PAST: SILENT DISCO: "Metrobus Silent Disco: Public Danceportation" this SAT, Nov 30th, meet by the Takoma Metro between 4:30pm - 5:00pm, event goes from 5:00pm - 7:00pm, $3 - $9 tickets available

Metrobus Silent Disco: Public Danceportation
Meet by the Takoma Metro, heading toward Petworth
Saturday, November 30th
4:30pm - 5:00pm arrival
5:00pm - 7:00pm silent disco on the move!
Free tickets are already sold out
Prices have been lowered! $3-$9 tickets available!
Note: You must RSVP in advance and arrive before 5:00pm to ensure your headset! Bring a government issued ID to be held as collateral for the headset.

Headsets will offer two channels of music, and one or both channels will be electronic music. Due to the capacity of metro buses, tickets for this event are limited. Based on the details of departure from Takoma heading toward Petworth it seems that they'll be riding on the 52 and 54 buses. At 5:00pm, reserved headsets will be distributed to those on standby and those who did not reserve headsets in advance. "Please no dancing in/on metro seats or on top of Metrobus driver, out of respect Metrobus patrons and to avoid any conflict with law enforcement. If a Metrobus employee gives you instructions at any point, please comply immediately, do not argue."

Metro: Takoma 

PAST: SPECIAL EVENT: Mp3 Experiment Washington DC Outside on the National Mall this SAT, Nov 30th from 12:00pm - 1:00pm, Free, Rain or shine

Mp3 Experiment Washington DC

Saturday, November 30th

12:00pm - 1:00pm

Free

Rain or shine, Please read full details here!

Note: The event will begin at exactly noon so please arrive early. It'll be over by 1:00pm.

RSVP requested on facebook

Outside on the National Mall, between the Natural History Museum and the Smithsonian Castle. They are asking folks to wear a red, blue, yellow, or green shirt and to bring  bubbles (bottle of bubbles that you can conceal in your pocket or purse), Also, please do not listen to the track before the event.

Improv Everywhere is a New York City-based prank collective that causes scenes of chaos and joy in public places. Created in August of 2001 by Charlie Todd, Improv Everywhere has executed over 100 missions involving tens of thousands of undercover agents. Read more about them here.

You'll need to download the Mp3: DOWNLOAD (Right click and save the link. If you just click on the link it will start playing in your browser. Spoilers!) Note: The filename for the track is “mp3_experiment_dc.mp3″ and the album, artist, and track name will be “Mp3 Experiment DC.” iOS users (iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch) can also download the mp3 directly to their device viapodcast. (Download “The Mp3 Experiment DC.”) and  load the track onto your mp3 player (iPhone, etc.). Read full directions and see map for where to meet here. 

Outside on the National Mall

between the Natural History Museum 

and the Smithsonian Castle

Metro: Smithsonian  

PAST: HOLIDAY: Faction of Fools Theatre Company offers a Pay-What-You-Can Saturday Matinee for their Holiday Show "A Commedia Christmas Carol" at Galluadet University this SAT, Nov 30th from 2:00pm - 3:30pm, by donation

A Commedia Christmas Carol Pay-What-You-Can Matinee Show
Saturday, November 30th
2:00pm - 3:30pm
Pay-What-You-Can at the door or $10 + fee online
Regular price $30, $18. $12 plus small service fee
Recommended for ages 9 and up

Faction of Fools Theatre Company brings back the 2013 nominee for the Charles MacArthur Award for Outstanding New Play: A Commedia Christmas Carol, a fun-filled Commedia dell’Arte adaptation of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. Old Scrooge gets a new face with a blend of masks, acrobatics, and historical Commedia archetypes in a foolish festive fable for the whole family.

Gallaudet University - Elstad Auditorium
800 Florida Ave NE
Metro: NoMa/Gallaudet, exit the south entrance of the metro, walk east on M St five blocks, turn right on Florida Ave, walk two blocks, enter University main gate, first building on the right is the Elstad Auditorium, or take 92 or 90 bus, from Florida Ave & 2nd St to Florida Av & 7th St (2 mins, 3 stops), enter main gate.

PAST: HOLIDAY: Shop for the Holidays as part of Small Business Saturday this SAT, Nov 30th from 10:00am - 4:00pm, Pop-Up Shop near Eastern Market from 10:00am - 4:00pm, Free

Small Business Saturday Pop-Up Shop near Eastern Market
Saturday, November 30th
10:00am - 4:00pm
Free, though you'll likely want to have some money to shop with, RSVP requested

As part of Small Business Saturday, Carnelian Boutique is hosting a pop-up shop featuring local and woman-owned businesses. Attendees can shop clothing, jewelry, shoes and other great accessories from The Good District, HippGyps, Stella & Dot and more! They will also have access to special discounts and giveaways.

tabula rasa
731 8th St, SE
Metro: Eastern Market

PAST: MUSIC: Local Band Ra Ra Rasputin plays at DC9 along with PLOY and Bearshark this SAT, Nov 30th at 9:30pm, doors 9:00pm, $10, 18+

Ra Ra Rasputin with PLOY and Bearshark at DC9 

Saturday, November 30th

9:30pm show, 9:00pm doors
$10, 18+

Local band Ra Ra Rasputin plays one last show this year along with PLOY and Bearshark at DC9.

DC9

1940 9th St NW - at U St
Metro: U St, African-American War Memorial exit

PAST: BURLESQUE: Hot Night Productions Holiday Hootenanny! "A Burlesque and Belly Dance Feast!" this SAT, Nov 30th at 10:00pm, doors 8:30pm, $10 in advance, 21+

Hot Night Productions Holiday Hootenanny! "A Burlesque and Belly Dance Feast"

Saturday, November 30th
10:00pm show, 8:30pm dooes
$10 in advance, no service fee, $12 at the door, 21+

Performers include: Missy Aggravation, Alyssum Pohl, Cherie Sweetbottom, Melody Magpie, and Chérie Nuit. MC Hot Todd Lincoln.

