From live music and cultural celebrations to community fundraisers and food festivals, the D.C. area is packed with events this weekend.
Whether it’s dancing to reggae at Freedom Plaza, debating the best jollof in the region, or unwinding at a 30+ throwback party, there’s something for every mood and interest.
Check out a handful of the events happening across the region this weekend to keep you entertained all weekend.
Plus, always remember to use the Washington Informer Calendar, to keep up-to-date and learn about other events and programming in the DMV region.
Thursday, Aug. 7
Elizabeth Catlett: Art for the People
6:30 p.m. – 8 p.m. | $20
Virtual Event
Celebrate the legacy of Elizabeth Catlett, a pioneering sculptor, painter, and printmaker who centered Black identity– especially Black women– in her work.
Former African American studies professor Michele L. Simms-Burton explores how Catlett’s bold, people-focused art, created in both the U.S. and Mexico, helped shape the Black Arts Movement. From iconic prints like “Gossip” to rarely seen paintings, this talk offers a fresh look at one of the 20th century’s most powerful artistic voices.
Happy Hour Concert Series at Carlyle Crossing: Hand Painted Swinger
6 p.m. | Free
Carlyle Crossing Plaza, 2455 Mandeville Lane Alexandria, VA 22314
Catch local band Hand Painted Swinger live at Carlyle Crossing Plaza on Aug. 7 as part of the Happy Hour Concert Series.
This free event features live music, a cash bar, food vendors, and lawn games.
Whether stopping by after work or making it a night out with friends, the concert series is a laid-back way to enjoy live music outdoors.
Friday, Aug. 8
7 p.m. – 10 p.m. | $20
Mr. Henry’s Restaurant, 601 Pennsylvania Avenue SE Washington, DC 20003
Head to Mr. Henry’s for the first-ever Justice Jam, featuring a performance by the 17-piece DC Starlight Orchestra and rising talent from the Junior Jazz Lab by 11th Hour Music. The evening supports Jazz4Justice, a nonprofit that turns live jazz into funding for Legal Aid and music education programs.
Enjoy a night of big band sound, good company, and great service, knowing tickets support access to legal services and scholarships for young musicians.
All proceeds go directly to community impact across Virginia.
Learn more at jazz4justice.com.
Beginner Pickleball Friendly Fundraiser
9 a.m. – 11 a.m. | $15
Ellen M. Bozman Government Center, 2100 Clarendon Boulevard Arlington, VA 22201
In honor of Pickleball Day, join fellow newcomers of the sport in a relaxed, social event at Walter Reed 55+ Center.
During the event, participants will be matched randomly for casual doubles games, each limited to 15 minutes. There’s no scoring, just an opportunity to connect with others and enjoy some friendly play.
The event serves as a fundraiser for the Walter Reed 55+ Center Advisory Committee and is supported by the Alliance for Arlington Senior Programs.
Light refreshments will be provided.
Saturday, Aug. 9
Jollof Festival DC ’25
3 p.m. – 8 p.m. | $20 – $65
Dock5, 1309 5th Street NE Washington, D.C. 20002
The Jollof Festival, a day-long event, returns with even more flavor, competition, and cultural energy, highlighting the rich culinary traditions of West Africa through a showcase of regional takes on the iconic rice dish.
Expect a lively atmosphere filled with music, local vendors, and a friendly cook-off as chefs compete for jollof supremacy.
A celebration of food and heritage, the festival brings together community, creativity, and serious spice.
MOCCA Third Annual Caribbean Cultural Concert
2 p.m. – 9 p.m. | Free
Freedom Plaza, 1325 Pennsylvania Avenue NW Washington, DC 20004
The third annual Caribbean Cultural Concert returns to D.C. with seven hours of free, family-friendly festivities presented by the Mayor’s Office of Caribbean Cultural Affairs (MOCCA) and D.C. Caribbean Carnival, Inc.
The event will feature a vibrant mix of Caribbean culture, including a Kiddies Carnival, traditional and costumed dancers, live performances by steelbands, rumba, soca, and reggae groups, plus a colorful parade of costumes.
Caribbean DJs will keep the energy high, making this a celebration for all ages and backgrounds in the heart of the nation’s capital.
Sunday, Aug. 10
2025 Hey Cousin Culture Fest
1 p.m. – 8 p.m. | Free
Veterans Plaza, 1 Veterans Place Silver Spring, MD 20910
The Hey Cousin Culture Fest: Celebrating Black Joy @ The Plaza is back for its third year, bringing together community, creativity, and culture in a free outdoor event.
Attendees can browse a wide variety of local vendors offering art, apparel, crafts, food, and nonprofit resources, while enjoying live performances from local artists, dance teams, and a DJ spinning throughout the day.
SET IT OFF | A Throwback Day Party
4 p.m. – 10 p.m. | $47.19
Lucha Rosa, 1011 K Street Northwest #13th Floor Washington, DC 20001
SET IT OFF – A Throwback Day Party is a strictly 30+ social party that brings the energy of classic R&B and hip-hop back to the forefront for one event.
This event is all about nostalgia, bold style, and reconnecting with good people. Guests can expect throwback hits, fashionable fits, and a dance floor ready for serious vibes.
