THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22
TOUR: The Spy Museum is getting into the Halloween spirit with an Espionage and Ectopasm: Spy Spirits Revealed! walking tour. Spend the evening discovering places where spies have met their doom and hearing stories about what led to their demise. $10, 7 PM.
TALK: David Sedaris has made a name for himself with his acerbic wit and over-the-top-yet-relatable personal essays. The beloved humorist speaks at the Lisner Auditorium on Thursday night, and here’s hoping he’ll talk about his obsession with his Fitbit. $35, 8 PM.
PUMPKINS: Stop by the pumpkin patch in NoMa’s Storey Park for pumpkin carving (free while supplies last), a petting zoo, live music from the Lloyd Dobler Effect, and beer–vendors will supply free tastings. Free, 4 PM.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 23
FOOD: The Smithsonian’s Food History Roundtable gives foodies a chance to learn about what they love. The all-day symposium features chefs, writers, and researchers, as well as live cooking demonstrations, tours, and film screenings. Registration is full, but you can still get on the waiting list. Free, 10:15 AM.
FILM: The 17th annual Animation Show of Shows heads to the AFI Silver Theater for the first time, featuring a collection of award-winning short animated films from around the world. Filmmaker Lynn Tomlinson will attend a Q&A following Friday’s 7:15 PM show. $12.
HAUNTED HOUSE: Bradley Farm Barn in Herndon, Virginia, is one of the scariest haunted houses in the area. Steel yourself up for Coal Mine, which promises to discover “where your deepest fears lurk.” On Saturday, there’s a milder, kid-friendly option; on both days, DJ Paul and illusionist Mario Orsini will provide entertainment. $5, 6 PM.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 24
COMEDY: Gary Gulman brings his hilarious brand of comedy to Sixth & I. Gulman, who appeared on Inside Amy Schumer last year, has performed on every single late night comedy show. $20, 8 PM.
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 25
YOGA: End your weekend on a tranquil note. The last of a seasonal series, Yoga in the Park lets yogis of all levels enjoy a vinyasa flow class in the beautiful, tree-lined East Park at Dumbarton House. Afterwards, stop by the museum for a tour. Free, but a $5 donation is suggested, 9:30 AM.
RACE: DCCX at the Armed Forces Retirement Home is the biggest cyclo-cross race in the Mid-Atlantic. This unique brand of off-road racing requires speed, agility, and the ability to hustle while carrying your bike. Free, 10 AM.
