupcake, Baked & Wired and Sprinkles), then swing by Il Canale for an amazing pizza lunch when you’re done. The best part is that by the time you’re back home it’ll only be 2 pm, which leaves plenty of time for second lunch, brunch and/or napping, i.e. the perfect Sunday.
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Weekend Warrior: St. Patrick’s and Pi(e) Edition in Borderstan. (Luis Gomez Photos)
From Katie Andriulli. Email her at katie[AT]borderstan.com and follow her on Twitter @kandriulli.
The manifestation this week of the DC sinkhole and the uncomfortable fluctuations in the weather can only mean one thing: the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) is in town again.
So if you see a lost young lad on the Metro wearing this, just point him in the direction of Reaganpalooza and consider this your absolution for the many obscenities you hurled at the TV when Paul Ryan spoke during the GOP convention. Now that that’s out of the way, let’s take a look at what us 47% have on tap this weekend.
Thursday
- Today is National Nerd Coming Out Day, aka 3.14, aka “Pi(e) Day.” Celebrate all things mathematical and delicious tonight at The Dunes, where they’ll be hosting a pie bonanza from 6 to 8:30 pm, with all proceeds going to Common Good City Farm. A suggested donation of $7 includes unlimited pie tastings… just don’t forget to bring your own plates and utensils.
- And since you’ll be pie-drunk and pretty close by, hop in a cab afterwards and head up the street to the Blue Banana, which is hosting a special guest bartender night from 6 to 10 pm, with 20% of proceeds benefiting the incredible local organization Lucky Dog Animal Rescue.
Friday
- If you really do want to avoid the CPAC crowd, plan on attending some screenings tonight during the Environmental Film Festival, which coincidentally kicks into high gear this weekend. There are almost 200 films being shown around town, and most events are free, but all you really need to be concerned about is this movie about an orphaned baby otter. An ORPHANED.BABY.OTTER.
Saturday
- I was going to suggest that you get in touch with your inner Carol Channing tonight and head over to Ford’s Theater to take in their incarnation of Hello, Dolly!, but since it just opened, it appears to be sold out. If you can find some tickets on the black market, then by all means make it happen. Otherwise, you can check out some “rock n’ roll music” tonight instead when Jukebox the Ghost headlines at the 9:30 Club, with openers Matt Pond and The Spring Standards. Tickets are $15 and doors open at 8 pm.
Sunday
- Much like New Year’s Eve, St. Patrick’s Day is for amateurs, which means you’re likely to encounter green vomit on the sidewalk before the sun goes down. In my opinion, you’re much better off partaking in an early brunch and then heading home to watch several installments of the Leprechaun franchise.
- But if Jennifer Aniston’s real nose is too scary for you, you could instead make an appearance at the Shaw’s Community St. Patrick’s Day Street Festival, sponsored by Shaw’s Tavern, which runs from 11 am – 5 pm (on 6th Street NW between Florida Ave. and S Streets), and features a beer garden, live music, and Irish step dancing.
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