PAST: HIGHLIGHTS: Here is a list of Fabulous Free Arts & Culture events from CultureCapital.com for SUN, June 1st

Here are some more great free arts and culture events from CultureCapital.com! This site is a fantastic resource for events provided by CultureCapital (formerly known as the Cultural Alliance of Greater Washington) a wonderful organization that supports and highlights the DC metro area's vibrant and diverse arts community! See the "Free in DC" Inside Out page on CultureCapital.com for a list of exhibits on view! Plus, CultureCapital.com is now on facebook.

Sunday, June 1st

Late Afternoon - Concert with IBIS - Arlington, VA

American Voices
4:00pm

Presented by IBIS: A Chamber Music Society. Soprano Elizabeth Kluegel sings words of great American writers Frost, Whitman, Agee and Lincoln set to music. The program includes a newly commissioned work for IBIS by composer Ray Shattenkirk: "The Better Angels" sets texts by and about Abraham Lincoln. Also on the program-- an original arrangement of Barber's "Knoxville Summer of 1915."

Rock Spring Congregational Church - Arlington, VA (map)
5010 Little Falls Road
Metro: See metro trip-planner for best bus access from metro

Afternoon - Literary Reading - Bethesda, MD

Janice Gary and Marion Winik
2:00pm - 4:00pm
Janice Gary reads from Short Leash: A Memoir of Dog Walking and Deliverance.She is joined by Marion Winik, author of Highs in the Low Fifties: How I Stumbled Through the Joys of Single Living. Reading followed by a reception and book signing.
The Writer's Center
4508 Walsh St - Bethesda, MD
Metro: Bethesda, elevator exit is closest

See the "Free in DC" Inside Out page + follow CultureCapital.com on facebook

PAST: HIGHLIGHTS: More Free and low-cost events to choose from on FRI, May 30th

Friday, May 30th

Celebration in Honor of Asian American & Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month at the Lincoln Theatre 

7:00pm - 9:00pm

Free, RSVP to ensure your space

This celebration will feature performances from AAPI artists both locally and internationally and will also commemorate the 10th year anniversary of the Language Access Act. Note: If this event is sold out you can be added to the wait list online. You can likely also wait in a stand by line for no shows, usually easier to get in to sold out events if you don't mind sitting on your own. 

The Lincoln Theatre

1215 U St NW

Metro: U St 

Don't Block the Box 4-Year Anniversary Extravaganza!
7:30pm - 10:00pm
$3, 21+
Fourth anniversary party! Headliner Lafayette Wright (Dr. Dreamo's). Featuring: Graham Hall (Listrani's) Ryan Schutt (Club Heaven & Hell) Hosted by Reggie Melbrough (Blue Banana).
Wonderland Ballroom
1101 Kenyon St, NW
Metro: Columbia Heights

PAST: ART: Ben Tolman's Solo Show "Fiction" at The Fridge SAT, May 3rd - SUN, June 1st + Closing Party on FRI, May 30th from 7:00pm - 10:00pm, Free

Ben Tolman’s “Fiction” on view at The Fridge
Free
Saturday, May 3rd - Sunday, June 1st

You’re invited to see a series of 40 new artworks from Ben Tolman, one of DC's most talented artists, whose work has been even featured in the National Portrait Gallery. "The series presents a mythology that is rich and dynamic, while the stripped down minimalism in each piece allows storylines to breathe and develop in a way never experienced in Tolman’s artworks past." Soundtrack from Bellflur will accompany the evening. Read more about the show on The Fridge site here.

Save the date! Closing Party
Friday, May 30th
7:00pm - 10:00pm
Free

The Fridge
516 8th St SE
Metro: Eastern Market, keep right on 8th St near Starbucks, cross the street, turn left into the alley right after Belga Cafe across from matchbox

PAST: HIGHLIGHTS: More Free events on THURS, May 29th Thanks to Gravy - local 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.  

Select Free events found on Gravy listed below. Click "Learn More" on each post for more details! Note that while free, some events may require RSVP so please click through links for more info. If RSVP's have already ended you can always call the venue or contact the event organizer online. By the way, this will be the last Gravy highlights post for a while so please be sure to get
the app now!

Thursday, May 29th

Screening: Exposing the Invisible at OpenGovHub

6:00pm - 8:00pm

Metro: McPherson Sq 

DC: Oiselle Fashion Show at City Sports Gallery Place

6:00pm - 8:00pm

Metro: Gallery Pl - Chinatown

The Gravy app is totally Free, Download it here now!

PAST: THEATER: Final Pay-What-You-Can Matinee of WSC Avant Bard's "Nero/Pseudo" at Fort Fringe will be on SAT, May 31st at 2:00pm, by donation

Pay-What-You-Can Saturday Matinees!
WSC Avant Bard's Nero/Pseudo
"A scorching new glam-rock musical!" at Fort Fringe

Final Date! Saturday, May 31st

2:00pm

by donation, or reserve tickets in advance for a minimum of $10 here

Nero/Psuedo: Rome has burned down and Nero is toast. Then this stranger shows up. Looks like Nero, sounds like Nero—and when he rocks out, the emperor’s fans go berserk. A WSC Avant Bard world premiere, Nero/Pseudo is a hot mash-up of ancient history, glam rock, and the politics of celebrity. Book and lyrics by Richard Byrne, original music by Jim Elkington (Zincs, Horse’s Ha) and Jon Langford (Mekons, Waco Brothers).