The Bier Baron Tavern
1523 22nd St NW (former Brickskellar location)
Metro: Dupont Circle, walk down P St to 22nd and make a right

PAST: DANCE: A Thanksgiving Square Dance + Potluck! In the North Hall at Eastern Market this SAT, Nov 30th from 7:00pm - 11:30pm, $10

A Thanksgiving Square Dance + Potluck at Eastern Market
Saturday, November 30th
7:00pm - 11:30pm
$10
All welcome! No experience, costume, or partner required 7:00pm - 8:00pm Potluck, 8:30pm -11:30pm Dance

Come on out for a rowdy & rollicking traditional square dance with Nils Fredland calling the dances and music by one of the hottest dance bands on the east coast, Elixir. With trombone, trumpet, clarinet, guitar, and fiddle, they play tunes from Irish, New England, and Quebecois traditions. Organized with the Folklore Society of Greater Washington, a group that supports traditional music & dance in the DC area.

North Hall at Eastern Market
225 7th St, SE
Metro: Eastern Market, use the North Carolina Ave entrance

PAST: Two more exhibits you can check out in November in DC & MD!

"Ethiopia From the Heart"at the Washington Gallery of Photography in Rockville, MD features works by Ethiopian Photographer Andarge Asfaw

Free

Opens on Friday, November 1st, no end date noted. "Ethiopia from the Heart" features the work of Ethiopian Photographer Andarge Asfaw. Internationally recognized photographer Andarge Asfaw invites you to celebrate his unique photographic journey through Ethiopia's exquisite landscapes, wildlife, and culture. 

Washington Gallery of Photography

12276 Wilkins Ave - Rockville, MD

Metro: Twinbrook and walk, about .8 mile

"Lines & Feelings: Contemporary Polish Painting" at Gallery A in Dupont Circle

Free

On view Friday, November 1st - Saturday, November 30th

"Lines & Feelings: Contemporary Polish Painting," by artist Jaroslaw Sznytzer. 

Gallery A

2106 R St. NW

Metro: Dupont Circle, Q St north exit

PAST: HOLIDAY: Nutcracker Signing with Karolin Steinbach at The Kenndey Center on FRI, Nov 29th from 12:30pm - 10:00pm, Free

Nutcracker Mistletoe Santa by Steinbach

Nutcracker Signing - Steinbach
Friday, November 29th

12:30pm - 10:00pm 

Free

The name Steinbach is recognized all over the world for the unique design of their wood carved Steinbach Nutcracker creations developed many years ago by the Steinbach Family. Karolin Steinbach will sign some of her family's creations from 12:30pm - 10:00pm.

The Kennedy Center
2700 F Street, NW
Metro: Foggy Bottom and take the free Kennedy Center Shuttle bus that runs every ten minutes from the metro

PAST: HIGHLIGHTS: Two More events to choose from this FRI, Nov 29th, Free - $10

Highlights for Friday, November 29th

Marlee in the Mixx at Indlulj on U St 
8:00pm listening party upstairs, 11:00pm live in the main room
$10
"This young band -- all members are 24 or younger -- has been packing them in on Friday nights with an ambitious combination of originals and covers touching everything: go-go, hip-hop, R&B, rock and jazz." The band is finally dropping a release of all original material, and the listening session for its "10,000 Hours" EP begins at 8 p.m. at Indulj's upstairs lounge. The $10 cover charge is also good for the live session that starts in the main room at 11:00pm. Info from The Washington Post, Going Out Guide.
Indlulj
1208 U St NW

Metro: U St or take the Circulator bus to 14th & U, walk 2 blocks

The Bullbuckers live at Acre 121 in Columbia Heights 
10:00pm
Free
The Bullbuckers begin a monthly residency at Acre 121 on Black Friday. "They play a laid-back style of ska infused with northern soul and early reggae, but the peppy brass section has enough zip to get an entire bar grooving." Plus, in honor of the "holiday," all seasonal drafts, including Abita Christmas Ale and Sam Adams Winter Lager, will be half-price all night. Thanks to The Washington Post, Going Out Guide for this one.

Acre 121

1400 Irving St NW
Metro: Columbia Heights, just steps from the metro, past Five Guys and Tynan  

PAST: Dance Party at Tropicalia on U St on Thanksgiving, THURS, Nov 28th, Free before 11:00pm. $10 after, 21+

Dancehall Thursdays "The Re-Union" Thanksgiving Night
10:00pm - 2:00am
Free before 11:00pm, $10 after, 21+
Spyda the dj // The Adinkra Group // Klimaxx Ent
Dancehall Thursdays "The Re-Union" Good ol' dancehall vibes by:
Nemesis - Spyda the DJ (from the D.C. Caribbean Carnival and the former reggae nights at Zanzibar on the Waterfront) - Majestic.

Tropicalia
2001 14th St NW 

Metro: U St or take the Circulator bus along 14th to U St, entrance is on U st downstairs from Subway 

PAST: HOLIDAY: The National Hanukkah Menorah Lighting Ceremony is this WED, Nov 27th at 4:00pm, Gates at 3:15pm, Free, but you must reserve tickets in advance

National Hanukkah Menorah Lighting Ceremony
Wednesday, November 27th

4:00pm, Gates at 3:15pm
Free, but you must reserve tickets in advance

Perhaps the most prominent public Chanukah program in the world is the annual lighting ceremony of the National Chanukah Menorah on the Ellipse, just across from the White House in Washington, DC.

