DC: Thanksgiving for the “Slightly Untraditional”: Holiday Happenings

So, you are a native to the DC area and your family is coming here or is already living here, or you have decided to stay local and keep it low-key. Or, maybe you don’t see the point of the whole Thanksgiving madness. No matter, there are still ways that you can amuse yourself during a time when it seems as if the nation has been hypnotized by visions of that infamous giant bird:

THE MAIN EVENT DILEMMA———————————————————

1. “I’m not cooking this year.” Whether you said it or your loved one did, and you still want the trimmings, or at least a place that is open during Thanksgiving, check this list out. At post time, there were still said to be a lot of reservations spots available. LINK: http://www.opentable.com/promo.aspx?pid=1&m=9

2. Volunteer? Want to give back to the community for thanksgiving, instead of sitting/gorging/sleeping? try looking at http://www.volunteermatch.org/

PRE-THANKSGIVING FESTIVITIES…... Day off on Thursday? well, then why not get into something Wednesday night? Check out “Acess Granted”..A pre-thanksgiving day affair at Lounge 201 in Capitol Hill.

Also check out the much-buzzed about “Master of the Mix” party at Tabaq. Each week until the series finale of the new reality show “Master of the Mix” (BET/Centric), LSP (lilsoso.com) presents viewing parties until just one DJ remains. DJ Stylus, “The Vibe Conductor” will be in the mix with special guest DJs and various community partners showing their support for DJ culture.

POST-MEAL OPTIONS:—————————————————————–

After the endless bowl games and before you line up for at Walmart for the crazy Black Friday sales, you can (literally!) shake off that turkey coma at a number of shows/events. My favorites;

1. 6 pm Thanksgiving evening- V. Rich performs free at Kennedy Center’s Millenium Stage. One of the hottest emerging artists on the neo-soul scene today, V. Rich has performed with a number of local and national artists including Navasha of the underground giant “Fertile Ground”, Grammy – nominated performers Wayna and Raheem De Vaughn, and Grammy award winners Mya and Lauryn Hill. Masterful on keys, with a voice reminiscent of Maxwell and musicianship influenced by the likes of Prince and Stevie Wonder, V. Rich meshes neo-soul, R&B, and hip-hop. LINK: http://fusicology.com/event/vrich

2. 9 pm …After party at “Soul Baby” the Soul Baby event at Recess nightclub is an annual event that has changed locations, but not its purpose; to expose an audience to the skill of a spotlighted DJ and his/her craft, and to give people a meeting place for friends who may not have seen each other in a long time to fellowship, dance, and relax. DJ Jahsonic will provide the musical backdrop for the evening, Vintage Hip-Hop, Classic Soul, Break Beats, & Reggae. Free entry all night. LINK: http://fusicology.com/event/soulbaby

DC: Skip the line w/CityLife, have a Sminrnoff and music night…

I was recently talking to Gerald Watson of CityLife (http://www.citylifecard.com/) who is digital promotions partner for the Washington, DC viewing parties for Smirnoff’s new DJ based
reality show called “Master of the Mix.” Lil SoSo (http://www.Lilsoso.com) Productions has partnered with CityLife to launch the digital CityLifecard in the DC metro area. The latest innovation when it comes to DC nightlife, a digital card that allows nightlife enthusiasts to download a digital card to their smart phone that allows them to gain VIP access and specials deals at DC metro nightlife hot spots featuring the private screening previews of Smirnoff’s Master of the Mix. LSP has partnered with Smirnoff to launch a series of events in the DC area previewing Smirnoff’s new Master of the Mix television series. Yes, Smirnoff is launching a new reality TV show, Master of the Mix, which will host multiple DJ stints in cities around the world to determine the ultimate Mix Master. The programmed, hosted by Grammy nominated producer/DJ, Just Blaze, and DJ Kid Capri, will pit the globe’s leading spinners against each other in head-to-head contests. LSP will be hosting preview events in the DC area at some of the hottest spots in the city and will be utilizing a customized CityLife digital card as a VIP pass to the events. Their will be a limited amount of downloadable digital cards available from http://www.citylifecard.com for each event. The promo code to download the card will be circulated through social networks, e-blast, and online media. (source: press release)

You Might As Well Go Out, DC. Events Sept. 12-19

1. Rock and Roll Hotel Goes Hip Hop:

2. H Street Festival.
H Street is getting closer to being a vibrant, exciting neighborhood, as it was during the early part of the 20th century. Come check out the new spots that have opened up in recent months, and of course check out the spectacular Atlas Theater, with shoes in genres like Jazz, Dance, Hip Hop, Movies, and more.

