This weekend in Arlington, VA

Participants take on a scenic 5k or 10k through Rock Creek Park on a paved course that is mostly flat with one significant hill. The 5k follows an out-and-back route and the 10k completes two laps. Walkers and strollers are welcome, and a virtual race option is available for anyone who prefers to participate remotely. Finishers receive a medal, a technical drifit-style event shirt, and chip-timed results. Points earned count toward the Year-Long 5k, 10k, and Back of the Pack Series, as well as the Summer Series. The Back of the Pack program is designed for participants with higher average paces and is not a cutoff. Water stations are placed along the course around miles 0.6 and 2.5 for the 5k, and around miles 0.6, 2.5, 3.1, 3.7, and 5.6 for the 10k, with water and Gatorade available at select stops. Restrooms are located near the Tennis Center. Packet pickup is available at the event, and there is no on-site race day registration. Awards recognize the top three men and women overall, along with first and second place in several age groups ranging from 19 and under up to 70 plus. Photos captured by staff are shared on social media after the event, and a weekly social media spotlight offers a discount to a favorite post. Volunteers support water stations, course marshaling, and finish line operations. The event benefits Food & Friends, a community organization in the DC region that prepares and delivers medically tailored meals and provides nutrition therapy, groceries, and counseling at no cost for people living with cancer, HIV/AIDS, and other serious illnesses, as well as their dependents and caregivers.

Farmers Market SW brings local growers and their fresh, locally sourced offerings to The Wharf in collaboration with Diverse Markets DC. The market is set at M Street Landing, just outside Pitango, Philippe Chow, and Fish Shop.

The newest installation of a rotating Changemakers exhibit shines a light on people whose contributions have shaped Arlington’s history and community life. As part of Arlington 250, it recognizes local leaders, advocates, educators, innovators, and community builders whose work has left a lasting imprint on the county. Through these stories, the exhibit invites thoughtful reflection on how individuals can influence their communities and help define Arlington across its past, present, and future.

This monthly offering unites Marsha’s intuitive sound healing with Kristi’s Rooted Rest Yoga Nidra in a 60-minute immersive session. A calming blend of crystal singing bowls, chimes, ocean drum, and native flute accompanies a nature-informed, choice-honoring guided rest practice. The experience supports stress relief, nervous system regulation, emotional release, steady grounding, and a feeling of connection and ease. It is open to people of every body and identity, and no previous yoga or meditation experience is needed. Participation is available in person at PIES Fitness Yoga Studio in Old Town Alexandria or virtually from home. Kristi’s method weaves traditional Yoga Nidra with somatic cues and gentle language, offering supportive care for those navigating stress, chronic pain, fatigue, neurodivergence, or major life transitions. In-person capacity is limited.

Enjoy a relaxed LGBTQ+ community brunch on the enclosed front patio at Freddie’s Beach Bar & Restaurant, organized by Go Gay DC. Admission is free, and attendees simply pay for their own food and drinks on individual tabs. A free RSVP is requested to help with an accurate headcount. Expect a small, welcoming group of around ten people, with name tags provided to make introductions easy, and casual attire is perfectly fine. Choose from the regular menu or opt for the all-you-can-eat buffet, which includes a mimosa or coffee, tea, or a soft drink plus dessert for $14.99. Freddie’s is an LGBTQ+ and straight-friendly, smoke-free venue recognized by Washington Blade readers as the Best Virginia Bar. Parking is typically available on nearby residential streets, and the closest Metro stop is Crystal City. This gathering is for ages 18 and up; bring a valid ID if you plan to enjoy alcoholic beverages. Go Gay DC leader TJ Flavell will be there to greet attendees. Share photos with the hashtag #gogaydc. For assistance, the venue can be reached at (703) 685-0555.

Community of Hope is presenting a fish fry fundraiser to support repairs to the church and the parsonage. Featured offerings include a Whiting Sandwich for $8 and a Whiting Dinner for $12. Crocker options are available by pre-payment only, with a Crocker Sandwich for $13 and a Crocker Dinner for $16 that comes with a soda or water. If you cannot attend, you can still contribute by using the QR code to donate. For details, reach Uraina Washing at (202) 847-8762. Your support makes a difference.