This year's ceremony includes entertainment by the United States Army Band, The Three Cantors, and a special musical performance by violinist Miri Ben-Ari. More info here! 

The Ellipse
17th St and Constitution Ave, NW

close to the Corcoran Gallery

Metro: Farragut North or Farragut West and walk down 17th St about 12 minutes or so 

PAST: HOLIDAY: Family-Friendly "Winter Wonderland" Concert at Imagination Stage in Bethesda, MD this FRI, Dec 6th from 8:00pm - 10:00pm, $10 general, $5 kids under 12

Winter Wonderland Concert 
Friday, December 6th
8:00pm - 10:00pm
$10 for adults $5 for children under 12


Bethesda’s Winter Wonderland, this Friday, December 6th and Saturday, December 7th, kicks off with a winter concert featuring four fabulous professional choral groups at Imagination Stage on Friday night at 8:00pm. Featured groups include Bethesda-Chevy Chase High School Choir, The GW Troubadors, Capital Blend and Vox Pop. Tickets can be purchased here.

Imagination Stage
4908 Auburn Ave - Bethesda, MD
Metro: Bethesda

PAST: POETRY SLAM: Monthly: The Beltway Poetry Slam moves to their new home at The Dunes in Columbia Heights this TUES, Nov 26th from 8:00pm - 10:30pm, Doors and sign-up 7:40pm, All ages, $5

The Beltway Poetry Slam moves to their new home
The Dunes in Columbia Heights!

Tuesday, November 26th
8:00pm - 10:30pm, sign-up 7:40pm

All ages, $5, bar available for those 21+

Tuesday, November 26th
Beltway Poetry Preliminary Qualifier Slam

Hosted by: the illustrious, Matt Gallant
Featuring: Happy Hour and late night open mic, the duo features for tonight's give thanks slam

Poets- Please bring two original pieces that have never been performed at Beltway and that can each be performed in 3 min or less without the use of props or costumes. Slam - 15 poets max. The new venue -  The Dunes - and will feature a happy hour and a late night open mic hangout after the main event!

The Dunes
1402 Meridian Place NW
Metro: Columbia Heights, walk just a few blocks north on 14th, past Park Rd, turn left on Meridian, The Dunes is above The Getaway, go up one flight of stairs.

PAST: CONVERSATION: 1st Hangout with Andy Shallal, Busboys and Poets owner and newest candidate for DC Mayor at Bubsoys 14th & V St location MON, Nov 25th from 6:30pm - 8:30pm, Free

1st Hangout with Andy Shallal, Busboys and Poets owner and newest candidate for DC Mayor
at Bubsoys 14th & V St location

Monday, November 25th

6:30pm -  8:30pm

Free

Come be a part of an open discussion about why Andy is running for Mayor of DC and how his candidacy has ignited a new discussion about race, poverty and the things that still divide our growing city. Bring questions, ideas, and an entrepreneurial spirit to better our city!

Busboys and Poets

14th & V St NW
Metro: U St or take the Circulator bus along 14th to U St or any of the 90 line buses along U to 14th

PAST: MARKET: Glen's Garden Market Opening Day Celebration SUN, April 21st in Dupont from 12:00pm - 10:00pm ,Free

Glen's Garden Market Opening Day Celebration!
Sunday, April 21st
12:00pm - 10:00pm
Free 

"Celebrate the opening of Glen’s Garden Market, the region’s first all-local, full-service grocery store. Doors officially open at noon on Sunday, April 21 with a celebratory Port City Brewing Company craft beer toast. At the grand opening, customers will have the chance to taste free samples of the market’s in-house menu and shop the locally sourced produce, meats, poultry, dairy products and specialty foods."

"To celebrate Earth Day and highlight Glen’s Garden Market’s commitment to be environmentally sustainable, shoppers will receive one reusable grocery bag per purchase on opening day, as well as the following Saturday, April 27. The market will also welcome neighbors by offering free locally roasted coffee from 8:30am - 9:30am, Monday, April 22nd - Friday, April 26th."

Glen's Garden Market

2001 S St, NW 

Metro: Dupont Circle, between Connecticut Ave and 20th St, NW 

PAST: Pay-What-You-Can Preview Night for "The Convert" at Woolly Mammoth FRI, Feb 15th from 8:00pm - 11:00pm, PWYC, by donation, best to arrive early, before 6:00pm, to get in line

PWYC Preview Night for "The Convert"

at Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company 

Friday, February 15th
8:00pm - 11:00pm
Pay-What-You-Can*
Best to arrive early, before 6:00pm, to get in line

OBIE Award-winner Danai Gurira returns to Woolly with her rich, unflinching, and compassionate new play. Set amid the colonial scramble for Southern Africa in 1895, the play follows Jekesai, a young girl who escapes a forced marriage in her native village and lands in a Westernized household where Africans are pitted against each other over the arrival of Christianity.

*Tickets are sold at the theatre the evening two hours prior to showtime. Two per person, cash or check only. Arrive early to get in line. Tickets to the PWYC nights tend to go fast.

Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company
641 D St, NW
Metro: Gallery Place or Archives - Navy Memorial 

PAST: HIGHLIGHTS: Three more events to choose from on SUN, Nov 24th!

Highlights for Sunday, November 24th!

Local Bellydancer, Mavi, will perform at Mad Momos

DCTribal Cafe at Mad Momos

5:00pm doors, 6:00pm show
$10 includes show and specials!
DCTribal Cafe - DC's monthly fusion Bellydance Showcase features performances by: Ela Rogers, Mavi Belly Dance, and Naimah Dances this month, along with DJ: Myra Sinnott Beatrix.

