Things to Do

Where & When: What to Do This Weekend

The Capital Fringe Festival, a fashion soirée, and battle of the law-firm bands

At this year's Capital Fringe Festival, the cast of iMusical improvises a show based on suggestions from the audience. Photograph courtesy of the Capital Fringe Festival

Thursday, July 7
THEATER:
The Capital Fringe Festival returns tonight for its seventh year, showcasing more than 2,000 artists in 100 different productions—and they’re kicking off the festivities with a free party. Attendees will enjoy live music by Alma Tropicalia and Elikeh under the Baldacchino Gypsy Tent. And be sure to check out our guide to the festival’s can’t-miss performances. Festival begins at 5:30 PM; The party begins at 8 PM.

MUSIC: Some of DC’s toughest lawyers are gearing up for a battle of epic proportions—the 25th annual Banding Together fundraiser at the Black Cat. Garage bands composed of lawyers, with clever names like The Objections and Jazz Ipsa Loquitur, will strut their stuff in the hopes of being crowned Banding Together Champion. All proceeds will benefit Gifts for the Homeless, a nonprofit that collects winter clothing for homeless men, women, and children. Tickets ($10) can be purchased at the event Web site. Doors open at 7 PM.

BEER: Flying Dog fans across the Beltway have been waiting for the Maryland brewery to open its doors to the public. Starting tonight, tours will be offered every Thursday and Friday from 4 to 6 PM, along with two Saturday sessions. To make a reservation, call (301) 694-7899. Cheers!

FILM: The Washington Film Institute is screening Below the Beltway at the L2 Lounge. The film provides a satiric look into the world of Washington officials and politicos. A Q&A session with producer Claudia Myers and writer/producer Jim Wareck will follow. Tickets ($10) can be purchased at the event Web site. Doors open at 6 PM; Film begins at 7 PM.

Friday, July 8
ART:
Take a stroll through 11 galleries and studios during tonight’s Bethesda Art Walk. Participating venues include Artery Plaza Gallery, Gallery 360, Washington School of Photography, and Orchard Gallery, to name a few. 6 PM.

DANCE: Don’t miss opening night of Dakshina’s two-night run of Frida and Homenaje a David Alfaro Siqueiros at the Gala. Homenaje a David Alfaro Siqueiros was originally performed at the Palace of Fine Arts in Mexico City in 1984 and hasn’t been seen since. This unique performance blends modern, Indian, and fusion dance. Tickets ($18 to $25) can be purchased at the event Web site. 8 PM.

DANCE PARTY: To bid Asylum’s upstairs lounge adieu, Riff Raff is throwing one last dance party. DJs Joshua and Dean will be spinning your favorite tunes all night long. Free; 10 PM.

Saturday, July 9
FASHION:
Washingtonian fashionistas are cordially invited to the Summer Brunch Soirée at Ris. Enjoy bottomless mimosas and passed brunch while viewing the latest trends from Rue 14 and South Moon Under. Bitch is the new Black author Helena Andrews will be making an appearance. Proceeds will benefit the DC Farm to School Network. RSVPs required; Tickets ($45) can be purchased at the event Web site. Noon to 3 PM.

MUSIC: Calling all country fans! Bluegrass band Dehlia Low are dropping by the Hill Country for a night of Americana melodies. The North Carolina-based band fuses strings and powerful lyrics for a distinctly folk feel. Free; 9:30 PM.

ART: The Bethesda Artist Market is back with creations by more than 20 regional artists. Live music will be provided by Potomac Jazz , ilyAIMY, and the Joy Ike throughout the day. Look for the market on Norfolk Avenue, between Fairmont and St. Elmo Avenues Free; 10 AM to 5 PM.

IMPROV: Laugh yourself silly—and maybe even win some prizes!—at tonight’s Match Game DC at Studio Theatre. Contestants will match DC “celebrities’ ” answers to fill-in-the-blank questions. Proceeds will support the DC Film Alliance, Food & Friends, and the Washington Literacy Council. Tickets ($17) can be purchased at the event Web site. 9:30 PM.

Sunday, June 10
FOOD:
Foodies won’t want to miss the largest marketplace for specialty foods and beverages in North America, featuring food artisans and entrepreneurs from 80 countries and regions. The Walter E. Washington Convention Center will be flowing with spices, confections, teas, vinegars, oils, cheese, yogurts, natural products, and ethnic dishes. Tickets ($35 before July 8, $60 after July 8) can be purchased at the event Web site. 10 AM to 5 PM.

MUSICAL: The award-winning musical Oklahoma! returns to Arena Stage this weekend through October 2. The story celebrates the vigor of America’s pioneering spirit with dance and boot-stomping energy. Tickets ($56) can be purchased at the event Web site. 8 PM.

SHOPPING: The Alexandria boutique Treat is celebrating its fourth birthday with sweet discounts and prizes. Shoppers can select a mystery prize with any purchase, save up to 30 percent, or win a free gift. Online shoppers can save 25 percent with the coupon code "BIRTHDAY." The store is open from noon to 6 PM.
FESTIVAL:
It's the last weekend to stop by the Smithsonian Folklife Festival on the Mall. Fest
ival-goers will catch a rare glimpse into cultures and traditions from around the world. With everything from Tango and Amazonian crafts to hammock building and mask-making, there's something for everyone. A slew of concession stands—including barbecue, West African and Columbian foods, fruit, and beverages—will be available for purchase. Free; 11AM to 5:30 PM.

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