The last official weekend of summer (the first official day of autumn isn’t until Sept. 21, and we’re riding out summer as long as we can) is upon us, but that doesn’t mean things are slowing down in the Washington area. In fact, things are just kicking into high gear.
1. For the Nationals fans among us, you’ve still got plenty of time to take in an evening at the ballpark. The Nats have a home stand this weekend against the San Diego Padres packed with activities for the entire family. Friday night is Bang, Zoom Go the Fireworks and must-have Camouflage Floppy Hat night, and Saturday brings the latest installment of Saturday Night Movies with “Field of Dreams” on the big screen after the game. For tickets, call 888-632-6287 or visit nationals.com. Oh, and don’t forget — the Redskins are at home again Sunday for a 1 p.m. date with the unbeaten Arizona Cardinals.
2. If you’re looking to catch a show this weekend, Round House Theatre in Bethesda has the opening weekend of “How the Garcia Girls Lost Their Accents.” This Karen Zacarias adaptation of Julia Alvarez’s acclaimed best-selling novel focuses on four sisters who leave the Dominican Republic to move to New York in 1960. They find live in the U.S. quite different than the world they knew and the move forces them to make some major changes. The play is staged by producing artistic director Blake Robinson. Looking for dinner before? Our reviewer recently checked out at Redwood in Bethesda and enjoyed it. For more information, visit redwoodbethesda.com.
3. At Hemphill Fine Arts, check out “Christenberry” this weekend. This collection of about 30 paintings, sculptures and photographs by Alabama-born William Christenberry looks at “the haunted history and rough beauty of rural Alabama with a unique and authentic vision.” The show runs through Oct. 25, and you can view the exhibit for free.
4. Alright, crimesolvers. Get your best clue-finding hats on and head to the Kennedy Center for some “Shear Madness.” Shear Madness is a long-running comedy whodunit where audiences solve the crime. It’s set in present-day Georgetown, so it will appeal to locals and visitors alike. The best part? Because a lot of improv is involved with each performance, you don’t get the same show twice. There are shows all weekend, so visit kennedy-center.org to find one that fits your schedule.
5. And last, but certainly not least, it’s time for the Smithsonian Trunk Show. About 30 artists will be on hand at the National Building Museum Saturday and Sunday to present and sell their wares. Don’t feel guilty about spending that cash — all of the proceeds from the sale go to benefit the Smithsonian’s education, research and community outreach programs. Jewelry you can feel good about wearing? Count me in.
For even more weekend goings-on, check out this week’s list — we’ve got some Brain Food, a movie pick and a few other hot gatherings. Not seeing where you’re heading? E-mail [email protected] to let us know.
