This weekend is all about embracing creativity, community, and reconnecting with one’s self, coupled with events like a creative wellness series, Arts and Culture Fest, and the unique opportunity to explore the legacy of Black arts in D.C.
Whether in the mood for something chill or exhilarating, here’s a guide to all the fun around the DMV this weekend, and remember to check out even more happenings in the Washington Informer Calendar.
Thursday, Aug. 21
Art and Memory: Telling Your Story Through Creativity
10:15 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. | Free
Anacostia Community Museum, 1901 Fort Place SE, Washington, D.C., 20020
Celebrate the power of storytelling and creativity with the Anacostia Community Museum, hosting “A Bold and Beautiful Vision: A Century of Black Arts Education.”
Using engaging stories, vibrant exhibits, and hands-on art activities, children will explore the legacy of Black arts education in Washington, D.C., building curiosity, confidence, and a lifelong appreciation for artistic expression.
Plus, discover how D.C.’s most influential artists and educators wove their family, community, and personal experiences into their work. Then, guests can create meaningful pieces incorporating portraits or photos from their own life, connecting their story to the legacy of Black arts education.
How to Survive and Thrive After a Job Loss
6 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. | $5+
Joe’s Movement Emporium, 3309 Bunker Hill Road Mt. Rainier, MD 20712
Seeking the motivation, optimism, energy and focus to search for new employment?
With “FLOURISH: A Creative Wellness Series,” learn strategies to overcome negative emotions and regain energy, focus, confidence and perseverance.
FLOURISH is more than just a wellness series—it’s a space where creativity and care intersect, fostering resilience in uncertain times. This three-part workshop aims to stimulate the creative economy by offering activities, projects, and workshops led by wellness facilitators, artists, and teachers.
Get back on track and aim for employment that leads to success and satisfaction!
Workshop passes are on a pay-what-you-wish scale, starting at $5, with a goal to support a larger audience, especially those who have lost employment, in accessing wellness.
Friday, Aug. 22
GOODProjects Back-to-School Carnival
4 p.m. – 8 p.m. | Free
King-Greenleaf Recreation Center, 201 N Street SW, Washington, D.C. 20024
Let’s kick off the school year with a celebration!
Presented by GOODProjects and community partners, this free back-to-school carnival is packed with fun for the whole family, bringing joy, supplies, and community love all to one place.
In addition to free backpacks and school supplies, attendees can enjoy engaging in games, face painting and kids activities, while basking in live music, DJs and more giveaways, including city resources.
Whether a parent, student, or resident of Southwest, come through and get ready for a positive school year surrounded by support and good energy!
Experience South Africa Through Music
7:30 p.m. | Free
Reston Town Center, 11900 Market Street, Reston, VA 20190
Join Sankofa Foundation, Inc., for a spectacular live performance featuring America’s Got Talent 2023 alumni group, Mzansi Youth Choir.
The event is part of the inaugural KidzAFest Cultural Exchange, running Aug. 17-31 and also featuring performances by Ugandan dance team Ghetto Kids.
With a means to foster meaningful human connection and inspire youth engagement in the arts, the evening of cultural celebration promises a first-hand look at the rhythm and harmony of the South African spirit.
Saturday, Aug. 23
District of Creativity: Arts and Culture Fest
Noon | Free
Oxon Run Park Amphitheater, 1200 Mississippi Avenue SE, Washington, D.C., 20032
District of Creativity: Arts & Culture Fest is a vibrant, one-day celebration transforming the Oxon Run Park amphitheater into a dynamic hub for artistic expression, cultural pride, and community connection East of the River.
The festival creates equitable opportunities for local artists and youth to showcase their talents, engage with neighbors, and spark meaningful dialogue—while also uplifting small businesses and vital community resources.
As funding for arts programming continues to decline across the District, communities east of the Anacostia River are facing an urgent need for sustained cultural investment. District of Creativity responds to this gap—providing a joyful, empowering space where creativity, community, and opportunity converge.
Event highlights include: live entertainment and painting, fashion, vendors, and networking.
The National Hip-Hop Honors 2025
Noon | $55.20
Woolly Mammoth, 641 D Street NW, Washington, D.C., 20004
Join in the celebration as The National Hip-Hop Museum (NHHM) honors Kid ‘n Play, Jungle Brothers, DJ Red Alert, Dana Dane, Kwamé, Sweet Tee and DJ Hollywood at this grand induction ceremony/concert event, which will include live honoree canvases.
From noon to 4 p.m., Virginia-born rapper Big Pooh and Detroit-based producer Apollo Brown will host The Beat Konductaz Beat Battle, as Dj DVS live-crafts a cake into a hip-hop edible creation.
Throughout the day, attendees can visit the interactive exhibit of rare hip-hop artifacts from NHHM’s vast collection, such as vintage posters, one-of-a-kind stage worn jackets, The Hip-Hop Declaration of Peace by KRS-ONE, and Gold and Platinum RIAA Awards, with each item possessing a scannable QR code that unlocks rare and unique hip-hop videos.
Additionally, browse through a pop-up experience with specialty items, including limited edition posters, t-shirts, hats, rare action figures and trading cards.
Don’t miss out on a chance to learn, explore and embrace the genre that’s shaped history!
Sunday, Aug. 24
Rooftop Yogalates: A Sunday Kind of Love
11 a.m. | $28.52
Washington Marriott Capitol Hill Terrace, 175 L St NE, Washington, D.C., 20002
This feel-good, low-impact workout combines the mindfulness of yoga with core-strengthening elements of Pilates–amplified by the views of D.C.
Set to popular hip-hop and R&B sounds, the journey begins with gentle breathwork and body awareness before transitioning into rhythmic, flowing movements designed to enhance posture, core strength, and stability.
There will be wellness vendors showcasing products to maintain wellness post-session, along with an opportunity to connect with other like-minded individuals after the class.
All attendees have to do is bring their own mat and enjoy the rest–from pilates rings/resistance bands to the good vibes, communal experience, and great views every Sunday needs!
Source: Washington Informer
