The Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.’s life and legacy are celebrated throughout the D.C. area this weekend, with parades, music, poetry and family activities to remind us that Monday is more than just a chance to go to brunch on a weekday. Monday is also the beginning of Metropolitan Washington Winter Restaurant Week, which sees new restaurants, including critic fave the Dabney, joining hundreds of others offering prix fixe meals. Other entertainment highlights include happy hours with nonalcoholic and low-ABV cocktails; a screening of “Groundhog Day” at the Library of Congress; and the Washington Capitals’ Pride Night happy hour. Music fans can look forward to a weekend-long punk rock festival and Grateful Dead tribute bands honoring co-founder and guitarist Bob Weir.
Thursday, Jan. 15
‘Groundhog Day’ at the Library of Congress
Every year, the Library of Congress announces new additions to the National Film Registry, an honor bestowed “due to their cultural, historic or aesthetic importance to preserve the nation’s film heritage.” While we await the list of films selected in 2025 — a spokesperson says it’s coming “soon” — the library’s weekly Live! at the Library after-hours event is screening “Groundhog Day,” the Harold Ramis comedy that finds Bill Murray reliving the same 24 hours over and over again, which was added to the registry in 2006. Arrive before film rolls at 6 p.m. to visit the library’s current exhibitions or grab a happy hour beverage in the Great Hall. Library open from 4:30 to 8 p.m.; film begins at 6 p.m. Free. Tickets are required to enter the library, and the film is open to all visitors.
Dolly’s 80th Birthday Party at Her Diner
She may seem ageless, but Dolly Parton turns 80 this weekend, with a new song to boot. Her fans at Adams Morgan’s Her Diner are throwing Parton an early birthday party — with food and drink specials and a tribute drag performance by Ashley Madison Küter. 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Free.
Bring Your Own Book at Shanklin Hall
Bookworms looking for silent, side-by-side friendship might feel right at home at Shanklin Hall’s next BYO event, where readers can breeze through pages in public, with drink in hand and community conversation to follow. Unbound, a podcast and in-person literary community, hosts. 6 to 9 p.m. $5.
LP O’Brien happy hour at Binge Bar
Last week, D.C. cocktail star LP O’Brien celebrated 1,000 days of sobriety with a sold-out, three-course dinner at the booze-free Binge Bar, complete with exclusive nonalcoholic drinks. If you weren’t able to attend, good news: You can try a trio of O’Brien’s cocktails, including a Negroni made with Pentire Seaward, an English nonalcoholic gin, and spirit-free aperitivos, during happy hour at the bar on H Street NE. 5 to 8 p.m. Cocktails $6-$7 each.
Skip the Small Talk Night at Metrobar
For 20 years, Boston-founded organization Skip the Small Talk has hosted events encouraging neighbors and strangers to have meaningful conversations. The group brings its question prompts to Metrobar for an evening of chatter. Most attendees are in their 20s and 30s, according to the organizers, but all ages are “enthusiastically welcomed.” 7 p.m. $23.
Friday, Jan. 16
‘Not Just Another Day Off’ at Folger Shakespeare Library
Every year, the Folger Shakespeare Library reminds us that the third Monday of January is “Not Just Another Day Off” by hosting a “poetic celebration” of Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy and recruiting contemporary poets to read King’s speeches and related material. This year’s free, family-friendly event includes the Mosaic Theater Company performing a scene from its upcoming production “Young John Lewis: Prodigy of Protest.” This event will also be streamed at youtube.com/FolgerLibrary. 7:30 p.m. Free; online registration required.
We Are Family benefit weekend at St. Stephen’s and the Incarnation Episcopal Church
A trio of shows organized by Second Street and Purple Circle Records that bring together nearly 20 bands this weekend with a focus on area acts. On Friday, straight-edgers of all ages can enjoy youth crew legends Mouthpiece, veterans Line of Sight, and newcomers from up and down Interstate 95: D.C.’s Inversion, Baltimore’s Fightback and Philly’s Everybody Takes One. (6 p.m. $20.) On Saturday, D.C. punks Glitterer celebrate the release of their new record, “Erer.” The band will be joined by D.C. compatriots in experimental pop Aunt Katrina, shoegazers Guttered and B. Reichhardt/Tan White. (6 p.m. $20.) The weekend closes with a loaded bill in support of “Future Left Behind,” a 12-inch compilation record commemorating D.C.’s current hardcore moment. This will also be the last show by Grand Scheme — a reminder that most hardcore bands burn out rather than fade away. (Noon. $15.) The weekend benefits nonprofit We Are Family, a senior outreach group that operates out of the church.
