FRIDAY MAY 14
MUSEUM REOPENING: On Friday, a spread of Smithsonian museums are reopening to the public after an extended closure due to the coronavirus pandemic. The upcoming openings include the National Museum of African American History and Culture, the Renwick Gallery of the Smithsonian American Art Museum, and the National Portrait Gallery. Timed-entry passes are required for all visitors and groups larger than six will not be permitted. (FREE)
SPANISH DINER: José Andrés’ ThinkFoodGroup is opening its latest venture this week: Spanish Diner in Bethesda. The menu is led by concept chef Nicolas Lopez, head Chef Daniel Lugo, and cocktail innovator Miguel Lancha and features all-day breakfast. The location is the former home of Jaleo and features art by Spanish designer Mikel Urmenta. (Spanish Diner; open 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m.)
SATURDAY MAY 15
TREE POSE: Although yoga in the U.S. Botanical Garden isn’t reopened yet, local yogis can still join in virtual community. Bend into your weekend by joining WithLoveDC’s online class for a one-hour yoga and meditation practice. Pre-registration is required. (10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m.; FREE)
SIP HAPPENS: On Saturday, head to Mount Vernon for a ‘George Washington Whiskey Tasting’ and toast with spirits made using 18th century distilling methods. Participants choose three of the five available spirits to try, which include George Washington’s Rye Whiskey, Rye Premium Whiskey, and Straight Rye Whiskey. (George Washington’s Gristmill and Distillery; 2 p.m.-4:30 p.m.; $50-$60)
STREAMING SHOW: While in-person, live entertainment is slowly coming back in full swing, there are still ways to support the arts. Starting this Saturday, Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company and the American Conservatory Theater are teaming up to offer the original film adaptation of the Bushwick Starr’s production of Animal Wisdom, a blues-meets-gospel-meets-folk ghost story. (Through June 13; $19-$49)
NEIGHBORHOOD FEST: This weekend, the Ballston neighborhood in Arlington is hosting a “Quarterfest Crawl” for residents to explore the culinary options in the area (all while social distancing). The event includes a neighborhood-wide scavenger hunt, live performances by local artists, and outdoor seating and games. Proceeds benefit Homeward Trails Animal Rescue. (Ballston neighborhood; 12 p.m.-7 p.m.)
MAKERS MARKET: Shop local, in-person, and socially distanced. This weekend, Dumbarton House is hosting a makers market where local vendors and small business owners set up shop on the Dumbarton grounds. Featured artisans and businesses include IconsDC, FlipFlopCaravan, and Black Vinegar Collective. (Dumbarton House; 10 a.m.-4 p.m.)
SUNDAY MAY 16
STREET EATS: On Sunday, the non-profit Van Ness Main Street is hosting an event celebrating the local restaurants and businesses in Van Ness, Wakefield, and Forest Hills. The festival will feature food/drink specials, a “Selfie Scavenger Hunt,” and sidewalk chalk. Participating restaurants include Bread Furst, I’m Eddie Cano, and Uptown Market. (Van Ness; 1 p.m.-4 p.m.)
BEERS & BITES: On Sunday, head to Ivy City to catch a pop-up with La Famosa and Other Half Brewing. The temporary shop will be open from noon to 6:00 p.m. and will feature Puerto Rican snacks from Chef Joancarlo Parkhurst — that go perfect with an Other Half brew. (Other Half Brewing; 12 p.m.-6 p.m.)
SPACED OUT LIKE SARDINES: This week, Anchovy Social is one of the latest bars and restaurants to reopen in the District. Head to the rooftop joint for 360 degree views and seafood towers by the waterfront — all socially distanced. (Anchovy Social; 5 p.m.-last call)
