Latest Events in Washington D.C.(July Updated)

Artificial lights have become such a common nighttime fixture that we take them for granted. But what do brighter nights mean for people and wildlife? The effects of light pollution extend beyond our reduced view of the stars, but solutions can have an immediate impact. Through more than 100 photographs, nearly 250 objects, interactive experiences, tactile models, and a theater program, discover why the dark night matters, rekindle your connection to the night sky, and consider how much light at night is enough—for whom, for what purpose, and who gets to decide?

Celebrate the 100th Birthday of Barro Colorado Island Research Station by immersing yourself in a Panamanian jungle! From monkeys to microbes, research on the “most studied piece of tropical real estate in the world” gave rise to the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, which now hosts 1200 scientists from 50 countries at 12 tropical research facilities, trains young biologists, and contributes new knowledge vital to the future of tropical forests and reefs.

See three awe-inspiring sculptures by an American artist who transforms tires to explore environmental concerns. For over four decades, Chakaia Booker has cut, coiled, and contorted tires, sculpting the industrial waste into spectacular abstract forms. Booker uses discarded tires both as a commentary on cultural histories and experiences and as a sustainable practice. Salvaging the tires avoids their disposal into landfills, where they trap and emit methane gas. Her works encourage us to consider the history of the material of tires as well as the effect rubber can have on our future. Three monumental wall relief sculptures—Acid Rain (2001), Echoes in Black (Industrial Cicatrization) (1996), and It’s So Hard to Be Green (2000)—are presented. Each sculpture spans 20 to 21 feet wide and features a mass of curled bands of tire rubber, some interspersed with spiky shards, coiled strips, and loops made from inner tubes. Booker’s six-part photogravure series Foundling Warrior Quest (II 21C) (2010) showcases the artist as a mythical being foraging in a harsh, industrial landscape.

Art history isn’t linear. Artists mix and remix references, finding inspiration across time. When contemporary artist Rozeal. began painting afro.died, T. in 2011 in her studio just outside Washington, DC, she didn’t have Titian’s Venus with a Mirror in mind. Paul Cezanne wasn’t thinking about Titian’s Ranuccio Farnese when he painted Boy in a Red Waistcoat in 19th-century France. Yet these works share striking visual similarities with Titian’s 16th-century paintings. Back and Forth illuminates unexpected connections between these four works and invites us to see them in new ways.

Experience the wonders of nature through the eyes of an artist. Look closely at works of art that depict insects and other animals, as well as real specimens. Art played a key role at the dawn of natural history in 16th and 17th century Europe. Advances in science and technology, trade, and colonial expansion enabled naturalists to study previously unknown and overlooked insects, animals, and other beestjes, or "little beasts." Artists such as Joris Hoefnagel and Jan van Kessel helped deepen and spread knowledge of these creatures through highly detailed and playful works that inspired generations of printmakers, painters, decorative artists, and naturalists. A delight for all ages, this exhibition uniquely showcases nearly 75 of these paintings, prints, and drawings, as well as specimens and taxidermy from the Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History. Learn about the rich exchanges between artists and naturalists that have fueled our fascination with creatures big and small on Earth. Watch a new film by artist Dario Robleto to see how the intersection of art and science continues to inspire us.

Join FreightWaves at the International Spy Museum in Washington DC for a one-day event focused on the intersection of AI and global supply chains. We plan to bring together AI founders, investors, providers, and Fortune 1000 shippers from around the world. We also expect public sector leaders who operate at the intersection of AI and global supply chains to attend. Don’t miss your opportunity to explore how AI is being implemented across the supply chain. Information Source: FreightWaves | eventbrite

A diverse selection of watercolors dating from 1800 to 1991 will reflect the medium’s journey from practical use to recognized fine art in America. Spanning two centuries and diverse artistic styles, this installation will be organized into four groupings: sights associated with the Washington, DC, area; the rivers, waterfalls, and ocean views of New England; Western views of Yosemite, Yellowstone, and the California coast; and studies of plants and the natural world.