Fort Fringe--The Shop
607 New York Avenue, NW
Metro: Mt. Vernon Sq or take the Circulator bus to 7th & Mass, also walking distance from Gallery Pl

PAST: WORKOUT: Drop In App hosts a #DropInLive event at BodySmith Gym on 14th St this SUN, June 1st from 9:00am - 3:00pm, Enjoy Free Workouts and other Giveaways

#DropInLive: Free Drop In at BodySmith Gym
Sunday, June 1st
9:00am - 3:00pm
Free, RSVP here

Drop In is a new kind of app that lets you drop in to any participating gym. The folks from Drop In will be kicking off the #DropInLive (Sunday, June 1st - Saturday, June 7th) week this Sunday at BodySmith Gym with giveaways from SweetGreen, RelayFoods, and Press Juice Bar. In the morning you can check out a fitness class (yoga, spinning, b-FIt, kettle bells) or come by for the open house from noon til 3pm. The first 50 guests will receive a $25 gift card. Read more about the event and RSVP here

BodySmith Gym
1630 14th St NW - between Q & R St
Metro: U St or Dupont Circle and walk over, or you can take any of the 50 line buses along 14th St or the Circulator bus to 14th & P or RI Ave

PAST: JAZZ: Tribute to Curtis Fuller and Hank Mobley on Blue Note with Shannon Gunn and the Bullettes Quintet WED, May 28th at 8:30pm at the Goethe-Institut $7, $4 for students and seniors

Tribute to Curtis Fuller and Hank Mobley on Blue Note with Shannon Gunn and the Bullettes Quintet at the Goethe-Institut

Wednesday, May 28th

8:30pm

$7, $4 students and 65+

buy tickets online for an additional 75 cents

Trombonist Curtis Fuller (b. 1934) and saxophonist Hank Mobley (1930-1986) both signed with Blue Note Records in the mid-50s. Fuller later joined other labels, but Mobley remained with Blue Note for the rest of his career. 

Trombonist Shannon Gunn and the Bullettes Quintet perform a retrospective of their Blue Note recordings, including music from their collaborations such as Fuller’s The Opener. The musicians pictured are Anita Thomas, tenor saxophone; Shannon Gunn, trombone; Lianna Gekker, piano; Isabel De Leon, drums; and Karine Chapdelaine, bass. The group is called Shannon Gunn and the Bullettes Quintet. The concert was curated by Bertrand Uberall.

Goethe-Institut
812 Seventh St NW

Metro: Gallery Pl - Chinatown or take the Georgetown-K St/ Mass Ave - Union Station Circulator bus to 7th & Mass Ave NW 

PAST: More Free events this SAT, May 24th

Saturday, May 24th

City of Rockville Hometown Holidays
2:00pm - 10:00pm
Free
Click here for a full schedule of events
Hometown Holidays is Rockville's premier music and community event. Hometown Holidays features more than 30 free concerts on five stages, a Taste of Rockville as well as kid and teen activities and entertainment. Some performers this year are The Shack Band, B Side Shuffle, Brothers Osborne, Green River Ordinance, The Nighthawks, Fighting Jamesons, Lionize, Elenowen, John Brown’s Body, Lloyd Dobler Effect, American Aquarium and many, many more.
Downtown Rockville
200 East Middle Lane - Rockville, MD
Metro: Rockville

Haitian Art Reception!
7:00pm - 9:00pm
Free
Come enjoy a taste of Haitian culture through unique fair-trade artwork! Beyond Borders, a local non-profit which supports social movements in Haiti to: end child slavery, guarantee universal access to education, end violence against women and girls, and supports dignified and sustainable livelihoods, is hosting an art reception at Modern Times Coffeehouse. The reception will be featuring metal work done by Haitian artisans and art work done by a talented Haitian artist, named Michelet "Najee" Calice. Not only will you be able to view his unique art but, you will also be able to hear from the the artist himself and have the opportunity to ask him questions.
Modern Times Coffeehouse
5015 Connecticut Ave, NW
Metro: Friendship Heights and walk or take the L1, L2 or M4 bus

PAST: ART: "Judy Rushin: Between us: Variance Invariance Project by Judy Rushin &" at Flashpoint Gallery in Chinatown from FRI, May 16th - SAT, Jun 21st, Open TUES - SAT from 12:00pm - 6:00pm, Free

Judy Rushin: Between us: Variance Invariance Project by Judy Rushin &

Free

On view Friday, May 16th - Saturday, June 21st

Gallery Hours: Tuesday - Saturday 12:00pm - 6:00pm or by appointment

Judy Rushin treats paintings as things in motion rather than inert artifacts. With a focus on the vernacular of quick-assembly housing and furniture, Rushin created a system in which artworks are assembled, dismantled and shipped in small boxes. By sharing her work with individuals and in galleries and museums with their shipping boxes, texts and project documentation, her work is an experiment in collaborative design, alternative platforms for artistic engagement and affirms the gallery's role as a site for social discourse. Presented by CulturalDC.

Flashpoint Gallery
916 G St NW
Metro: Gallery Pl - Chinatown, 9th & G exit

PAST: Here's a list of Fabulous Free Arts &Culture events from CultureCapital.com for SAT, May 24th

Here are some more great free arts and culture events from CultureCapital.com! This site is a fantastic resource for events provided by CultureCapital (formerly known as the Cultural Alliance of Greater Washington) a wonderful organization that supports and highlights the DC metro area's vibrant and diverse arts community! See the "Free in DC" Inside Out page on CultureCapital.com for a list of exhibits on view! Plus, CultureCapital.com is now on facebook.

