Our end-of-the-week picks for Jan. 17-20
We've gathered up some fun things to do in DC this holiday weekend. You can also read what else is going on during the week and throughout the month.
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Friday
Breaking It Down: Conversations from the Vault – Final Weekend
A new exhibit offers a deep dive and new takes on several artists who are essential mainstays of the Phillips Collection, including Georges Braque, Richard Diebenkorn, Arthur Dove, Sam Gilliam, Paul Klee and Georgia O’Keeffe. Visitors can also admire a growing collection of pieces by contemporary masters, including Sean Scully, Sylvia Snowden, Renée Stout and Joyce Wellman. Note that the exhibit closes on Jan. 19.
Hours & Admission
The Phillips Collection, 1600 21st Street NW, Washington, DC 20009
Atlas Performing Arts Center
AJAX
DC’s Scena Theatre presents a modern reimagining of the famous tragedy by Sophocles at the Atlas Performing Arts Center. The production is reset in today’s Middle East, illustrating how ancient Greece’s Trojan War has themes and lessons that are hauntingly similar to contemporary wars in the region. The play examines the wider impacts of war and the personal costs of conflict, powerfully showcasing the plight of the American soldier.
Tickets
Atlas Performing Arts Center, 1333 H Street NE, Washington, DC 20002
Mo Lowda & The Humble
These indie rockers from Philadelphia mix grit, soul and powerful vocals into their music to create a sound that has been selling out concerts around the country. Attendees can look forward to a high-energy performance with guitar solos to spare in one of DC's most iconic venues.
Tickets
9:30 Club, 815 V Street NW, Washington, DC 20001
Saturday
Twilight Zone: Hidden Wonders of the Ocean
ARTECHOUSE and the Woods Holde Oceanographic Institution have collaborated to highlight an awe-inspiring nightly migration of ocean twilight zone creatures and their intricate connections to the planet’s health, including their contributions to the regulation of the earth’s climate. The groundbreaking exhibition offers a 24-minute cinematic journey with immersive 270-degree projections that span from floor to wall, complemented by six interactive installations and six XR activations. Use the code 'AEF10' for discounted tickets.
Tickets
ARTECHOUSE, 1238 Maryland Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20002
The Print Generation
Early in the 20th century, a new generation of Japanese print artists took hold of the entire process of creation, from designing to carving to printing. The new approach, known as “sōsaku hanga”, led to raw and unique works throughout a period of turmoil in Japan. Many of these fascinating pieces are on display in this exhibit at the National Museum of Asian Art.
10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. | Free Admission
National Museum of Asian Art, 1050 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20560
Anacostia Community Museum
A Bold and Beautiful Vision: A Century of Black Arts Education in Washington, DC, 1900-2000
The Anacostia Community Museum sheds light on fascinating local history with an exhibit featuring captivating original artworks, rare video footage and can't-miss artifacts including Alma Thomas’s paintbrushes and watercolor paint set, an early 20th-century lifelike marionette that William Buckner made with his local high school students, original Elizabeth Catlett prints that once hung in the halls of her DC high school and Sam Gilliam pieces from his tenure as a teacher at McKinley Technical High School. Experience the influence, power and creativity of the Black artist-educators who empowered generations of DC students.
10 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Free Admission
Smithsonian's Anacostia Community Museum, 1901 Fort Place SE, Washington, DC 20020
Ice skate in DC
Lace up some skates and triple axel 'round the District at popular ice skating rinks at the National Gallery of Art’s Sculpture Garden, Washington Harbour in Georgetown, Canal Park in Capitol Riverfront and The Wharf. Make sure to read our detailed breakdown of each spot.
Bond In Motion
Across more than six decades of films, James Bond has become the on-screen embodiment of spies for millions. The International Spy Museum pays homage to the fictional character, along with his allies and adversaries, with a breathtaking display of iconic vehicles from the movies. In total, visitors can fix their eyes on 17 pieces, including cars, motorcycles, submarines and even more from the Q Branch Garage.
Hours & Admission
International Spy Museum, 700 L’Enfant Plaza SW, Washington, DC 20024
Sunday
Paris 1874: The Impressionist Moment – Final Weekend
Discover the origins of one of the most important art movements in history thanks to a new exhibit at the National Gallery of Art. The museum is replicating a legendary exhibit from Paris in 1874 that helped bring about the dawn of Impressionism. In the display, you can view beloved paintings by Claude Monet, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Paul Cézanne, Edgar Degas, Camille Pissaro and many more. The exhibit closes on Jan. 19.
10 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Free Admission
National Gallery of Art, 6th Street & Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC
National Museum of African American History and Culture
In Slavery's Wake
The National Museum of African American History and Culture's new exhibit offers a dynamic mix of history, art and media. Visitors can observe connections between Black freedom-makers across time and join in a global conversation on the continued impacts of slavery and colonialism. The multi-lingual experience features 100 objects, 250 images and 10 multi-media interactives and films.
10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily | Reserve Timed Passes
Smithsonian National Museum of African American History & Culture, 1400 Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20560
Samantha Box: Confluences
The National Museum of Women in the Arts presents stunning documentary and studio-based photographs from Bronx-based artist Samantha Box in her first solo exhibition in the nation’s capital. Box’s two major bodies of work are seen together for the first time, revealing complex conversations around nationality, race, class, gender and sexual orientation.
Hours & Admission
National Museum of Women in the Arts, 1250 New York Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20005
Monday
Honor Martin Luther King Jr. Day in DC
The nation's capital presents unique opportunities to reflect on the legacy of the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Walk along his moving memorial along the Tidal Basin, visit the site of the famous "I Have a Dream" speech at the Lincoln Memorial, see incredible photography and historic artifacts at the National Museum of African American History and Culture or attend a commemorative event, including the Peace Walk and Parade.
Witness history during Inauguration in the nation's capital
Presidential inaugurations in Washington, DC, are some of the most exciting days in the city – and in U.S. history. Beginning with the stately swearing-in ceremony at the U.S. Capitol and continuing on with celebratory parades and balls, it's an incredible opportunity for locals and visitors alike gather and witness this powerful showcase of American democracy.
Places to Stay
Need some inspiration for a place to stay in between events? Washington, DC is filled with a multitude of hotels to fit your needs. Whether you are looking for that specialty boutique hotel or booking at your favorite hotel brand, Washington, DC's booking engine has it all. Find your stay today!
Do you know where you’ll be dining pre- or post-event? From pop-up restaurants to award-winning hot spots to laid-back food halls, our DC food guide is perfect for helping you plan a more memorable experience.
