The historic opening of the National Museum of African American History and Culture, free museum access and festivals are sure to draw massive crowds to the city all weekend long.
National Museum of African American History and Culture Opening
The much anticipated opening of the National Museum of African American History and Culture Opening has finally arrived. The museum officially opens Saturday at 1 p.m., but the historic celebration takes place all weekend long. Freedom Sounds: A Community Celebration will take place Friday through Sunday on the Washington Monument Grounds. This event features various performances, including storytelling, spoken word, musical guests and more.
When: All weekend long. Freedom Sounds: A Community Celebration is 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. each day.
Museum hours: 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday, 7 a.m. to midnight on Sunday. Check their schedule for extended hours next week.
Where: 1400 Constitution Avenue NW
Metro: Federal Triangle, Orange/Silver/Blue Line
Library of Congress National Book Festival
The Washington Convention Center will host the annual National Book Festival this Saturday. Bookworms can hear from over 120 authors and explore different themed programs and panels, such as a poetry slam and a discussion on mystery novels. Admission to all events is free, but you must reserve tickets in advance if you want to see Stephen King kick off the festivities.
When: Sept. 24, 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Where: 801 Mount Vernon Place NW
Metro: Mt Vernon Sq 7th St-Convention Center, Green/Yellow Line
Anyone with an interest in healthy eating and environmentally conscious living should head to Yards Park this Saturday for a free vegan and vegetarian food festival, hosted by Compassion over Killing. Try food from over 130 vendors, check out the beer garden, and enjoy live music and cooking demonstrations. The first 1,000 visitors receive a free tote bag with plenty of samples, so be sure to arrive early.
When: Sept. 24, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Where: 1st Street SE and North Street SE
Metro: Navy Yard, Green Line
Smithsonian Magazine is offering the unique opportunity to explore many paid museums across the country for free on Saturday. Participating museums in D.C. include the National Building Museum, the National Museum of Women in the Arts, the Newseum and more. Just go online and print out a ticket for admission to any of these spots.
When: Sept. 24
Where: Various museums around DC
Metro: Varies
What better way to spend your Saturday night than at an overnight arts festival? This year’s festival focuses specifically on local artists and takes place in private and public spaces across seven neighborhoods, including at the Washington College of Law’s Capital Atrium. Various forms of art are being featured, such as photography, fashion, dance, theater and more. Visit the website for more information on participating artists and locations.
When: Sept. 24, 7 p.m. to 3 a.m.
Where: Various locations
Metro: Varies
In celebration of Turkish Heritage Month, the 11th Annual DC Turkish Festival will take place this Sunday. Stop by and sample authentic Turkish food and coffee, watch live folk dance performances, wander through the Turkish Bazaar and much more. This all-day festival is the perfect opportunity to explore Turkey’s food, art and culture along with the thousands of expected attendees.
When: Sept. 25, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Where: Pennsylvania Avenue NW between 12th and 14th Streets NW
Metro: Metro Center, Red Line