Saturday, May 24th

Photo courtesy WTTG Fox 5 via CultureCapital

Morning - Gardening Workshop - Anacostia
Preparing Your Spring Garden
10:30am
Join TV personality Derek Thomas of WTTG Fox 5 (the Garden Guy) as he leads a workshop on the ins and outs of creating a luscious and productive home garden for the upcoming spring season.

Smithsonian Anacostia Community Museum

1901 Fort Place, SE (map)
Metro: Anacostia and take the W2 bus, see metro 

CultureCapital.com is now on facebook + Find more free events on their "Free in DC" Inside Out page!

PAST: MEDITATION: Science of Spirituality DC Intro to Meditation conctinues at the Palisades Library on THURS, May 22nd, Free

Final of Two Part Series - Thursday, May 22nd
"Meditation: A Path to Mental and Physical Well Being"
A Two-Part Series with Sangeeta Prasad
7:00pm - 8:30pm
Free

Science of Spirituality offers free meditation workshops at area libraries and at their new home in DC. See a list of their ongoing events at their DC center most Saturdays, Sundays and Mondays. You can learn more about Jyoti Meditation on their website and connect with them on twitter @SOS_WashDC.

Palisades Library
4901 V St. NW
Metro: bus access only, see metro trip-planner for best bus access

PAST: MEDITATION: Intro to Meditation Series with David Newcomb of Science of Spirituality DC on WED, May 21st from 7:00pm - 8:30pm at the SE Neighborhood Library by the Eastern Market Metro, Free

"Deeper Into Meditation" with David Newcomb of Science of Spirituality
Three-part introduction series
Wednesdays - May 7th, 14th & 21st
7:00pm - 8:30pm
Free
Attend any or all sessions as able

Final class in this series!
Wednesday, May 21st
Feel free to attend even if you missed the other classes

Regular meditation has been shown to promote tranquility and relaxation, and to lower stress levels. All levels of meditation practice are welcome, especially beginners! Learn how meditation can help to reduce stress and improve the quality of your life at this free, three-part workshop on Wednesday nights at the beautiful Southeast Library right by the Eastern Market metro.

The workshop will be led by David Newcomb of Science of Spirituality, DC Chapter, which offers free meditation workshops throughout the Mid-Atlantic region, including the DC area. David is a long-time meditator. He'll share some simple and effective meditation techniques during this free workshop and be there to answer any questions you may have.

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

You can learn more about SOS DC and Jyoti Meditation on their website and connect with the SOS DC on twitter @SOS_WashDC. Science of Spirituality also has a brand new Meditation Center in DC near Arizona Ave and Cathedral Ave NW. You can see a list of events that they host there on the post on Free in DC.

Southeast Library
403 7th St SE
Metro: Eastern Market, right by the metro!

PAST: ART: Free events from this Weekend's East City Round Up for SUN, May 18th - Open Studios, Art Openings and More + East City now covers more than just SE, NE and MD events!

Weekend East City Round Up: Activism in Art Edition

New! East City now covers more than just SE, NE and MD events! 

Sunday, May 18th

Mid City Artists - Annual Spring Open Studios!

12:00pm - 5:00pm
The artists of Mid City are holding an Open Studio Tour. On Saturday and Sunday join fellow art enthusiasts in visiting studios spread among the Mid City area of NW Washington DC (from Dupont Circle to Logan Circle). The day offer visitors a rare portal into the artists’ creative habitat and an opportunity to participate in the District’s dynamic and diverse arts community. There will also be two-hour free, guided walking tours of 4 to 6 studios in Mid City. Space for those tours is limited so sign up now!
Various venues around Logan Circle and 14th St
Metro: Recommend walking down 14th St from U St south or north from McPherson Sq or take the Circulator bus, Woodley-McPherson route, along 14th St to RI Ave or P St

Book Launch and Mini-Workshop at SCRAP DC 

1:00pm - 3:00pm
Join SCRAP DC in welcoming author Betsy Greer to celebrate her new anthology, Craftivism. This book launch and darning mini-workshop support the worldwide movement that functions at the intersection of craft and activism. So bring a piece of clothing to mend and join the movement! Details here.
Scrap DC

3101 12th St NE

Metro: Brookland 

Jess Oros is the Production Manager of East City Art. You can get more information about East City Art on Facebook by follow them on Twitter or click here to sign up for their newsletter.

PAST: HIGHLIGHTS: More Free events this SUN, May 18th - Thanks to CultureCapital.com, a Fabulous resource for Arts and Culture events in DC, MD & VA

Here are some more great free arts and culture events from CultureCapital.com! This site is a fantastic resource for events provided by CultureCapital (formerly known as the Cultural Alliance of Greater Washington) a wonderful organization that supports and highlights the DC metro area's vibrant and diverse arts community! See the "Free in DC" Inside Out page on CultureCapital.com for a list of exhibits on view! Plus, CultureCapital.com is now on facebook.

Sunday, May 18th

Israel Fest at Rockville Town Square
1:00pm - 5:00pm
Rock the Square for Israel’s 66th birthday! Come and celebrate the sights, sounds and flavors of Israel, right in your own backyard! Israel Fest brings together friends, family and neighbors together for a fun filled afternoon of music, entertainment and food. Presented by Jewish Community Center of Greater Washington. Read more here. 

