Gargoyle Magazine, a literary journal founded in Arlington in 1976, celebrates its 35th anniversary Thursday with a reading at Artisphere. Toby Barlow, Barbara DeCesare, Nani Power, and other authors will appear. 7 PM. Free.
Now that Oscar nominations are out, it’s time to get up to date on all the big fall movies you missed. Start with The Social Network—which plays at Arlington Cinema ’N’ Drafthouse Thursday night—and finally understand the term “Winklevi.” 7 PM. $5.50.
The DC-based trio the Laughing Man brings its blend of blues, jazz, and rock to Iota Club & Café Thursday night. The group is joined by Greenland and Black Telephone. 9 PM. $10.
The Freer Gallery’s Iranian Film Festival continues Friday with a screening of Please Do Not Disturb Friday. The 2010 film, directed by Mohsen Abdolvahab, intertwines three stories of modern life in a darkly comic fashion. 7 PM. Free.
Put aside any jaded, anti-Valentine’s tendencies for an evening and check out the “Color of Love,” a new exhibit showcasing 50 artists’ interpretations of love. It opens Friday at the Touchstone Gallery with a Champagne reception from 6 to 8:30. Free.
“Open Source,” a new exhibit showing work by the students and faculty of George Mason University’s School of Art, opens Friday at the Carroll Square Gallery (975 F St., NW). There’s a reception from 6 to 8. Free.
Local electronica group Ra Ra Rasputin plays the Friday Night Eclectic show at Strathmore. The hipster-friendly concert series is preceded by a PBR Happy Hour, during which 16-ounce cans are $2. Buy tickets ($10) from Strathmore—they’re also available for $12 at the door. Happy hour starts at 8; the show begins at 9.
Busboys and Poets at DC’s 14th and V streets, Northwest, hosts an open mike and talent showcase Friday. This month’s special guest is Tamara Wellons, whose music combines soul and jazz. 11 PM. $5.
Unleash your inner emo kid Saturday night at Cryfest, a dance party at the Black Cat that pits the Cure against the Smiths for the title of ultimate crybaby band. 9:30. $10.
Saturday, Thurgood Marshall Academy’s THEARC theater hosts “Celebrating Our Roots,” a performance in honor of Black History Month. Step Afrika!, Locura Afro-Cuban Percussion Ensemble, and others will perform following an art walk (featuring students’ pieces) and reception. 2 to 4. Free.
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