From planting in Southeast D.C. to experiencing an Emmy-winning comedian in action and tapping into a revisioning of Shakespeare inspired by Malcolm X, check out a handful of the many events happening in the DMV this weekend.
Further, to keep up with all the fun, don’t forget to check out the Washington Informer Calendar.
This weekend and beyond, work to maintain a vibrant outlook and remember, there’s always something happening in the DMV to keep your spirit — and social life — lit.
Thursday, Sept. 25
Volunteer at Hopkins Gardens – Discover your green thumb
10 a.m. | Free
Hopkins Garden, 1227 K Street SE Washington, D.C. 20020
Hopkins Garden will be planting, harvesting and weeding every Thursday, and giving away the vegetables, herbs and flowers they pick the next day at Food and Farm Fridays at THEARC.
While no experience is necessary, this is a great opportunity to learn how to grow food, volunteer and help people living in food apartheid to take home fresh, life-giving vegetables!
7 p.m. | $145
Blues Alley, 1073 Wisconsin Avenue NW, Washington, D.C. 20007
Audiences can prepare to immerse themselves in the captivating world of Dani Cortaza, an artist who has taken the music scene by storm, blending genres and creating a unique sound that resonates worldwide.
Known for his electrifying live shows and heartfelt performances, Cortaza has quickly become a favorite among fans. Now is a chance to witness his talent live and be part of an unforgettable experience.
Beginning his musical journey at a young age and influenced by diverse genres ranging from pop to rock to electronic music, Cortaza’s ability to weave together different styles has set him apart in the competitive music landscape.
Over the years, the artist has released several hit singles and albums, earning critical acclaim and a loyal fanbase. His dynamic stage presence and engaging performances have made him a must-see artist, and his upcoming shows promise to be no exception.
Friday, Sept. 26
5th Friday Open Mic | Brookland| Hosted by Casey Catherine Moore
9 p.m. – 11 p.m. | $5
Busboys and Poets, 625 Monroe Street NE, Washington, D.C. 20017
For two hours audiences can expect a diverse chorus of voices and a vast array of professional spoken word performers, open mic rookies, musicians and a different host every week during FRIDAY NIGHT OPEN MIC! A Busboys and Poetry Event.
This week’s host, Casey Catherine Moore, holds a Ph.D. from the University of South Carolina in Comparative Literature with a focus on Latin poetry, invective, and women’s and gender studies.
A bisexual, bipolar poet, writer, educator, and activist, She. Moore’s writing centers on gender and sexuality, educational equity, and dis/ability and mental health. Further, Moore’s work appears in academic and creative publications, including The Comparatist, Sinister Wisdom, Oyster River Pages, Bourgeon, and Samfiftyfour.
7 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. | $85+
DC Improv , 1140 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington, D.C. 20036
A two-time Emmy nominee, fresh off his latest comedy special “Snack Daddy,” comedian and actor Michael Yo is keeping busy on all of Hollywood’s platforms and now coming to Northwest D.C.
Yo came up under the wings of Chelsea Handler and Jo Koy and now headlines all over the country.
A proud father and loving husband with a bottomless pool of material about his family, Yo has been making audiences across the country laugh for years with his unique blend of wit and charm. With his infectious energy and relatable humor, Yo has become a household name in the comedy world.
Whether performing on stage, hosting a podcast, or appearing on talk shows, Yo always leaves a lasting impression.
Saturday, Sept. 27
Art & Me | Family Workshop: Silver Tells a Story
11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. | Free
National Museum of Asian Art, 1050 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, D.C. 20013
Explore how silver objects from ancient Iran were made and preserved in this hands-on family workshop for children ages 3-8 and their caregivers. After a guided look at the exhibition “Feast Your Eyes: A Taste for Luxury in Ancient Iran,” participants will experiment with real silver and learn simple techniques inspired by the science of conservation.
9 a.m. – 6:30 a.m. | $20 – $75
Anacostia Arts Center, 1231 Good Hope Road SE, Washington, D.C. 20020
The Second Annual Fusion Festival returns to Southeast D.C. with a full day of panels, workshops, and networking at the intersection of business, culture, wellness, and creativity.
This year’s theme: Transformation — exploring what it takes to grow through change in business, wellness, creativity, and leadership.
What You Get:
Access to all mainstage panels & breakout sessions
Hands-on workshops with practical tools you can use right away
Sunday, Sept. 28
Julius X: A Re-envisioning of The Tragedy of Julius Caesar
2 p.m. – 5 p.m. | $20+
Folger Shakespeare Library, 201 E Capitol Street SE, Washington, D.C. 20003
Award-winning writer, journalist, and podcast host Al Letson harmonizes with William Shakespeare in “Julius X: A Re-envisioning of The Tragedy of Julius Caesar.”
Just as Shakespeare chronicled history to create a means of understanding the events of his day with “Julius Caesar” (around 1599), Letson highlights and reflects on contemporary challenges by blending the Bard with the story of civil rights leader Malcolm X.
Directed by Nicole Brewer, “Julius X” champions Shakespeare’s original text and timeless tragedy, amplified with Letson’s verse, to highlight the cyclical nature of societal strife and shared human experiences of ambition, betrayal, and brotherhood.
“Letson’s poetry pulses with the rhythm of revolution,” said Brewer, “weaving Shakespearean drama into the raw urgency of the Civil Rights era.”
East of the River Tutoring & Mentoring Info Session
Noon – 1:30 p.m. | Free
Anacostia Arts Center, 1235 Marion Barry Avenue SE, Washington, D.C. 20020
Connected to Wards 7 or 8? Take an active part in building a better world and learn about becoming a mentor or tutor with the DC Tutoring and Mentoring Initiative.
Come to this information session, to learn about how to give back, pay it forward, and make a world of difference for District youth by devoting 1-2 hours a week to serving the community as a mentor, tutor, or coach for elementary, middle, or high school students.