Rockville Town Square

Metro: Rockville, just about a 7 minute walk or so, take the elevator up to the bridge and follow the path, down the stairs, past the shops and movie theater, turn right and cross the street, the Square is a little further down, past more shops, on the left side.

Afternoon - Literary Readings - Bethesda, MD
Ron Capps and Joseph Bathanti
2:00pm - 4:00pm
Ron Capps reads from his new memoir, Seriously Not All Right. He is joined by visiting writer Joseph Bathanti. Followed by a reception and book signing.
The Writer's Center

4508 Walsh St - Bethesda, MD

Metro: Bethesda, elevator exit is closest

Afternoon - Chamber Music Concert at NoVa Community College - Alexandria, VA

The U.S. Marine Chamber Orchestra performs My End Is My Beginning
2:00pm - 4:00pm
Works by Mozart, Barber and Beethoven! See program details here.
Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall
at NoVa Community College
3001 North Beauregard St - Alexandria, VA
Metro: See metro trip-planner for best bus access from metro. Driving? Parking $6 per car in the Beauregard Garage.

CultureCapital.com is now on facebook + more free events on their "Free in DC" Inside Out page!

PAST: FESTIVAL: The Annual Food Festival of the Americas on the grounds of the OAS this SUN, May 18th from 11:00am - 5:00pm, Free, Food available for Purchase, Benefits Charity

Annual Food Festival of the Americas
Sunday, May 18th
11:00am - 5:00pm
Free, but you'll likely want to bring some money to spend on the food, raffles and whatnot - all proceeds benefit charities that support the well-being of women and children of the Americas

Come out to the OAS’s Annual Food Festival of the Americas this Sunday on the grounds of the Organization of American States on 17th and Constitution Avenue, NW. The festival, now in it's 16th year, will feature live music, raffles, food, dance, and drinks from around the Hemisphere, everything from Brazil’s caipirinhas, Caribbean food fare, to Canadian beer and cupcakes. Explore the food and culture of Latin America, the Caribbean and OAS Observer States. Proceeds from this year's event will assist deserving institutions in Mexico, Paraguay, Panama, the Bahamas, Barbados and DC.

The grounds of the OAS
17th & Constitution Avenue, NW
Metro: Federal Triangle, Farragut West or Farragut North, about a 14 minute walk from the metro

PAST: MUSIC: The "Music with the Angels" Concert Series presents Mosaique a solo program of Spanish dances and melodies featuring cellist Ana Topalovic on SUN, May 18th at 7:30pm at the Church of the Holy City, Free, donations appreciated

The "Music with the Angels" Concert Series presents Mosaique a solo program of Spanish dances and melodies featuring cellist Ana Topalovic
Sunday, May 18th
7:30pm - 9:00pm
Free, donations to the Organ Fund will be gratefully received

Reception follows the program

Church of the Holy City
1611 16th St. NW
Metro: Dupont Circle and walk over or take the S2 or S4 bus along 16th St right there, stop closest to Corcoran 

PAST: ART + SCIENCE: "Prometheus Unbound" A DASER Special with Scientist Talks + local Singer/Songwriter Margot MacDonald and DJ AutoRock on THURS, May 15th from 6:00pm - 9:00pm, Free, RSVP Required

Prometheus Unbound: A DASER Special 
Thursday, May 15th
6:00pm - 9:00pm

Free, RSVP required, please bring photo ID 

Cultural Programs of the National Academy of Sciences, thirstDC, and The Science & Entertainment Exchange announce Prometheus Unbound: A DASER Special, a collaborative live event at the National Academy of Sciences. The event will feature local singer-songwriter Margot MacDonald and DJ AutoRock playing music and scientists from NIH, Johns Hopkins, Columbia University, and NAS scientists. You can join or follow the twitter conversation at #DASERthirst.

Prometheus Unbound brings together a group of diverse experts for an entertaining look at the science behind the popular movie Prometheus (2012). The panel of experts includes: Summer Ash, Astrophysicist and Director of Outreach, Department of Astronomy, Columbia University, New York City; Jeffrey Kahn, Professor of Bioethics and Public Policy, Johns Hopkins University Berman Institute of Bioethics, Baltimore, MD; Michael Sappol, Historian, National Library of Medicine, Bethesda, MD; and Eric Schulze, Molecular Biologist and Co-Founder, Creative Director, and Chief Nerd, thirstDC, Washington, D.C. JD Talasek, Director, Cultural Programs of the National Academy of Sciences, moderates the discussion.

About the organizers: Cultural Programs of the National Academy of Sciences sponsors exhibitions, film screenings, the quasi-monthly salon called D.C. Art Science Evening Rendezvous (DASER), and other events that explore relationships among the arts and sciences. The Science & Entertainment Exchange of the National Academy of Sciences connects entertainment industry professionals with top scientists and engineers to create a synergy between accurate science and engaging storylines in both film and TV programming.  thirstDC aims to create and foster thought leaders both on and off stage by crafting an informal environment where world renowned experts socialize, interact with, and inspire attendees in a lounge atmosphere. thirstDC: Be utterly fascinating.

