The 26 best things to do in D.C. this weekend and next week

Flowers After Hours at the National Gallery of Art

The National Gallery of Art’s popular National Gallery Nights after-hours series returns with a party celebrating “spring and all things floral.” Activities include creating wearable flower art, a blossom scavenger hunt, behind-the-scenes tours, pop-up talks, music by DJ Rustam, and bars serving wine and cocktails. All tickets were distributed in a raffle last week, but more tickets will be given out at the entrance to the East Building beginning at 5:30 p.m. (You don’t need tickets to watch dance performances or artist demonstrations on the Fourth Street plaza.) 6 to 9 p.m. Free; tickets required.

Jigger & Pony pop-up at Allegory

Even cocktail fans who’ve never been to Singapore might have heard of Jigger & Pony. No. 14 on last year’s World’s 50 Best Bars list? Named best international hotel bar at Tales of the Cocktail’s Spirited Awards? The 12-year-old bar is noted for its playful originals and clever twists on the classics — its Velvet Negroni is so named because the staff tweaks the preparation and dilution to create a smoother texture and mouthfeel. Why are we hyping up a bar that’s almost 10,000 miles away? Because Jigger & Pony creative director Uno Jang and senior bartender Gabriel Gan are taking over Allegory, the bar tucked inside the Eaton. The event runs, the bar promises, “until we sell out of cocktails.” 8 p.m. Free admission.

‘Game Show: Chad and Pharrell’ at Shanklin Hall

Last week, after news broke that Chad Hugo was suing Pharrell Williams over the rights to the name “the Neptunes,” D.C. DJ and “Tiny Desk” producer Cuzzin B tweeted, “I can definitely tell the difference btwn a Pharrell beat vs a NEPTUNES beat.” The observation struck a nerve, and 7,000 likes and 227 quote tweets later, Cuzzin B is bringing his thoughts into a physical space. He’s hosting a panel discussion and listening session at Shanklin Hall, discussing the Neptunes’ legacy — together and apart — with DJs and producers Daniel Biltmore, Marc Nfinit and DJ Geena Marie at the Adams Morgan social club. 8 p.m. Free.

‘The Art of the Benshi’ film series at the National Museum of Asian Art

This touring film series stops at the Smithsonian after a run in Brooklyn and before heading to Chicago, Los Angeles and Tokyo. In a five-part series of “benshi” performances, or live orators to silent films, the art form returns more than a century after it began with classic, restored films. Three performers are joined by musicians, who will play new and historical scores. Films include the cult classic “A Page of Madness (Kurutta ichipeiji)” and the earliest surviving Japanese animated film, “The Dull Sword (Namakura gatana).” Friday, Saturday and Sunday, 7 to 10 p.m.; Sunday, 3 to 6 p.m. Free.

WoCo Fest 2024: Evolve at AMP by Strathmore and the Mansion at Strathmore

The three-day WoCo Fest 2024: Evolve celebrates music from female composers at Strathmore with a spate of performances, workshops and discussions. The festivities include Saturday at the Mansion, a day packed with discussions, food trucks and exhibitor booths, geared toward musicians but open to the public as well. (Tickets are pay-what-you-can with a suggested donation of $10.) Pianist Sarah Cahill performs at the end of the day, playing a program based on her “The Future Is Female” album trilogy, showcasing compositions spanning baroque composer Élisabeth-Claude Jacquet de La Guerre and contemporary composer Theresa Wong. Jazz legend Terri Lyne Carrington, a four-time Grammy Award-winning drummer, closes out the festival with a Sunday afternoon show at AMP by Strathmore, a lounge-like club serving food and craft cocktails in North Bethesda’s Pike and Rose neighborhood. Various times. $10-$48.