Join us for an in-depth workshop featuring a series of discussions focused on supply chain security. Following the PDA/FDA Joint Regulatory Conference, this event will provide actionable insights and proven strategies to safeguard pharmaceutical distribution and enhance the resilience of your supply chains. Whether you choose to attend in person in Washington, DC, or join us online, you’ll dive into key discussions on supply chain security with industry leaders and experts. Don’t miss this opportunity to engage and learn from the best on the field. Information Source: Rx-360 APEC Center of Excellence | eventbrite

The first exhibition to consider photography’s impact on a cultural and aesthetic movement that celebrated Black history, identity, and beauty. As Black Americans continued their struggle for political liberation and self-determination in the late 1950’s and early 1960’s, a group of artists, poets, musicians, playwrights, and filmmakers united around a new approach—art. Using creative mediums to express messages of Black empowerment and advance social justice, their efforts became known as the Black Arts Movement, often considered the cultural arm of the Black Power Movement. Photography was central to the movement, attracting all kinds of artists—from street photographers and photojournalists to painters and graphic designers. This expansive exhibition presents 150 examples by over 100 artists. Explore the radical vision shaped by generations of artists including Billy Abernathy, Romare Bearden, Kwame Brathwaite, Roy DeCarava, Doris Derby, Emory Douglas, Barkley Hendricks, Barbara McCullough, Betye Saar, and Ming Smith. See how they both shaped and documented the Black Arts Movement.

Atlanta Black Chambers Washington D.C. Fly-In weekend September. 25, 2025 - September. 28, 2025 Washington DC THIS IS NOT A RESALE OF CONGRESSIONAL BLACK CAUCUS ALC CONVENTION TICKETS! This annual issues-focused trip consists of four days and three nights in Washington, DC. Participants visit the offices of Georgia’s senators and congressional delegation to advocate for the Black business community and learn about the legislative process. Please get in touch with DeAnna Harris to continue with package payment and registration. Recommended departure from ATL to meet ground transportation from the airport to the hotel on 9/25 (No t included in package) South West flight 364 - departure time from ATL 6:45 am; arrival time at DCA 8:30 am Delta flight 0926 - departure time from ATL 7:25 am; arrival time at DCA 9:12 am D epature from DCA on 9/28/25 will be based on your schedule. Our premier events include: Capitol Hill visits and meetings with U.S. Senate and House leaders Group dinners, some transportation, some including networking opportunities with US Black Chamber leadership and Georgia delegation leaders. Private events and meetings Corporate sponsorships are still available; please get in touch with DeAnna Harris at harris@thesouthernstrategies.com or 678-994-8357 For any questions, please contact DeAnna Harris at harris@thesouthernstrategies.com or 678-994-8357 *If you need to change dates, please contact DeAnna Harris to assist in AC Hotel booking at the group rate. Package: $799 -Transportation from DCA airport to the US Black Chambers annual brunch event -Friday night event with a special guest speaker -Meetings with members of the Georgia delegation -Special invite only private events *Payment plans accepted. Deposits are due by June 15, 2025. All balances are due by Aug. 21, 2025 Information Source: Advancing Black Businesses Foundation | eventbrite

Mark your calendar for this once-in-a-lifetime exhibition of modern and contemporary Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art and design.This eye-opening exhibition introduces North American audiences to the diverse and distinct visual iconographies of Indigenous Australia, which is made up of more than 250 distinct Indigenous nations. Explore this rich and living history of creativity through over 200 works made by more than 130 artists. Drawn exclusively from the collection of Melbourne’sNational Gallery of Victoria ( https://www.ngv.vic.gov.au/ ),The Stars We Do Not Seeoffers a rare opportunity to experience some of the most significant examples of modern and contemporary Australian Indigenous art. Charting watershed moments in Indigenous art from the late 19th century to the present, this exhibition reveals a rich history of creativity that predates the arrival of the British.See the work of trailblazing painters including Anmatyerr superstar Emily Kam Kngwarray and Senior Yolŋu artist Gulumbu Yunupiŋu (after who the exhibition is titled) along with contemporary innovators Brook Andrew, Destiny Deacon, and Betty Muffler. Witness Australian Indigenous art in all its forms, from ochre bark paintings and experimental weavings to immersive sound and video art and powerful photographs.