Margot MacDonald and DJ AutoRock will provide creative disruptions. Included in NPR’s Favorite Discoveries from the 2013 CMJ Music Festival and voted 2014 Best Singer by Washington City Paper readers; songwriter, vocalist, and live looper Margot MacDonald embodies a one-woman band. With his former band Big/Bright and as a DJ, AutoRock has played to packed crowds at the Howard Theater, U Street Music Hall, Black Cat and other venues around Washington, D.C. His monthly party MASS APPEAL is now in its sixth year at the Rock & Roll Hotel.

The National Academy of Sciences
2101 Constitution Ave NW
Auditorium and Great Hall
Metro: Foggy Bottom and walk about 13 minutes or see metro trip-planner for bus options, ie 80 bus, that may get you closer. 

UPDATE: Weekly: District Flea is no longer.... Update from THURS, May 15th - District Flea has Closed - was every SAT from 10:00am - 5:00pm at the corner of W St & Florida Ave NW starting on SAT, April 5th, near the U St Metro

District Flea is back for the Season!

every Saturday beginning on April 5th

10:00am - 5:00pm

Free to get in though you'l probably want some money to spend while you're there.

Update: Thursday, May 15th, 2014
I just read that District Flea has closed. Bummer.

Like the original Brooklyn Flea, the District Flea is an outdoor market that will feature top vendors of vintage and repurposed furniture, vintage clothing, collectibles and antiques, as well as a tightly curated selection of jewelry, art, and crafts by local artisans and designers, plus delicious fresh food. A collaboration between local vendors and the folks that started Brooklyn Flea, District Flea hosts 100+ collectors, makers, and chefs from in and around DC, Baltimore, Philly, and New York. Beginning April 5, 2014 they will be open every Saturday from 10am-5pm, at 945 Florida Ave., NW (W and Florida). If you go, be sure to swing by and say hi to my friend + say hi to Christopher at Brown & Williams British clothing wares, he usually vends.

District Flea outdoor market

945 Florida Ave NW

Metro: U St, African American War Memorial exit 

PAST: POETRY: Poet Laureate Natasha Trethewey Final Lecture at the Library of Congress this WED, May 14th at 7:00pm, Free

Natasha Trethewey Poet Laureate Final Lecture at the Library of Congress

Wednesday, May 14th

7:00pm

Free

Natasha Trethewey will deliver her final lecture to conclude her second term as Poet Laureate Consultant in Poetry and the spring literary season at the Library of Congress. 

Natasha Trethewey was born in Gulfport, Mississippi on April 26, 1966. She is the author of four poetry collections and a book of creative non-fiction. Her honors include the Pulitzer Prize and fellowships from the Guggenheim Foundation and the National Endowment for the Arts. In 2012, she was appointed the State Poet Laureate of Mississippi.

Library of Congress, Thomas Jefferson Building 

Coolidge Auditorium, ground floor

10 First Street SE
Metro: Capitol South, see map

PAST: DJ + DANCING: Moombahton Massive XXXVII at U St Music Hall this WED, May 14th at 9:00pm, $8 - $10 in advance, $12 at the door, 18+

Moombahton Massive XXXVII at U St Music Hall
Wednesday, May 14th
9:00pm
$8 - $10 if you buy tickets in advance, $12 at the door, 18+
advance ticket sales end one hour before doors open

Moombahton is a DC-specific genre invented by Dave Nada of Nadastrom, who’s headlining this event. The music is a mix of reggaeton, Dutch house, and electro house music.

U Street Music Hall
1115 U St NW
Metro: U St or take any of the 90 line buses there

PAST: HIGHLIGHTS: Lunchtime - Chamber Music at the Dumbarton House with FMMC this TUES, May 13th from 12:00pm - 1:00pm, Free - Thanks to CultureCapital.com - a Fabulous resource for Arts and Culture events in DC, MD & VA

Here are some more great free arts and culture events from CultureCapital.com! This site is a fantastic resource for events provided by CultureCapital (formerly known as the Cultural Alliance of Greater Washington) a wonderful organization that supports and highlights the DC metro area's vibrant and diverse arts community! See the "Free in DC" Inside Out page on CultureCapital.com for a list of exhibits on view! Plus, CultureCapital.com is now on facebook.

Tuesday, May 13th 

Lunchtime - Chamber Music at the Dumbarton House - Dupont Circle/ Georgetown 
Friday Morning Music Club: Chamber Concert
12:00pm - 1:00pm
The Friday Morning Music Club and Dumbarton House present music circa 1800. Works by Franz Joseph Haydn, George Frideric Handel and Jean-Philippe Rameau. Fans of the harpsichord will enjoy this program! See complete details here.
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. For those driving, parking is free but limited (behind the garden at 27th and Q Streets NW).

PAST: DANCE: A Journey to Korean Dance featuring the Seung Uk Hong & Kyungho Lee Dance Company at the IDB on TUES, May 13th at 6:30pm, Free

A Journey to Korean Dance  featuring the Seung Uk Hong & Kyungho Lee Dance Company at the IDB

Tuesday, May 13th

6:30pm

Free, RSVP not required, but all guests must bring a photo ID

"Dance has been a fundamental part of Korean culture and society for millennia, from the royal courts of the Joseon Dynasty to the festivals of the common people. The performers and musicians of Chonbuk National University and the Hong Seunguk Dance Company have kept these traditions alive and will present a diverse overview of spirited, deeply felt Korean dances and music at this special event." Dances and Performers include: Salp’uri Chum: Hong Seung-uk, Taepyeong mu, Sogo Chum (Small Drum Dance), Dae-gum Sanjo, Mu nyeo chum (Female shaman Dance), Fan-dance, Jinsoe dance and Drum dance.