Presented by Imagine, this evening at St. Mark's Episcopal Church- Capitol Hill features multi-instrumentalist and producer Masaru Higasa with vocalist Pepper Proud alongside British-Portuguese songwriter Nessi Gomes. Higasa and Proud shape a distinctive blend that balances masculine and feminine expression, creating melodic soundscapes with instruments drawn from around the world. Gomes writes with a quiet intensity, guiding listeners into the fullness of life where beauty sits beside fear, longing is allowed to remain unresolved, and the darker corners are given space rather than shame.

This weekly Rueda de Casino class, also known as Cuban Salsa, includes two classes along with social dancing. Expect plenty of laughs, chances to meet new people, and the opportunity to learn new moves while connecting with a welcoming dance community. Comfortable clothing is encouraged.

This specialty tour traces the mansion’s evolution from James Green’s 19th century renovations of John Carlyle’s stone home to the 18th century appearance reinstated after NOVA Parks purchased Carlyle House in 1970. Experts guide an in depth exploration of the architectural changes, using photographs and artifacts to show what was altered and what was restored. Admission is $8 per person. For registration assistance, call 703-549-2997 or email carlyle@nvrpa.org.

Colt Ford brings his blend of country twang and rap grit to the water with City Cruises Live, turning a yacht into a floating stage set against the San Diego skyline. The experience is high energy, with a full buffet and an open bar available on board. For an elevated option, VIP access offers prime deck seating, early boarding, and a meet and greet with Colt Ford.

Hobby Time: Building and Painting Night at Your Hobby Place - Alexandria brings gaming enthusiasts together to work on personal building and painting projects in a collaborative setting. Attendees can swap ideas, make progress on what they are working on, and connect with others who enjoy the hobby.

A community-centered night of professional women’s soccer at Audi Field brings fans together for a Washington Spirit match. Hosted by Lesbifriends Travel, the group will sit together in Section 103 at midfield to enjoy the game side by side. Tickets are $55 each and must be purchased through the ticket link provided by the organizer. A Facebook RSVP does not secure a spot. Only 18 tickets are available. This is a meet-up and is not affiliated with the team or the stadium. The gathering is designed for Black queer folks who enjoy professional women’s sports and connecting in a fun setting. By attending, participants consent to being photographed, and anyone who prefers not to be included should inform the photographer and host in advance or at the beginning so efforts can be made to avoid capturing and posting their image.

Audi Field sets the stage for a National Women’s Soccer League clash as the Washington Spirit face Angel City FC. These two ambitious sides arrive with contrasting styles, so details like set pieces, quick transitions, and late tactical tweaks could decide the outcome. Expect elite women’s soccer in an energetic stadium atmosphere.

Music From The Sole brings a high-energy blend of tap dance and live music, hailed by The Boston Globe for how it “breaks down walls between music and movement.” Led by Brazilian choreographer Leonardo Sandoval and composer Gregory Richardson, the ensemble fuses tap’s driving rhythms with influences that include samba, passinho Brazilian funk, Afro-Cuban traditions, jazz, and house. As a Mason Artist-in-Residence, the company also shares its craft through community classes and workshops alongside the performance, delivering what the New York Times called a “jolt of good energy.” The event is audio described and appropriate for all ages. The performance runs approximately 60 minutes with no intermission. Tickets are $60, $52, and $38, with half-price admission for youth through grade 12. Prices include fees.

The Birchmere hosts a performance by Eric Roberson, a GRAMMY-nominated singer, songwriter, producer, and Howard University alum whose career has helped define independence in R&B and soul. Praised by DJ Jazzy Jeff as one of the great singer songwriters of his era, Roberson has written and produced for artists such as Jill Scott, Musiq Soulchild, Dwele, and Vivian Green, while also headlining sold out tours around the country. For more than twenty years he has created what he calls Honest Music, embracing the creative freedom that comes with working outside the major label system. His creative output includes the 2020 project Hear from Here, a ten-song album completed in four weeks that offers messages of hope, with tracks like Road to Recovery, Omaha, and Shining featuring Brian Courtney Wilson. His single Lessons was recorded on the morning of his 12th wedding anniversary, inspired by his wife Shawn, and reflects his belief that setbacks and patience can lead to meaningful growth. Roberson has served as a professor at Berklee College of Music, invited fans into his studio through The Process during work on his Earth, Wind and Fire trilogy, and earned recognition including two GRAMMY nominations in Best Urban or Alternative Performance, a BETJ Virtual Award with Rahsaan Patterson, and a groundbreaking BET Award nomination as an independent artist.

