Sweltering days and pop-up thunderstorms may be staples of August in D.C., but there’s still plenty to do. Spend an afternoon or evening exploring the sunflower fields at Butler’s Orchard with live music and craft beverages. Get ready for rides, games and eating challenges at the 50th Arlington County Fair. Say farewell to a pair of Montgomery County outdoor movie series. Pick crabs at Maryland’s largest crab feast. Find a new pair of kicks at SneakerCon, or swap seasonal clothes, CDs or DVDs. Browse a sidewalk sale, or learn about supernatural Japanese monsters.
Thursday, Aug. 6
Late Night: Field Day at the Playground at the National Building Museum
The National Building Museum’s summer installation, “The Playground,” is a tribute to spending summer days playing in a public park, with nine different zones for kids of all ages to explore. This week is an adults-only session with a “field day” theme, with games including Around the World basketball and double Dutch, and live music from the Experience Band and Show. Admission to museum exhibits is included in the ticket; food and drink will be available for purchase. 6 to 9 p.m. $25; $20 students with ID.
Summer to Fall Clothing Swap at 50 F St NW
It’s not quite time for a new season, but we can’t escape the fact that summer is starting to come to an end. That means your mini skirts, shorts and tank tops will soon be headed to the back of the closet. To get ahead of the curve, the Sierra Club is hosting a seasonal clothing swap, giving people a chance to pass along summer clothes while picking up longer sleeves and pants before the temperatures drop. It’s simple: Bring five items and take home five items. 6 to 8 p.m. Free.
DC Moth StorySLAM: Schooled at The Miracle Theatre
Imagine you only have five minutes to build a true story based on your experiences and the lessons that made you who you are. Then after, hop onstage to share it to a crowd in an open-mic style, where your freestyle is entered into a storytelling competition. This will become a reality this weekend at the Miracle Theatre, where doors open at 6:30 and the stories follow. If you’re not up to the challenge, there’s also room for you to sit back and watch. 7:30 p.m. $23.
$1 Fro Yo at Union Market’s Van Leeuwen
Last week, the Van Leeuwen on 14th Street announced it was bringing frozen yogurt to its shop and selling it for just $1. As promised, the Union Market location is next in line, launching the deal Thursday. Stop by between 2 and 5 p.m. for a scoop of tart, matcha, coconut or pineapple frozen yogurt, which can swirled together then customized with a toppings like fresh fruit, Biscoff crumble, Pistachio Kataifi, and more. So, if you’re in the area and craving the dessert everyone seems to be talking about, this is your chance. The 14th Street and Old Town locations have officially added frozen yogurt to their menus, but the $1 deal is over there. 2 to 5 p.m. $1.
Faith in Harmony: Soundscapes of American Spirituality at the Smithsonian Arts and Industries Building
As part of its “Our Shared Future: 250” programming, the Smithsonian is hosting a five-part series looking at the role music and sound play in American religion and spirituality. This month examines drums and percussion, with examples coming from the use of the daf hand drum in Islam, taiko drumming in Shinto, and drum circles among Native Americans. Registration is required. 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Free; registration required.
Friday, Aug. 7
Annapolis Rotary Club Crab Feast at Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium
Piles of steamed blue crabs, barbecue and corn on the cob draw around 1,100 people to the Naval Academy’s Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium every August for the Rotary Club of Annapolis’s annual all-you-can-eat Crab Feast. Now in its 81st year, this is billed as the largest crab feast in Maryland, and it’s also the Rotary Club’s biggest fundraiser, with proceeds distributed to nonprofit organizations across the region. Tickets include food and drinks (beer, soda and water), and the Rotary also holds a bake sale and raffle. Arrive early to find a table for general admission, or purchase a seat or group table in advance. 5 to 8 p.m. $95; $35 ages 3 to 12. Reserved/VIP seating $135-$190 per person, $1,800-$2,280 per group.
Bethesda Outdoor Movies: ‘Bring it On’
As we move into August, more outdoor concert and film series are approaching the end of their summer runs. In Bethesda, the 20th Bethesda Outdoor Movies closes with “Bring it On,” featuring Kirsten Dunst and Gabrielle Union. The series is held in the county parking lot at 4650 Willow Lane, behind the Farm Women’s Market. Ukrainian restaurant Ruta will be selling food on-site, but viewers are also encouraged to bring takeout from nearby restaurants. Film begins at 8:45 p.m. Free.
