20+ Things to Do This June in Washington, DC

Summertime is the right time for revelry in the nation’s capital.

Spy for Students & Save!

Kids and adults will love uncovering the secrets of espionage at the International Spy Museum, which features numerous interactive experiences. Adults will especially love the current special that the museum offers: through July 3, say “I Support Our Students” when purchasing tickets at the door, or type it in as a code when buying tickets online, and you will receive an admission discount. From the sale of every admission, the museum will donate 30% to the American Experience Foundation.

Address: International Spy Museum, 800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20004

Awesome Con – June 3-5

Stars of screens big and small, popular comic book creators and thousands upon thousands of their fans will descend upon the Walter E. Washington Convention Center for Awesome Con, a weekend-long, comic book and sci-fi blowout of epic proportions. Prepare for an atmosphere that you won’t find anywhere else in DC this summer (think cosplay, or lots and lots of costume-clad fans). All-star guests include Eugene Mirman, Ron Perlman, Bill Nye the Science Guy, Peter Capaldi, Kevin Smith and many, many more.

Address: Walter E. Washington Convention Center, 801 Mount Vernon Place NW, Washington, DC 20001

DC Jazz Festival – June 10-19

Featuring more than 100 jazz performances at concert venues and clubs throughout DC, the DC Jazz Festival presents a spectrum of the genre’s finest performers, including Kamasi Washington, Maceo Parker, Regina Carter, Cécile McLorin Salvant, Talib Kweli and many more. You will be able to hear the smooth sounds on numerous stages, including the Hamilton Live and the scenic Yards Park in Capitol Riverfront.

Address: Citywide

Capital Pride Parade – June 11

One of DC’s most popular parades will be led by Grand Marshal Leslie Jordan on a 1.5-mile march through Dupont Circle and 17th Street, concluding in the Logan Circle neighborhood. DC’s large LGBT community will be celebrated with more than 180 contingents, including politicians, community groups and drag queens, in an epic display of floats, outfitted vehicles and enthusiastic, on-foot supporters.

Address: Parade begins at 22nd & P Streets NW, Washington, DC 20037

A Night at the World’s Fair: A Celebration at the Arts and Industries Building – June 11

For the first time in 12 years, the public will be able to enter the gorgeous Smithsonian Art and Industries Building, meaning a lavish celebration is a must. Smithsonian comes through with this Saturday night event, which will let you explore the three-story building and its dazzling rotunda. Attendees can also enjoy a DJ set, carnival games, a photo booth and of course, plenty of dancing and drinks. Dress in the style of previous world’s fairs, and you could end up taking home a prize!

Address: Smithsonian Arts and Industries Building, 900 Jefferson Drive SW, Washington, DC 20560

Chef José Andrés & Friends Present Dine-N-Dash: A Culinary Tour of Washington, DC – June 15

Jose Andrés hosts this annual culinary excursion through the nation’s capital. Choose from 30 of the city’s top restaurants, dashing from one spot to the next and enjoying dishes, drinks and live music at each, all by simply showing your purchased wristband. There’s no limit to the amount of specialty plates and cocktails you

can enjoy – you either stop when you’re full, or when the event ends at 10 p.m.! VIP-ers get exclusive access to certain restaurants and can attend an after party featuring Andrés and Chef Eric Ripert. All proceeds benefit World Central Kitchen.

Quicken Loans National – June 20-26

Quicken Loans National is a summertime fixture for area sports fans, as 120 of the world’s top golfers descend upon the nation’s capital for a week of competition.

This year, the tournament moves back to Congressional Country Club in Bethesda, MD, a short drive from the city. Take in premier play on the green as well as gourmet food and signature cocktails in a communal atmosphere. Sign up for the tournament’s #DeclareYourDay promotion and receive special offers, too! All ticket sales benefit the Tiger Woods Foundation for low-income students, as well as men and women of the armed forces.

Address: Congressional Country Club, 8500 River Road, Bethesda, MD 20817

AFI Docs – June 22-26

The American Film Institute’s five-day international film festival presents diverse documentaries ranging in topics from national politics, education and health to music, sports and culture. Check out Judd Apatow’s film on the careers of former MLB stars Darryl Strawberry and Dwight Gooden in Doc & Darryl, learn of DC’s gay

street gang and its struggles in Check It and dive deep into the concept of solitary confinement in the HBO-sponsored Solitary. These films, and many more, will captivate audiences across numerous theatres in the DC area.