In honor of the 100th anniversary of Mary Cassatt’s death in 1926, this installation of some 40 paintings, prints, and drawings will celebrate this renowned American impressionist and her pioneering work.

Latina journalists wrote the first draft of history for Spanish-speaking communities in the United States.Breaking News! Latinas Report Breaking News is a bilingual exhibition featuring stories from Latina journalists to show how Spanish-language television gave voice and visibility to a broad segment of the American public and how these journalists advocate for Spanish-speaking communities and navigate the fast-paced, ever-changing pace of breaking news. In the approximately 1,000-square-foot gallery, visitors will explore broadcast journalism through the work of journalists such as Ilia Calderón, Dunia Elvir, Marilys Llanos, Gilda Mirós, Lori Montenegro, Maria Elena Salinas, and Blanca Rosa Vílchez. A multimedia piece will illustrate these women's accounts as eyewitnesses to important histories like the Vietnam War, 9/11, and the Black Lives Matter protests, as well as issues of cultural and political significance to local Latinx communities that are sometimes overlooked by English-language news. Working in the characteristic fast-paced, ever-changing environment of news production, these women shaped the narrative of major historical events while collaborating with their local and national Latinx communities to provide news coverage that meets their needs.

Social climbing was a competitive sport in Tudor England, requiring a complex range of skills, strategies, and techniques. How to Be a Power Player: Tudor Edition invites you into a world of lace ruffs, jousting, hawks, bad handwriting, scandal, and political factions. Experience the playbooks, the people, and the spectacular fails, as courtiers tried to navigate the minefield of working for a boss who could shower you with riches or chop off your head. The exhibition features more than 60 objects from the Folger’s collection to demonstrate the “rules” for how to be a successful courtier. They show how historical and literary figures ranging from royal advisors to household staff used cunning, cutthroat, and creative means to acquire power and curry favor with the Tudor monarchs.

From the largest mammals to the smallest insects, the animal world has always inspired writers and illustrators. Since ancient times, humans have projected character traits onto animals. In medieval Europe, animals became subjects of a new literary genre of religious stories. At the same time, a growing interest in science made artists concerned with anatomic accuracy. See how illustrators approached the same creatures from different perspectives during this period of rich development. You’ll find early scientific drawings, illustrated fables, and drawing manuals from the 16th to 18th centuries—all rarely on view.

The International Spy Museum is proud to host this official exhibition of iconic vehicles, all of which have been used on screen by 007 and his many allies and adversaries. Although James Bond is a fictional character, he embodies the spirit of many real spies in this museum. These men and women from around the world have been inspired by more than six decades of the Bond film franchise and its enduring cultural impact. Bond In Motion is a celebration of 60 years of 007 vehicles. The exhibition features 17 iconic pieces from the EON Productions Archive and the Ian Fleming Foundation. Props, scale models and clips from the films are also on display along with cars, motorcycles, submarines and more from the Q Branch garage.

See standout works by Black artists from the past century, newly gifted to the Nation. For over four decades, Larry D. and Brenda A. Thompson have championed the work of Black artists. They have supported exhibitions and scholarship as they built a remarkable collection that spans 100 years of Black creativity in America. This exhibition celebrates the recent and promised gifts of 175 works from the Thompsons to the National Gallery—the largest group of objects by Black artists to enter our collection at one time. Explore more than 60 paintings, sculpture, drawings, and prints organized in sections around themes of music and abstraction, figuration and portraiture, civil rights and social politics, as well as landscape and transcultural connections and influences. Works range from a captivating portrait by Beauford Delaney and lyrical abstractions by Mildred Thompson to a towering allegorical woodcut by Alison Saar and an intricate sculpture of found objects by vanessa german. Enjoy works by renowned artists—Jacob Lawrence, Archibald Motley, and Kara Walker—and discover artists you may not yet know, such as Camille Billops, Vivian Browne, Moe Brooker, and Alonzo Davis.