‘A [New] American Dream’ Closing Celebration at Heurich House
The Heurich House brings the curtain down on “A [New] American Dream,” three interactive installations imagining what might happen over the next 250 years. Curator Philippa Pham Hughes and artists Xena Ni and Nina Maturu participate in a public talk about their work at 5 p.m., followed by an open house and tours. The museum’s beer garden will be open for local craft beers and ciders beginning at 4. 5 to 8 p.m. Free; registration requested.
Jazz and Freedom Fest at Mr. Henry’s
An annual concert in the upstairs jazz club at Mr. Henry’s serves as a fundraiser for local nonprofits. This year features the D.C. Starlight Orchestra — a big band consisting mostly of federal employees — with the JII Jazz Combo and tenor saxophonist Donovan Claybrooks and the Jazz and Freedom All Stars. Bring your own instrument to sit in during the jam session. 7 to 10 p.m. $22.33.
Saturday, Aug. 8
Sunflower Spectacular at Butler’s Orchard
We’re in the midst of sunflower season, and everyone wants a photo of themselves in front of the big yellow blooms — or a vase full of them to brighten up the living room. Butler’s Orchard is best known in this area for its pick-your-own berries, apples and pumpkins, but the Germantown farm also has fields of sunflowers, with props like vintage trucks and frames carefully arranged for social media photos. Admission includes farm attractions, like animals, as well as a playground and giant slides, and access to the pick-your-own fields. (See the website for a list of what’s available.) Special Sunflower Socials, held on Saturday evenings from 4:30 to 8:30, add live music and extended hours for the cider bar, with local hard cider and craft beers. Through Aug. 16 from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.; open until 8:30 p.m. on Saturdays. $8-$10 Tuesday through Thursday, $13.50-$15 Friday through Sunday. Free for children younger than 2.
Dock Dogs at the Wharf
“The world’s premier canine aquatics competition” arrives at the Wharf this weekend, delighting anyone who enjoys seeing dogs flying through the air and landing in pools of water. Dock Dogs consists of three competitions: Speed Retrieve, which features dogs running and leaping into water to grab a toy as quickly as possible; Big Air, in which dogs jump as far as possible — up to 27 feet! — while trying to catch a toy; and Extreme Vertical, where dogs leap as high as possible to grab a toy suspended overhead. Expect a lot of fun, and a lot of cuteness, from the furry competitors. Beyond the athletics, there are dog treats and dog toy crafting stations, photo ops, a beer garden, and adoptable dogs and cats. Dogs are welcome, but must remain leashed. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Free.
Sneakercon at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center
This is the biggest weekend of the year for local sneakerheads: More than 200 dealers are bringing more than 100,000 sneakers, plus vintage clothes and accessories, to the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. Shop for rare kicks, have your vintage Air Zooms and Air Force 1s authenticated, or sell an old pair on the spot to the Cash Out Crew. There’s also the infamous “Trading Pit,” where you can wheel and deal with fellow collectors. Leave time to participate in games, browse merch and meet guest artists and influencers. Saturday and Sunday from noon to 7 p.m. $29.01 per day; $45.78-$56.96 for two-day passes.
Grilled Cheese Social at Sandlot Uptown
Everyone loves a grilled cheese sandwich. It’s been there for you on sick days, on the days you forgot to buy groceries and as the classic meal that only needs two main ingredients. Since 2012, the Grilled Cheese Social has been bringing that nostalgia to events around the city. This weekend, bite into a gooey, cheesy sandwich while a playlist full of nostalgic hits sets the mood. Hosts encourage guests to come hungry and ready to eat, dance and mingle with fellow grilled cheese lovers. 2 to 8 p.m. $10-$30.
Port to Port Beer Festival at Port City Brewing
Breweries from around Virginia and beyond are sending beers to Alexandria for Port City’s third annual Port to Port Beer Festival, including the Veil (Richmond), Selvedge (Charlottesville), Pen Druid (Sperryville), Bear Chase (Bluemont), Dewey Beer Co (Dewey Beach) and Allagash (Portland, Maine). Tickets include unlimited samples from all 19 participants, plus a new Port City collaboration brew. A DJ sets the mood in the outdoor beer garden, and food will be available. Noon to 4 p.m. $63.60.