Inter-American Development Bank

Enrique V. Iglesias Auditorium

1330 New York Avenue NW

Metro: Metro Center or take any number of buses right to 13th & H St NW

PAST: HIGHLIGHTS: More fabulous Free events from Gravy - local events app and website - for SAT, May 10th

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!

Saturday, May 10th

Concert at the Freer Gallery with Dutch Pianist Ralph van Raat

7:30pm, reserve tickets on ticketmaster for a fee or show up an hour early, tickets will be given at the door beginning at 6:30pm, max two per person at the Meyer Auditorium,  first-come, first-served
Following his debut with the Los Angeles Philharmonic, the Dutch virtuoso Ralph van Raat performs music by the late Japanese composer Toru Takemitsu and wide-ranging composer Tan Dun.
Freer Gallery - Meyer Auditorium 
Jefferson Dr & 12th St SW (see gallery map)
Metro: Smithsonian, you can enter through the Sackler and try to navigate indoors but it is rather confusing and the signage is non-existent so I recommend walking around outside to the main Freer entrance on the other side of the building.

The Gravy app is Free - Download it here now!

PAST: EMBASSY OPEN HOUSES: The Annual "Shortcut to Europe" EU Embassy Tours SAT, May 10th from 10:00am - 4:00pm, Free

"Shortcut to Europe"EU Embassies Open House

Saturday, May 10th
10:00am - 4:00pm
Free
Click here to download the EU Program Guide
(prepare for some lines, wear comfy shoes)
More details here!

The European Union Delegation to the U.S. and the embassies of the EU Member States invite visitors to experience the authentic music, dance, food, film, and art of 28 distinctive nations along with a rare behind-the-scenes look into the European Union embassies. Complimentary shuttle buses transport visitors along the embassy routes. Participating embassies include: Croatia, Denmark, Finland, Hungary, Latvia, Malta, Portugal, Slovenia, United Kingdom, Austria, Cyprus, Estonia, France and the Federal Republic of Germany, Ireland, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Romania, Spain, Belgium, the Czech Republic, the Delegation of the European Union, Greece, Italy, Luxembourg, Republic of Poland, Slovakia, and Sweden. Admission is free, no reservations required, and complimentary shuttle service is provided.

Various Embassies 

Metro: Dupont Circle, Van Ness or Foggy Bottom and take one of the Complimentary Shuttle buses or walk. See page 6 of the brochure for shuttle bus maps and details or select which embassies you want to visit and go to metro trip-planner for options

PAST: OPEN STUDIOS: The 10th Annual Gateway Arts District Open Studio Tour from 12:00pm - 5:00pm this SAT, May 10th, Kick-off event at 11:30am, Opening Reception and After Party 5:00pm - 8:00pm, Free

The 10th Annual Gateway Arts District Open Studios Tour!
17 Venues/ 70 Studios/ more than 100 Artists!
Saturday, May 10th
12:00pm - 5:00pm, kick-off at 11:30am

After Party and Opening Receptions
5:00pm - 8:00pm
Free

On May 10, 2014 the Gateway Open Studio Tour turns 10 years old! The kick-off event at the Gateway Arts Center will be the unveiling of Margaret Boozer's new sculpture Frost Weathering in the courtyard at 11:30am. Gateway Arts District artists, studios and galleries will open their doors to the public from 12:00pm - 5:00pm. Visitors are invited to interact one on one with the artists, see their work, and explore their studios.

Stick around from 5:00pm - 8:00pm for the after party and opening receptions at the Brentwood Arts Exchange and 39th Street Gallery.

More than 100 individual artists will participate to make an exceptional event. Visitors to the Gateway Open Studio Tour will have access to Red Dirt Studios, The Washington Glass Studio, Ani Kasten Ceramics, The 39th Street Studios, Flux Studios, DC Glassworks, ezStorage Studios, as well as many other independent studios. Galleries and cultural institutions participating in the tour include The Gateway Arts Center, Brentwood Arts Exchange, 39th Street Gallery, Mon Cheri Gallery, Joe’s Movement Emporium, artDC, Art Works Now, and the Prince George’s African American Museum and Cultural Center.

If you have a smart phone, make sure to download the free phone app for the Open Studio Tour onto your smartphone. Gateway CDC has created this app so you can access all the galleries, artists and local eateries on your smartphone. You won't get lost when you have this app, just touch the address on your phone and Google maps pops up to guide you to your desired destination (make sure to switch to walking directions).

Gateway Arts Center
3901 Rhode Island Ave - Brentwood, MD
Includes the 39th Street Gallery, Brentwood Arts Exchange and 39th Street Studios
Metro: From the red line, Rhode Island Ave-Brentwood, take the 83 bus to 39th St right to the Gateway Arts Center or take the T18 or 86 bus to 37th St and continue walking up Rhode Island Ave, or turn right on 37th to the large collection of studios just two blocks south at Otis Street. From the green line, get off at West Hyattsville and take the F8 Eastbound towards Cheverly Station or The Bus 13 Southbound. Additional routes include F1 and F2. West Hyattsville Station is about 1.5 miles, which is biking and walking distance. See metro trip-planner for bus access and schedules.

