The 31 best things to do in D.C. this weekend and next week

Annapolis Songwriters Festival

If you love Americana, indie folk, country, R&B or singer-songwriters in general, this is a weekend to spend poking around Annapolis. Your excuse is the Annapolis Songwriters Festival, which brings dozens of artists to venues across America’s Sailing Capital. There are showcases starting at 10 or 11 a.m. each day (except Thursday, which kicks off at 5 p.m.), with performances stretching into the wee hours. Drop into locations as diverse as the Banneker-Douglass Museum, Rams Head Live, Red Red Wine Bar or the alfresco Dining Under the Stars block party to catch lineups of musicians playing for hours at a time. Up to three shows per day are ticketed — this is where you’ll find neo-soul pianist Avery Sunshine (Friday at Maryland Hall) or chart-topping country singer Lee Brice (Sunday at the City Dock), but for the most part, it’s free to listen and stick around as long as you’d like before moving on to the next gig. Through Sunday. Most shows free. Ticketed concerts $35-$125.

Space Talk at Port City Brewing

Can life be found on other planets, and if so, where? Those are among the big questions that would be explored by NASA’s Habitable Worlds Observatory, a proposed space telescope that would search for the signatures of habitable planets. Learn more about this fascinating project, and the potential for life elsewhere in the universe, during a discussion at Port City Brewing’s Alexandria taproom. Star Sailor, the company’s latest “intergalactic IPA,” is $1 off. 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Free.

Pop Bar opening at Pitchers

Celebrity drag queen Cake Pop is a fixture at events throughout D.C., but she’s about to have a new stage: a pop-up bar at Pitchers in Adams Morgan. The opening party features a long list of performers, including Denali, Venus Valhalla and You’neek Nu’york; register on popbardc.com for admission, and arrive early: Doors open at 7 p.m., and the show begins at 10. Free.

‘Wings of Desire’ at the Goethe-Institut

Wim Wenders’s “Der Himmel über Berlin,” also known as “Wings of Desire,” is a cinematic landmark, a moving and complex romance told through the experiences of angels watching over the humans in the divided, occupied city of Berlin. This graceful, beautiful film is the perfect choice for 70 Years of German Cinema, a new series of screenings at the Goethe-Institut in Shaw. Upcoming offerings include “Run Lola Run” (Sept. 19) and “Goodbye, Lenin!” (Oct. 3). 6 p.m. Free; registration required.

‘Star Wars: The Force Awakens’ screening at the Drive-In at Union Market

Friday is the penultimate night of the Drive-In at Union Market series, featuring “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” projected onto the side of the market building. Reserve a parking space and listen to the movie’s audio through the radio, or join the crowds who grab a picnic inside, and eat outdoors while watching the film. Lot opens at 6:30 p.m.; movie at 7:45 p.m. Free-$20.

Mavi at the Howard Theatre

Mavi was still studying neuroscience at Howard University when his debut album, “Let the Sun Talk,” caught the ear of hip-hop audiences hungry for weighty and vulnerable rhymes delivered at a breathless clip over dusty samples and loping loops. Soon he shifted his full attention to his rap career, raising his profile alongside collaborators like Earl Sweatshirt and the Alchemist. Last month saw the release of “Shadowbox,” his most introspective work yet, and one he’ll support with a tour that stops in D.C. a short walk from where he used to take classes. “D.C. means everything,” Mavi says over Zoom. “D.C. is where I learned so much about myself and was able to explore myself as a young man.” 7 p.m. $25-$50.

The dB’s at the Atlantis

The songs on the first two dB’s albums — “Stands for Decibels” and “Repercussion,” both from 1981 — are smart, funny and impeccably tuneful. Yet the New York quartet’s efforts were spurned by American labels, and the records were originally released only in Britain. The temporarily reunited band’s D.C. show this weekend is part of a tour marking the two albums’ first-ever U.S. vinyl releases. “We’d like to think that we were as commercial as any of the bands that did get signed to American labels,” says singer-guitarist Peter Holsapple in a three-way video call. “But apparently there was something about us that was not commercially accessible to the powers that be. I wish I had an answer to that. I wish I had an answer to that 40 years ago.” 7:30 p.m. $25.