Mad Momos
3605 14th St NW

Metro: Columbia Heights or take any of the 50 line buses along 14th St closer

Glo's Glitter Comedy Showcase at Mova Lounge

8:00pm

Free, 21+

Comedy Night. Glo is back every other Sunday with the Glo Show at Mova Lounge on 14th St.

Mova Lounge

2204 14th St NW 

Metro: U St or Circulator bus to 14th & U or any of the 50 line buses that runs along 14th St closer 

Roots and Spirits featuring DJ Collin Hughs at Tropicalia 

9:00pm doors
$5
D.J. Collins Hughs Ramires and DJ Mate Masie. House music.

Tropicalia 

entrance on U St at 14th, underneath Subway

Metro: U St or Circulator bus to 14th & U or any of the 90 line buses that run along U St to 14th 

PAST: DJ + MUSIC + VIDEO: "DJ Spooky: A Civil War Symphony" features Video Art, DJ Spooky Live and Live Violinist, Cellist and Vocalist Rochelle Rice at the National Gallery of Art East Building on SUN, Nov 24th at 2:00pm, Free

DJ Spooky: A Civil War Symphony at the National Gallery of Art East Building Concourse, Auditorium

Sunday, November 24th
2:00pm, no end time noted, guessing 'til 3:30pm or 4:00pm
Free

Paul D. Miller (a.k.a. DJ Spooky That Subliminal Kid), composer, multimedia artist, writer, and DJ; accompanied by violinist Danielle Cho, cellist Jennifer Kim, and local vocalist, and the new co-host of "The Garden" BloomBars' Monday night open mic night, Rochelle Rice.

In this performance (see sneak peek from a previous performance with different musicians), Paul D. Miller (a.k.a. DJ Spooky That Subliminal Kid) presents a composition for string ensemble with live-mixed electronic music and video. DJ Spooky: A Civil War Symphony, originally performed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, borrows images from the exhibition Tell It with Pride: The 54th Massachusetts Regiment and Augustus Saint-Gaudens’ Shaw Memorial. On view through January 20, 2014, the exhibition considers the legacy of the 54th and the Battle of Fort Wagner in art, examining nineteenth-century efforts to memorialize those who fought, Saint-Gaudens’ Shaw Memorial itself, and the continuing inspiration that the regiment, its defining battle, and the Shaw Memorial have been for twentieth- and twenty-first-century artists.

National Gallery of Art

East Building Concourse, Auditorium
4th & Constitution Ave, NW
Metro: Archives - Navy Memorial is closest on weekends, weekdays Judiciary Sq has an exit that is a bit closer. My advice since it's cold outside, go in to the West Building 7th St entrance and walk inside. The buildings connect underground through the food court.

PAST: HIGHLIGHTS: More Free and low-cost events this Weekend! FRI, July 12th - SUN, July 14th

Sunday, July 14th

Chamber Jam at the Mansion on O St
featuring Classical Revolution DC!
Sunday, July 14th
11:00am - 2:00pm
Free, Advance RSVP Required

Love classical music? Join Classical Revolution DC for an inspirational, open-invitation 'Chamber Jam' session of live chamber music with a Mansion twist. Love to play? Bring your instrument and join in!

The Mansion on O Street
2020 O St NW
Metro: Dupont Circle, South exit

PAST: HIGHLIGHTS: Afternoon Chamber Music Recital at UMD on SUN, Nov 24th at 3:00pm, Free, Thanks to CultureCapital.com

Here are some more great free arts and culture events from CultureCapital.com! This site is a wonderful resource for events provided by CultureCapital (formerly known as the Cultural Alliance of Greater Washington) a wonderful organization that supports and highlights the metro area's diverse and vibrant arts community! Find more upcoming free events and exhibitions on view in the DC metro area on the customized "Free in DC" Inside-Out page. You can also sign up for their weekly Insider email that goes out every Tuesday and/or for their new Weekend edition! Select Free events below are organized by date and time. Please click through for more event details.

Sunday, November 24th

Afternoon - Chamber Music at UMD - College Park, MD

Honors Chamber Music Recital
3:00pm
Showcases ensembles of the UMD School of Music's chamber music program, as selected by faculty.

Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center
Stadium Drive - College Park, MD
Metro: College Park and take the free UMD shuttle bus 104 or a Metro bus or taxi.

Find more free events and exhibits on view on the "Free in DC" Inside-Out page!

PAST: HIGHLIGHTS: Coffee + Critique + Conversation at Multiple Exposures Gallery in the Torpedo Factory in Old Town Alexandria, VA on SUN, Nov 24th from 10:30am - 12:00pm, Thanks to Gravy events app and website!

Did you know? You can find lots more local events online on the new local events site, Gravy + if you have an iPhone or Android, I recommend downloading the free Gravy app!
Some cool things that make Gravy unique:

• You can save events + select to save them saved directly on to your calendar on your iPhone! 
• You can search by what you are in the mood for! Whatever, Lively, Classy, Brainy; Playtime 

• You can also search by Currently Trending Events
• Channels: My favorite channel of course is the Free & Discounted one! Others include Live Music, Happy Hours, Family Friendly, Around the Corner and more - connecting you with specific types of things going on around you. You can find the Channels in your MyStuff section.

The Gravy app is totally Free, which of course we all love, and you can download it here now! Select Free events found on Gravy listed below!  Click "Learn More" on each post for more details!

