With two weeks to go until Thanksgiving, it’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas around D.C., with the openings of the city’s two extended holiday markets, the lighting of CityCenter’s holiday tree (with a performance by JoJo), and the return of “The Hip Hop Nutcracker.” But there’s plenty to do beyond the bazaars and photo ops: AFI Silver kicks off its annual festival of early cinema, and new exhibits open at the National Portrait Gallery and the Renwick Gallery. The National Gallery of Art and the Anacostia Community Museum host after-hours parties. The Yards hosts an outdoor country music jamboree, and Crush revives the spirit of the beloved Dupont Circle LGBTQ+ bar Cobalt, which closed in 2019. Test your knowledge of National Geographic trivia, try doing yoga with adorable baby goats, and sample new-to-you wines and beers.
Thursday, Nov. 12
AFI Silver Classic Film Weekend
For lovers of vintage cinema, AFI Silver’s annual Classic Film Weekend is a cavalcade of treasures. The series focuses in particular on films made before the introduction of the Hays Code, which forbade profanity and sexual situations. This is a cinephile’s chance to see a newly restored 4K print of Clara Bow’s sensual (and frequently banned) 1927 silent film “Hula” accompanied by live piano, or watch the crackling tension between Clark Gable and Jean Harlow in the hard-boiled 1933 drama “Hold Your Man.” There are multiple programs featuring early animation, including works by Max Fleischer, the creator of Betty Boop; and the legendary Isadore “Friz” Freleng, who was behind Porky Pig, among others. Screenings are introduced by scholars and special guests, and some add Q&A sessions. Through Sunday; screening times vary. $15 per screening; $200 for an all-access pass.
DC Holiday Market Opening Day
It may be the beginning of November, but the organizers of the DC Holiday Market are hoping that visions of sugarplums are already dancing in your head — or visions of what you want to buy for your mom, spouse or favorite nibling. This market returns to Dupont Circle for the third year, closing New Hampshire Avenue NW just north of the circle to make way for 35 vendors selling pottery, prints, clothing, jewelry, teas and candles, among other gifts. The market is open every day through Dec. 23, except for Thanksgiving Day and Nov. 30, when a number of the exhibitors will change. Open Monday through Friday from noon to 8 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Free.
Museums & Makers Holiday Market at Strathmore
An annual holiday shopping tradition at the Trawick Mansion at Strathmore brings together local museum gift shops and the local maker community. Browse a selection of merchandise from Strathmore and independent museums, including Hillwood, the Phillips Collection, the Textile Museum and President Lincoln’s Cottage, and check out prints, ceramics and textiles made by a rotating selection of 15 artists. Through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day. Free; $10 suggested donation.
‘National Gallery Nights: Gratitude’ at the National Gallery of Art
Get in a Thanksgiving mood a few weeks early at the National Gallery of Art’s final after-hours party of 2026. “Gratitude” is the theme for November’s National Gallery Nights, and the art museum invites partygoers to get introspective when they’re not grooving to a soundtrack from DJ Chan Don. Activities include poetry composing sessions, exploring “gratitude” through the museum’s art collection and committing what you are thankful for in writing as part of a massive communal mural. The party is free, but you’ll need a ticket. While passes were distributed in a lottery earlier this month, a limited number of first-come, first-served passes are available the day of the event at the East Building entrance, beginning at 5:30 p.m. 6 to 9 p.m. National Gallery of Art East Building, Fourth Street and Constitution Avenue NW. nga.gov. Free.
Anacostia After Dark at the Anacostia Community Museum
Shared stories and experiences are at the heart of the Anacostia Community Museum’s current exhibition, “We Make History,” and also central to this after-hours event. Visitors can bring a favorite family recipe to swap at a community exchange or make art at a workshop hosted by Pyramid Atlantic. Groove to music spun by a DJ while sipping spiked hot chocolate and cider, or exploring the exhibit. Attendees must be 21 or older. 7 to 10 p.m. Free. (Note: While the museum website says tickets are sold out, the Smithsonian says that all are welcome.)