WalkingTown DC

It doesn’t matter if you were born and raised in Southeast Washington or you moved from the West Coast to Petworth six months ago: WalkingTown DC will teach you things you never knew about the city you call home, and might change the way you think about your neighborhood. This 25-year-old program, run by the city’s Events DC, offers 64 free walking and biking tours across all eight wards, led by professional tour guides, historians, authors and enthusiastic amateur specialists. You’ll meet Black feminists, members of the LGBTQ+ community and women who helped win the Cold War. You’ll see how the Capitol grounds were shaped by a great gardener, and trace the route of a forgotten canal across the Mall. You’ll learn how the sound of go-go coalesced in Anacostia, and go behind the scenes to see amazing art inside government buildings. Tours do hit capacity — some already have — so sign up quickly, or look for those offered on weekdays instead of weekends. To mark a quarter century, organizers have planned community celebrations and other events throughout the festival. Through Sept. 21. Free; reservations required.

‘Forrest Gump’ screening on the National Mall

One of the key moments in “Forrest Gump” takes place on the National Mall, when the titular hero reunites with Jenny, his childhood sweetheart, at an antiwar rally. To mark the 30th anniversary of the best-picture-winning film, the National Park Foundation and Paramount Plus have organized an evening screening of “Forrest Gump” on the Mall, between Ninth and 12th streets. Picnics are welcome. Lawn opens at 5 p.m.; movie begins at dusk. Free.

Celebrate Petworth

Kids, art lovers, dog owners and shoppers will all find something just for them at Petworth’s annual neighborhood festival. Celebrate Petworth began in 2014, and over the past decade, it’s grown into an open-air market with goods from more than 50 D.C. artisans and crafters. Musicians grace the main stage all day long, and the kids zone includes activities such as crafts and performances from the likes of Baba Ras D and the Great Zucchini. If you have a dog you want to show off, register your pup for competitions that include “coolest trick” or “best dressed.” There are activities for families before the festival begins as well, like a kids’ fun run and yoga for tots. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Free.

Small Press Expo at Bethesda North Marriott Hotel and Conference Center

Imagine something like the Library of Congress’s National Book Festival, but solely devoted to indie comics, zines, graphic novels and cartoons. That’s the gist of the Small Press Expo, which brings more than 500 artists and writers to Bethesda for a weekend of quirky fun. Only creators and publishers are allowed to exhibit at this festival, which includes plenty of reading material for sale as well as opportunities for fans to meet and mingle with authors and get their books signed. Plus, learn tricks of the trade at workshops covering everything from the art of the single-panel cartoon to tips on drawing hand lettering. Saturday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Sunday from noon to 6 p.m. $20 Saturday; $15 Sunday; $30 for both days.

Wheatland Spring Oktoberfest

The owners of this Loudoun County farm brewery took inspiration from farms they visited while living in Bavaria, and while they make stunning German-style beers year-round, Oktoberfest is a special time. The two-day festival includes the annual debut of their Ursprung Festbier, alongside performances by the 14-member Alte Kameraden Bavarian Band, an alphorn demonstration (with a chance to play yourself), and various games including a stein-holding competition and prizes for the best outfits. Food trucks, including the wonderfully named What the Schnitzel, are on-site both days. Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. each day. Free.

Greenbelt Blues Festival at Roosevelt Center

If your preferred style of blues is electrified, via Chicago, Memphis or Muscle Shoals, make your way to historic Greenbelt for the 21st annual Greenbelt Blues Festival. This year’s bill includes eight bands, highlighted by guitarist Bobby Thompson with Blues City Shakedown and the harmonica-driven R&B of Fast Eddie and the Slowpokes. Most of the action takes place outdoors, including morning yoga, but headliners Built 4 Comfort cap the day at the New Deal Cafe. A vendor marketplace and food will be available. 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Free.

Holiday Stamps Family Festival at the National Postal Museum

Let’s be honest: It’s a bit early for Christmas celebrations, but if you’re the kind of person who has your holiday cards planned, you’re not bothered that we’re still waiting for the first day of fall. The National Postal Museum marks the release of the Postal Service’s Christmas stamps with a family event featuring crafting activities and family games with artist Katie Kirk. 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Free.

Maryland Seafood Festival at Sandy Point State Park

Since 1966, the Maryland Seafood Festival has extended locally caught blue crab season past the steamy summer months. This year’s celebration of all things oysters, shrimp, mussels and more includes a crab soup cook-off, crab soup eating and oyster shucking contests, performances by local bands, and plenty of seafood vendors. Little ones will enjoy bounce houses, and adults can partake in paint and sips, chef-led classes, and Xpogo — or extreme pogo stick jumping — demonstrations. Limited parking spots are available for purchase online for $10, and overflow parking is $5 at Anne Arundel Community College a shuttle ride away. Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. $15 in advance, $20 day of; free for kids 12 and under.