Giant National Capital Barbecue Battle – June 25-26

Now in its 24th year, this extravaganza turns Pennsylvania Avenue into a barbecue pit, complete with the signature sights and smells of a giant outdoor summer party.

The sounds will be solid too: the event boasts 30 live music performances across three stages during its two-day run. Prepare your palate as you’ll be in the middle of one of the nation’s largest barbecue competitions.

Address: Pennsylvania Avenue between 9th and 14th Streets NW, Washington, DC 20004

Folklife festival

Smithsonian Folklife Festival – June 29 – July 4, July 7-10

DC wears its international influence proudly during this annual festival on the National Mall. This year, visitors can learn about the fascinating Basque country and its cooking techniques and language, as well as participate in stone-lifting matches, poetry competitions and chats with master artisans. Sounds of California will cover the wonderful music and stories to emerge from the dynamic state, all influenced by its history of diversity. Stick around in the evenings for special concerts.

Address: Between 4th and 7th Streets NW, Washington, DC 20001

Washed Ashore: Art to Save the Sea – Through Sept. 5

The Smithsonian National Zoo has commissioned fascinating works of art and in turn, made a powerful statement on the dire need to limit pollution in the world’s oceans. Washed Ashore consists of 17 marine wildlife sculptures, including jellyfish, sharks and an octopus, all made from plastic pollution recovered from oceans. The structures highlight the fact that more than 315 billion pounds of said plastic cloud our waters. Wander the zoo and marvel at these creations – then make a difference.

Address: Smithsonian National Zoo, 3001 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008

Intersections: Photographs and Videos from the National Gallery of Art and the Corcoran Gallery of Art – Through Jan. 2, 2017

The National Gallery of Art and the Corcoran Gallery of Art recently merged their photograph collections, leading to this expansive exhibit. A large donation of Eadweard Muybridge’s work helped start the Corcoran’s collection, while more than 1,600 works by Alfred Stieglitz launched the collection at the National Gallery of

Art. Now, you can gaze at the work of both artists, as well as numerous other photographs that date back to the 1840s. The exhibit explores seminal work through five themes: movement, sequence, narrative, studio and identity.

Address: The National Gallery of Art, 4th Street & Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20565

CNN Politics Campaign 2016: Like, Share, Elect – Through Jan. 22, 2017

Gone are the days when election season was conducted strictly through on-air debates and bus tours of the U.S. This new exhibit at Newseum, who partnered with CNN on

the project, takes visitors through an interactive election year experience. Learn how digital media has transformed the campaign trail through videos and artfully

displayed interactive screens, including a Matchmaker kiosk that helps visitors identify the candidate that best matches their own views on societal issues.

Address: Newseum, 555 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20001

The Greeks – Opens June 1

This new exhibit at the National Geographic Museum covers 5,000 years of Greek history and culture, from Agamemnon to the crusades of Alexander the Great. Have your mind blown by more than 500 artifacts, many of which have never been on view outside of Greece. From groundbreaking work in art and philosophy to incredible architecture, the Greeks laid the foundation for Western civilization as we know it. Do not miss your chance to experience this awe-inspiring exhibit that will be accompanied by talks, tasting and tours.

Address: National Geographic Museum, 1145 17th Street NW, Washington, DC 20036

Dupont-Kalorama Museum Walk Weekend – June 4-5

Interested in exploring some of DC’s coolest museums across two gorgeous neighborhoods? Partake in this scenic walk hosted by the Dupont-Kalorama Museums Consortium, which will be held both Saturday and Sunday. Museums that you can enter free of charge (and usually charge admission) include Anderson House, Dumbarton House, The Phillips Collection and the Woodrow Wilson House. Many are hosting special programming this weekend, too. Use #Walkdkmc2016 to chronicle your adventures!

William Merritt Chase, At the Seaside

William Merritt Chase: A Modern Master – June 4 – Sept. 11

One of America’s finest artists during the late 1800s and early 1900s, William Merritt Chase’s work receives its first comprehensive exhibit in more than three decades at the Phillips Collection, America’s first museum of modern art. Through over 70 works, experience Chase’s artistic versatility, from landscape paintings to still lifes to domestic interiors. Encounter the artist’s distinct style and philosophy and find out how he was able to consistently dazzle art lovers across a four- decade career.