Harvest Wine Party at Sonny’s Pizza
Natural winemakers from California, France, Italy and Spain are bringing their products to the latest harvest-themed tasting at Sonny’s Pizza in Park View. Tickets include the chance to chat with the individual winemakers, as well as samples of multiple wines from each. 6 to 9 p.m. $18.92.
Great Lakes Christmas Ale Tasting at Astro Beer Hall
Just in time for the opening of D.C.’s holiday markets, Christmas beers are making their way into local bars. Great Lakes Christmas Ale, a warming ale with cinnamon and ginger, is one that many beer lovers look forward to each year — especially those from the Midwest. The “first pour” celebration is at Astro Beer hall in Shirlington, with Christmas Ale and other Great Lakes beers featured on tap, and fans can take home decorated glassware and other swag. 5 p.m. Free; beer prices vary.
Fonta Flora Birthday Party at ChurchKey
North Carolina’s Fonta Flora Brewery is known for its dedication to using local ingredients in its award-winning beers: Think beers or foraged dandelions in delectable saisons, or farmhouse ales made with heritage varieties of red corn. Its production facility, in Nebo, in the western part of the state, sits on a working farm. Fonta Flora is marking its 13th anniversary by sending beers to selected East Coast beer bars, including ChurchKey. Limited-edition beers on tap include two IPAs brewed for the anniversary, a pilsner with lemon balm, lemongrass and lemon basil, and a mixed-fermentation saison brewed with strawberries. 4 p.m. Free; beer prices vary.
“My English Persian Kitchen Play” at Mosaic Theater
“My English Persian Kitchen Play” is making its North American premiere after a run at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. The play by Hannah Khalil follows a woman who starts over in England after leaving an abusive husband in her home country of Iran. She finds peace in cooking her mother’s recipes, particularly ash-e-reshteh, a Persian noodle soup. The actor will recreate the dish live onstage to immerse the audience in the community through food. On Sunday, you can learn more about the story at Solid State Books, where cookbook author Atoosa Sepehr will discuss the background of the book. Through Dec. 6. Times and prices vary depending on the date.
Friday, Nov. 13
DowntownDC Holiday Market Opening Day
The DowntownDC Holiday Market, which fills F Street NW between Seventh and Ninth streets in front of the National Portrait Gallery, is open for an extended run this year, with more than 120 vendors selling their goods for 40 days, from this week through Dec. 23. (Last year, the market was open for 30 days, organizers say.) Friday’s opening ceremony, which begins at 10 a.m. includes a ribbon-cutting and musical performances, but the market also features regular entertainment and food and drink vendors, including hot chocolate loaded with s’mores; a raclette stand; and the debut of a stand from neighborhood fave Lucky Danger. Open Monday through Thursday from noon to 8 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Free.
Frosted at Franklin Park
This year’s opening of Franklin Park’s light show is timed to coincide with the opening of the DowntownDC Holiday Market. Look for a mix of twinkling photo ops, including decorated tunnels and giant snowflakes. 4:30 p.m. Thursday, then nightly through Jan. 9. Free.
Pottery on the Hill at Hill Center
Snag a new, extra-special cereal bowl at Hill Center’s annual ceramics extravaganza. This marks the 15th year for this functional pottery show, devoted to handmade pieces meant for everyday use, such as bowls, planters, mugs, pitchers and plates. The show, located near Eastern Market, draws 17 accomplished ceramic artists from across the country, and some of the potters are set to demo their craft and chat with shoppers. On Saturday, District Clay holds a free outdoor raku firing in Hill Center’s West Plaza, scheduled for noon to 3 p.m. Friday from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free entry Nov. 14 and 15, $45 for ticketed preview reception on Nov. 13.
‘Handwork: Contemporary Craft’ at the Renwick Gallery
The Renwick Gallery’s latest survey of contemporary American craft includes a wooden rocking chair; a tiara featuring plant forms made of gold and silver; ceramic sculptures; and a pillow made of steel. More than 30 of the 51 objects in “Handwork: Contemporary Craft” have never been on display before, giving craft lovers another reason to explore the Smithsonian museum. On Friday, a free open house celebrating the new exhibit features the opportunity to chat with some artists whose work is on display, as well as a scavenger hunt and hands-on activities. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Free.