Settle into a peaceful evening beneath the stars on a cozy rooftop terrace, where an in-person sound bath blends calming crystal bowl tones with soft rhythms under the full moon. The setting invites a mental reset, a connection to the natural night sky, and easygoing, uplifting energy among fellow participants. Bring a mat and an open heart for a serene, moonlit experience. Efforts will be made to reduce mosquitos, so do not let that be a deterrent. If inclement weather arises, the gathering will move indoors to the main level community area, and refunds are not offered due to weather.

Candlelight presents a tribute to the music of Hans Zimmer at National City Christian Church, creating an intimate atmosphere with hundreds of candles and a live, multi-sensory concert experience in Washington, DC. Performed by the Listeso String Quartet, the program features Time from Inception, This Land from The Lion King, Zooster’s Breakout from Madagascar, Honor from The Pacific, Tennessee from Pearl Harbor, A Dark Knight from The Dark Knight, suites from Man of Steel, Wonder Woman, and Gladiator, Cornfield Chase from Interstellar, Discombobulate from Sherlock Holmes, and a Pirates of the Caribbean suite. The performance runs about 65 minutes. Doors open one hour before the music begins and there is no late entry after the start. This event welcomes ages 8 and up, and anyone under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. The venue is ADA compliant. Seating is assigned within each zone based on arrival order. This concert is presented as a tribute and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by the artist, estate, or any official representatives.

London’s TWISTED BEAR makes its long-awaited Washington, D.C. debut at Icon DC, bringing the brand’s trademark blend of high-energy dance music and a bold, masculine vibe. Launched in 2015, TWISTED BEAR has grown into a global series, staging events in more than 20 countries and 50 cities with international guest DJs at the helm. The booth features longtime international resident Paul Coals from London, whose three decades behind the decks span vocal house and gritty tech sounds. Joining him for his first appearance with the brand is DJ and producer Jason James, a familiar name across the bear and leather scene in the U.S. and beyond. Expect a stacked stage with dancers including Archie, marking a D.C. debut, and Rocky and Indigo, both making their first TWISTED BEAR appearances, with more performers to be announced. The night is hosted by Dominus and supported by Mistr, Beefyboy, and Growlr. Gear is encouraged but not required, so bring the look that feels right. The crowd welcomes bears, cubs, pups, chubs, bearded boys, leathermen, musclemen, hot daddies, circuit boys, and LGBTQ friends. A coat check will be available. No refunds.

Round two at The Renegade brings Capital Chill back for a late night of live music. The band packs a set of rock, alternative, and crowd favorites that keeps the dance floor moving from start to finish. A $5 cover applies.

Friday and Saturday feature weekly karaoke at Cuates Grill Alexandria in Old Town Alexandria. Admission is free and the event is family friendly. Choose from thousands of songs in English, Spanish, and other languages, with late night food and drinks available.

A scenic half marathon and 5k showcase Georgetown and the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal, with both routes following the canal path on light gravel and minimal elevation change. The half marathon starts and finishes in Georgetown near the Potomac Boat Club, while the 5k begins and ends at Fletcher’s Boathouse. Walking participants are welcome. The two distances begin and end in different places along the canal, so parking is at separate locations for each start area. Participants earn points in the Year-Long 5k, Endurance, Back of the Pack, and Summer Series, and a virtual option is available for those who prefer to participate remotely. Every runner receives a finisher medal, a technical event shirt, and chip timing. Live results and runner tracking are available. Awards recognize the top three men and women overall, plus first and second place male and female in age groups 19 and under, 20 to 29, 30 to 39, 40 to 49, 50 to 59, 60 to 69, and 70 and older. The Back of the Pack program supports athletes who prefer a more relaxed pace, allowing runners with similar speeds to compete for series points. On-course support includes seven water stations on the half marathon around miles 1.55, 3.8, 4.3, 6.55, 8.8, 9.3, and 11.55, and one station on the 5k near mile 1.55. Water is provided, with Gatorade available at select stations, and placements may be adjusted as needed. Restrooms are available near check-in at each start area. Packet pickup takes place on-site. On-site registration is not available. There is no formal bag check, though items can be left at the timing tent at the finish line at your own risk, and unclaimed gear will be donated. Photos captured by event staff will be shared on social channels. A social media challenge may award 50 percent off a future race to a standout post. The event benefits Team RWB DC and is planned to proceed in a wide range of weather conditions, with any updates communicated to registered participants.