Commemorating Abraham Lincoln

One hundred fifty-nine years ago this weekend, Abraham Lincoln was assassinated while watching a play at Ford’s Theatre. The National Park Service and the theater remember our 16th president with events including guided walking tours covering the story of the assassination, the Lincolns’ love of theater in 1860s Washington and medical care the president received. Ford’s Theatre and the Petersen House (“The House Where Lincoln Died”) are open all day Sunday and Monday, with special performances of “One Destiny,” a two-man play about the events of April 14, 1865, on Monday morning. Check both organizations’ calendars, as they list events separately. Through Tuesday. Prices vary, though NPS tours are free.

Spring Garden Market at River Farm

River Farm, located on the Potomac River between Old Town Alexandria and Mount Vernon, is a joy to visit at this time of year, but it’s especially nice during the American Horticultural Society’s Spring Garden Market. More than 40 vendors set up to sell native plants, herbs, ceramics, gardening supplies and decor, dog treats, and much more. Beyond stocking up for your yard or windowsill, you can explore the property, which includes 25 acres of formal and wildlife-friendly natural gardens and an indoor art exhibit, or have a picnic overlooking the river. Friday and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. $5 entry for those arriving on foot or bicycle; $20 per car (includes all occupants).

Blossoms and Starlight at Eastern Market

A new Taylor Swift album drops next week, if you hadn’t heard, and we expect there will be plenty of Taylor-themed dance parties and karaoke and trivia in the coming days. (Trivia, in fact, starts Wednesday.) The first event on our calendar is Blossoms and Starlight in Eastern Market’s North Hall. Tunes come from DJ Tony T, a.k.a. Tony Tomelden. He owns the Pug, the H Street bar that’s become ground zero for Swiftie listening parties, so he probably knows a thing or two. There will be a friendship bracelet-making station, though you can also bring your own to trade, and sequined outfits are “highly encouraged.” The event is open to all ages, but adult beverages will be available. Proceeds benefit Eastern Market’s 150th anniversary fund. 6 to 9 p.m. $20-$35.

National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade

Mickey and Minnie Mouse are the grand marshals of the National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade, which fills Constitution Avenue with marching bands, giant balloons, floats and entertainment. The Sugarhill Gang, “American Idol” finalist Colin Stough and D.C.’s own Mambo Sauce are among the performers. The route stretches from the National Archives to the Ellipse, and viewing the parade from the sidewalk is free, though grandstand tickets are available for purchase. 10 a.m. to noon. Free; grandstand seats $25-$40.

Sakura Matsuri Japanese Street Festival

The Sakura Matsuri Japanese Street Festival expanded from one day to two in 2022 to celebrate its 60th anniversary, and the Japan-America Society of Washington D.C. is keeping the expanded format, packing Pennsylvania Avenue NW between Third and Seventh streets. The festival includes multiple stages with traditional and modern music; dance and martial arts performances; a J-pop talent competition; a children’s corner; a traditional marketplace; a “Taste of Japan” section with food and drink vendors, as well as beer gardens and sake pavilions; pavilions dedicated to topics such as technology and the regions of Japan; and hands-on cultural exhibits. Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. $15 for one day or $25 for both days; $20 admission on the day of the event. Free for children 12 and younger.

Pink Beats at National Landing’s Water Park

Pink Beats, the final installment of the Pink in the Park series at National Landing’s Water Park, is essentially a local music festival, starring the wonderfully crafted indie soul of Oh He Dead, the dance-floor-friendly R&B grooves of Wrizzards and the tuneful pop-rock of Broke Royals. Beyond the five acts performing, there are food and drink vendors and other activities. 4 to 9 p.m. Free.

‘An Evening With Esther Perel’ at DAR Constitution Hall

Troubled couples rely on therapist Esther Perel to get to the heart of their problems — and the audience of her “Where Should We Begin” podcast listens in, fly-on-the-wall style, to hear her pearls of wisdom. Now Perel is taking her show on the road for a national speaking tour called “An Evening With Esther Perel: The Future of Relationships, Love & Desire.” Get in the room with Perel at DAR Constitution Hall as she discusses how technology has shifted the nature of relationships in 2024 and how we can embrace and retain our humanity. 8 p.m. $103-$675.

