From free outdoor concerts and farmers markets to hands-on workshops and vibrant cultural festivals, D.C. is packed with several engaging things to do this week.
Whether looking to dance, learn, explore, or just enjoy the city’s summer energy, there’s something fun to do across the DMV for people of all ages.
Check out a handful of events happening around the city, from jazz in Anacostia to a celebration of Palestinian cuisine, and more.
Plus, remember, for more information on events and programming around the DMV area, check out the Washington Informer Calendar.
Thursday, July 17
Rosslyn Rocks Outdoor Music Series
5:30 p.m. | Free
Central Place Plaza, 1800 N Lynn Street, Arlington, VA 22209
Looking for live music in the city? Check out Rosslyn’s Central Place Plaza for a free outdoor concert featuring Hungry Hard Luck, a band known for its tribute to Jimmy Buffett.
The set will include a mix of popular hits and lesser-known tracks from Buffett’s decades-long career.
There will be a cash bar on-site, and guests are welcome to bring takeout from nearby restaurants. While the event is free to attend, RSVPs are encouraged.
Archiving for Artists
6:30 p.m. | Free
The Phillips Collection, 1600 21st Street NW Washington, D.C. 20009
Learn how to preserve creative work in this hands-on workshop led by archivist and writer Keondra Bills Freemyn, co-director of Black Lunch Table.
Inspired by the “Vivian Browne: My Kind of Protest” exhibition, this session offers practical tips for artists, curators, and cultural workers interested in building and protecting their legacy.
Friday, July 18
Food and Farm Fridays
Noon – 2 p.m. | Free
THEARC, 1901 Mississippi Avenue SE, Washington, D.C. 20020
Get free fresh produce every Friday at THEARC in Southeast D.C., where local farms, the Capital Area Food Bank, and DC Central Kitchen team up to share fruits, vegetables, herbs, and prepared meals with the community.
Monthly extras include cooking demos, local product giveaways, and job fairs.
Hosted by Building Bridges, this event is all about supporting Ward 8 residents with healthy food and helpful resources.
BOUSTANY: Celebrate Palestinian Cuisine with Sami Tamimi & Michael Rafidi
7 p.m. | $23.31
Bold Fork Books, 3064 Mt. Pleasant Street NW, Washington, D.C. 20009
Join Bold Fork Books for a special evening celebrating the release of “Boustany: A Celebration of Vegetables from my Palestine” by renowned chef and author Sami Tamimi.
Chef Tamimi will be in conversation with Michelin-starred D.C. chef Michael Rafidi at All Souls Episcopal Church to discuss his first solo cookbook, a tribute to vibrant, plant-forward Palestinian cuisine.
Co-founder of Ottolenghi and co-author of “Jerusalem and Falastin,” Tamimi shares more than 100 recipes that honor his roots through colorful, garden-inspired dishes.
From pantry staples to shareable meals, “Boustany” brings Palestinian food traditions to life with warmth and creativity.
Friday, July 18 – Saturday, July 19
National Cannabis Festival
Gates open daily at noon | Friday & Saturday $115, Friday only $65, Saturday only $85 + tax & fees
RFK Stadium, 2400 E Capitol St SE, Washington, D.C. 20003
The ninth annual National Cannabis Festival returns to RFK Stadium with headliners Big Boi, Curren$y, Ty Dolla $ign and Three 6 Mafia.
This two-day celebration attracts over 35,000 cannabis advocates, business leaders, and enthusiasts for live music, educational workshops and unique experiences including the new Love Is High matchmaking competition and Zero Proof Bar concept.
Saturday, July 19
DowntownDC BID And Blues Alley Present: 60 Years of Jazz Legacy at Anthem Row
5 p.m. – 9 p.m. | Free
Anthem Row, 800 K Street NW Washington, D.C. 20001
Join the celebration as Blues Alley marks 60 years with a special live concert in downtown D.C.
Enjoy performances by the Blues Alley Youth Orchestra Quartet, the genre-blending Dana Hawkins Syndicate, and acclaimed saxophonist Brent Birckhead.
This free, open-air event honors the legacy of jazz while also spotlighting its next generation.
Owtside Festival 2025
2 p.m. | $50 – $175.10
Gateway DC, 2730 Martin Luther King Jr Avenue SE, Washington, D.C. 20032
Celebrate the sounds and flavors of the city at Owtside Festival, a one-day event packed with live performances, DJ sets, top food vendors, and interactive games.
From local talent to national acts, this festival brings high energy and summer vibes all day long.
Whether coming with friends or riding solo, it’s an experience to not miss.
The event is 21+ only with a valid ID and all ticket sales are final.
Sunday, July 20
Jazzy Sundays in Anacostia
4 p.m. | Free
Anacostia, 1234 Marion Barry Avenue SE Washington, D.C. 20020
Enjoy the rhythm of summer with Jazzy Sundays, a free, family-friendly concert series happening every Sunday through Sept. 7.
Head to Marion Barry Avenue SE for live jazz, delicious food from local vendors, and a relaxed community vibe.
Bring lawn chairs, grab a bite, and unwind with soulful sounds in the heart of Anacostia. Presented by The Anacostia BID and DCity Smokehouse, this eight-week series is the perfect way to wrap up the weekend.
Litter Cleanup at P Street Beach
10 a.m. – Noon | Free
P Street Beach, 23rd Street NW & P Street NW Washington, D.C. 20037
Take part in a local restoration day led by Nick Staten, in partnership with Rock Creek Conservancy and the National Park Service.
This event focuses on clearing litter, one of the biggest threats to the park’s health and water quality. It’s a chance to support the environment, connect with nature, and contribute to a cleaner, safer Rock Creek.
Final details and directions will be shared with volunteers two days before the event.