Address: The Phillips Collection, 1600 21st Street NW, Washington, DC 20009

Bettina Pousttchi: World Time Clock – June 9 – January 2017

German artist Bettina Pousttchi’s astonishing project comes to vibrant life at the incomparable Hirshhorn Museum this June. World Time Clock is a gathering of 24 photographs of public clocks taken in 24 different time zones, all snapped at the same time: five minutes before 2 p.m. Pousttchi’s work shows what she calls an “imaginary global synchronism,” challenging our perceptions of a concept that dictates our life every day.

Address: Hirshhorn Museum & Sculpture Garden, 7th Street & Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20013

Deco Japan: Shaping Art and Culture, 1920-1945 – June 11 – Dec. 31

Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens showcases the affect that the art deco movement had on the culture of Japan, enriching the tradition-rich country’s creativity and ushering it into the post-World War II, Modern age. This will be the first time that Japanese art deco is displayed in DC, as visitors will have a chance to see sculpture, painting, prints, ceramics, jewelry and furniture created in this distinctive manner that blends futuristic imagery with the classic Japanese style.

Address: Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens, 4155 Linnean Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008

The Art of Romaine Brooks – June 17 – Oct. 2

Romaine Brooks was counterculture well before the hippies took over Haight-Ashbury. Brooks led a crew of creative bohemians and homosexuals in Paris in the 1920s, and sported an androgynous appearance that challenged all perceptions of womanhood. She also happened to be a fantastic artist, painting intense portraits with a unique color palette of black, white and gray. The Smithsonian American Art Museum gathers more than 50 paintings and drawings by Brooks to create an engaging look at this important figure’s artistic contribution.

Address: Smithsonian American Art Museum, 8th and F Streets NW, Washington, DC 20004

Theater

The Taming of the Shrew – Through June 26

Gender and identity take center stage in director Ed Sylvanus Iskandar’s all-male production of one of Shakespeare’s most notorious plays. Iskandar’s distinctive style is on full display in this modernized take on the story of Kate and Petruchio’s relationship from the Shakespeare Theatre Company. Expect blurred gender lines and a fully immersive theater-going experience. Before the show, peruse Piazza d’Amore, an Italian artisan market hosted at Sidney Harman Hall throughout the play’s run.

Address: Sidney Harman Hall, 610 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20004

La Cage Aux Folles – Through July 10

An unconventional family unit is put to the test in this acclaimed musical comedy. Movie lovers will be familiar with the tale, which was adapted with great flair by the late director Mike Nichols in 1996’s The Birdcage. Club owner Georges’ 20-year relationship with his head drag performer, Albin, is challenged when Georges’ son becomes engaged to a daughter of super right-wing parents. The situation forces Georges and Albin to hide their identities, leading to a comedy of errors that could upend everyone’s plans. Witness the power of family and the importance of being who you are at this Signature Theatre production.

Address: Signature Theatre, 4200 Campbell Avenue, Arlington, VA 22206

Source Festival – June 8 – July 3

The Source Festival should be marked boldly on every DC theatre fan’s calendar, year after year. Combining rising stars with experienced artists, the festival unveils dozens of new works over a three-week span. Performances include 10-minute plays, full-length productions and artistic blind dates, which pair artists from different modes of expression to create an original piece.

Address: Source, 1835 14th Street NW, Washington, DC 20009

Kinky Boots – June 14 – July 10

Featuring songs penned by Cyndi Lauper, this musical romp is going to walk all over you this June. Charlie Price is not sure how he’s going to keep his family’s shoe business successful until the incomparable Lola comes along. The confident performer needs a new pair of stilettos, and the story takes a sharp left turn into hilarity and unforgettable tunes. Winner of six Tony Awards, including Best Musical, don’t miss your chance to catch this fabulous production on the Kennedy Center stage.

Address: John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, 2700 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20566

Next to Normal – June 18 – July 10

The trials and tribulations of the Goodman family are the subject of this modern rock musical that took home three Tony Awards in 2009. Father Dan is a worrier, daughter Natalie wants to escape to Yale, son Gabe is a troublemaker and Diana is….hard to analyze, as her intense bipolar disorder has dire consequences on her

family. Blending humor and heart with inspiring music from Tom Kitt (American Idiot), Next to Normal makes for an emotional night of theatre.

