If you enjoyed our first segment of Free DC, then you should love our second installment of free and fun activities to do in Washington—there’s everything from coffee to a summer concert series.
Barracks Row Second Saturdays
Sample, stroll and shop (at discount) along Barracks Row from 6 to 10 PM the second Saturday of every month. Barracks Row Main Street, which sponsors the event, asks local merchants to open their doors and give the public a taste of what’s available in this Southeast DC corridor.
Eighth St., SE, between Pennsylvania Ave. and M St.; 202-544-3188
Bethesda Literary Festival
This festival celebrates its ninth year with authors including Warren Brown, host of Sugar Rush on the Food Network, owner of the local CakeLove bakery, and now author of his first cookbook, and veteran reporter Helen Thomas, currently a columnist for Heart Newspapers. Events, including poetry slams and a comedy night, take place at various location. Check the Web site for the schedule.
Bethesda; 301-215-6660; bethesda.org/specialevents/litfest/litfest.htm
Gravelly Point Park
From this grassy locale, lie back and watch planes coming into or taking off from Reagan National Airport. So close to the runway in spots that you feel you could touch the planes, this is a fun place to take a jog or spend a lazy afternoon. It also makes for a romantic date.
George Washington Pkwy., Arlington
Jammies and Java at Firefly
Instead of funny looks, wearing your pajamas to brunch will get you free coffee at this neighborhood eatery. Wear PJs with fireflies on them and receive a speciality cocktail on the house. Brunch is Sunday 9 AM to 2 PM.
1310 New Hampshire Ave., NW; 202-861-1310; firefly-dc.com
Bethesda Summer Concert Series
Rock out in downtown Bethesda as area musicians play everything from classic rock to swing. Performances run May through July; check the Web site for the schedule.
Downtown Bethesda; 301-215-6660; bethesda.org
Ultra Bar Ladies Night
This swank lounge offers free rail drinks Friday nights from 9:30 to 10:30 and the added bonus of a pass that gives free admission to ladies 21 and older all night and to men 21 and older until midnight. Women under 21 get a reduced admission price all night. Get your free pass online on the Web site.
911 F St., NW; 202-638-4663; ultrabardc.com
How do you have fun for free in Washington? Let us know in the comments and we'll update this post with your ideas.
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