DC Record Fair at the Fillmore, Sunday
Record-themed events have grown in popularity the last few years, with Record Store Day becoming an annual national tradition. Locally, the D.C. Record Fair holds the vinyl candle proudly.
The DC Record Fair takes place three times a year, and is now in its fourth year. On Sunday, the next iteration of the event will be held at the Fillmore in Silver Spring, featuring 40 vendors from up and down the East Coast.
“Vinyl is the thing that’s really moving,” said Jon Meyers, one of the record fair organizers.
Meyers’ love affair with vinyl runs deep. He worked at a record story as a young man, and saw the evolution from records to CDs. Now 45, he’s witnessing the resurgence of vinyl while downloads also grow.
“It all comes back to a tangibility factor,” said Meyers. He cites consumers’ desire to actually hold something in their hands instead of clicking and dragging as a reason for vinyl’s popularity.
Meyers is the founder and creative director of the Vinyl District (thevinyldistrict.com). He started the blog in 2007, covering vinyl-related topics in the area. The site has grown now to cover more than 15 cities across the nation, and even offers a free smart phone record store finder app.
In addition to dozens of vendors, the DC Record Fair will feature DJs, crafts, food and drink and more. There promises to be something for everyone.
“Out of 40 [vendors], you’ll have a really diverse selection,” Meyers said.
When: Early bird is from 11 a.m. to noon, general admission from noon to 5 p.m., Sunday
Info: Early bird admission is $5, general admission $2; fillmoresilverspring.com.
The Beach Boys at Merriweather Post Pavilion, Friday
Using the term “boys” for a group of men in their 60s and 70s might be a misnomer. Nevertheless, one of the great American bands is back to catch one last wave. Plus they have a new album out.
When: 6:30 p.m. doors Friday
Info: $45 to $125; merriweathermusic.com
Beer, Bourbon & Barbecue Festival at National Harbor, Friday and Saturday
This annual event at National Harbor with the highly descriptive title that needs little explanation returns just in time for Father’s Day weekend. And what dad doesn’t like a little beer, bourbon and/or barbecue?
When: VIP times vary, regular session is from 2 to 6 p.m. Saturday
Info: There are various VIP level tickets, but general admission on Saturday is $35; beerandbourbon.com
Lowcountry Boil Outdoor Block Party at Evening Star Cafe, Saturday
Chef Jim Jeffords prepares a Lowcountry Boil, just like they do it in Georgia. Enjoy crawfish, corn, shrimp, half-smokes and more, as well as Terrapin beer and live music.
When: 1 to 5 p.m. Saturday
Info: Event is free to attend, tickets on sale for food and drink; eveningstarcafe.net
Ladies Only Intro to DJing at the Black Cat, Sunday
Have you ever wanted to experience what it takes to get behind the turntables? At this ladies only workshop, learn the fundamentals of beats, equipment, mixing, booking gigs, throwing parties and more. Led by the First Ladies DJ Collective, with K La Rock and Junebullet. No experience necessary. Backstage.
When: 8 p.m. Sunday
Info: $7; blackcatdc.com
