From art exhibitions to concerts, there’s something for everyone this weekend in the capital
Category: Arts & Culture
As the weekend approaches, Georgetown and Washington, D.C. are brimming with exciting events for all ages. From art exhibitions to musical performances, residents and visitors alike can enjoy a variety of cultural experiences.
This Sunday, May 17, 2026, the Jackson Art Center will host its biannual Open Studios event, featuring over 40 resident artists displaying their works. Attendees can explore paintings, sculptures, and photography, with the opportunity to engage in discussions with the artists themselves. The event is free and promises light refreshments and art for sale, making it a perfect outing for art enthusiasts.
Also on Sunday, the Citizens Association of Georgetown will present its Spring Concert in the Park at Rose Park Baseball Field. Starting at 4:30 p.m., the event will feature live music from the band Diplomatic Immunity, food trucks, and a range of children’s activities. This community gathering is free to attend, but RSVPs are encouraged to help with planning.
On Saturday, May 16, Thos. Moser, a renowned handmade American furniture brand, will host a new product preview and whiskey tasting at its Cady’s Alley showroom. The event, beginning at 5:30 p.m., will introduce the Intervale Table, an innovative extendable dining table, alongside tastings from Schmidt Spirits. This event combines craftsmanship with culinary delight, appealing to both design aficionados and whiskey lovers.
Another highlight on Saturday is the opening of a new exhibit at the Limits and Proximities Gallery. Titled "Inexorable," the exhibit will showcase works by Bolivian American artist Fernando Casas, who explores themes related to the passage of time. This exhibit will run through February 27, 2027, allowing ample time for visitors to experience Casas’ thought-provoking pieces.
The National Theatre is currently hosting the national tour of the musical adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic novel, "The Great Gatsby." This extravagant production, which runs through May 24, 2026, immerses audiences in the glitz and glamour of the 1920s. Directed by Marc Bruni, known for his work on "Beautiful: The Carole King Musical," this show will likely be a visual and auditory feast.
For those interested in choral music, the Cathedral Choral Society will conclude its 2025-2026 season on Sunday at Washington National Cathedral. The performance, titled "Brahms: Of Love & Spirit," begins at 6 p.m. and features Brahms’ Liebeslieder Waltzes alongside selections from contemporary composers. This concert aims to remind audiences of the connections between love and song.
In addition to these events, the National Museum of American History will debut a new exhibit titled "In Pursuit of Life, Liberty & Happiness" this weekend. This exhibit celebrates America’s 250th birthday by exploring the ideals enshrined in the Declaration of Independence, featuring 250 objects ranging from the 1700s to the present day.
Meanwhile, the Hayes Piano Series continues with a performance by pianist Julia Hamos on Saturday afternoon at the Hopkins Bloomberg Center Theater. Known for her captivating artistry, Hamos will present selections from classical composers such as Haydn, Mozart, and Schumann, making this a must-see for classical music fans.
For auto enthusiasts, the Old Town Festival of Speed & Style on Sunday will showcase luxurious automobiles along King Street in Alexandria. This family-friendly event, which includes a special tribute to Ferrari, promises a day filled with glamour and excitement.
Movie lovers can enjoy a classic film screening at the National Portrait Gallery, where "The Adventures of Robin Hood" will be shown on Saturday afternoon as part of the gallery’s Saturday Power Saturday Movie Matinee series. This 1938 film, starring Errol Flynn, remains a timeless tale of heroism and adventure.
As the weekend progresses, D.C. will also host a variety of other events. On Thursday, May 14, an outdoor comedy show at Edgewood Community Farm will bring laughter to the community from 7:30 to 9 p.m. Tickets are priced at $10, offering an affordable night out.
The Lost City Books Spring Reading Series will take place on the same day at The Festival Center, featuring local writers sharing their works. This event, starting at 7 p.m., has an entry fee of $6.24 and provides a platform for literary engagement.
Friday, May 15, will see a nostalgic ‘90s dance party at 9:30 Club, where attendees can relive the era from 5:30 to 9 p.m. Tickets are available for $28.50, promising a lively atmosphere filled with throwback hits.
For those interested in cultural heritage, the AAPI Anthologies: Folklore cabaret show at Pubkey DC on Friday night will celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. This unique event, running from 9 to 11 p.m., features a diverse range of performances and is geared toward adults aged 21 and over, with tickets priced at $33.85.
On Sunday, May 17, Anacostia Park will host Malcolm X Day, an event celebrating the life and legacy of the civil rights leader. Running from 12 to 5 p.m., this free event will include performances, speakers, and opportunities for community engagement, offering a meaningful way to honor Malcolm X’s contributions.
With such a diverse array of events happening this weekend, both Georgetown and D.C. offer something for everyone. Whether it’s art, music, literature, or community gatherings, the capital is alive with opportunities to celebrate culture and connection.