Silver Spring Summer Movie Series: ‘Black Panther’
Another Montgomery County outdoor movie series is wrapping up this weekend: Silver Spring’s Summer Movie Series takes over the Downtown Silver Spring Plaza on Ellsworth Drive for a “Black Panther” viewing party. The movie begins at 8:30 p.m., but arrive between 7:30 and 8:30 for face painting and other family activities and to stake out a space. Blankets and lawn chairs are welcome. 8:30 p.m. Free.
La Noche de Benito: A Bad Bunny Dance Party at La Cosecha
Union Market’s Latin American marketplace is staying open late for a special dance party dedicated to Bad Bunny. DJs spin Bad Bunny’s hits and songs by related artists, while crowds hit the dance floor or visit bars for drink specials. 10 p.m. Free.
Book Launch and Run Social at Lululemon Georgetown
Apparently, “This Book Can Make You Love Running.” If that title catches your attention, head to Georgetown’s Lululemon for the book launch followed by a group run. Author and running coach Zach Prescott will discuss the book over a light breakfast after the morning run, and attendees will have the chance to ask questions about the inspiration and philosophy behind it. The run follows the edges of the C&O Canal, and runners of all levels are welcome. Whether it’s your first mile or your second of the day, you’re invited to celebrate the launch, and maybe leave loving to run. 8 to 10 a.m. Free.
Boots and Beats Summer Hike at Forest Hills Park Playground
If you have hiking boots and like music, this hike might be for you. Beginners are more than welcome as the route is an easy, less-than-3-mile trail. If you’re looking for an outdoor activity with friends or just want an excuse to meet new people, this is the perfect hike. Participants gather at 9:30 a.m. before heading out at 10 a.m. on the Soapstone Valley Park Trail. Starts at 10 a.m. Free, RSVP requested.
Summer Arts Market at the Chinese American Museum
Browse paintings, handcrafted goods and baked treats while shopping from local artists and vendors at the museum’s summer arts market. There will even be juicy dumplings for sale. Spend the afternoon surrounded by art, culture and food instead of the museum’s usual exhibits. RSVP is strongly encouraged to help organizers gauge attendance. 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free.
Mega Summer Sidewalk Sale at Merry Pin DC
Merry Pin, the Georgia Avenue craft store that doubles as a coffee shop, is hosting its highly anticipated summer sidewalk sale. And yes, it’s exactly what it sounds like — craft supplies galore. Shoppers can browse fabric cuts and scraps from the store’s creative reuse program along with seasonal merchandise marked 40% off. There will also be plenty of buttons and craft kits for anyone looking to start their next project. 2 to 8 p.m. Free.
Kaleo at the Anthem
Iceland is a musical powerhouse known for sounds that are often ethereal and atmospheric. One notable exception is Kaleo, a quintet whose American-style blues rock is raw and earthy. This tour celebrates the release of the 10th-anniversary edition of the band’s breakthrough album, “A/B.” The expanded version places never-heard tracks alongside such hits as the brooding “Way Down We Go.” 8 p.m. $58-$91.
Sunday, Aug. 9
Physical Media Swap at Rhizome
It wasn’t that many years ago that old(er) people were told it was time to get rid of their carefully collected CDs, records and DVDs. “Everything’s available to stream,” we were told. “Why do you need those things taking up space?” Instead, recent years have seen a renewed appreciation for physical media, from carefully assembled zines to VHS tapes to cassettes. If you’re looking to diversify your collection, head to Rhizome’s Takoma HQ on Sunday for a physical media swap. Bring the CDs/DVDs/tapes/zines you’re finished with — even “your defunct band’s unsold merch,” organizers suggest — and pick up something new. Bring a stack of items? Take a stack home. Noon to 4 p.m. Free.
Vintage Car Showcase at 1348 4th St NE
It’s time for another vintage car show. Vintage Vintage Vintage, a shop in the heart of Union Market, is teaming up with local collectors to fill its parking lot with more than 35 vehicles. And yes, there will be more than just cars. Expect vintage trucks and motorcycles, plus drinks, snacks and music to keep the vibes going. Bringing a little one who’s obsessed with vehicles? There will also be a Touch-a-Tow experience through a partnership with Roda. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Free.