Information Source: Mayor's Office of Veteran Affairs | eventbrite

You're invited to wind down on the water Thursday evenings with Water is Magic Kayak Series at Diamond Teague Park ! The Capitol Riverfront BID has partnered with Guest Services to offer an hour of paddling on the Anacostia River to residents, employees, and visitors at a discounted rate ( $10 - Register Ahead) . Single Kayaks and Double Kayaks are available for both time slots at 5:45 pm and 7:00 pm. Make sure to arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled time. Please fill out this waiver before attending! https://waiver.smartwaiver.com/w/605a4598f1ac6/web/?auto_tag=fh_id_274176941 Information Source: Capitol Riverfront BID | eventbrite

Have you ever tried to meet someone at a club and you couldn’t even hear yourself think? It’s practically impossible! At our speed dating event, you’ll not only be able to hear your own conversation but you’ll also get to talk face to face with many singles all in one evening. Start the night by checking in, grabbing a drink at the cash bar and mixing and mingling with other singles as they check in. As soon as everyone gets checked in, it’s time to speed date! We’ll seat one man across from one woman. Every few minutes we rotate the men to the next woman until everyone has met each other. A pencil and paper will be provided for you to take notes on whom you met. Once we’re done with the speed dating rotations you can feel free to stick around at the venue and continue the night! We’ll connect you to our dating system within 48 hours after the event so that you can send messages to anyone you met. We won’t release your personal information such as your last name or e-mail address- that is up to you to do that! Continue any conversations with anyone you had your eye on in a safe way. Check in is at 7:00 and the dating begins at 7:20. Please check in at 7:00 so you have a chance to mix and mingle before the dating begins. You will love this fast paced evening full of meeting singles and making new connections! Information Source: Professionals in the City | eventbrite

In Coded Justice , Stacey Abrams—trailblazing political leader, voting rights advocate, attorney, and entrepreneur—offers the next thriller in her #1 New York Times bestselling Avery Keene series . Avery, the former Supreme Court clerk, is now working as an internal investigator at a prestigious law firm in DC when a high-profile client, Camasca Enterprises, seeks her out and leads her down a dark rabbit hole into the dangerously evolving world of AI in the medical industry. Abrams will be in conversation with Dr. Carla Hayden , who served as the 14th Librarian of Congress from 2016 – 2025. Dr. Hayden was nominated to the position by President Obama and is the first woman and the first African American to have led the library. with Politics and Prose Bookstore Events at Sixth & I Click here for directions to our historic building. For details about accessible seating and entry, click here . Click here to review our event policies, security procedures, and food and beverage policies. Click here for step-by-step instructions to transfer your ticket to someone else. Click here for step-by-step instructions to transfer your in-person ticket to a virtual ticket. Information Source: Sixth & I: Talks | eventbrite

$17 Advance | $20 Day of Show Doors 7 PM | Show 8 PM (All ages) no refunds; a limited amount of tickets will be sold after doors open if availability permits - first come, first served — COOL HEAT COOL HEAT is the dream pop project of Chicago-based musician and photographer Eden Sierotnik. In 2024, he released his second full length album Abandon on Spirit Goth Records and subsequently went on his first tour. "Multi-faceted and effortlessly modern, the project’s name is apt; with every single track in his discography, Sierotnik proves with his highly meticulous, maximalist synth work that it is entirely possible to balance opposing ideas, sounds, and textures with finesse." - kid with a vinyl Music | Instagram | Twitter Computer Kill Computer Kill is a Baltimore-based band blending post-punk urgency with brooding electronic soundscapes. Formed in 2022, they’ve quickly carved out a space in the city’s underground scene and on the internet with tracks like “Always” and “Haunted". Known for intense, immersive live shows and a distinct sonic mood, Computer Kill continues to push the boundaries of darkwave and synth-driven rock. Music | Instagram | TikTok Pinky Lemon Pinky Lemon is an eclectic take on indie rock that fuses elements of shoegaze, pop, emo, and electronic music. "There are a lot of bands experimenting with shoegaze, but there are honestly none doing what Pinky Lemon is doing" — The Alternative. "Pinky Lemon is genre-bending at its finest," — District Fray Magazine Music | Instagram | Twitter DIME DIME is an alternative rock group from Miami, Florida. Since the release of their self-titled EP, they have amassed a strong following within the South Florida music scene. The EP can be described as a mix of pensive emotional turbulence with crushing wall-of-sound moments that leave you little choice but to linger within the self, and reflect on memories of a melancholic past. Music | Instagram Information Source: The Pocket | eventbrite

