Washington D.C. and the neighboring Maryland and Virginia areas are coming alive with a variety of cultural and arts events this cool autumn. From digital art exhibitions to historic neighborhood festivals and music festivals, here are the major events that will captivate the eyes and ears of weekend visitors.
[Washington D.C.] From the return of ARTECHOUSE after 16 months to late-night art festivals
ARTECHOUSE ‘Submerge Project’: Digital art gallery ‘ARTECHOUSE Washington, D.C.’, ending its 16-month hiatus, will host its largest group exhibition to date starting Friday the 11th. Featuring 18 works by 14 teams, it showcases interactive art utilizing generative AI and distributed computing environments. (Oct. 11–Nov. 15 / Admission $24)
Step Afrika! ‘The Fruits of Our Labor’: In commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States, percussive dance company ‘Step Afrika!’ will premiere a new work at Arena Stage. It is a performance combining powerful visual imagery with step dance. (Oct. 10–Nov. 1)
Art All Night: An overnight outdoor cultural festival spanning all eight Wards across DC. More than 100 artists will participate to present live performances, visual art, sculptures, and more. (Oct. 11–12, 7:00 PM to 3:00 AM next day / Free)
D.C. Bike Ride: Now in its 10th year, this car-free street riding event allows participants to bike a 32 km (20-mile) urban course. (Oct. 12)
Adams Morgan Day: DC's oldest neighborhood festival, featuring multicultural food, crafts, and live performances along 18th Street. (Oct. 13 / Free)
[Maryland] 184-year-old traditional fair and street art galleries
Prince George’s County Fair: Maryland's longest-running fair, which began in 1842, features various competitions and carnival rides. (Oct. 10–13 / Adults $6)
Silver Spring Jazz Festival: Live jazz, funk, soul, and R&B performances take place across two stages. (Oct. 12 / Free)
Bethesda Row Arts Festival: The streets of Bethesda transform into an outdoor art museum, exhibiting and selling crafts and artwork such as ceramics, jewelry, and photography. (Oct. 12–13)
[Virginia] From outdoor jazz performances to unique lectures
Rosslyn Jazz Fest: An outdoor music festival held at Arlington Gateway Park. (Oct. 12 / Free)
DMV Girls Hockey Weekend: A free hockey experience event hosted by the Washington Capitals for girls aged 4 to 9. (Oct. 12–13 / Pre-registration required)
Profs & Pints: An educational lecture where Dr. Jordan Wilson, a bioarchaeologist from Georgetown University, discusses human osteology and mummies over drinks. (Oct. 13 / Advance tickets $13.50)