Get your healthy dose of culture. This weekend’s top five picks are all about music, art, and dancing.
By Shannon O’Reilly
All That Jazz
If you haven’t checked it out already, The National Gallery of Art’s Jazz in the Garden Series is about to conclude its 11th season. All summer, music has been flowing through the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden, rain or shine, bringing D.C. the smooth, classic sound of jazz and the unique stylings of swing and Latin jazz. This Friday, the garden will feature double drummers, Alan Wonneberger and Company, from 5:00 to 8:30 p.m on Friday. Wonneberger has been in the music industry for over 30 years and helped produce over 1,000 recordings. Come to the garden on 700 Constitution Ave. and immerse yourself in free jazz.
The Dog Days Are Over
Come out to the 12th annual MidCity Dog Days of August Sidewalk Sale for boutique sales, food specials, live performances and art, literature, and cultural, exhibits. The sale runs through the 14th Street Corridor, which comprises the area up 14th street from Florida Avenue to Thomas Circle and just off U Street from 9th to 17th street. There will be performances from Twins Jazz Club and The DC Center for the LGBT Community as well as food specials at Busboys & Poets, CakeLove, and Policy. See the historic and unique culture of the MidCity District Saturday through Sunday while also basking in the sales.
Dream A Dream
An open bar and ‘oeuvres plus a live Motown band and DJ at a beautiful Victorian mansion venue, can the night get any better? It sure can. Enjoy a night of good food and drinks while also helping groups of at-risk young people. The event Mid-summer Night for Dreams at Stroga in Adams Morgan, will raise funds for the non-profit Dream for Kids D.C. The organization’s programs help “kids build a foundation of self worth, while also obtaining the skills and experience necessary to succeed in school and life.” Tickets are $50 and the event runs from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. on Saturday, August 6th. You can buy tickets HERE.
Never Looked Younger
Seven years ago, Wonderland Ballroom opened amongst the redevelopment of Columbia Heights, giving hipsters and college students a place to call home. Now the area is hopping with luxury condos and big name stores such as Target and Bed Bath and Beyond but Wonderland Ballroom still remains a classic favorite with its trivia nights, spinning electro music, and beer garden. On Sunday, August 7th from 6 to 9 p.m., Wonderland Ballroom celebrates a cool 7 years with a birthday bash that guarantees a crab feast, drink specials and dancing. So bring your appetite and electric dance moves to Wonderland Ballroom.
Picture Perfect
Go on a visual roller coaster and see the work of the Sondheim Artscape Prize: 2011 Finalists. The prize recognizes visual artists living in D.C., Maryland, North Virginia, and Southeastern Pennsylvania. The 2011 winner is Matthew Porterfield with his piece “Stills From Days are Golden Afterparty.” See his work and the other finalists’ creations at the Baltimore Museum of Art. The free exhibit ends August 7th, so don’t miss your chance to see the art and be enlightened.