Sunday, November 24th

Coffee + Critique + Conversation at Multiple Exposures Gallery
inside of the Torpedo Factory in Old Town Alexandria, VA
10:30am - 12:00pm
Looking for people who have a sincere interest in discussing and sharing photographs? Photographers and art enthusiasts of all skill levels are invited to engage in a friendly dialogue and share their work, ideas, and questions at this free workshop held on the last Sunday of each month except December. Bring in new work, works in progress, completed portfolios, projects, ideas, questions or answers. All levels are welcome. Led by a Multiple Exposures Gallery member, each participant will spread out his or her images and a dialogue will begin. Free and open to the public. No reservations needed. Questions? Please call the gallery at 703-683-2205.

Multiple Exposures Gallery inside of the

Torpedo Factory Art Center - Studio 312
105 North Union Street - on the Waterfront in Old Town Alexandria, VA
Metro: King St and take the free trolley down to the Waterfront or any bus that runs down King St and gets you close to the Torpedo Factory

Get the Gravy app for free here!

PAST: ART SHOW & SALE: The "Artful Weekend" Show and Sale presented by Arlington Artists Alliance at the Hendry House continues on SUN, Nov 24th from 12:00pm - 4:00pm, Free

"Artful Weekend" Show and Sale presented by Arlington Artists Alliance at the Hendry House in Arlington, VA
Saturday, November 23rd
10:00am- 5:00pm
Sunday, November 24th
12:00pm - 4:00pm
Free

Weekend Art Show Sale at the Hendry House in Arlington, VA will features the works of over 30 Arlington-based artists, and includes paintings of many genres, ceramics, sculpture, artists cards, unframed works and more. Meet the artists and enjoy light refreshments in the historic 1902 Hendry House, all decorated for the holidays.

Hendry House
Ft. C. F. Smith - 2411 24th St N - Arlington, VA
Metro: Clarendon or Courhouse and take a bus. See metro trip-planner for best bus access.

PAST: MEDITATION: Live near Aspen Hill, MD? Learn more about the benefits of Meditation on SAT, Nov 23rd from 2:30pm - 4:00pm, Free

Meditation Intro Workshop in Aspen Hill, MD on "Reducing Stress through Meditation" led by David Newcomb of Science of Spirituality DC
Saturday, November 23rd
2:30pm - 4:00pm
Free

Learn how meditation can improve the quality of your life at this workshop, organized by David Newcomb of Science of Spirituality, which offers free meditation workshops throughout the Mid-Atlantic region, including the DC area.

Learn more about Science of Sprituality and Jyoti Meditation on their website and feel free to connect with SOS DC on facebook and @SOS_WashD

David Newcomb

About the facilitator: Author, musician, teacher and long-time D.C. resident David Newcomb has been mediating for many years. He worked for as a contract consultant specializing in construction contract disputes until his retirement in 2010. David is a published author, and has written three stage plays and numerous poems. His more recent work includes a collection of spiritual songs, Satsangi Symphony and he is currently working on a musical which, like his meditation practice, focuses on spreading the message of love, unity and peace through meditation and service

Aspen Hill Library
4407 Aspen Hill Rd  - Rockville, MD
Metro: Twinbrook and take the Ride-On Bus 26 towards Glenmont.

PAST: COMEDY: "Don't Block The Box" Comedy Show at Wonderland Ballroom this FRI, Nov 22nd from 7:30pm -10:00pm, $3, 21+

Don't Block The Box 25 - Comedy Show at Wonderland Ballroom
Friday, November 22nd
7:30pm -10:00pm
$3, 21+

The pre-Thanksgiving Don't Block The Box Comedy Show at Wonderland Ballroom will feature Matt Koff (The Daily Show, Comedy Central's "Adam DeVine's House Party"). The eve will also feature Russ Green (Homegrown Hilarity), Mikey Larrick (State Theater) and Jesse Thomas (Richmond Funny Bone) and will be hosted by Reggie Melbrough (PBS). Enjoy some great laughs and cheap drinks. Dance party afterwards.

Wonderland Ballroom
1101 Kenyon St NW
Metro: Columbia Heights

PAST: ART: Guest Post from East City Art! Three Free Art events this SAT, Nov 23rd

Weekend East City Event Round Up: Workshops that Glitter Edition

Saturday, November 23rd

Thanksgiving Glitter at Brentwood Arts Exchange

11:00am - 2:00pm

Bring the family (or just yourself!) and create a glitter centerpiece for Thanksgiving. While the BAE has a few centerpiece molds from which to work, attendees are encouraged to bring their own items to glitter to this free workshop. 

Brentwood Arts Exchange

3901 Rhode Island Avenue - Brentwood, MD 

Metro: See metro trip-planner for best bus access from metro based on where you are coming from 

Art Opening at Alleycat Studios 

3:00pm - 6:00pm

Alleycat studios is worth a visit just in itself as it is tucked away in one of Capitol Hill’s most bucolic alleys in which a “secret” garden is located. Three artists Pat Goslee, Sally Kauffman and Lynn Putney will be  showing work at the studio.
Alley Cat Studio

29 Kings Ct SE

between 14th and 15th, north of C St SE

Metro: Stadium Armory and walk (see map) about ten minutes

DC Artist Kelly Towles' multistory mural at Art Yards DC Photo by Ian Roche

Art at the Yards DC Public Art Installation - Outdoor Exhibit

See a series of multistory murals on view now through mid-December at the Yards located at the SE Waterfront next to the baseball Stadium. Artists from across the US and even Australia have participated in the project.

Art at the Yards

in and around First and M St SE

Metro: Navy Yard

East City Art is now in Print! The next East City Art Quarterly Guide to the Visual Arts comes out December 7 in the  Hill Rag and December 14 in East of the River. Phil Hutinet is the Editor-in-Chief of East City Art. You can also find East City Art on  facebook  and Twitter and you can also sign up for their newsletter here .