Farewell to Schneeeule at the Roost
Berlin’s traditional sour wheat beer, known as Berliner Weisse, suffered a blow last year, when the Schneeeule brewery closed. Schneeeule, which translates to “Snowy Owl,” had built a reputation on both sides of the Atlantic for its traditional tart, balanced Berliner Weisses, as well as a willingness to experiment with ingredients like flowers, spices and various hops — even though hops don’t always shine in a style definite by wild yeast and the resulting fruity esters. If you’re a fan of the brewery, or of unusual sour beers, you’ll have a chance to say goodbye at the Roost on Friday, when the Shelter beer bar taps five of the last kegs to make it to America, including fan favorites Yasmin, brewed with jasmine, and the dry-hopped Duppelwumms. It’s a cult beer for a reason, but Schneeeule’s dedication to a traditional, oft-forgotten style, should be celebrated. Doors at noon. Prices vary.
‘Broadway Rave: A Musical Theater Dance Party’ at Union Stage
“Wicked’s” two movies might be wrapped, but there’s plenty else to dance about. Sing it out to tunes from “Hamilton,” “Rent,” “Heathers” and more. Warning: This event is more Broadway than rave. Dress accordingly. 10 p.m. $27.
Night Hawk at DC9
Taking its name from the Edward Hopper painting, Night Hawk delivers the same quiet vulnerability that the realist painter was so adept at capturing. The D.C. band will be joined by fellow gentle troubadours Makeup Girl and Hotel Sewing Kit in a benefit for Ayuda, an organization that provides legal, social and language services to immigrants. 7 p.m. $18-$20.
Black Techno Matters at DC9
Stay late at DC9 as the Black Techno Matters collective kicks off its Liber8 US Tour. The event is headlined by Future Drum Circle, a group that lives up to its name: think the percussionists in Malcolm X Park but with drum machines instead of hand drums. DJ sets by locals Cyb3rt0nin, Diyanna Monet and Ether Pleaser round out the bill. 11 p.m. $15.
Saturday, Jan. 17
Say it Loud! at BlackRock Center for the Arts
Documentaries about Martin Luther King Jr. and John Lewis, live music, a record fair, and artist talks are among the highlights of the annual Say it Loud! tribute at Germantown’s BlackRock Center for the Arts. While most of the day is free, tickets are required for performances by Pink Palish and the JoGo Project’s tribute to Parliament-Funkadelic. Noon to 8 p.m. Free-$25.
‘Speak the Dream’ Poetry Slam at Busboy and Poets Anacostia
Amateur and professional poets are invited to share their work at this social justice poetry slam, hosted by Black Chakra. Prepare three minutes of original verse on topics like “peace,” “truth” and the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr., and compete for a $100 cash prize, or just come to gather and enjoy the verbal artistry. 8 to 10 p.m. $7.56 in advance, $8 at the door.
Bob Weir and Grateful Dead tributes
Grateful Dead co-founder and guitarist Bob Weir has died, and if you’re looking for chances to gather, commiserate or mourn with other Deadheads, there are multiple shows this weekend that we’re sure will turn into tributes. On Saturday, the Dancing Bears, a Grateful Dead cover band that plays throughout the Mid-Atlantic, brings its psychedelic sound to the Hamilton with the smooth, yacht-rock grooves of Knights of the Night. (8 p.m., $26.03-$42.52.) The monthly Grateful Sunday arrives at Greenbelt’s New Deal Cafe this weekend, featuring Purple performing a set that mixes the Dead with other jam-band favorites. (6 to 8 p.m. Free.) Shakedown Citi, which visits the Hamilton on Wednesday, is a New York-based Grateful Dead tribute group that also mixes in material from Weir’s and Jerry Garcia’s solo work, as well as like-minded bands. (8 p.m. $31.18-$42.52.)
Drawing Stories: Family Art Day at the National Museum of the American Indian
To celebrate the new exhibit “Unbound: Narrative Art of the Plains,” the National Museum of the American Indian offers a day of activities, including curator-led tours; story time; and the chance to decorate canvas bags, magnetic buttons and other items to take home. 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free.