Coca-Cola Holiday Caravan at the Wharf
Coca-Cola has embarked on its Holiday Caravan tour, making stops at eight resorts, including the Wharf this weekend. That means you can catch the brand’s famous red truck and enjoy complimentary holiday activities, all with a Coca-Cola twist. Drink and sample a few of its products, including its limited-edition vanilla flavor, and take a family photo with the polar bear from the commercials. If you’re staying in the area for the annual ICE!, where more than 2 million pounds of ice are hand carved into a winter wonderland, you can even find a few Coca-Cola themed suites. 6 to 8:30 p.m. Free.
Wild Wild West at A League of Their Own
Dust off your boots and Stetson hat for a special Western-themed drag king show at A League of Their Own in Adams Morgan. But you won’t necessarily find Pretty Rik E and company doing the boot-scootin’ boogie: “We’re going full country, but don’t expect the typical country song playlist.” 10 p.m.; doors open at 9:30. Free.
Saturday, Nov. 14
Holiday Tree Lighting at CityCenter
Look away now, grinches: For the first time in its 13-year history, CityCenter is lighting its 78-foot-tall holiday tree before Thanksgiving. Think it’s too early? You’ll miss a special performance of “well-known hits and holiday songs” by pop and R&B star JoJo, as well as family activities like face painting and balloon artists. The tree is located in the Park at CityCenter, located at the corner of New York Avenue and 11th Street NW. The event begins at 5 p.m., and the tree-lighting program starts at 6 p.m. Free.
Danish Club of Washington Christmas Bazaar
The Royal Danish Embassy sponsors the 63rd edition of the Danish Christmas Bazaar, held at St. Elizabeth’s Church in Rockville. Browse a variety of crystal, porcelain, embroidery, jewelry, Advent calendars and candles, but just as many people are there for the food. The menu includes open-faced sandwiches topped with herring, shrimp salad or smoked ham and salad; traditional pastries; dried sausage and cheeses; and desserts. Scandinavian candy is also available to go. Organizers warn that the bazaar takes cash or checks only. 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Free.
Cobalt Reunion at Crush
In March 2019, Dupont nightlife mainstay Cobalt closed after more than two decades in business. The building had been sold to developer who planned to convert it into housing — the same fate that befell Town, D.C.’s most popular gay nightclub, which closed the previous year. But for one night, Crush, a bar run by Cobalt alumni, is bringing back the Cobalt vibes, including appearances by Cobalt bartenders. Look for Cobalt’s house DJs, including Jason Royce, Keenan Orr and Drew G; a happy hour with the Ladies of LURe, including the DystRucXion Dancers, beginning at 4 p.m.; an underwear contest hosted by drag legend Lena Lett; and the much-missed free vodka hour, beginning at 10 p.m. Royce, whose Solid Gold retro nightwas a staple at the club two decades ago, begins spinning at 2 p.m., but don’t be fashionably late: Advance tickets are sold out, so get there early if you want to get in. 2 p.m. until 3 a.m. No cover before 9 p.m.
Boots on the Boardwalk at the Yards
Yards Park is going country on Saturday, offering an evening of entertainment for D.C.’s urban cowboys and cowgirls. Get your bandannas and trucker hats customized with Western-themed patches before climbing onto a mechanical bull, while the risk-averse can settle for posing in a photo booth or challenging friends to carnival games. Take free line-dancing lessons before trying out your new moves to the sound of a live country band. Naturally, neighborhood bars, including District Winery and DC Tackle Shop, will be there to provide refreshments. 5 to 8 p.m. Free.
DC Zinefest at the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library
The D.C. region’s burgeoning community of independent zine creators, authors, artists and readers comes together at the DC Zinefest, which is taking over multiple floors of the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library downtown. This year, dozens of zine vendors are taking over two floors of the building to sell their wares, while two sessions of guided workshops will get the creativity flowing. No tickets or reservations are required for this all-ages event, helping to nurture the next generation of zine makers. 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free.
