TGIF!! I’m off to Atlantic City for a weekend of Phish fun but for those of you who are in town, check out our weekend picks and don’t forget that lovable Dad or Grandfather in your life on Sunday! Cheerio! And, as always, email me your picks or events at [email protected].
Friday
Pacifico Cantina – kick the weekend off right with a visit to this brand new (opened just this week!) tex/mex eatery/bar on Barracks Row. Bonus: a roof deck where you can sip your margs and chat under the stars.
The Beach Boys – celebrating their 50th anniversary, the band will likely be showcasing everything from Little Honda to Kokoma. Check them out at Merriweather and take your Dad if he’s a fan for a pre-Father’s Day outing.
Red Revisited – back in the day (1996-2005) before DC became a VIPish nightclub city, there was a dance club that was known for its non-pretentious, come-dance-as-you-are vibe, DJs spinning a mix of house, funk and disco and a fab soundsystem. Red was THE place to go and I may cry about missing this tribute party at U Street Music Hall with former Red resident DJs Sam “The Man” Burns, Doug “95 North” Smith, Thomas Blondet, Master Key and Kostas. After all, it was the venue I could be found at most weekends til dawn.
Sharam – known as one half of the Grammy-winning DC duo Deep Dish, Sharam will be back in town at Josephine to showcase his famous house beats. Be sure to get tickets in advance and arrive early – it will be a sellout.
Saturday
Rock of Ages – you know you want to see Tom Cruise sing and Julianne Hough shake it. So, stop pretending and head to the theaters to catch this music movie based on the Broadway musical.
War of 1812 Bicentennial – if you aren’t living under a rock, you may have heard it’s the 200-year celebration of the War of 1812. Why not have a history afternoon and check out the portraits of American, British and Native American leaders, pirates and slaves on display at the National Portrait Gallery that tell the story of this pivotal war. Or, head to Baltimore to see the “Sailabration” of ships sailing into the Baltimore harbor.
Def Jam 25 – head to the Lincoln Theatre for this celebration of “Def Jam 25”, a book documenting the music label, Def Jam’s first 25 years. In addition to showcasing a closing set from Def Jam legends, EPMD, the tribute will recognize MCA of the Beastie Boys. $35.
Sunday – Father’s Day!
Chocolate, Bacon, Beer Brunch – zomg, the minute I saw this brunch at Co Co Sala, I knew it would be a brunch many Dads would enjoy. What man doesn’t love bacon and beer – and chocolate? That also makes the girls croon. Take the whole family. $36 per person.
2100 Prime – if your Dad prefers a more refined brunch, take him to this elegant establishment for a hearty brunch that will surely kick off a great Father’s Day. Swing by the Phillips Collection afterwards for an artful afternoon.
2nd Annual Belgian Beer Festival – if the Dad in your life loves Belgian beers, take him to Et Voila for the $4 Belgian beer happy hour from 5-7pm.
Eric Lindell – be sure to check out this talented New Orleans-based singer-songwriter at The Hamilton. He’s amazing!