National FASD Impact Week, organized by FASD United, is a no-cost annual event that welcomes people with FASD, their families, professionals, researchers, and community partners from across the United States. Held in Washington, DC, it offers an inclusive setting to learn, make connections, and share experiences. The program features opportunities for everyone, including educational sessions, the FASD Symposium, poster sessions, and community conversations that highlight both scientific research and lived perspectives. Whether you are new to the topic or deeply engaged in the field, the week provides practical knowledge, useful resources, and meaningful connections to bring back to your community.

Purple Heart Homes hosts a public build that will showcase the creation of an accessible modular home over seven days, with every step visible to visitors. Watch the house rise from start to finish, underscoring the importance of safe, accessible housing for veterans. The schedule includes an opening ceremony to launch the effort, multiple days of on-site construction, and a closing celebration once the home is complete. Admission is free. This effort serves as a national example of communities, volunteers, and partners working together to ensure veterans have a secure place to live. Partnership opportunities are available for mission-driven companies and organizations, including options for national recognition, volunteer involvement, VIP experiences, and year-round visibility through the 2027 Annual Event Series.

Celebrate the season with a hands-on cookie decorating class focused on cozy fall designs. Professional decorator Stephanie Harkin leads step-by-step instruction on royal icing basics, including outlining, flooding, stiff-consistency details, and wet-on-wet techniques for eye-catching patterns. Each participant decorates eight cookies using provided tools and materials, then takes home the recipes and a box for safe transport. This beginner-friendly session is open to ages 13 and up. Expect a little mess, so an apron is recommended, and long hair should be tied back. The class runs about 2 to 2.5 hours, and timing may vary due to the interactive format. Enrollment is priced per person and each attendee needs their own ticket. A minimum of four students is required, with a maximum of eight; if the minimum is not met, a full refund is issued. Participants also receive a 5% same-day discount on supplies and tools at Fran’s Cake and Candy. Stephanie brings more than 20 years of experience, including work in three local bakeries, instruction of over 150 students as a Wilton instructor, and several first-place awards in local baking and decorating competitions. She has been part of the Fran’s team for over seven years and is known for a patient, approachable style that builds confidence and encourages exploration of new techniques. Cancellation policy: full refunds or credits are available at least five days in advance; credits are offered for changes made after that window but at least 48 hours ahead; no credits are available within 48 hours of the class.

A 5K fun run and walk with Old Town Run Club welcomes The Commodore to the neighborhood. The venue features a pool table and darts, plus thin crust pizza. Brunch is available.

Experience the newest rotation of the Changemakers exhibit at the Arlington Historical Museum, presented as part of Arlington 250. This showcase highlights leaders, advocates, educators, innovators, and community builders whose contributions helped shape Arlington, recognizing those whose efforts made a lasting impact on the county. Through these stories, visitors are invited to reflect on how individual actions can influence a community and help define Arlington’s past, present, and future.

A friendly LGBTQ+ ice cream social hosted by EQUALITY NoVa brings neighbors together at a charming private residence in a classic neighborhood setting. Everyone is welcome to attend, regardless of where you live, for a relaxed Gayborhood gathering. An ice cream truck will serve a variety of flavors and toppings, including rainbow sprinkles, with options available that are no sugar added, gluten free, and dairy free. Ice cream is complimentary for current EQUALITY NoVa members. Nonmembers are welcome, and a small optional donation or new membership is appreciated, with a donation jar available. Meet fellow EQUALITY NoVa members whether you are brand new or long-time involved, and note that current elected officials and candidates have been invited. Please RSVP in advance so organizers can plan an accurate guest count. As part of ongoing community service, attendees who are able are invited to bring unused, nonperishable food items for collection in support of AFAC. The gathering is intended to be a safe, inclusive space for everyone under the rainbow. Bring a valid ID if you plan to drink alcohol, as all who choose to drink will be carded. Eco-friendly travel is encouraged, with convenient public transit, rideshare, and free street parking options. You are welcome to arrive at any time during the event window. Go Gay DC is helping promote the event, and its community leader TJ Flavell will be on hand to greet guests. EQUALITY NoVa is an inclusive, nonpartisan 501(c)(3) serving Northern Virginia’s LGBTQ+ community and straight allies through social activities, civic engagement, and community service.