In Style: Esther Perel will see you now

Jacqueline Woodson Block Party at the Kennedy Center

A National Book Award winner, four-time Newbery Honor winner, MacArthur fellow — the Kennedy Center’s education artist-in-residence is gifted with the written word. This weekend, you get to see what happens when Jacqueline Woodson throws a party. Inspired by her book “The Year We Learned to Fly,” this day of family-friendly activities includes double Dutch, break dancing and roller skating demonstrations; a stepping performance and workshop with Step Afrika!; chalk drawing and graffiti demos; music from Eastern High School’s Blue and White Marching Machine; and Woodson reading her book with help from musicians Toshi Reagon and Be Steadwell. Food trucks and vendors will be on-site. 1 to 5:30 p.m. Free.

NEA Jazz Masters Tribute Concert at the Kennedy Center

Each year, the National Endowment for the Arts honors America’s jazz greats with the Jazz Masters Fellowships. The 2024 class includes trumpet player Terence Blanchard, saxophonist Gary Bartz, composer and organist Amina Claudine Myers, and journalist, broadcaster and D.C. Jazz Festival Artistic Director Willard Jenkins. All four are honored during this concert at the Kennedy Center’s Eisenhower Theater: Bartz, Blanchard and Myers will perform with their own groups and make remarks; Jenkins is represented with a performance by the African Rhythms Alumni Quintet. The evening concludes with a tribute to D.C.’s own Duke Ellington. While all free advance tickets have been claimed, standby tickets will be available at the box office beginning at 7:15 p.m. The line for standby tickets begins at 5:30. 7:30 p.m. Free.

DC Brau’s 13th anniversary

Washington’s oldest brewery is now a teenager. DC Brau, which released the Public Ale to a thirsty city in April 2011, marks its 13th anniversary with a day-long party at its brewery in Upper Northeast. Look for a special lineup of beers — including the freshly rereleased Citizen Belgian pale ale — and a menu of tacos from Taco Man Fred. The jammy Americana of the Brahman Noodles and the Celtic tunes of the O’McPub Band provide the soundtrack, while Jinx Proof is on-site for souvenir tattoos. 1 to 9 p.m. Free.

All Hat, No Cattle at Jackie Lee’s

Heaven Forbid are D.C.’s hip urban cowboys: a quintet sporting large hats, bolo ties and boots, mixing original two-stepping tunes with covers of Vince Gill or Bobby Bare, all driven by the sultry or mournful sound of pedal steel. They play country songs, but they’re more likely to strike up “Guitars, Cadillacs” than some radio hit about a pickup. After a residency at the now-closed Public Option, Heaven Forbid is moving its monthly All Hat, No Cattle party to Jackie Lee’s in Brightwood, where the bar is taking out tables and chairs to make more room for dancing. The band’s sets begin at 8 and 10 p.m. Free.

Masters Costume and Cocktail Party at Duke’s Grocery Navy Yard

Break out your green jackets, red Nike Dri-Fit polos and camouflage bucket hats: The Masters are back, and Duke’s Grocery is hosting a viewing party and costume contest. Snack on pimento cheese or egg salad sandwiches and sip John Daly cocktails (an Arnold Palmer with added vodka) while watching the tournament on multiple TVs. Prizes for the best dressed include Duke’s-branded Titleist ProV1 golf balls and gift certificates. 3 to 7 p.m. Free.

D.C. Emancipation Day at Freedom Plaza

In April 1862 — more than eight months before the Emancipation Proclamation — Congress passed the District of Columbia Compensated Emancipation Act, which freed all enslaved people in Washington, compensated their owners and provided funds for them to emigrate if they chose. Since 2005, the city has marked the anniversary with a parade and pomp. Freedom Plaza is again the center of attention, with a parade at 2 p.m.; a concert featuring Ginuwine, Kelly Price, jazzman Marcus Johnson and go-go stalwarts E.U. featuring Sugar Bear at 3 p.m.; and fireworks at 8:30 p.m. 2 p.m. Free.

