Things to Do

Things to Do in DC on Memorial Day Weekend

Here are the best events around town.

On May 22, the exhibit "Reporting Vietnam" opens at the Newseum, revealing what it was like for journalists during the Vietnam War. Photo courtesy Newseum.

THURSDAY, MAY 21

TALK: Boardwalk Empire viewers have a chance to learn more about the Prohibition-era drama. Nelson Johnson–author of the book that inspired the show–joins show stars Edward McGinty, Jr., Gretchen Mol, and Lesley Robson-Foster to discuss how the series transitioned from a best-selling book to the small screen. Series creator Terence Winter leads the discussion at the William G. McGowan Theater. A book signing follows the panel. Free, 7 PM.

THEATER: Using real letters from soldiers and their family members as inspiration, If All the Sky Were Paper offers a unique look at the war experience. The Andrew Carroll production recalls correspondence from every US conflict in history. Carroll, a DC-based author, will be signing copies of his books, War Letters and Behind the Lines, following Thursday night’s performance at the Kennedy Center Terrace Theater. Proceeds benefit the Kennedy Center Education Fund. $29, 7:30 PM.

FRIDAY, MAY 22

ART: The National Portrait Gallery’s new exhibit–Eye Pop: The Celebrity Gaze–opens Friday and offers visitors a unique view into celebrity portraits. The exhibit features photographs and various artists’ renditions of famous entertainers, entrepreneurs, and athletes, such as Katy Perry, Brad Pitt, Kelly Slater, and more. Free, 11:30 AM to 7 PM.

MUSEUMS: The Newseum honors the nation’s veterans with a new exhibit about how the media covered the Vietnam War. Reporting Vietnam commemorates the 50th anniversary of the conflict, using music, news reports, artifacts, and more than 100 images, including Pulitzer Prize-winning photographs. The exhibit continues through the summer. $22.95, 9 AM to 5 PM.

SATURDAY, MAY 23

MUSIC: Crooner Eric Roberson performs at the Birchmere. The Grammy Award nominee and Howard University graduate combines house, soul, R&B, jazz, and rock into a unique, ecletic sound. $39.50, 7:30 PM.

DANCE: Party like it’s 1989 at The Fillmore in Silver Spring. The New Romance–an 80s tribute band–hosts the “Ultimate ‘80s Prom.” From Frankie Goes to Hollywood and Simple Minds to Prince and Michael Jackson, the group brings the 80s to life again, performing classic hits with unparalleled enthusiasm and energy. $19, 8 PM.

SUNDAY, MAY 24

MUSIC: Wolf Trap launches its 2015 summer season with a Memorial Day tribute featuring the United States Marine Band. The performance ends with a bang–a show of fireworks that will light up the sky. Gates open at 6:30 PM. The show begins at 8 PM. Fireworks start around 9:30 PM. Free.

MUSIC: Future brings his lyrical talents to Echostage as part of his “Monster vs. Beast Mode” tour. The rapper has recently been sharing gossip headlines with singer Ciara, with whom he has a son, but he still hasn’t announced with which guests he’ll be sharing the stage. $48.40, 9 PM.