PAST: FAMILY-FRIENDLY: "Tot Rock Tuesdays" with The Singing Lizard at BloomBars on TUES, May 6th at 10:00am, All ages, by donation, $7 suggested

"Tot Rock Tuesdays" with The Singing Lizard
a family-friendly event at BloomBars
Tuesday, May 6th
10:00am
by donation, $7 suggested

The Singing Lizard will bring the jams and rock the tots at BloomBars! Grab an instrument, get on stage or practice your moves on the dance floor. This is a perfect spot for your little one to move and groove.

BloomBars
3222 11th St NW
Metro: Columbia Heights, walk one block north on 14th St and turn right on Kenyon, left on 11th St NW

PAST: HIGHLIGHTS: Free Play Reading with the Washington Stage Guild at the Undercroft Theatre on TUES, May 6th at 7:00pm + Free Band and Choral Music Concert at NoVA Community College at 7:30pm, from CultureCapital.com, a Fabulous Resource for Arts and Culture events in DC, MD and VA

Here are some more great free arts and culture events from CultureCapital.com! This site is a fantastic resource for events provided by CultureCapital (formerly known as the Cultural Alliance of Greater Washington) a wonderful organization that supports and highlights the DC metro area's vibrant and diverse arts community! See the "Free in DC" Inside Out page on CultureCapital.com for a list of exhibits on view! Plus, CultureCapital.com is now on facebook

Tuesday, May 6th 

Evening - Play Reading at Undercroft Theatre - Chinatown/ Mt Vernon Sq 
A Severed Head by Iris Murdoch & JB Priestley
7:00pm
Presented by Washington Stage Guild

"A comedy drama co-written by the brilliant Iris Murdoch and Priestley, author of the Stage Guild's smash hit "An Inspector Calls." The Stage Guild free reading series is a favorite with our audiences."

Undercroft Theatre

900 Massachusetts Ave NW
Metro: Mt Vernon Sq - Convention Center or Gallery Pl - Chinatown or take the Circulator bus to the stop closest to 9th & Mass

Evening - Concert at NoVa Community College - Alexandria, VA
The Alexandria Band and the NOVA Community Chorus
7:30pm
Band and Choral Music Concert featuring The Alexandria Band and the NOVA Community Chorus. Free performance, donations appreciated.

Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall
at NoVa Community College
3001 North Beauregard St - Alexandria, VA
Metro: See metro trip-planner for best bus access from metro

CultureCapital.com is now on facebook + Find more free events on their "Free in DC" Inside Out page!

PAST: SPECIAL EVENT: Meet the Founder and Director of the Meditation Museum, Sister Jenna, at "Happy Hour with a Yogi" at Busboys and Poets in Shirlington, VA this TUES, May 6th from 7:00pm - 9:00pm, Free, RSVP Required

Meet Sister Jenna at "Happy Hour with a Yogi" at Busboys & Poets in Shirlington, VA

Tuesday, May 6th 

7:00pm - 9:00pm

Free, donations appreciated, RSVP Required here

Join Sister Jenna, director and founder of the Meditation Museum in Silver Spring, Maryland, host of the America Meditating Radio Program for "Happy Hour with a Yogi."  Sister Jenna will share tools on coping with relationships, dealing with deadlines and priorities and managing the stress that seems to have become a daily part of our modern culture. 

Busboys & Poets - Shirlington, VA
4251 South Campbell Avenue, Arlington, VA
Metro: Bus accessible only. From Ballston you can catch the ART bus 42, Metrobus 22A, 23A or 23C to Shirlington Station or from Pentagon City you can catch the ART bus 75.  For those who have cars and wish to drive, limited metered parking is available, and there is also a parking garage located on 2780 Campbell Avenue (formerly 28th Street). Customers may enter garage from Arlington Mill Road.

PAST: FILM: "Blue Note - A Story of Modern Jazz" as part of the Blue Note @ 75 Celebration MON, May 5th at 6:30pm at the Goethe-Institut, $7, $4 students

Film Screening  "Blue Note – A Story of Modern Jazz" as part of the Blue Note @ 75 celebration
Monday, May 5th

6:30pm
$7 general, $4 students

Film: German. English subtitles, Germany, 1996/1997, 90 min, Dir: Julian Benedikt

Introduced by Larry Applebaum, Senior Music Reference Specialist, Library of Congress

"Since its establishment in 1939, Blue Notes Records has been the epitome of jazz music. Blue Note has influenced musicians, filmmakers, actors and even athletes. Yet hardly anyone knows that two German emigrants founded the label. The story of Blue Note is the story of Alfred Lion and Francis Wolff, two German Jews, who emigrated from Berlin to New York in 1939 and turned their love for jazz into a profession. They found a new home in the music of the oppressed minority of black America. Though Alfred Lion and Francis Wolff didn’t have any money or connections and couldn’t speak English when they arrived in New York, they started recording the music of what were at that time unknown artists."