Hecho en México at National Museum of the American Indian

Celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month with this weekend festival, which features crafts “Made in Mexico.” Artists use materials including yarn paintings, delicate tissue paper and multimedia sculptures. Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free.

DC Bike Expo at Georgetown Park

As the weather turns less humid and way more pleasant, September feels like the perfect time to tune up your bike or get into riding for the first time. The Washington Area Bicycle Association will help outfit riders with all the tools they’ll need during the DC Bike Expo, held in the heart of Georgetown. Bike shops from across the area sell used bikes and gear, such as parts, gadgets and clothing. Check out clinics covering maintenance and bike packing, individual bike fittings, and tutorials from WABA staff, and get set to make new friends by linking up with one of the many ride clubs that will be on hand, catering to riders of all skill levels. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. $10; free with student ID.

Van Ness Main Street Day

Support the businesses of Van Ness at the community’s annual festival along Connecticut Avenue NW. The day starts with a family-friendly cleanup at Forest Hills Park and includes a kids’ story time at Politics and Prose; a Taylor Swift dance party; performances by Andrew G Guitarist, Crush Funk Brass Band and Ken Matthews Jazz; and a barbecue pop-up from bakery Bread Furst. It ends with an outdoor screening of “Spy Kids” at the University of the District of Columbia amphitheater. 10 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Free.

Elder Pine Brewing Anniversary Party

Happy sixth anniversary to Elder Pine, the Montgomery County farm brewery whose wide range of beers — funky saison, barley wine, English-style dark mild and barrel-aged Märzen in addition to plenty of hazy IPAs — has made it a firm favorite with local beer lovers. Elder Pine is celebrating its birthday by releasing four new brews, including Year Six Pilsner, Asleep on the Forest Floor double IPA, and a barrel-aged barley wine with the evocative name Summon the Moon Lord and an ABV of 16 percent. The Gaithersburg brewery is also hosting a pig roast and an outdoor concert by Joe Dicey and the High Rollers, so bring your picnic blankets and camp chairs. Noon to 10 p.m. Free.

Oktoberfest at the Brig

Every weekend at the Brig brings “party in Munich” vibes — the beer garden near the Marine Barracks is home to Mia San District, D.C.’s fan club for German soccer powerhouse Bayern Munich. Its Oktoberfest party features viewing of Bayern’s match against Holstein Kiel at 12:30 p.m., followed by a German band (2 p.m.), a ceremonial tapping and stein-holding contests. German food and beer are available all day. 10 a.m. Free.

Water Park Concert Series at National Landing

Calling your outdoor food hall Water Park gives it sunny, summer vibes — but that may not be the best thing when the humidity drops and a chill arrives after sunset. To keep customers coming back into the fall, National Landing’s Water Park is launching a fall concert series, beginning with Grateful Dead cover band Skull and Roses. Special bar and beverage carts will be available in addition to the usual offerings. 5 to 8 p.m. Free.

Distrito Music Fest at Songbyrd Music House

Since 2021, Distrito Music Fest has brought Latin American artists to DMV venues in showcases of Hispanic music — designed by and for local musicians. This year’s festival takes place at Songbyrd and features Tres Minutos, Max Rosado, Soroche, JChris and Latin Grammy winner Sie7e. 3 p.m. $30-$40.

Hyattsville Porchfest

Neo-soul, Americana, classic rock and a tribute to Tool are among nearly 50 bands performing during Hyattsville’s annual Porchfest celebration. Wander through neighborhoods listening to DJs and bands that will turn 15 front porches and yards (and beloved local biz Red Onion Records) into concert venues. An interactive map is provided on the Hyattsville Preservation Association website to help plan your afternoon. 2 to 6 p.m. Free.

King Britt at Extended Play

Extended Play at Mess Hall is one of D.C.’s essential dance parties — a low-key but powerful experience featuring top local and international DJs, held in the cozy confines of the loading dock at kitchen incubator Mess Hall. This month features King Britt, who has been a globe-trotting DJ and producer longer than some Mess Hall audience members have been alive. Whether performing as Digable Planets’ DJ, producing De La Soul, co-founding the electronic music label Ovum with Josh Wink, releasing house and techno music on a variety of labels, or teaching college students about the history of electronic music, Britt is always someone you should listen to. He takes to the turntables with D.C.’s Baronhawk Poitier at Mess Hall, where the vibes are friendly, the dancing is enthusiastic and the drinks at the pop-up bar come from award-winning mixologist Kapri Robinson of Allegory. Grab an advance ticket while you can, and wear comfortable shoes. 5 to 10 p.m. $30.

