Thursday, the Phillips Collection is bringing out more than 35 original works at the J. McLaughlin Memorial Staff Show, which exhibits the gallery’s on-staff artists. Some of the artists will be on hand throughout the evening to answer questions. 5 to 8. Free, but donations are requested.
The DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities’ Grand Fete is Thursday at the Corcoran Gallery of Art. To mark National Arts and Humanities Month, the Corcoran will announce the recipients of its 2011 grants and display work by previous fellows. 6 to 8. Free.
In case you missed this summer’s biggest movie—or still haven’t quite figured out the ending—check out Inception at Arlington Cinema ’N’ Drafthouse Thursday at 6:30. $5.50.
The Maison dance party rings in its first birthday with “Joyeux Anniversaire” at Napoleon Bistro Thursday. DJ TMY and Shea Van Horn are spinning from 9 PM to 2 AM. No cover.
Get an intimate look at the Hirshhorn’s latest exhibit when Guillermo Kuitca speaks at the museum’s Ring Auditorium Thursday evening. His new survey, “Guillermo Kuitca: Everything—Paintings and Works on Paper, 1980-2008,” opens the same day. 7 to 8. Free.
Drawing influence from French house, ’80s dance music, and contemporary electronic beats, Scottish producer Grum is known for his remixes of popular songs. He’s spinning at U Street Music Hall Thursday starting at 10. Ages 18 to 20 $5; 21 and over free.
Apparently, the Social Safeway has decided to take advantage of its hot-spot reputation. The grocery store is now marketing special events, such as the performance by jazz artist Loide Jorge Friday. Take the excuse to linger in the aisles and chat with your neighbors from 5 to 7. Free.
Enjoy a kitschy evening of badminton, Beatles Rock Band, and, of course, bicycles at the Retro Bike Show Friday. It’s part of ZestFest, a three-week festival aimed at bringing life to DC’s NoMa neighborhood. At Loree Grand Field (Second and L sts., NE) from 5 to 11. Free.
Engage in some “Band to Band Combat” Saturday night at Rumors when four local bands compete to perform at the New Year’s Eve Downtown Countdown party. All proceeds benefit Music 4 More, a charity that provides resources to struggling music programs. 7 to midnight. Purchase tickets ($7) here or at the door ($10).
Fans of the band Of Montreal should head to Velvet Lounge Saturday, where Great Lakes (which counts OM drummer James Huggins as a founding member) is performing with the Art Daniels Band and Night and the City. The doors open at 9; music begins at 10. $8.
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