PAST: SPECIAL EVENT: Capital Cause Young Philanthropists Celebrate Changemakers on THURS, Nov 21st from 7:00pm - 9:00pm at the YMCA on 14th St, Free, RSVP requested, 21+

Capital Cause Young Philanthropists Celebrate Changemakers
Thursday, November 21st
7:00pm - 9:00pm
Free, 21+ RSVP requested

You are invited to the 4th Annual Capital Cause Changemakers Reception celebrating and recognizing young philanthropists across the DC area, at the YMCA on 14th St. Join the folks at Capital Cause in congratulating Shayla Adams, Dominique Broadway, Daphne Charles, Darius Graham, Will Jackson, Michelle Janaye, Carlyn Madden,Renette Noel, Caroline Sapp, and Jeff Tribble. The young adults being honored were nominated by their peers as being community leaders and young philanthropists committed to change. Guests will vote on who receives the People's Choice Award, but an independent panel of nonprofit professionals will vote on who receives the 2013 Changemaker of the Year award. Read more about Cohort here.

YWCA
2303 14th Street, NW
Metro: U Street and walk up hill or Columbia Heights and walk downhill, best reached by bus, take the 52 or 54 bus that runs along 14th St.

PAST: Sticky Fingers Boozy Debut with DC Vegan Drinks at Sticky Fingers in Columbia Heights THURS, Nov 21st from 5:00pm - 8:00pm, Free, food and drinks available for purchase

Sticky Fingers Boozy Debut at Sticky Fingers in Columbia Heights with DC Vegan Drinks

Thursday, November 21st
5:00pm - 8:00pm
Free, food and drinks available for purchase 

Proceeds benefit Poplar Spring Animal Sanctuary

Sticky Fingers Sweets & Eats unveils their new 'booze' menu at this months DC Vegan drinks! Enjoy vegan friendly craft beer and wine, as well as adult-flavored milkshakes and coffee drinks with a kick. So imbibe, and enjoy: So Delicious Dairy Free, Coconut Bliss, Counter Culture Coffee, Hop & Wine,

Sticky Fingers Sweets & Eats
1370 Park Rd NW

Metro: Columbia Heights

PAST: BOOK TALK: "Homonationalism in Queer Times" A Conversation with Jasbir Puar and Kara Thompson at Busboys and Poets 5th & K THURS, Nov 21st from 6:30pm - 8:00pm, Free

"Homonationalism in Queer Times" A Conversation with Jasbir Puar and Kara Thompson
at Busboys and Poets 5th & K
Thursday, November 21st
6:30pm - 8:00pm
Free

ZAMI: A Circle of LGBTQ Cultural Performances & Discussions presents: Author Jasbir Puar, in conversation with Professor Kara Thompson, discusses her book, "Terrorist Assemblages: Homonationalism in Queer Times" and her more recent book titled, "Inhumanist Occupation: Sex,
Affect, and Palestine/Israel" More on this event here. Puar will sign copies of the book, on sale at the Busboys and Poets Bookstore, after the talk.

Jasbir K. Puar is Associate Professor of Women’s & Gender Studies at Rutgers University. She has also been a Visiting Lecturer in the Department of Performance Studies at NYU and a Visiting Fellow at the Institute for Cultural Inquiry in Berlin. Read more.

Busboys and Poets
5th & K St NW
Metro: Mt Vernon Sq - Convention Center or Gallery Pl - Chinatown or take the Circulator or another bus closer

PAST: MUSIC: Lunchtime Concert at the National Gallery of Art, West Building, Lucidarium performs Jewish Music by Medieval and Renaissance composers on WED, Nov 20th from 12:10pm - 1:00pm, Free

Lucidarium performs Jewish Music by Medieval and Renaissance composers at the National Gallery of Art West Building, West Garden Court
Wednesday, November 20th
12:10pm - 1:00pm
Free

National Gallery of Art
West Building, West Garden Court
6th & Constitution Ave NW
Metro: Archives - Navy Memorial

PAST: READING: Irish Author Kevin Barry reads from his new story collection on WED, Nov 20th at Warehouse Theater, 7:00pm, Free

Irish Author Kevin Barry reads at Warehouse Theater
Wednesday, November 20th
7:00pm
Free

Award-winning Irish author Kevin Barry will read from his new story collection, "Dark Lies the Island" and from his novel "City of Bohane." This event is co-sponsored by the Irish Embassy, Irish Network-DC, and Solas Nua.

Warehouse Theater
645 New York Ave, NW
Metro: Mt Vernon Sq - Convention Center or Gallery Pl

PAST: HIGHLIGHTS: Free Lunchtime Chamber Music Concert with FMMC at Dumbarton House + Free Screening of "Killing Lincoln" at National Geographic, both on TUES, Nov 19th at 12:00pm, Thanks to CultureCapital.com!

Here are some more great free arts and culture events from CultureCapital.com! This site is a wonderful resource for events provided by CultureCapital (formerly known as the Cultural Alliance of Greater Washington) a wonderful organization that supports and highlights the metro area's diverse and vibrant arts community! Find more upcoming free events and exhibitions on view in the DC metro area on the customized "Free in DC" Inside-Out page. You can also sign up for their weekly Insider email that goes out every Tuesday and/or for their new Weekend edition! Select Free events below are organized by date and time. Please click through for more event details.