Address: The Keegan Theatre, 1742 Church Street NW, Washington, DC 20036

The Second City’s Almost Accurate Guide to America – June 19 – July 31

It’s time for a U.S. history lesson from the nation’s greatest comedy troupe! Okay, don’t pull the kids out of school just yet, because The Second City will definitely take some liberties with America’s story in this 90-minute “retrospective.” The Founding Fathers, the Industrial Revolution and Abe Lincoln are just a few of the topics that the group will take on with great comedic effect. This special performance is a part of the Kennedy Center’s District of Comedy Festival.

Address: John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, 2700 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20566

Music

White Ford Bronco

White Ford Bronco – June 3

White Ford Bronco are DC’s ultimate cover band, a healthy reminder that the 1990s ROCKED. Seriously, read this blurb/mission statement and let the nostalgia wash over you. Take a break from watching Boy Meets World re-runs and get over to the Rock and Roll Hotel on June 3 for this late show that welcomes all ages. The band is not afraid to veer into hip-hop and country, so get ready for a wild ride through a glorious musical past. Feel free to don your Zumba pants or a bowl cut – it’s a ‘90s party, baby!

Address: Rock and Roll Hotel, 1353 H Street NE, Washington, DC 20002

Selena Gomez – June 4

International superstar Selena Gomez is in the midst of her first tour since 2013, performing for her rabid fans at venues across North America. Fortunately, Gomez’s travels and sign-ripping ways will bring her to Verizon Center for what promises to be an electric, sold out performance. Clearly, Selena is embarking on a new chapter in her career, so get your tickets to this revival quickly.

Address: Verizon Center, 601 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20004

Waxahatchee – June 6

Katie Crutchfield performs as Waxahatchee, creating intimate songs that still manage to rock. 2015’s Ivy Tripp was one of the year’s most universally acclaimed releases, blending lovelorn ballads and deft pop melodies for 13 tracks of indie rock bliss, with irresistible songs like “La Loose” and “The Dirt” sure to keep listeners coming back again and again (it’s been on repeat for us since its release). Named after a creek in Alabama, Waxahatchee’s songs create that bonfire feeling, and we’re sure this live performance at The Black Cat will be no different. Katie’s sister, Allison (who has an awesome band of her own), will open the show.

Address: The Black Cat, 1811 14th Street NW, Washington, DC 20009

Wye Oak – June 22

The duo of Andy Stack and Jenn Wasner comprise Wye Oak, a Baltimore-based band that blends folk and dream pop to great effect. Since forming in 2006, the group has built its local following to a national one, signing to Merge Records in 2008 and never looking back. Listen to the song “Civilian” (which has been used frequently in television shows and films, including The Walking Dead) to familiarize yourself, then grab tickets to this show at Rock and Roll Hotel, which is sure to fill up with adoring fans from the area.

Address: Rock & Roll Hotel, 1353 H Street NE, Washington, DC 20002

Sting & Peter Gabriel – June 23

Talk about a show for the ages. Two of pop music’s brightest and most enduring stars come to Verizon Center for one night only this June. Sting rose to prominence fronting the legendary band The Police (“Roooooxanne!”), then embarked on what is now a 30-year solo career full of hits. Peter Gabriel has a similar background: as lead singer for the early avant-garde stylings of Genesis, he pushed the boundaries of stage performance. Soon after, he set out on his own, releasing a string of classic albums that few could ever come close to matching. The two will perform separately and together, so…best get those tickets now.

Address: Verizon Center, 601 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20004

Sleep – June 26

No serious metal fan is unaware of Sleep. The group’s sludgy, mountainous sound brings terms like “stoner metal” and “doom metal” to mind, but no simple genre tags do their songs justice. For instance, the seminal track “Dopesmoker” (which, due to its hour-long length, was submitted as an entire album to London Records in 1995 and roundly rejected, leading the group to split up) takes the listener on a journey to far off lands and unexplored places. As you can imagine, this translates well to the stage, with the amps turned up to 11. The reunited band tours infrequently, so make sure to catch one of rock’s most influential acts at the legendary 9:30 Club while you can.

Address: 9:30 Club, 815 V Street NW, Washington, DC 20001