3. Hispanic Heritage month is in full swing. Tons of public and private events are going on too, but here’s a big one: (afi.com) Now in its 21st year, the AFI Latin American Film Festival showcases the best filmmaking from Latin America and, with the inclusion of films from Spain and Portugal, celebrates Ibero-American cultural connections. This year’s selection of over thirty films includes multiple award-winners, international festival favorites, local box-office hits and debut works by promising new talents.Tickets: http://www.afi.com/silver/new/
Look for this year’s festival guide inside the Montgomery County Gazette on September 15 and the Washington Post on September 17!

4. CBC Events: Well, there are tons of these as well, I’d recommend the National Black Law Student Association Alumni Mix and Mingle for something kind of low key and in the spirit of what CBC week is supposed to be about, networking and fellowship. Alumni Mix & Mingle
Saturday, September 18, 2010
5:00 pm- 7:00 pm
The Dupont Hotel
Glover Park
1500 New Hampshire Avenue, NW
Washington, D.C. 20036

5.Not into late night CBC partying? Can’t afford workshop registration fees? Well, you can still participate; Free Screenings; Free Screening of two Films hosted by CBCF & DCCAH followed by Panel Discussion SAT, Sept 18th 1:30pm – 3:30pm, Free, RSVP Required

Congressional Black Caucus Foundation Film Series
Free Screening of Money Matters and A Century in Song: A History of The Howard Theater
followed by a Panel Discussion
Saturday, September 18th
1:30pm – 3:30pm
Free, RSVP Requested
RSVP to Zoma.Wallace@dc.gov
Please register before 5:00pm this Friday
Money Matters, winner of the Urbanworld VIBE Film Festival Screenplay Competition, tracks the narrative of a 14 year-old biracial girl in Washington, DC as she tries to negotiate her way through the challenges of youth, the inner city, a single-mother home, and faith.
A Century in Song, a Howard Theatre documentary, recounts the glory and desertion of the legendary theatre in DC, which was graced by the greatest names in African American entertainment for seven decades, including Edward Kennedy “Duke” Ellington, Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, Diana Ross & the Supremes, Redd Foxx, “Moms” Mabley, Bill “Bojangles” Robinson, Marvin Gaye, Smokey Robinson and Roberta Flack.

6. BILAL in concert after years…Bilal rocks the DMV this weekend at the Birchmere. The “twitteratti” have spoken, and if the CD is as phenom as everyone is saying then I’m in for a treat once I get back on I tunes and pick that bad boy up (Airtight’s Revenge)Bilal, Sunday Sept. 19 , Time: 7:30 PM- 10:30 pm at Birchmere Music Hall, info; http://fuse.ms/bWafMV

7. Latin Fest at National Zoo (source; washingtonpost.com)Already a lively place to spend a Sunday, the National Zoo is going to be especially festive this weekend during its annual celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month. Live music and dance performances will take place throughout the day, including Bolivian dance by the troupe Alma Boliviana and Latin jazz by Rudy Gonzalez y Su Lokura. Zookeepers will offer introductions to animals of Latin American origin, including chinchillas and piranhas, while zoo scientists discuss research they’ve conducted in those countries. Meanwhile, a makeshift marketplace will be open all day with crafts for sale, from scarves and jewelry to sculptures and drums. And after working up an appetite strolling the grounds, visitors can sample culinary delights from Latin America.

8. Free Simulcast at Nationals Stadium: Reserve your seats or go as a walk-in. Luckily the weather will copperate. Hey, if this is your one and only time to see an opera, why not do it in a comfortable place? Opera in the Outfield: (source: NBCWASHINGTON.COM) Usually Nationals Park is all about the all-American pastime: beer, hot dogs and the occasional Nyjer Morgan temper tantrum. But this weekend, a bit of sophistication will join the lineup.
Opera in the Outfield returns for its third annual simulcast at Nat Park, this Sunday, Sept. 19. Catch the Washington National Opera and Director Placido Domingo’s performance of Giuseppe Verdi’s “A Masked Ball” on the outfield’s big screen.