‘Photographic Memory: Fifty Years of Collecting’ at the National Portrait Gallery
It seems hard to believe now, but the Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery only founded a photography collection in 1976. To mark the anniversary, a new exhibit compiles more than 100 works from the archives, ranging from early daguerreotypes and portraits of figures like Abraham Lincoln, Dolley Madison and Frederick Douglass to modern celebrity portraits by Annie Leibovitz, Diane Arbus, Addison N. Scurlock and Carl Van Vechten. Through Nov. 7, 2027. Free.
Diwali Festival at BlackRock Center for the Arts
The Indian Dance Educators Association is behind the Diwali celebration at Germantown’s BlackRock Center for the Arts. The afternoon begins with a lamp lighting celebration, with live entertainment, a Golu display, vendors and food and drinks. Ticketed performances include the story of Lord Krishna and a folk dance workshop, before the main event, “A Journey to India,” that mixes folk dances, classical Indian dance and Bollywood styles. Free admission for vendors and some activities; ticketed workshops and events $12.45-$17.79. Package ticket for both shows $28.45.
Spatchcock at Mieza Blendery
Alexandria’s Mieza Blendery is having quite a year. Last month, Mieza won a pair of medals at the Great American Beer Festivalfor its barrel-aged sour beers, including Minotaurs & Matadors, a blonde ale with Malbec grapes. Those two wins helped Mieza founder and blender Alex Lynch take home the prize for Brewery and Brewer of the Year among all breweries its size (250 barrels of beer or less per year). This weekend is the celebration for Mieza’s third birthday, which will feature the release of two new beers and others from the archive, and a seasonal menu including smoked turkey. 1 p.m. Free.
Taqueria Xochi first anniversary party
The Navy Yard branch of Taqueria Xochi is turning one with an all-day party. During the day, it’s an all-day “Xochi Hour” happy hour with $9 pairs of tacos, $6 beers and margaritas for $9 or $10. The evening event, which runs from 6 to 9, includes a mariachi performance at 7. 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Free.
Wangari Gardens Fall Festival at Wangari Gardens
Enjoy an afternoon of live music and a potluck-style meal designed to be enjoyed with the community at Wangari Gardens, so bring a dish and try one, too. After you’re done eating, enjoy arts and crafts, field games, live painting, as well as workshops brought to the community garden by the hosts. If you’re into pie, there will also be a silent pie auction that you won’t want to miss, so bring your pie-loving friends and running shoes. 12 to 4 p.m. Free.
Cozy Fall Cleanup & Sip + Paint at Kalorama Park
Bring a friend or two to enjoy a day at Kalorama Park to meet, greet and hang out with neighbors. First, the group will start with a community cleanup, followed by a sip and paint session where guests will decorate reusable tote bags. 1 p.m. Free.
Anime Spelling Bee at GameOn Bar + Arcade
If you think you know it all about anime and consider yourself an above average speller, head over to GameOn Bar + Arcade on U Street for an anime-themed spelling bee. Not only will you be asked to spell characters from your favorite anime, but you will also be asked to spell some of the words you find in those shows. In the past, the top three winners have had the opportunity to win cash prizes, tokens for the arcade games split between two floors, and a VIP table for an upcoming event. 4 to 6 p.m. Free.
Sunday, Nov. 15
“Wow in the World Presents: Make It Wow!” at the Center for the Arts at George Mason University
Calling all kid inventors for a live version of the popular STEM podcast “Wow in the World,” making an appearance at George Mason University’s Center for the Arts. Co-host and NPR alum Guy Raz won’t be at this performance, which is in the capable hands of hosts Mindy Thomas and Carly Q. Ciarrocchi. This trivia-packed game show, aimed at audiences ages 5 and up, involves plenty of audience participation as teams attempt to take inventions from the ideation stage to reality. Fans of the show ages 9 to 11 can form a team and fill out an application now for the chance to grace the stage during the Fairfax performance. 2 p.m. $35-$75.
