Taylor Swift’s 12th album The Life of a Showgirl drops on October 3, and places around DC are welcoming local Swifties in celebration. Here’s where to sing along, shake it off, make friendship bracelets, and more.
WEDNESDAY, OCT. 1
Taylor’s Version trivia at Dacha Navy Yard
79 Potomac Ave., SE
Do you know Swift’s middle name? The Nashville concert venue where she was discovered? How about the names of all three teenagers in the Folklore love triangle? Certified Swifties can put their know-how to the test during trivia night at the Navy Yard beer garden. The competition will have prizes for the most knowledgeable team plus a plethora of beads for friendship bracelets. Details: 6:30 PM to 9 PM; Starting at $13.
Listening party at Barrel
613 Pennsylvania Ave., SE
This Capitol Hill bar hosted listening parties for Swift’s last three albums, and they’re throwing a late-night celebration for the The Life of a Showgirl. Swift-themed drink specials are on the menu, and the album will be played promptly at midnight. Details: 8 PM to 2 AM; $12.
FRIDAY, OCT. 3
Taylor Swift cover band at Problem Child
1201 Half St., SE
The Fearless Eras Band is a tribute group dedicated to Swift’s discography, and they’ll do a live performance of the showgirl’s greatest hits. Your ticket also covers a glittery jello shot upon entry. Details: 7:30 PM to 12 AM; $12.
Music bingo and more at Whitlow’s
901 U St., NW
This U Street bar has a range of Taylor-themed activities, including music bingo to start the night, themed cocktails, and a sing-along on the rooftop. Details: Starting at 8:30PM; Free.
Listening party at Madhatter
1319 Connecticut Ave., NW
The Dupont Circle bar is hosting a party with a DJ set dedicated to all things Taylor. Bartenders will also be pouring Swift-themed cocktails such as the “Lavender Haze” (made with lavender syrup) and the elderflower and bubbly “Champagne Problems.” Details: Starting at 9 PM; Free.
Album release party at 1310
1310 Wisconsin Ave., NW
Swift has a famous penchant for numerology, so it’s only fitting Georgetown spot 1310 would go all out for the release: The singer’s lucky number is 13, and The Life of a Showgirl drops on the 10th month of the year. A dance party includes a photo booth and Swift impersonator, friendship bracelet making, and a costume contest (the winner scores a bottle of wine and a chicken pot pie) as well as food and drink specials. Details: 9 PM to 12 AM; $35.
SATURDAY, OCT. 4
Showgirl brunch drinks at Cynthia Bar and Bistro
502 H St., NE
Pair a playlist of endless Swift songs with cocktails inspired by the new album during brunch on Saturday, October 4 and Sunday, October 5. Details: 11 AM to 2 PM.
Themed tasting at Cork Wine Bar
1805 14th St., NW
Whether she’s crooning about “champagne problems” or “your roommate’s cheap-ass screw-top rosé,” Swift has been known to mention wine in her music. Riffing on this motif, Cork is holding a Swift-inspired wine tasting with a playlist full of Taylor tunes. Details 12 PM to 3 PM; $5 (applied to any retail wine purchase).
Mom and Mini Swiftie Party at Pink Moon
7610 Old Georgetown Rd., Bethesda
Impersonator act the Taylor Experience-DC is performing at this kid-friendly album release party. Listen to the album, participate in a music-themed craft, and meet DC’s resident Taylor. Details: 2:30 PM to 4:30 PM; $28.52 per person, $49.87 for mom and child, free for children 1 and under.
Crafting session at Locally Crafted Workshop
35 Grand Corner Ave., Gaithersburg
If you’re looking for a chiller way to celebrate your favorite English teacher, this craft workshop offers an unlimited bead bar in the Showgirl color palette (think: mint green and bold oranges). The new album will be playing on repeat, and the event is kid-friendly. Details: 3 PM to 5 PM; $37.10.
Swiftie rave at Public Bar Live
1214 18th St., NW
Dance to The Life of a Showgirl and the rest of Swift’s music, ranging from her biggest hits to deeper cuts. Cocktail specials will be available so you can toast the latest era. Details: Starting at 10 PM; $21.63.