Art Speak at Hill Prince and Pow Pow

D.C. artists are highlighted throughout September, thanks to 202Creates Month — a celebration that encompasses such disparate events as Art All Night, D.C. Fashion Week and Fiesta D.C. There are plenty of things to do beyond these headliners: Take Art Speak, a collaboration between H Street cocktail spot Hill Prince and the neighboring vegan restaurant Pow Pow. Listen to talks from “Hell’s Kitchen” winner (and Hill Prince owner) chef Rock Harper and go-go musician JusPaul, chat art with trendsetting D.C. muralist Kelly Towles, groove to DJs including Cosmo Baker and Kerim the DJ, or just have lunch and a drink. Noon to 6 p.m. Free.

OysterFest at Metrobar

The Northeast bar is ringing in the start of oyster season (“months that end in ‘R’!”) with a day-long festival. Enjoy chargrilled oysters from Who Wants Smoke and raw oysters from DC Shuckers, live music from Joe Brotherton Brass Band, Chinola cocktail and beer specials, and spiked ices from New Orleans Snowballs’ food truck. Stick around past 4 p.m. for the start of Metrobar’s Warm Summer Nights party, a “California-style kickback with an R&B twist” hosted by DJ DC Infamous. Noon to 6 p.m. Free.

Yacht Club at Allegory

This is a rare treat for cocktail lovers: The owners of the 2024 Spirited Award winner for best U.S. cocktail bar are taking over the winner of the 2024 Spirited Award for best U.S. hotel bar for one night only. Mary Allison Wright and McLain Hedges of Denver’s Yacht Club — a self-described fusion of “a nerdy cocktail bar, a natural wine bar and your favorite dive bar all in one” — incorporate wine into their cocktails. On the current menu, Greco Bianco Italian wine joins tequila, rhum agricole and “tropical” green tea in the Coral Reefer, while a dry riesling stars alongside sotol, tomatillo and “savory herbs” in the Cuttin’ Grass. The duo are teaching a master class for bartenders in the afternoon before mixing their own cocktails at the Eaton’s jewel of a cocktail bar in the evening. 8 p.m. Free.

Capitol Hill Chamber Music Festival at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church

For the first time since the pandemic, the Capitol Hill Chamber Music Festival is back with three programs performed on period instruments. The second explores Renaissance psalms and Irish baroque, played on lutes, seven-string guitars, descant flutes and more, on Monday. (7:30 p.m. Free.) The final program takes place Sept. 22 at the same location and features viola da gamba and pardessus de viole performances of music from between 1550 and 1750. (7:30 p.m. Free.)

‘Fall in Love’ CiNoMatic outdoor movie screenings at Alethia Tanner Park

After a five-week series that began in May, NoMa’s seasonal CiNoMatic returns to Alethia Tanner Park for a five-week program with the theme “Fall in Love.” It begins with “How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days,” and the schedule also includes “When Harry Met Sally” (Sept. 25) and “Love & Basketball” (Oct. 16). Blankets and picnics are encouraged; lawn games and food trucks are available at the park. Lawn opens at 6:15; film begins at dusk. Free.

Heurich Märzen release party at Heurich House

The Christian Heurich Brewing Co.’s Märzen was one of the most celebrated beers in Washington in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, winning medals at home and abroad. The Heurich House Museum and the Lost Lagers beer historians have re-created the beer — the style traditionally served at Munich’s Oktoberfest — from a 1933 recipe, which is now made at D.C.’s Right Proper Brewing Company. Learn about the process of reviving the beer, tour Heurich’s preserved Dupont Circle mansion and, most importantly, taste the results of the endeavor during a release party at the museum. Cocktail attire is requested. VIP tickets include entry at 5 p.m. and a souvenir glass. 6 to 8 p.m. $50-$70.

Pages in the Park at P Street Beach

If more than 30 minutes of social interaction sounds like a little too much, opt for some silent reading time among strangers. Bring a potluck contribution to the picnic and mingle for half an hour before launching into a book for 60 minutes. Hosted by influencer Sidney Hui (a.k.a. @thediscoloft), the evening also includes a book swap. Bring up to three books of any genre you’re ready to part with, and find a few more to bring home. Extras will be donated. 6 p.m. Free.