Tuesday, November 19th

Lunchtime - Chamber Music Concert - Dupont/ Georgetown
Friday Morning Music Club: Chamber Concert
12:00pm - 1:00pm
Friday Morning Music Club members perform. See program details.
Dumbarton House
2715 Q St, NW
between Dupont Circle and Georgetown

Metro: Dupont Circle and walk or take a bus closer. You can also take a bus along Wisconsin Ave to Q St and walk over if you're coming from that direction.

Lunchtime - Film Screening at National Geographic - Farragut North
Tuesdays at Noon: Weekly Film Screening

Final Film of the Series - Killing Lincoln 
12:00pm - 1:30pm
Based on Bill O'Reilly's best-selling account, Tom Hanks narrates this Emmy-nominated film about the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln at Ford's Theatre in Washington. Produced by the National Geographic Channel. (2013, 90 min) 

National Geographic
1145 17th Street, NW
Metro: Farragut North or take the S2 or S4 bus along 16th St to M St

Find more free events and exhibits on view on the "Free in DC" Inside-Out page!

PAST: KIDS: "Tuesday Tots" Fall Storytime and Sing-Along Series at Tudor Place in Georgetown every Tuesday from TUES, Sept 17th - TUES, Nov 19th at 10:00am, $5 - $4

Armistead Peter 3rd as a tot, by the
 Temple Portico. Photo credit: Tudor Place

Tuesday Tots: Fall Storytime and Sing-Along at Tudor Place
every Tuesday from September 17th - November 19th
10:00am

$5 - $4 buy tickets

Drop in or come every week! Tudor Place has enchanted young children for almost two centuries. Experience it yourself on Tuesday mornings this fall, as we meet to read, sing, and play in the shaded gardens. The theme changes every week, from "adventurous animals" to "growing gardens" and more. Children join in an interactive read-aloud, sing songs, and learn movements to go with them, while sharing this enchanting setting with the grown-ups who care for them. Parent/caregivers remain with children throughout

Tudor Place Historic House and Garden
1644 31st St NW - between Q & R 

Metro: best reached by bus, see metro trip-planner for best bus access or take the DC Circulator there

PAST: JAZZ: Lunchtime Jazz Concert at UDC with Small Jazz Ensembles as part of the JazzAlive at UDC series this TUES, Nov 19th from 12:30pm - 1:30pm, Free

UDC Small Jazz Ensembles - Thanksgiving Celebration
under the direction of Allyn Johnson
Tuesday, November 19th
12:30pm-1:30pm
Free

Join the jazz ensembles under the direction of Allyn Johnson for thier "Thanksgiving" celebration.

University of the District of Columbia
Recital Hall, Performing Arts Bldg. 46-West
4200 Connecticut Ave NW
Metro: Van Ness-UDC, exit station to your left, look for the Starbucks, continue down Connecticut Avenue towards Potbelly's. Make a left at the corner (Should see UDC Theater of the Arts), go up steps until top, enter "Performing Arts" building, continue straight until the end of the hallway, Recital Hall is on your right.

PAST: FILM: Weekly: BloomScreen Tuesday Night Independednt Film Night presents "Rhythmic Uprising" on TUES, Nov 19th followed by a discussion and Q&A from 7:00pm - 9:00pm, All ages, by donation

BloomScreen Independent Film Night at BloomBars

Films vary each week, followed by discussion with Q&A
BloomScreen and TransAfrica present: Rhythmic Uprising

Tuesday, November 19th
7:00pm - 9:00pm
All ages, RSVP requested, by donation, $10 suggested, give as you can, no one turned away
Free organic popcorn and refreshments served

Rhythmic Uprising (Insurreição Rítmica) (2008, 65 min), by Ben Watkins, and co-produced by Paulo Rogerio Nunes – documentary that shows how the transformative powers of Afro-Brazilian performing arts are used to fight racism and inequality in Bahia, Brazil.

BloomBars
3222 11th St NW
Metro: Columbia Heights

PAST: ART: "Haitian Artwork Showcase" orgnaized by Beyond Borders with Epple Seed Arts at Culture Coffee on Kennedy St opens on THURS, Nov 21st, Free

Haitian Artwork Showcase at Culture Coffee
Free
Opens on Thursday, November 21st

Beyond Borders is a small non-profit that helps Haitians in building various social movements will be  showcasing fair-traide, Haitian artwork from Epple Seed Arts, at Culture Coffee. Cause they support include ending child slavery and violence against women and girls, promoting equal education, and supporting sustainable living.

Culture Coffee
709 Kennedy St NW (map)
Metro: Best reached by bus, please see metro trip-planner for best bus access, buses along Georgia Ave will get you to Kennedy St and it is just a few block walk from there

PAST: FILM: The Spielberg Film Festival at the National Archives comes to a close with a screening of "Lincoln" on MON, Nov 18th at 7:00pm, Free

Steven Spielberg

Spielberg Film Fest at The National Archives
Free
Friday, November 15th - Monday, November 18th
Note: Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. No reservations accepted. Free tickets are distributed at the Special Events entrance on Constitution Avenue, starting 60 minutes prior to start time.

The Foundation for the National Archives has named director Steven Spielberg as the 2013 recipient of its Records of Achievement Award in recognition of his film legacy, which has brought to life defining moments of our nation's history. In commemoration of this award and in collaboration with DreamWorks Studios, the National Archives is screening four of his critically acclaimed films. Remaining films in the festival listed below:

Image Courtesy of DreamWorks

Spielberg Film Fest: Lincoln
Monday, November 18th
7:00pm
Lincoln (2012; 150 minutes; rated PG-13) chronicles the final four months in the life of the man regarded as America's greatest President. Starring Daniel Day-Lewis in the title role, the untold story focuses on a defining moment in Abraham Lincoln's life – as commander-in-chief of a country in chaos; as a husband and father afraid of losing his own son to the war; and as a man guided by his conscience to end slavery.