Goat Yoga at Right Proper Brewing
Adorable baby goats, not beer, are the reason to visit Right Proper Brewing’s Brookland production facility and taproom this weekend. BreakAway Yoga leads an hour-long all-levels yoga class in the taproom, and as you practice your poses, baby goats wander among the participants and occasionally climb your lap or back. (Don’t worry: There’s an extra 30 minutes after the class for cuddling with goats and taking pictures.) Tickets include one beer or nonalcoholic beverage, and participants are encouraged to hang out and socialize afterward. 10 to 11:30 a.m. $47.19.
Oyster Festival at Murphy’s Grand Irish Pub
They sure love their oysters in Old Town Alexandria. After last month’s eight-day Oyster Week festivities, Murphy’s Grand Irish Pub, which was a key location for Oyster Week, is shucking even more oysters to raise money for the city’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Tickets include three hours of all-you-can-eat raw oysters, a buffet and unlimited beer, wine, rail drinks and soda. Country singer-songwriter Rook Richards, a fixture at Old Town bars, provides the music. 4 to 7 p.m. $87.21.
Tofu Party at Spark Social
Are you into tofu and looking to meet others who are, too? At Spark Social’s living room, you can find just that for D.C.’s second tofu party. Everything is potluck-style, meaning you should bring a dish to share and others will, too. Think of that tofu recipe you’ve trialed and erred a few times before finally getting it right and adding it to your weekly rotation. Just remember that all dishes must be vegan. If you can’t bring a dish but still want to join the party, no worries. Bring utensils or plates to help out with the potluck. Before you attend, sign yourself and your dish up through the host’s link. 2 to 5 p.m. Free.
Kimjang Day at MLK Library
Kimjang Day celebrates Korea’s communal tradition of making and sharing kimchi. Now in its fourth year, the holiday falls on the same day as it is celebrated in Korea, which commemorates the tradition of stocking up on kimchi before the colder months. At the library, chef Patrice Cunningham will guide guests through the kimchi-making process, and everyone will leave with their own fresh batch. You can also catch K-pop performances from local dance group N2 Studios and traditional Korean music from a samulknori percussion group. Every event at the library is free, but visitors are asked to RSVP for each section they plan to attend. 1 to 5 p.m. Free, RSVP required.
Monday, Nov. 16
Janesgiving at Jane Jane
Thanksgiving is all about friends and family coming together, and this special boozy Friendsgiving finds cozy D.C. cocktail fixture Jane Jane welcoming bartenders from Denver’s Lady Jane — a James Beard Award semifinalist for outstanding bar — for a one-night-only collaboration. Look for Thanksgiving-inspired cocktails and shooters, Wild Turkey drinks and other surprises. (The connection, beyond the name: Jane Jane’s owners are friends with Stuart Weever, a D.C. local who is a partner in Lady Jane.) Admission is first-come, first-served, and Jane Jane can get crowded enough on a weeknight, so get there early. 9 p.m. Free.
Tuesday, Nov. 17
‘The Hip Hop Nutcracker’ at the National Theatre
“The Hip Hop Nutcracker” is a reimagined production of Tchaikovsky’s classic ballet, transporting the setting to modern-day New York. The cast features a dozen breakdancers in addition to Maria-Clara and the Nutcracker Prince, while a DJ and live violinist rework the familiar score. 1990s hip-hop hitmaker Da Brat serves as the MC for this six-day run at the National Theatre. Through Nov. 22. $49-$159.
Wednesday, Nov. 18
National Geographic Trivia Night at the Museum of Exploration
Every Wednesday night, the National Geographic Museum of Exploration hosts trivia inspired by the brand’s favorite subjects, including science, wildlife and culture. So, this isn’t your typical trivia night. There will be two rounds of questions, with prizes for the top teams, so bring your best group of friends and put your knowledge to the test. While you engage in some friendly competition, you can also enjoy a complimentary glass of wine or beer or a soft drink of your choice. Spots fill up quickly, so make sure to secure your ticket ahead of time. 6 p.m. $10.
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