Goethe-Institut
812 7th St NW
Metro: Gallery Pl - Chinatown or take the Circulator bus to the stop closest to Mass Ave & 7th St NW

PAST: HIGHLIGHTS: More Free events to choose from this SUN, May 4th - Literary Hill Bookfest at Eastern Market's North Hall + A Short Autism friendly performance of the Ballet "Sleeping Beauty" in College Park, MD

Sunday, May 4th

Literary Hill Bookfest
11:00am - 3:00pm
Free
Enjoy an afternoon of discussions, readings, and signings with Capitol Hill's best writers of memoirs, fiction, politics, poetry, history, sports, food and fantasy--and books for kids!
Eastern Market, North Hall
225 7th Street, SE
Metro: Eastern Market

"Sleeping Beauty" Ballet - an Autism Friendly Performance
2:00pm - 3:00pm
Free, RSVP Requested to connectthedotsdancecompany@gmail.com
Connect the Dots Dance Company in collaboration with the College Park Arts Exchange proudly presents an Autism Friendly Performance of the Ballet "Sleeping Beauty." The performance will feature lower music, a break room, an interactive ballet class, a ballet craft and an interactive performance.
Old Parish House
4711 Knox Rd -  College Park, MD
Metro: College Park, just a few minute walk from the metro.Head west on Calvert Rd toward Columbia Ave 0.1 mi, turn right onto Dartmouth Ave and left onto Knox Rd.

PAST: FESTIVAL: The National Cinco de Mayo Festival at the Sylvan Theater on The National Mall by the Washington Monument this SUN, May 4th from 12:00pm - 6:00pm, Free

The National Cinco de Mayo Festival on The National Mall 

Sunday, May 4th 

12:00pm - 6:00pm

Free

The Maru Montero Dance Company and LULAC present the annual National Cinco de Mayo Festival on The Mall. The free festival will celebrate Latin American dance and will feature music and crafts. The Cinco de Mayo celebration is in support of LULAC’s health education initiative, Latinos Living Healthy, which is focused on turning around the obesity crisis in this country. Live performances will feature salsa, Mexican folk dancing, mariachis, and other dance and music. The children’s pavilion will host arts and crafts where young people can make piñatas, build dancing puppets, and play lotería (Mexican bingo) to win prizes. With support from the Walmart Foundation, this particular Cinco de Mayo will provide a unique opportunity for the Latino community to celebrate the Latino culture with healthy food options, health screenings, physical activity, and free healthy cooking demonstrations.

The National Mall 

at the Sylvan Theater located at the foot of the Washington Monument 

at the Northwest corner of 15th Street and Independence Avenue NW

Metro: Smithsonian (see map)

PAST: YOGA WEEK: DC Yoga Week comes to a close on SUN, May 4th, Free or $5 classes at select studios in DC, MD and VA

It's the Final Day of DC Yoga Week!
Sunday, May 4th
Free and $5 classes at select studios in DC, MD & VA

I found this great way to sort the events on Active Life DC - you can search by day, location - DC, MD or VA - and also by Studio name! Sweet.

Metro: See metro trip-planner for metro and bus access to the various studios/ locations

PAST: HIGHLIGHTS: More Free events this SAT, May 3rd! Free Community Acupuncture at Revive in Mt Rainier + The Annual "Running of the Chihuahuas" by the Waterfront Metro + Spring Fling Family Friendly Festival at the Soldier's House + Art Party in Brookland

Saturday, May 3rd

Free Acupuncture Sessions at Revive Community Acupuncture in Mt Rainier, MD
10:00am - 3:00pm
Free, 18+ unless accompanied by parent
RSVP is Required to ensure your spot
Curious about acupuncture? Come on out to Revive Community Acupuncture this Saturday for a free treatment. Note: Their Free Days usually book up completely - the last treatment will be given one hour before the 3:00pm closing time - so best to RSVP in advance to secure your space, click the link to the online scheduler and select a time. Resting ime during treatment may be limited to 30 minutes per person if demand is high.
Revive Community Acupuncture 
3808 34th St. -  Mt. Rainier, MD
Metro: Rhode Island Avenue, about a mile from the metro. You can take the 81 bus to Mt. Rainier Circle

The Third Annual Running of the Chihuahuas
this year on the SW Waterfront
12:00pm - 3:00pm
Free to attend
Kick off Cinco de Mayo with On Tap Magazine, Corona, Cantina Marina & The Wharf at the Third Annual Running of the Chihuahuas for Charity! What: Chihuahua races, food trucks, beer stand, dog contests, a family friendly free event! This event is a benefit event for animal charities and DC’s funniest Cinco celebration! $500 in cash and prizes for racers! Only $20 per dog to race. All of the entry fees are donated to animal charities.
SW Waterfront
600 Water St, SW
Metro: Waterfront

Spring Fling at the Soldiers' Home
1:00pm - 5:00pm
Free
The Friends of the Soldiers Home invites you to an afternoon of music, food trucks, carnival games, nature walks, yoga, and more! Held on the lower grounds of the Armed Forces Retirement Home, bring a chair and a blanket by bus, metro, or car (parking available for $5 donation). No pets, please
Armed Forces Retirement Home
355 Rock Creek Church Rd, NW
Metro: Georgia Ave.-Petworth, Bus: H8 Enter at Rock Creek Church Rd. & Randolph St. NW

"Present" - An Art Party - GMU Backspace Fellowship Program

Saturday, May 3rd
6:00pm - 12:00am

Free
"Come one, come all! One night only! See new art by a bunch of free-thinking radicals - before they get "silenced." Performances, installations, interactivity, danger....beer, food, and dancing."

• 7:30pm- 65-minute interactive performance led by Michael Verdon
• 9:00pm - Music and dancing starts
• Bring your fancy-selves, friends, and something to drink.

Brookland Artspace Lofts DC
3305 8th St. NE

Metro: Brookland