From a conversation with a barrier-breaking former vice president to a performance from a multi-award-winning gospel choir, below are some of the many events happening in the DMV area this week.
As the holiday season starts ramping up, let these October festivities allow connecting with the community — whether friends, family, loved ones or strangers.
Thursday, Oct. 9
A Conversation with Kamala Harris
7 p.m. | $155+
Warner Theatre, 513 13th Street NW, Washington, D.C. 20004
For the first time, former Vice President Kamala Harris tells the story of her 2024 presidential campaign, including surprising and revealing insights in her new book “107 Days”
During this special event, Harris will share what she saw, what she learned, and what it will take to move forward.
With nuance, candor, and a unique perspective, Harris will lead a conversation about how Americans can collectively chart a blueprint that sets an alternative vision for the nation.
Doors open at 6 p.m. and the show begins at 7 p.m.
Race the District: Go-Karting Experience
11 a.m. – 9 p.m. | $41.46
Union Market, 1309 5th Street NE, Washington, D.C. 20002
In partnership with Events DC, Union Market is bringing a unique go-kart racing experience, powered by K1 Speed, the world’s premier go-kart racing operator.
Race the District returns Oct. 9–12, transforming Union Market’s parking lot into a high-energy outdoor racetrack. The thrill goes beyond the track this year with a major headline moment: electronic duo Louis The Child will bring a live block party performance to 5th Street (adjacent to Union Market) on Saturday, Oct. 11, presented by Nü Androids.
The weekend will be packed with go-karting excitement for all ages (minimum height of 58” is required), from seasoned racers to complete beginners.
Each 15-minute race will accommodate six drivers, perfect for creating fun memories with family and friends.
Go for the races and stay for live music, awesome entertainment and a variety of delicious eats from Union Market District’s favorite restaurants and bars.
Friday, Oct. 10
8 p.m. | $34+
The Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda, MD 20852
The multi-Grammy and Emmy Award-winning Soweto Gospel Choir returns to North America with “Peace”—a joyful program of South African freedom songs, traditional spirituals, and beloved classics.
This inspirational concert features a cappella renditions of music by Aretha Franklin, Harry Belafonte, Peter Gabriel, Kate Bush, Leonard Cohen, and more.
Formed in 2002 to celebrate the unique power of African gospel music, San Francisco Classical Voice said Soweto Gospel Choir has quickly established itself as a group that is “undeniably synchronized, appears unshakable, and simultaneously expresses universality and individuality.”
8 p.m. | $128+
The Theatre at MGM National Harbor, 101 MGM National Avenue, National Harbor, MD 20745
Instead of concerts, Fantasia, star of the Tony Award-winning “The Color Purple” and the current musical “After Midnight,” prefers to think of her performances as “shows,” because they have the emotional arc of a Broadway show.
Coming to National Harbor, this is a show with plenty of hits, from her inspirational smash debut “I Believe” (2004) to the hard-won, straight-from-the-streets feminism of 2013’s “Without Me.” Fantasia has set herself apart by allowing her life experiences to inform her music in unique and surprising ways.
Saturday, Oct. 11
4 p.m. – 6 p.m.| Free
Busboys and Poets – Brookland, 625 Monroe Street NE, Washington, D.C. 20017
Story Tapestries presents an afternoon of spoken word poetry honoring Langston Hughes and celebrating D.C.’s cultural diversity.
The reading is followed by a generative writing workshop led by Regie Cabico, followed by an open mic where attendees will write together and share poetry in a nurturing environment.
This event is for all ages and poets of all levels and is free for participants thanks to funding from DC Public Library, Humanities DC and Busboys and Poets.
11 a.m. – 4 p.m. | Free
The Coupe, 3415 11th Street NW, Washington, DC 20010
Grab a broomstick and come get witchy with more than two dozen local artists and makers.
Come check out crystals, oddities, botanical art, Halloween jewelry, candles, and more at the D.C WitchFest.
Enjoy fun activities like tarot readings, henna, live portraits, astrology readings, witchy crafts, spell jars, and more!
Costumes encouraged, especially for kids and pets!
Sunday, Oct. 12
Electrical Basics: All Day Workshop
1 p.m. – 6 p.m. | Free
AbodesJoy, 707 Ritchie Avenue, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Hoping to empower women, nonbinary and trans people, this free, hands-on five-hour workshop will cover basic electrical safety guidelines and skills.
Participants will learn about the best and most commonly used electrical tools, how to strip wires, how to remove and install outlets and switches, and how to install ceiling fans.
This workshop is free to attend, with donations encouraged to help support AbodesJoy’s mission. Contributions are tax-deductible and directly fund the organization’s Home Repair Training Program, which is offered at no cost to women, nonbinary folks and transgender people from underrepresented and under-resourced communities.
NBA Preseason: Washington Wizards vs. Toronto Raptors
3 p.m. | $45+
Capital One Arena, 601 F Street NW, Washington, D.C. 20004
Serving as Washington’s first preseason game — and only home preseason contest of the year — fans can expect to see the Wizards’ new roster, which will include 2024 draft picks Alex Sarr and Kyshawn George, alongside returning players like Kyle Kuzma and Jordan Poole, as they prepare for the upcoming NBA season.