National Archives

between 7th & 9th on Constitution Ave, NW

Metro: Archives - Navy Memorial

PAST: HOLIDAY SHOP: Shop at 18 Museum Shops all under One Roof at Strathmore Mansion's "Museum Shop Around" SUN, Nov 17th from 10:00am - 5:00pm, $8 in advance or $9 at the door

This Weekend! Shop at 18 Museum Shops all under One Roof at Strathmore Mansion's "Museum Shop Around"
Sunday, November 17th - final day
10:00am - 5:00pm
$9 cash or check at the door

Last chance to visit Strathmore Mansion as the area’s finest museum gift shops bring their wares to you all under one roof. You’ll find toys, jewelry, one-of-a-kind gifts—some handmade, all art-inspired—for yourself and everyone on your holiday list. Here's the list of the 18 Museum Shops Participating:

• American University Museum - Katzen Museum Store
• Audubon Naturalist Society
• Foundation for the National Archives
• Herb Cottage at Washington National Cathedral
• Hillwood Estate, Museum and Gardens
• Just Imagine! The Shop at Imagination Stage
• Kennedy Center Gift Shop
• Montgomery County Historical Society
• National Building Museum 
• National Geographic
• National Museum of Women in the Arts
• Phillips Collection
• President Lincoln's Cottage
• The Shop at Strathmore
• Shakespeare Theatre Company Shop
• Supreme Court Historical Society
• Textile Museum 
• United States Capitol Historical Society

Strathmore Mansion
5301 Tuckerman Lane - North Bethesda, MD

Metro: Grosvenor, exit station and turn left into the parking lot, walk across the path and cross the street, the Mansion is across from the main Strathmore building on the left, slightly uphill. You can also take the elevator from the parking garage to the bridge that goes over the street if you prefer not to walk uphill.  Fro those driving, Free parking is available in the Mansion at Strathmore lot on a space available basis. Metered parking is located on Tuckerman Lane and in the Grosvenor/Strathmore Metro Parking Garage and on Saturday and Sunday the garage is free.

PAST: SUMMIT: The Global Drones Summit features Cornel West and others this SAT, Nov 16th & SUN, Nov 17th at the Georgetown University Law Center by Union Station, sliding scale donation $10 and up suggested

Summit: Global Drones Summit: Proliferation and Resistance 

Saturday, November 16th & Sunday, November 17th 

by donation, sliding scale, $10 - $100 suggested

Join CODEPINK, Institute for Policy Studies, Center for Constitutional Rights, the Nation Magazine, and the National Lawyers Guild (Georgetown) for the first ever Global Drones Summit featuring Cornel West.  If you missed Friday night's screening of  "Unmanned: America's Drone Wars" you can watch the trailer here.

Georgetown University Law Center
600 New Jersey Ave NW
Metro: Union Station, see map

PAST: HIGHLIGHTS: Four More Fabulous Free events to choose from on SAT, Nov 16th!

Highlights for more events this Saturday, November 16th, organized by start time.

Cap City Bike Expo at the new Anacostia Arts Center
9:00am - 5:00pm
Free, RSVP Requested

The Washington Area Bicyclists Association's East of the River grant will wrap up its season with the first-ever Cap City Bike Expo. The expo will include a bike-vendor marketplace, musical acts DJ Underdog and DJ Native Sun, games, a photobooth, a raffle, crafts, bike art courtesy Honfleur Gallery, and panels discussing bike mobility in and around wards 7 and 8. Read more here!

Anacostia Arts Center 
1231 Good Hope Rd, SE
Metro: Anacostia and walk or take the Circulator bus on Howard Ave toward Skyland. You can also catch the same bus from 8th St SE, near the Starbucks, from the Eastern Market Metro.

The 1st Community Harvest Day - East of the River
11:00am - 3:00pm
All ages
Free

Celebrate the community East of the River this Saturday at the very first Harvest Day at Marvin Gaye Park & Riverside Center. Enjoy food, fitness, music and fun with DJ Tunji, live art, kids activities, interactive art, cooking demos and more. They'll even have a bike repair station!

Marvin Gaye Park/ Riverside Cafe
601 Division Ave NE
Metro: Benning Rd is, also close to Deanwood and Minnesota Avenue, or you can take the U8 or W4 bus. See metro trip-planner for best access based on where you are coming from.

Fall For Gateway DC- a new Green, Multi-Purpose Space in Ward 8
featuring live performance by R&B artist Tank!
12:00pm - 4:00pm
Free

Grab your family and friends and celebrate the kickoff of Gateway DC, a new green multi-purpose space in Ward 8 that will offer the DC community a fun and innovative place to gather, eat and meet. The festival will feature a live concert with R&B artist and four-time Grammy nominee Tank; live band Red Carpet Affair; Ginuwine and TFT’s DJ, DJ
Young; games for all ages; prizes; and a variety of food and drink.

Gateway DC 
2700 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave SE
Metro: Congress Heights, Gate 4 of St Elizabeth's E Campus

Culminating Concert for WPAS Gospel Workshop with Dr. Raymond
5:00pm - 7:00pm
Free

WPAS and its Men and Women of the Gospel Choir welcome Dr. Raymond Wise for a series of vocal workshops with the WPAS Choir. The workshop will include a culminating event this Saturday featuring a free performance by the gospel choir.

Zion Baptist Church 
4850 Blagden Ave NW - near 16th and Farragut St NW
Metro: Columbia Heights or Silver Spring and walk over to 16th St and take the S2 or S4 bus that runs along 16th St to the stop closest to Emerson, Farragut or Gallatin, see map.