There’s a pretty big game this weekend. Well, pretty big if you’re a Steelers fan (like me) or a Cardinals fan.
It seems most people, however, become fans of the National Football League for at least one night — if not for the teams, then for the commercials and the halftime show.
Most people will head to a Super Bowl party of some kind, but if you’re looking to watch the game with a few of your friends and leave the cooking (and the cleanup) to somebody else, there is no shortage of options.
One package that grabbed my attention was the National Pastime Superbowl Block Party Buffet at the Gaylord National. For $39 per person, you’ll get to check out the game from the 30-foot HDTV screen, register for door prizes and giveaways and an extensive tailgating menu that includes hot wings, barbecued chicken and Black Angus sliders. The seats for this event are first-come, first-served, so get there well in advance of kickoff. For more information, visit gaylordnational.com or call 301-965-2000.
For the other sports fans: If you feel like taking in a little hockey before the Super Bowl, head to the Verizon Center Sunday afternoon as the Capitals take on the Ottawa Senators. It’s Kids Club Day, so all Kids Club members will receive a Caps Quiz Calculator. For tickets, visit capitals.nhl.com.
The Los Angeles Clippers come to town Saturday for an 8 p.m. tip-off against the Wizards. Visit washingtonwizards for tickets or more info.
Visit Japan without leaving town: Who wouldn’t like an exotic getaway without the price tag of an exotic getaway? The Freer Gallery, part of the Smithsonian Institution, has amassed an exceptional collection of paintings, sculptures, prints and more that can teach visitors about the culture and history of Japan. The tour starts at 2:15 p.m. Saturday and is free. For information, call 202-357-2700 or visit asia.si.edu.
The Art of Rhyme: In the documentary “Freestyle: The Art of Rhyme,” filmmakers explore the early roots of underground hip-hop and improvisational rap. This documentary has generated a good bit of buzz, and you have the chance to see it Saturday afternoon for free. It will be shown at 2 p.m. at The Historical Society of Washington, D.C. Reservations are required. Call 202-383-1800 or visit historydc.org for more information.
See it before it’s gone: The Flight of the Lawnchair Man (The Lab at Convergence in Arlington, $17, 703-339-0444); Winter Carnival of New Works (H Street Playhouse, $15, 800-494-8497); and Arms and the Man (Silver Spring Stage, $18, matinee $15, 301-593-6036).