Ilan Bluestone Washington promises an unforgettable night of electrifying music and captivating beats at Soundcheck, nestled in the heart of Washington, DC. On July 25, 2025, at precisely 10:00 PM, this highly anticipated event will showcase the unparalleled talent of Ilan Bluestone, a renowned figure in the electronic music scene. With a ticket price set at $48 USD, attendees will experience a masterful blend of progressive trance and melodic rhythms, creating an atmosphere that resonates with both long-time fans and newcomers alike. Soundcheck, known for its state-of-the-art sound system and intimate setting, provides the perfect backdrop for an evening of immersive musical exploration. As anticipation builds, the Ilan Bluestone Washington event stands as a testament to the vibrant nightlife and cultural richness of the nation's capital, drawing music enthusiasts from near and far to witness a performance that is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Imagine a world without the freedom of expression. Stand-up comedy would be nothing but knock-knock jokes about fruit. (“Knock knock.” “Who’s there?” “Orange.” “Orange who?” “Orange you glad for our dear leader in all his flawless glory? Praise be!”) Now imagine journalism without the freedom of the press. Just the same recycled fluff over and over. ("Breaking news: the president won his own golf tournament today, and no one asked why he also just defunded public radio and banned the AP from the White House.") Grassroots Comedy has seen enough, and is stepping up to speak up. Join us for the Comedy Show for the Freedom of the Press, an evening of hilarious, thought-provoking stand-up from some of the best comedians in the Mid-Atlantic who moonlight as journalists, truth-seekers, and certified defenders of democracy (or at least defenders of laughing at absurdity). This special night of satire and storytelling will benefit our friends at the Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press , which provides legal representation, amicus curiae support, and other legal resources at no cost to protect First Amendment freedoms and the newsgathering rights of journalists across the country. They also run a 24/7 legal hotline to help journalists nationwide tackle everything from public records battles to arrests in the field. From broadcast journalists to documentary filmmakers to independent freelancers, journalists of all kinds can contact the Reporters Committee for assistance — no matter what legal obstacles they face. Come for the jokes. Stay for the First Amendment. Information Source: Grassroots Comedy | eventbrite

This inclusive service led by Rabbi Aaron and Sixth & I’s musicians blends contemporary and traditional elements for an experience that feels both familiar and fresh. 6:00 pm – Happy Hour 7:00 pm – Service 8:15 pm – Shabbat Dinner Service s at Sixth & I Click here for directions to our historic building. For details about accessible seating and entry, click here . Click here to review our service policies, security procedures, and food and beverage policies. Click here for step-by-step instructions to transfer your ticket to someone else.  Information Source: Sixth & I: Jewish Life and Social Events | eventbrite

