January is closing out with a bevy of events to boost community engagement throughout the DMV.
Whether looking for creative cuisine in Alexandria, Virginia, or topping off Dry January with a nod to local virtuosos, scholars, and entertainers, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this weekend!
Don’t forget to check out the Washington Informer Calendar to keep up with all the fun.
Thursday, Jan. 29
9 a.m. | Price of purchase
Alexandria, Virginia
Bask in Alexandria Restaurant Week for a taste of the creativity and innovation in the local and international cuisine throughout the historic Virginia city.
Hosted through Feb. 1, this event highlights the city’s vibrant food scene while encouraging visitors and locals alike to discover new neighborhoods and tastes – including spots in Old Town, Old Town North, Del Ray, Carlyle and Eisenhower, Arlandria-Chirilagua, and the West End.
More than 90 Alexandria restaurants invite guests to enjoy $35, $45, or $55 per person on pre-fixed menus for a limited time only. Plus, local fast casual favorites will also be sharing their own special offers.
See the full list of participating restaurants here.
The Purr-fect Science Fair: Valentine’s Day STEM & Circuits
1 – 2 p.m. | Free, registration required
Virtual with take-home materials
Celebrate Valentine’s Day early with a purr-fect mix of stories and science!
Young readers and budding scientists alike will read from “The Purr-fect Science Fair” book series, then dive into a hands-on STEM activity by making light-up Valentine’s Day cards using simple circuits, LEDs, and copper tape.
Each participant will take home a how-to handout for launching their very own science fair project.
Ideal for ages 6-10 and teens 11+.
Friday, Jan. 30
Celebrate the Vocal Class of 2026
7 p.m. | $20 for adults, $10 for students (ages 5-18)
Duke Ellington School of the Arts, 3500 R Street NW, Washington, D.C., 20007
Duke Ellington School of the Arts (DESA) vocal music seniors invite folks to an unforgettable evening of musical theatre.
A celebration of the vocal class of 2026, the Jan. 30 showcase – hosted in the Performance Hall of the famed Northwest high school – will bring a joyful mix of artistry and storytelling, featuring performances of students’ favorite solos, duets, and ensemble selections.
Cheers to an opportunity to honor DESA’s senior class and remarkable talent!
Doors open at 6 p.m. Tickets are available for both in-person and virtual attendance.
All proceeds directly support the Vocal Music Department.
7:30 p.m. – 9 p.m. | $44+
Keegan Theatre, 1742 Church Street NW, Washington, D.C., 20036
People-avoider Zia suffers from anthropophobia, the fear of people. People-watcher Doe suffers from being dead–– and naturally, only Zia can see him.
Brought together by chance, fate, or potentially ghostly revenge, the two set out on a journey to uncover Doe’s forgotten life while Zia faces perhaps a fate worse than death: socializing.
Playwright Angelle Whavers and director Josh Sticklin join forces in the world premiere of “John Doe,” with showings at Keegan Theatre in Northwest, D.C., through Feb. 22.
Saturday, Jan. 31
7 a.m. – 3 p.m. | Free
401 Oklahoma Avenue NE, Washington, D.C., 20002
Whether one needs produce, food, clothes, shoes, accessories, books, toys, household and cultural items, antiques, health and beauty, electronics, etc., check out the RFK Farmers & Flea Market!
Located in Lot 6 at the RFK Campus in Northeast, D.C., the flea market serves a crucial role in providing Washingtonians with essential needs and access towards sustainability.
3 p.m. – 10:30 p.m. | Free
Lady Madison Restaurant, 1155 15th Street NW ##1003, Washington, D.C., 20005
Before the month concludes, leisure and business hotel Le Méridien Washington, D.C., The Madison invites couples to celebrate Dry January with Cloud 9 at Lady Madison.
An elevated zero-proof cocktail, Cloud 9 is designed for mindful sipping year-round – crafted with Ritual Gin Alternative, bright cranberry juice, fresh lime, and subtle rosemary syrup for a crisp acidity balanced by herbal depth and subtle warmth.
Cloud 9 evokes the structure and ritual of a classic gin cocktail without the alcohol. Lightly topped with sparkling water, it finishes with a fragrant rosemary sprig or expressed lime peel, offering a refined, spirit-free option that feels celebratory and intentionally suited to a winter evening in the nation’s capital.
Meanwhile, guests can experience timeless luxury at a restaurant inspired by First Lady Dolley Madison and the legacy of First Ladies throughout history.
10:30 p.m. – Midnight | $33.85
Barrel House Cafe & Bar, 1341 14th Street NW, Washington, D.C., 20005
What begins as a night out listening to live music slowly reveals a narrative about power, identity, consent, and self-awareness— set inside a working bar with a live band.
“Shred Awakening” is an immersive bar-theater experience disguised as a classic rock concert, and quietly staged as a modern reimagining of Shakespeare’s classic, “The Taming of the Shrew” (1594).
Built on a foundation of a classic rock set list—raw, familiar, and emotionally direct— the show fuses concert energy with modernized, reinvented theatrical storytelling, while never announcing its literary roots.
The audience doesn’t sit back and watch; they participate and collide with the story, music, and each other as the night unfolds like a set list with something to say.
Don’t miss the closing weekend of this one-of-a-kind experience!
Sunday, Feb. 1
“The Color Purple”: A Fundraising Experience
3 p.m. – 7 p.m. | $40
Bowie Center for the Performing Arts, 15200 Annapolis Road, Bowie, MD 20715
For one night only, experience “The Color Purple” with the Bowie Center for the Performing Arts and CenterStage Arts Alliance!
This showcase acts as a powerful fundraising event to support the community, arts, and impact.
3 p.m. – 6 p.m. | $12.51
House of Comedy & Jazz, 9430 Annapolis Road, Lanham, MD 20706
Brought to Washington on the first Sunday of every month, Crankin Comedy Sunday Funday features the top clean comedians from across the nation, and this weekend’s lineup is no different.
Hosted by Thomas “Teezus” Terrel Jr., the Feb. 1 show welcomes comedians Kadreana Mack (affectionately known as “K Mack”), headliner Chris Clark, and music by DJ DK.
8 p.m. – 11 p.m. | $74.50+
Diablo’s Cantina, MGM National Harbor Resort & Casino, 101 MGM National Ave, Oxon Hill, MD 20745
Step back into the golden era of R&B with The Room 112 Tour, featuring the chart-topping group 112.
Known for hits like “Only You,” “Cupid,” (both released in 1996) and “Peaches & Cream” (2001), 112 celebrates 30 years of smooth harmonies and unforgettable stage presence, alongside fellow R&B powerhouses Total and Case.
Join this joyful night of timeless music, soulful performances, and nostalgic vibes, bringing the fan-favorite tracks that defined the ‘90s and early 2000s.