Friday, August 3: Are you a bride in search of a dress? Are you a thrill seeker unafraid of death by trampling? If you can answer yes to either question, you might want to check out the Running of the Brides at Filene’s Basement (5300 Wisconsin Ave., NW; 202-966-0208). Starting at 8 AM, hundreds of brides-to-be race one another through the department-store doors in their quest for the perfect dress. Not for the faint of heart—but an event unlike any other.
The Legg Mason Tennis Classic is under way and will make for some great weekend entertainment, including big names like Andy Roddick—reportedly staying in Georgetown—and Marat Safin. The tournament takes place at William H.G. FitzGerald Tennis Stadium (16th and Kennedy sts., NW). Buy tickets ($10 to $45) here.
Saturday, August 4: Two-day general-admission passes are still available for the Virgin Festival, Saturday and Sunday at the Baltimore’s Pimlico Race Course (5101 Park Heights Ave.). They go for $175—which may seem like a lot, but when you consider all the talent and celebrity you’re getting for that—the Police, Smashing Pumpkins, Beastie Boys, and tons more—it almost seems like a steal.
The lovely and revamped Signature Theatre, recently relocated to Arlington’s Shirlington Village (4200 Campbell Ave.—formerly 2800 S. Stafford St.; 703-820-9771) is hosting an open house. The event features musical performances, play readings, master classes, a screening of Sondheim: A Celebration at Carnegie Hall, backstage tours, and more. Best of all, everything is free. Noon to 9 PM.
It’s our favorite time of the summer: DC’s tax-free shopping week! Starting today and going through midnight on Sunday, August 12, you don’t have to pay sales tax on clothes, shoes, and accessories—oh ,yeah, and school items priced under $100. Seems like right about now would be a good time to peruse our Shopping section, hmm? Or our list of more than 100 of our favorite boutiques in the area? But remember, the tax-free shopping applies only to the District, not Maryland or Virginia.
Sunday, August 5: It’s the third anniversary of the wonderful Columbia Heights neighborhood bar the Wonderland Ballroom (1101 Kenyon St., NW; 202-232-5263). The bar will be celebrating, starting around 4 PM, with drink specials, toasts, and general good times.
The local vineyard Tarara Winery (13648 Tarara Lane, Leesburg; 703-771-7100) holds its annual Blackberry Days Wine Festival this weekend. On Sunday, it’s open from 11 AM to 5 PM (Saturday 11 to 6). There’ll be activities for everybody—loads of ripe blackberries to pick, wines to sample, live entertainment, wagon rides, and more. $15 for adults, $8 for designated drivers and those under 21, free for children under six years old. Purchase a ticket here or at the door.
It’s Jamaica time! The country celebrates 45 years of independence with a day of Jamaican music, food, and crafts. DJs will be spinning, and musicians like Shaggy will be playing. Entrance is free, though food will be for sale. The party takes place in the gardens of the Organization of American States (17th St. and Constitution Ave., NW; 202-452-0660). 1 PM until evening.