Pages in the Park at Meridian Hill Park

Grab a book and a picnic for Pages in the Park, where you can spend 30 minutes mingling over a potluck meal before an hour of individual reading time. There’s also a book swap — bring any books you no longer want, and take a new one home. Extras will be donated. The event is hosted in the grassy area at the top of the park. 3 p.m. Free.

‘New Worlds: Women to Watch 2024’ at the National Museum of Women in the Arts

The National Museum of Women in the Arts tapped 28 emerging artists from across the globe for a show based on visions for creating a new world. See their alternative realities in “New Worlds: Women to Watch 2024,” the second major exhibition since NMWA reopened last fall after an extensive renovation. Visitors can tour the new gallery spaces and see seven works created specifically for the museum for its recurring “Women to Watch” exhibition series, including site-specific installations. Through Aug. 11. $16; $13 seniors and D.C. residents; free for ages 21 and younger and visitors with disabilities.

Paws and Petals Yappy Hour at Metrobar

One of the final events of cherry blossom season is this dog-friendly afternoon hang in Metrobar’s beer garden. Bring your four-legged friend for treats like puppuccinos and dog beers, while humans peruse vendors selling dog toys and merchandise, grab snacks from food trucks, and groove to a DJ. 1 to 4 p.m. Free.

Mezcal Night at Bar Charley

The Dupont Circle joint is partnering with Columbia Heights taqueria El Chucho and mezcal brand Siete Misterios for an evening dedicated to the spirit. Instead of usual Bar Charley fare, the ticket price will get you chips and salsa, a mezcal flight, and the first cocktail. 5 p.m. $30.

‘Selena’ Movie Night at Rhizome

Takoma Park nonprofit community space Rhizome hosts a free screening of the 1990s classic film “Selena,” complete with themed snacks. Free popcorn and Mexican hot chocolate will be on offer during the biopic of Selena Quintanilla-Pérez, the queen of Tejano music, which is screened the night before the late singer’s birthday. 7:30 p.m. Free; RSVP encouraged.

Taylor Swift Trivia at As You Are

Think you’re a real Swiftie — the kind who scours the liner notes, knows every Easter egg, finds hidden meanings in Instagram posts and has gone down too many Tumblr rabbit holes? Can you recite the Era Tour’s secret songs? Show how much you really know at As You Are’s Taylor Swift Trivia, which promises to be highly competitive but also a lot of fun. BYO friendship bracelets. 7 to 9 p.m. Free.

Witches Night Party at Dew Drop Inn

Walpurgis Night, the eighth-century celebration of Saint Walpurga held at the end of April, traditionally aimed to banish witchcraft — but Dew Drop is opening its doors to welcome them. Expect a “simple witchy ritual,” magic-themed drinks, tarot readings by Skye Miranda, astrology analysis and a drag performance by self-proclaimed “slasher flick rocker chick” Jane Saw. You can also make your own temporary tattoo — just make sure it complements your witch-inspired outfit. 7 p.m. Free.

De La Senne beer tasting at the Sovereign

De La Senne is one of the most acclaimed craft brewers in Brussels, and the beers that regularly make it to this side of the Atlantic are flavorful — no filtering or pasteurization — and on the lower end of the alcohol spectrum, such as the bitter, hoppy blonde Taras Boulba or the dry, citrusy Zinnebir pale ale. De La Senne’s beers are regulars on tap on the Sovereign, but this is a special night at the Georgetown Belgian beer bar: Brewery co-founder Yvan de Baets is visiting, bringing what the Sovereign calls “hyper-fresh” kegs of beer, plus rare bottles of Saison de la Senne and Wadesa #9 tripel, complex beers blended with lambic ales from Brussels neighbors Cantillon. Tickets include four-ounce pours of eight De La Senne beers and the talk with de Baets. 6 to 9 p.m. $50.