Apres-Ski Rager at Aslin DC
Some beer gardens close for the winter. Not the Aslin on 14th Street NW. Last week, it unveiled a “Beat the Cold” promotion, with discounted beers for anyone who drinks outside when the temperature dips — the discount is 15 percent off drafts when it’s between 40 and 49 degrees, 25 percent off when temps drop between 40 and 32, and 35 percent off when the weather’s below freezing. On Saturday, when the Capital Weather Gang projects highs “into the low to mid-40s,” Aslin is hosting an “Apres-Ski Rager” with DJs, snow machines, shot skis, themed food and drink, and, if needed, indoor spaces to warm up. Your finest ski wear is requested. 3 to 7 p.m. $15.
The Cozy Day Party at Sost
“Dress comfy, but make it fly.” That’s the message from Shaw’s Sost lounge, where the Cozy Day Party involves a late brunch from 2 to 5 p.m. — think harissa shrimp and grits or shiro fried chicken and waffles — and drink specials until 8 p.m. DJs Shindig and Coco Spinelle provide the music, while drinks are sponsored by Edmond’s Honor, a bourbon aged in cognac casks that previously held Madagascar vanilla. 2 to 8 p.m. Free.
Washington Capitals Pride Night at District E
The Washington Capitals’ 10th annual Pride night arrives at the perfect time, amid the continuing obsession with “Heated Rivalry.” There will be promotions and activations throughout the home game against the Florida Panthers, but everyone, including those without tickets, is invited to a pregame “Block Party” at District E in Gallery Place, with happy hour drinks and food, and live music from the retro cover band NovaKane. Local LGBTQ+ organizations also will be present. 5 p.m. Free.
Lost Island Vibes back at the Square
Right about now, you could probably use a tropical escape — even if it’s only closing your eyes, sipping a fruity rum drink and pretending you’re someplace sunny and warm. After an extended holiday break, this weekend sees the return of Lost Island Vibes, the tiki pop-up run by Owen Thomson, the former owner of Archipelago. Head to the Square food hall near Farragut Square for classic and inventive cocktails, which might be served on fire or in a pineapple. 3 to 9 p.m. Free; cocktail prices vary.
‘Nowhere to Wear It’ party at As You Are
Is your closet full of treasures — fluffy tulle, velvet gowns, mesh pants — you haven’t worn yet because you just can’t seem to find the appropriate occasion? As You Are’s “Nowhere to Wear It” party answers the titular complaint with “Wear it here!” Come dressed in that beloved-if-sort-of-a-lot clothing item, ready to dance. 10 p.m. Free.
Sunday, Jan. 18
Christie Dashiell at the Mansion at Strathmore
An attraction to the bittersweet has been a guide for Christie Dashiell, a renowned jazz vocalist and educator, through much of a career spent slathering her silken voice on top of swing, blues, soul and R&B. It’s been a through line of her two solo albums and a catalyst for the record that recently earned the 37-year-old Howard University adjunct lecturer her second Grammy nomination in two years. She brings songs from “We Insist! 2025,” a reimagining of Max Roach’s civil-rights-era album, to Strathmore for two shows. 4 and 7 p.m. $38.
Low-ABV cocktails at OKPB
You’ve probably heard of Dry January, which encourages people to abstain from alcohol for the first month of the year. Damp January is the middle ground — not going as hard as you might have done in December, but exploring moderation and mindful drinking instead of completely abstaining from alcohol. Mount Pleasant cocktail den OKPB is highlighting low-ABV beverages during a one-time-only event. As always, it’s first-come, first-served at this unmarked bar, so arrive early to avoid the waitlist. 5 to 10 p.m. Free; cocktail prices vary.
The Funset: Holiday Edition at Shanklin Hall
Many people associate the long-running Funset series with joyful outdoor dance parties at Dew Drop Inn or Metrobar, but for this special holiday weekend edition, DJs Harry Hotter and Jahsonic are taking over Shanklin Hall, spinning the funk, house, R&B, hip-hop and throwback jams that get crowds moving. 4 to 9 p.m. Free.
U.S. Marine Band’s Sousa Season Opener at Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center
The U.S. Marine Band kicks off its 2026 concert season with a tribute to its legendary director, John Philip Sousa. “The Many Sided Sousa” at Northern Virginia Community College’s Alexandria campus features Sousa’s signature marches as well as a waltz from one of Sousa’s operettas and an instrumental suite for a band. The program also includes non-Sousa pieces, including Jacques Offenbach’s “Galop” from “Geneviève de Brabant,” which is said to be the origin of “The Marines’ Hymn.” 2 p.m. Free, no reservations required.
