Hey there! Happy 236th to the best city in the world! The Residence Act, which picked a site along the banks of the Potomac River, was signed into law by George Washington on this date in 1790. Read more over at the Library of Congress. (Of course DC is a Cancer)
Do you dream of attending a party where most people are reading a book? Then the Folger’s Reading Party, this Friday, July 17, is probably your (and my) speed. More info here.
Is there anything better than a morning walk? How about a Saturday morning walk spent spotting birds at the Arboretum led by the DC Bird Alliance? Click here to sign up.
More of an indoor birdie? Learn how to make Baklava at Hill’s Kitchen. Get your tickets here.
The World Cup Final is this Sunday– why not go watch the final match at the Wharf? The watch party starts at 1 p.m. More info here.
July 19 is also National Ice Cream day! Make sure you catch something delicious at a local parlor. By the way, Carvel is doing a cute contest where they’ll “save” 500 victims from disappointing desserts. Through July 24, submit your “Dessert Disaster” to their website to win. More info here.
On Thursday, July 23, at 6:30 p.m. go to Union Station and enjoy American Music Through the Decades. The 1908 Bar will be open for libations, both alcoholic and non-. RSVP and more info here.
Special auction for Venezuela
From July 20 through August 20, you can bid online on artwork from local artists and support the VACC Foundation Earthquake Relief Fund. Click here for the bidding platform and here to learn more about the relief efforts after the catastrophic double earthquake on June 24, 2026. There will be a closing reception on August 20. Click here for more details.
SUMMER MOVIES
The summer outdoor movie lineup is up at the Library of Congress and the movies start on July 9. Buy some stock on OFF! Deep Woods and let’s go. Check it out here.
Sunset Movies at the Wharf goes through September 2. If you’re looking for a fun Wednesday plan, you can do no better! Check it out here.
OFF-HILL
Do you want to help preserve Hains Point for the people? Join WABA for the Hains Point Hoopla this Saturday– bring a picnic and bring your joy! Click here for more info and RSVP.
Want a beautiful, historic AND AIR CONDITIONED large space to enjoy with the family? Well, the Building Museum has done it again: THE PLAYGROUND is ready for you to play! Get tickets here or keep an eye out for a free event as part of Ward 6 week, which is coming up July 27- to August 2.
PLAN AHEAD
Celebrate National Ice Cream Day with local favorite Dolcezza! All locations except the Hirshhorn one will be offering free scoops of Chocotorta from 5-7 p.m. on July 21. Yum yum yum!
And on July 25, join Hill Family Biking as they travel to Yards Park. There will be free Ice Cream Jubilee treats for all! More info and RSVP.
Or you can dream big with the Free DC project during their dreaming session. Sign up here and learn more about Free DC.
Or you can celebrate America’s 250th and Libraries (!!) at the National Museum of American History, starting at 10 a.m. More info here.
On July 26, celebrate National Tequila Day with Dirty Habit and DSTRKT? Click here to learn more and sign up.
There will be a very special crossover episode of Live! At the Library on Thursday, July 30, with the National Museum of Women in the Arts, exploring and celebrating Mid-Atlantic women book artists. Learn more here and secure your tickets here.
Do you love watching soccer and can’t get enough? Then get tickets for the DC Power FC season opener versus the Carolina Ascent on August 15. Tickets here.
Summer restaurant week is coming, August 24-30. More info here.
The DC Jazz Festival has tickets on sale already! Mark your calendar for August 30 and 31 at the Wharf! Get your tickets here.
The Anacostia Youth Media Festival happens in September but they are already accepting entries. Click here and check it all out.
Get excited! The Southeast Library reopens on Thursday, September 10!