July 25, 26 & 27, 2025 Set in the picturesque, rolling Litchfield Hills, the Litchfield Jazz Festival celebrates its 30th Anniversary this summer. That first line-up three decades ago would be the envy of any major festival today—Diana Krall, Christian McBride, Terence Blanchard, Russell Malone, Peter Bernstein, Ahmad Jamal, Renee Rosnes, JJ Johnson ... If you remember this or any of the wonderful festivals that followed, you won’t want to miss Litchfield Jazz Fest 2025! STATE OF THE ART PERFORMANCE HALL! - The Litchfield Jazz Festival is the public face of the non-profit Litchfield Performing Arts, Litchfield Jazz Camp is its heart. In 2019, we moved the Festival to the Frederick Gunn School, the summer home of Litchfield Jazz Camp. This year we welcome audiences to the Tisch Auditorium in the state-of-the-art, air-conditioned Thomas Perakos Performing Arts Center. Friday, July 25. Best Friend and Friday Patron ticket holders will enjoy music by top Litchfield Jazz Camp Combos, hors d'oeuvres, and fine French wines from Vandoren Vineyards, and libations from Litchfield Distillery. Gala tickets include the Fest opening concert starring pianist Emmet Cohen. Saturday July 26. Ticket options include Best Friends and Friends VIP packages with prime, reserved and general admission seating, all with perfect sight lines, in the air-conditioned Tisch Auditorium. Refreshments are available on-site for purchase. Sunday Jazz Brunch, July 27 . On the final day of the Festival you won’t want to miss our popular Sunday Jazz Brunch at Frederick Gunn School. Brunch tickets-- included in Best Friend packages -- may be purchased separately. Guests will have a rousing good time with a delicious buffet, beverages and amazing music! The Brunch sells out every year, so get your tickets early! THE LINEUP/SCHEDULE OF FESTIVAL EVENTS FRIDAY, JULY 25 Opening Night Gala 5:45 pm – Start your Festival in style at the opening night gala and support Litchfield Jazz Camp scholarships. Friday Evening Show 7:45pm - The Emmet Cohen Trio SATURDAY, JULY 26 3:00pm – The Matt Dwonzyk Sextet 4:45pm – Frank Vignola & Pasquale Grasso 6:30pm - Anat Cohen Quartetinho SUNDAY, JULY 27 12:00pm - 30th Anniversary Brunch with Champian Fulton Trio. To learn more and read Artist bios, visit our website: www.litchfieldjazzfest.com Ticket fees include a $2.00 donation to Litchfield Jazz Camp need-based scholarships Information Source: Litchfield Performing Arts, Inc. | eventbrite

Para Presents has assembled an all-star crew to celebrate 4 years in the Distrtict. Taking over all 3 floors of the legendary Flash, this lineup has a little something for everyone with flavors ranging from UKG, house, club, and bass. UK tastemaker and UKG revivalist Conducta leads the charge with a rare 4 hour performance in the legendary club room, while Brooklyn selector Swami Sound keeps the party going on the rooftop. Joining these two out of town legends is a substantial collection of some of the DMV's finest purveyors of beats, energy, and sonic enchantment. Information Source: Flash | eventbrite

$15 Advance | $18 Day of Show Doors 7 PM | Show 8 PM (All ages) no refunds; a limited amount of tickets will be sold after doors open if availability permits - first come, first served — Kaneb Andrews Kaneb Andrews is an indie-Americana musician based in Brooklyn, New York. A graduate of New York University's Songwriting program, he has played all over New York City, as well as up and down the West Coast. Some of his largest musical influences are Bob Dylan, Bruce Springsteen, and the 1975. He will be releasing a series of singles in 2025. Music | Instagram | Facebook Summer Fling Summer Fling is a very, very professional 7-member conglomerate or “band” hailing from Larchmont, NY, and NYC, led by psychotic frontman Eddie Kam. Comprised of recently graduated jazz musicians, Summer Fling discovered their unique sound by blending their jazz background with the funk/pop/rock music they love listening to. The Band's mission? To deliver an unforgettable live performance that will part the seas, cure the ill, and get everyone up singing and dancing! Music | Instagram | Facebook Younger Sister Younger Sister is a three-piece indie rock girl band from Washington D.C., delivering riot grrrl energy with brutally honest songwriting. Since forming in 2024, they've played house shows and local venues, building a reputation for their raw, high-energy performances. Their debut EP is set for release in 2025. Instagram Information Source: The Pocket | eventbrite