Dante Pope and the Jazz Collective at Bar Charley
The new “Cocktails, Cuts and Chords” series brings live music into Bar Charley’s cozy basement bar and dining room. Dante Pope has worn many hats around the D.C. music scene, performing with Black Alley, serving as music director for Raheem DeVaughn, and touring with Old Crow Medicine Show. Pope and the Jazz Collective fuse soul, hip-hop and jazz, while the kitchen serves $20 steak frites. 8:30 to 11 p.m. Free.
Hot Tuna (acoustic) at the Birchmere
Best known for soaring with Jefferson Airplane, guitarist Jorma Kaukonen and bassist Jack Casady met as students at D.C.’s Woodrow Wilson (now Jackson-Reed) High School in the early 1960s. The duo has performed with various incarnations of trad-blues outfit Hot Tuna off and mostly on for 57 years. While the electric incarnation of Tuna did a farewell tour in 2023, the acoustic version continues to play Delta and Chicago classics with verve and heart. 7:30 p.m. $87-$96.
Monday, Aug. 10
‘Yokai Parade: Supernatural Monsters From Japan’ at Japan Information and Culture Center
For centuries, Japanese folktales have told stories of yokai, or supernatural creatures that take shapes ranging from demons to humanoids to shape-shifters. Some are malevolent, others help humans, but they’re all embedded in Japanese culture. A new exhibit at the Japanese embassy’s downtown Japan Information and Culture Center traces the history and evolution of yokai, from woodblock prints to anime and films. The exhibition runs for five weeks, with special events like extended hours (Aug. 18) and a discussion about “Why the World Loves Godzilla” (Aug. 25). Through Sept. 18. Free.
Wednesday, Aug. 12
Arlington County Fair at the Thomas Jefferson Community Center
Experience the best of a county fair (Carnival rides! Funnel cake! Farm animals! Eating contests!) without driving far from the District with the opening of the Arlington County Fair. This year’s theme is “Stars, Stripes and Summer Nights,” commemorating “50 Years of Fairs” at the Thomas Jefferson Community Center, and it includes all the attractions fans have come to expect, from live music to bingo and trivia nights. Local makers sell their wares at a night market on Thursday, while Aug. 15 features competitive eaters, with pizza-, burrito- and pie-eating contests — and the TriVista TriFecta, which combines all three in one event. There’s no parking on-site, so a free shuttle runs to the fair from the Ballston Mall Parking Garage. Wednesday and Thursday from 5 to 10:30 p.m., Aug. 14 from 2 to 10:30 p.m., Aug. 15 from 10 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., and Aug. 16 from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Admission is free; prices for rides and games varies.
Live From the Lawn: UkeFest Finale at Strathmore
Strathmore’s outdoor summer concert series wraps up on a fun and quirky note with a celebration of the ukulele. The UkeFest Finale is the culmination of UkeFest, a five-day ukulele fantasy camp featuring master classes, jam sessions and showcases, with teachers including the Grammy-winning duo of Cathy Fink and Marcy Marxer. Everyone is welcome to join a strum-along at the Gudelsky Gazebo at 7 p.m. — BYO ukulele — followed by performances by UkeFest’s teachers and guest artists. Bring a picnic and spread out a blanket, or purchase dinner and drinks from the on-site grill. The concert moves indoors in case of inclement weather. 7 p.m. Free.
Plants in the Park: Bonsai class at National Landing
Looking for a new plant hobby? Learn about the art of bonsai during National Landing’s monthly Plants in the Park class, hosted with the PlantHouse boutique. Meet at Met Park’s Central Green to get hands-on with bonsai plants, and take your project home. 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Free.
Music Bingo at Bub and Pop’s
If you’re a music lover, head to Bub and Pop’s for a night of “Who sings this song?” and other questions your teammate will swear they know. It’s not just bingo, either. Guests are encouraged to sing along whenever one of their favorite songs comes on. Winners earn bragging rights and prizes, and while you wait for the next round, you can dig into one of the restaurant’s Italian hoagies. If you can’t make this one, don’t worry, the family-owned spot hosts music bingo every Wednesday. 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Free.