Things to do the week of April 14-17, 2025
We've gathered up things to do across the nation's capital, including museum exhibits, concerts, only-in-DC events and much more. Don't miss our things to do this weekend and things to do this month as well.
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Monday
Adam Pendleton: Love, Queen
Known for his rigorous work in creating jaw-dropping paintings, Adam Pendleton will showcase new and recent pieces as well as single-channel video in this landmark exhibition at the Hirshhorn Museum. Pendleton’s first solo showcase will highlight his contributions to contemporary American painting and utilize the architecture of the Hirshhorn and the vast history of DC’s National Mall.
10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. | Free Admission
Hirshhorn Museum & Sculpture Garden, Independence Avenue & 7th Street NW, Washington, DC 20560
Reasons to Gather: Japanese Tea Practice Unwrapped
The Japanese tea practice of chanoyu revolves around the appreciation of utensils that assist in the preparation and consumption of matcha (powdered green tea). This new exhibit at the National Museum of Asian Art presents 11 historic tea utensils and accessories, including ceramics, hanging scrolls, boxes and wrapping cloths. All the objects tell a story of trade and exchange across Asia and reveal a vast network of tea practitioners.
10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. | Free Admission
National Museum of Asian Art, 1050 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20560
Ty Segall (Solo Acoustic)
Whether he’s backed by a rollicking band or performing a solo acoustic set like this one at 9:30 Club, Ty Segall puts on one hell of a show. The prolific rock musician has a new album, Possession, on the way, his third release in the last two years (a normal pace for Ty). The songwriter’s ever-evolving sound and stage presence means he’s worth seeing every time he’s in town.
7 p.m. | Tickets
9:30 Club, 815 V Street NW, Washington, DC 20001
Tuesday
In the Tower: Chakaia Booker – Treading New Ground
The National Gallery of Art presents three extraordinary sculptures from visionary artist Chakaia Booker in its East Building this spring. Booker transforms tires – cutting, coiling and contorting them – to sculpt industrial waste into awe-inspiring abstract forms. The environmentally conscious work inspires visitors to ponder the effect of materials on the natural world.
10 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Free Admission
National Gallery of Art, 6th Street & Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20565
This Morning, This Evening, So Soon: James Baldwin and the Voices of Queer Resistance
Guest curated by Pulitzer Prize-winning author Hilton Als, the National Portrait Gallery’s new exhibit focuses on one of the most important American writers of the 20th century. James Baldwin beautifully spoke out against injustice throughout his stirring career. He and other queer artists had to keep their sexuality hidden even while speaking up for civil rights. In addition to portraits of Baldwin, the exhibit also highlights many of his contemporaries including Lorraine Hansberry, Barbara Jordan, Bayard Rustin, Essex Hemphill and Marlon Riggs.
11:30 a.m. – 7 p.m. | Free Admission
National Portrait Gallery, 8th and G Streets NW, Washington, DC 20001
Hedwig & The Angry Inch
Get ready for glam, grit, glitter and plenty of heart from the classic rock-n-roll romp when the Signature Theatre stages Hedwig & The Angry Inch this spring in its ARK Theatre. The story entails a song-stealing ex-lover, a childhood in Communist East Germany, a botched sex change operation and some of the most unforgettable songs in the history of musicals.
Tickets
Signature Theatre, 4200 Campbell Avenue, Arlington, VA 22206
Wednesday
Guerrilla Girls: Making Trouble
An artist collective that continues to make its mark today, Guerrilla Girls celebrate their 40th anniversary in 2025. The National Museum of Women in the Arts honor the attention-grabbing group known for their provocative, text and graphic-based prints that denounce discrimination. Their work uses bold and eye-catching aesthetics to call out gender disparity and other important social injustices across billboards, banners, buildings and other sites. The museum’s extensive collection informs the exhibit that features an expansive and enthralling chronology of Guerrilla Girls’ vital work.
Hours & Admission
National Museum of Women in the Arts, 1250 New York Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20005
Blooming Wonders: A Best of Spring Exhibition
ARTECHOUSE’s annual springtime exhibit has become a must-see for locals and visitors alike. This year’s display brings together past smash-hit cherry blossom-themed installations as well as a new interactive experience. Fix your gaze upon immense floral landscapes, spellbinding digital visualizations and surreal spring-themed environments. Use discount code 'AEF10' for 10% off your tickets.
Tickets
ARTECHOUSE, 1238 Maryland Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20002
Zenith Gallery’s 47th “Amethyst” Anniversary
Join DC’s Zenith Gallery as it celebrates the work of dozens of artists during this annual showcase. “Amethyst” symbolizes “peace, healing and balance” and the works selected for this exhibit respond to that theme. Expect to see boundary-pushing pieces at the independent gallery’s stunning retrospective.
Hours: Wednesday – Saturday, 12-6 p.m. (or by appointment)
Zenith Gallery, 1429 Iris Street NW, Washington, DC 20012
Thursday
NMWA Nights
The National Museum of Women in the Arts’ popular evening series has returned. Admire the museum’s awesome galleries as you sip on a cocktail; listen to a live music performance; join a guided tour of the museum; participate in art-making activities. Your admission includes two drink tickets with additional food and beverages available for purchase.
5:30-8 p.m. | Tickets
National Museum of Women in the Arts, 1250 New York Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20005
Annie
Few characters and plays are as iconic as Annie. An orphaned girl is at the center of the beloved musical, following her struggles and triumphs and showcasing her indomitable spirit along the way. Featuring a slew of unforgettable songs, including “It’s the Hard-Knock Life,” “Tomorrow” and “Maybe,” the family-friendly production is sure to be a hit with every type of audience this January at The National Theatre.
Tickets
The National Theatre, 1321 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20004
Uncle Vanya
Shakespeare Theatre Company’s Harman Hall welcomes acclaimed English actor Hugh Bonneville to its stage for a tension-filled production. Bonneville plays the titular role in this play that sees a family and its traditions torn apart when its elderly figurehead debuts a new young wife. Audiences will be dazzled by this dramedy from the mind of Anton Chekhov.
Tickets
Harman Hall, 610 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20004
Jagged Edge
The party is at Warner Theatre when one of the 21st century’s most successful R&B groups hits the stage on April 16. Jagged Edge is responsible for a bevy of club bangers and ballads, from “Where the Party At” to “Let’s Get Married.” With nearly 30 years of releases to their name, the group will have a hit-packed set list for this show at one of DC’s coolest venues.
8 p.m. | Tickets
Warner Theatre, 513 13th Street NW, Washington, DC 20004
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