This free, family friendly music showcase at Penn Social DC celebrates the end of the summer season with live sets by students from School of Rock DC/Cleveland Park in a professional concert setting. Expect energetic performances that highlight months of practice, teamwork, and musical growth. Admission is free and everyone is welcome. Set times will be shared closer to the event.

At Nationals Park, the New York Mets meet the Washington Nationals in a pivotal National League clash late in the season. With divisional stakes and a potential impact on the playoff picture, the intensity runs high. This matchup offers a clear look at how both clubs respond under pressure when every inning matters.

The Pocket hosts a songwriter night featuring Amy Jay, Remi Goode, and Eli Lev in a round style performance where the artists take turns sharing original music up close. New York City indie folk artist Amy Jay is on the road with her album Mnemonics, released on Mother West and streamed over a million times. After headlining across the Northeast, she returns to the DMV with songs that are thoughtfully written and emotionally resonant. Nashville’s Remi Goode, whose background spans classical guitar and choral music, is touring her debut album. She pairs a clear voice with the warm tone of a nylon string guitar, creating an intimate sound noted by Glide Magazine. Listeners who enjoy Madison Cunningham, Suzanne Vega, or Phoebe Bridges may find her set especially appealing. Triple Wammie Award winner Eli Lev aims to bring people closer through song. His writing draws on travel and self discovery to deliver heartfelt, grounded music. He describes his style as Indie Folk Poptimism, offering an uplifting and approachable blend with emotional connection. Fans of Noah Kahan, Jason Mraz, and Jack Johnson may be particularly interested. Together, these three artists offer a contemporary indie folk showcase presented in a shared format that highlights distinct voices and perspectives.

DC Jazz Jam continues its salute to longtime regulars from earlier venues Dahlak and The Brixton with a featured night led by guitarist Adam Fluger. A familiar presence at the jam, he spent years as the dependable Fifth Sunday guitarist. Rescheduled after a February snow day, this session happens at Haydee’s with no cover. The jam is open to sit-ins, and a keyboard will be available for participants who need one.

Hip hop and comedy collide in a fully improvised showcase built in the moment. Cipha Sounds, known from Hot 97 in New York, Chappelle’s Show, and Roc Nation, teams up with quick-witted comedians and improvisers who turn stories from audience members and occasional special guests into brand new scenes and punchlines. There is no script and no rehearsal. Every beat is made on the spot, pure freestyle from start to finish.

The Revolution live concert featuring Sonu Nigam takes place at George Mason University's Eagle Bank Arena in the Washington DC area.

GRAMMY-nominated singer, songwriter, and producer Eric Roberson brings an acclaimed blend of R&B and soul to the stage as a graduate of Howard University and a recognized pioneer of independent music. He has written and produced for artists including Jill Scott, Musiq Soulchild, Dwele, and Vivian Green, and he has led sold out tours across the United States. With more than two decades as an independent artist, he continues to spotlight the craft behind his 13 solo albums and the creative freedom that fuels his work. His 2021 single Lessons was written on the morning of his twelfth wedding anniversary, drawing inspiration from his wife, Shawn, and explores patience, setbacks, and personal growth. During a challenging period in 2020, he created the album Hear from Here in just four weeks, offering a hopeful collection that ranges from the energizing Road to Recovery and Omaha to a closing collaboration with Brian Courtney Wilson on Shining. The music encourages joy, love, and living in the moment. Beyond recording, Roberson has taught at Berklee College of Music and invited fans into his studio world through The Process, a forum launched while he was crafting his Earth, Wind & Fire trilogy that lets listeners engage with songs as they take shape. His achievements include GRAMMY nominations in 2010 and 2011, a BETJ Virtual Award in 2008 with Rahsaan Patterson, and a landmark BET Award nomination in 2007 as an independent artist. This performance centers on soulful songwriting, heartfelt storytelling, and the independent spirit that defines his career.