Happy middle of August, DCist readers. We’ve got a full plate of events this week, including some vintage rockers, plenty of arts and drinking events, a nighttime stroll, and even a class to get you on your way to creating your own podcast.
MONDAY, AUGUST 12
SIP SIP: A bit atypical from standard sip and paints, Red Derby’s version will focus on layering several images and colors to create a collection of prints instead of one giant canvas. Texture, color, and image are the name of the game here. More screen printing than painting, it’s unique take–and one that’s bound to get your creative energy going. (Red Derby, 7 p.m.-9 p.m., $25)
CLASSIC: Rock legends Bryan Adams and Billy Idol will take the stage at Jiffy Lube on Monday. From “White Wedding” to “Summer of 69’” there are some stone cold classics amongst the output of these performers and it’s sure to be a memorable show. (Jiffy Lube Live, 8 p.m., $25 – $250).
HOMER: The Cincinnati Reds kick off a three-game series against the Nationals on Monday. As we get closer and closer to the MLB postseason, the more important these games get. And with the Nationals in good wildcard contention, every game matters. (Nationals Stadium, 7:05 p.m., $11-$495)
MORE:Live Music at Marvin: Integriti Reeves (Marvin, 6 p.m.-10:30 p.m., FREE with registration), Jokes on Tap: Open Mic Comedy (Union Stage, 7 p.m., FREE with registration), DC Run Crew “HIIT and RUN” (Nationals Park Stairs, 7 p.m.-8:30 p.m., FREE with registration)

TUESDAY, AUGUST 13
ARTFUL: Local artist Deborah Grayson will display her new work in a gallery opening on Tuesday night at coworking space Hera Hub DC. Grayson’s art features portraits of women presented in a variety of media, including painting, sculpture, assemblage, and printmaking. (Hera Hub DC, 6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m., FREE with registration)
KOMBUCH-YEAH: Kombucha is absolutely having a moment right now. And for those of you who think the probiotic drink is just vinegar-y swill, maybe Common Good City Farm’s kombucha making class will change your mind. Included in the class is a demo on how to make your own booch to bring home, as well as a full tasting. (Common Good City Farm, 6 p.m.-7:30 p.m., $25)
PODCASTING: There’s a pretty solid chance that you’ve either listened to, or are currently listening to a podcast while you read this. If you’ve ever wanted to have a deeper understanding of what it is like to actually go and make your own, this 101 class at the Heurich House will give you the tools needed to get your ideas out there on the Internet. (Heurich House, 6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m., $20)
JAZZY: If you’re looking for some live jazz music this week, 14th Street’s Coffy Cafe has got you covered. Featuring a performance from Dave Manley and Deidre Jennings, it’s the place to be if you want to take in a performance of D.C.’s best. (Coffy Cafe, 7 p.m.-9 p.m., FREE with registration)
MORE: Man vs. Nature: Stories about man versus nature (Black Cat, 6:30 p.m., $20), The Office Trivia (Pinstripes Georgetown, 7 p.m.-9 p.m., free entry with registration), Bryan Ferry (The Anthem, 8 p.m., $75-$250)
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 14
ROSE GOLD: You may remember the artist formerly known as Kitty Pryde (now just Kitty) from her 2012 single “Okay Cupid” that became a viral hit, but you may also not know that she’s released far more compelling and interesting work since. Case in point, last year’s Rose Gold which hit No. 9 on Billboard’s dance chart. Kitty’s tour stops at Rock and Roll Hotel on Wednesday for what she’s calling a musical performance of Rose Gold. (Rock and Roll Hotel, 7 p.m., $15)
ROW, ROW: Looking for something a little different from your typical happy hour? Paddle the Potomac ditches pitchers and pints for paddles and life jackets. A ticket includes everything you’ll need for a two-hour float, including instructions for newbies. (Key Bridge Boathouse, 6 p.m.-8 p.m., $10)
SUMMER SCHOOL’D: Calling the release of Disney and Marvel’s Black Panther a world-shattering achievement seems hyperbolic and yet it’s somehow entirely accurate. Dr. Nikki Lane will host a seminar class that explores just how impactful the film really was, exploring the film’s larger cultural impact, focusing especially on the film’s portrayal and love of blackness.(RedRocks H Street, 6 p.m.-9 p.m., $20)
MORE: Anacostia River Explorers Public Tours (Diamond Teague Park, 6 p.m.-7 p.m., FREE with registration), DMV Comedy Wars at Exiles (Exiles Bar, 8 p.m.-10 p.m., $10), Focus Check: Color Grading Essentials Masterclass (Freethink, 6 p.m.-9 p.m., $20)

THURSDAY, AUGUST 15
FESTIVE: Starting on Thursday and running through Saturday, the 2019 DC Black Film Festival will kick off at the Miracle Theatre. The fest’s screenings and events are all focused on showing film, web series, and television about and by people of African descent. (The Miracle Theater, 5 p.m., $15)
BY HAND: Easy to try, but difficult to master, hand lettering is one way to elevate the artfulness of your actual handwriting. If you’re looking to get some reps in, Republic Restoratives has got you covered with Letters & Libations, which is their event all around improving hand lettering skills. Oh, and you’ll get a chance to sip on some delicious cocktails, too. (Republic Restoratives, 7 p.m.-9 p.m., $40)
HANGING OUT: Navy Yard’s Steadfast Supply and Jungle and Loom will team up for a DIY event to help you create macrame wall hangings to spice up your wall. Don’t worry if you don’t have any experience, they’ll guide you through it with ease. (Steadfast Supply, 6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m., $50)
STROLLIN’: Night time monument walks are even better under the glow of a full moon. The group Washington DC History & Culture will host this month’s gathering, as you and new friends will get a chance to experience D.C.’s history as you may not have seen before. (World War II Memorial, 7 p.m.-9:30 pm., FREE with registration)
MORE: Shook Twins (Gypsy Sally’s, 7 p.m., $15), Verny Varela Combo & Salsa Dancing (Library of Congress, 7 p.m.-8 p.m., FREE)