Monday, Jan. 19
Remember the Dream: A Day Honoring Dr. King at the National Museum of African American History and Culture
The Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture hosts drop-in activities throughout the museum as part of Remember the Dream: A Day Honoring Dr. King. Tour exhibitions including the new “At the Vanguard,” which focuses on HBCUs; listen to music from Rex Carnegie and the House Band; participate in a service project; make crafts and balloon art; and receive a personalized poem. Attendees must have a timed-entry ticket for the museum to participate; a limited number of same-day tickets will be available. 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Free; museum ticket required.
Martin Luther King Jr. Peace Walk and Parade
For more than four decades, the Martin Luther King Jr. Peace Walk and Parade has taken to the streets of Southeast Washington. This year’s event begins with a peace rally at the corner of Firth Sterling Avenue and Sumner Road SE at 9:30 a.m. The peace walk and parade begins at 10:30, proceeding up Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE to Marion Barry Avenue SE. The day also includes a wellness fair with local vendors and a volunteer community cleanup project. 9:30 a.m. Free.
Falls Church March for Unity and Freedom
The Tinner Hill Heritage Foundation organizes this annual march, which features a gathering and sign-making for participants at the Tinner Hill Civil Rights Monument, before the crowd marches down South Washington Street to the historic Falls Church. A complimentary lunch, social justice program and workshops follow. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. March begins at 11 a.m. Free.
MLK Day 2026 at the Martin Luther King Jr. Public Library
This year marks the 40th anniversary of the D.C. Public Library’s massive mural paying tribute to King, which greets visitors entering the Martin Luther King Jr. Public Library. A ceremony with the Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington’s Seasons of Love ensemble and remarks by the family of artist Don Miller are the centerpiece of the celebrations, which also include story time and clay art projects for children and a discussion of D.C. home rule featuring a performance of songs from Mosaic Theater’s “Young John Lewis.” 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Free; registration suggested.
Metropolitan Washington Winter Restaurant Week
Local restaurants make it worth your while to venture out during dreary winter days thanks to Metropolitan Washington Winter Restaurant Week, where you can order multicourse meals at a fixed price. More than 200 restaurants in D.C. and throughout Maryland and Northern Virginia are participating in the semiannual event, serving up brunch or lunch for $25 or $35 and dinners priced between $40 and $65. The big news this January is that perennial Southern favorite the Dabney in Shaw (the Michelin-starred home of Anson Mills cornbread with sorghum butter) joins Restaurant Week for the first time, offering a three-course dinner for $65. (For comparison’s sake, the Dabney’s regular tasting menu costs $145 for five courses.) Glam newish spots like the French Riviera-inspired Barbouzard and the Wharf’s seafood-focused Fish Shop have also signed on. Through Jan. 25. Various locations. $25 or $35 for lunch and brunch; $40, $55 or $65 for dinner.
Dolly Parton’s 80th birthday party at JR’s
Parties around the District celebrate the Queen of Country turning 80, but JR’s is honoring her actual birthday — Jan. 19 — with dancing and sing-alongs to all her best tracks. The bar opens early at 2 p.m. on the federal holiday. 9 p.m. Free.
Potomac River Cleanup at Dyke Marsh Wildlife Preserve
You’re advised to wear waders and an extra pair of socks to this cleanup organized by Potomac Riverkeeper Network and Friends of Dyke Marsh, which is going to tackle “legacy trash.” That’s the debris that accumulates over months or years in hard-to-reach spots because of river tides. During this outing, the team is going to search for litter along the entire Dyke Marsh boardwalk. Noon to 2 p.m. Free; register online.
Tuesday, Jan. 20
Y2K Dyke Party at Dew Drop Inn
Everything a quarter-century old is new again at the Dew Drop Inn’s monthly Dyke Party. This Y2K throwback features a live performance by the “all-grrrl” Green Day tribute band Green Slay, an art market with vendors, and tie-dye stations. (Make a $5 donation for a T-shirt and supplies, or BYO shirt from home.) 7 p.m. Free.
Wednesday, Jan. 21
NMWA Nights at the National Museum of Women in the Arts
The first after-hours party of the year at the National Museum of Women in the Arts is about connection, looking back and looking forward, while also helping others. Museum facilitators will host guided meetups for attendees who work in various fields, such as education or nonprofits, allowing them to network informally. Curators offer guided tours of “Ruth Orkin: Women on the Move,” exploring the legacy of the photographer who documented working women in mid-century America. Visitors can make vision board collages that shape intentions for the year to come. And all guests are encouraged to bring gently used professional attire and accessories to donate to the nonprofit Suited for Change, which supports women entering the workforce. Les the DJ provides the music in the Great Hall, and tickets include two drink tickets. 5:30 to 8 p.m. $22-25.
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