It’s a casual alternative to the traditional opera experience, where T-shirts and lawn chairs replace the tuxedos and balconies. Seats in the outfield are on a first-come-first-served basis, but seating in a VIP area can be reserved here. And the best part is that it’s free entertainment. You can also expect prize drawings and a family fun zone for the kids.

Opera in the Outfield gets started at 2 p.m. on Sunday, with gates opening at noon. link; http://www.dc-opera.org/

DC Events: In town? Don’t frown…More for you to do, in between BBQ food gorging, etc.

1. Maryland Rennaissance festival I know what you’re thinking…But yeah I had a ball last time I went. And a gigantic, flinstones like turkey leg. And I really did wish I had a costume. If you are a beer drinker you’ll be in heaven at this festival. I am not, but they had wines and also some interesting performances, vendors, and more fattening food than I care to think about. This is no small festival, we’re talking acres.. http://www.rennfest.com/ Festival Schedule for 2010
August: 28, 29 September: 4, 5, 6, 11, 12, 18, 19, 25, 26 October:2, 3, 9, 10, 16, 17, 23 & 24 Open from 10:00am – 7:00pm.

2. Sidamo Coffee & Tea An Ethiopian Blend of Java and Tradition (from WashPO) You’re sick of the standard Starbucks. Caribou Coffee just isn’t strong enough, and Dunkin’ Donuts . . . well, you’re looking for something a little hipper. How about a new coffee experience this weekend — one with a little shot of culture? Every Sunday at 2, Sidamo Coffee & Tea on H Street NE presents a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony. There wasn’t an empty seat in Sidamo on a recent Sunday. Sit by the door for the best view of the ceremony. Info: http://www.sidamocoffeeandtea.com/

3. (sources: Atlas/examiner)Last movie in the series this summer!!! The Wiz@ Atlas Theater—Sorry, just the movie, not the show, but its only $6. This movie is perfect for the big MJ fans, or those who love classic movies and musicals. The Atlas Performing Arts Center will be screening three different film series this summer which will surely have something for everyone. The Summer Film Series will run from June 17-September 4, 2010. Every week will feature different films in all three of the series. Where: Paul Sprenger Theatre, Atlas Performing Arts Center, 1333 H St. NE When: 5 p.m. Saturday. Info: Limit four tickets to show; 202-399-79938; atlasarts.org. Read more at the Washington Examiner: http://www.washingtonexaminer.com/lifestyle/102007183.html#ixzz0yTmdNDkQ

4. (source examiner.com) KanKouran West African Dance Company: “Circle of Praise: Blessings!” Part of the KanKouran West African Dance Company 27th annual conference. Where: Lisner Auditorium, 730 21st St., NW. When: 8 p.m. Saturday Info: $25 to $30; 202-994-6800; lisner.org

5. (source examiner.com) Maryland State Fair: Where else could you find Justin Bieber headlining a weekend filled with pig racing and chainsaw carving? Entertainment, food and more. Where: Maryland State Fairgrounds, 2200 York Road, Timonium When: Through Monday Info: 410-252-0200; marylandstatefair.com

6. Ninth Annual Page to Stage Festival: More than 40 productions of plays and musicals being developed by local, regional and national playwright, librettists and composers. Where: The Kennedy Center, 2700 F St. NW When: 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday to Monday Info: Free; 202-467-400; kennedy-center.org. Read more at the Washington Examiner: http://www.washingtonexaminer.com/lifestyle/102007183.html#ixzz0yTtz1Xbl

7. (fusicology.com) Don’t miss the return of Soul Trumpeter Lin Rountree to the famed Blues Alley in Washington DC, backed by one of the hottest bands on the east coast “PHAZE II” with special guest, International Soul Recording Artist Gloria Ry’ann fresh off tour with R&B Sensation Leela James. Two shows 8:00 and 10:00 pm. Sunday September 05, 20108:00 pm – 11:30 pm, Cover: $20.00 Direct Link: http://fusicology.com/event/?event_id=34578
Short URL: http://fuse.ms/c2MhGU

In town, but not in the house….A few Labor Day weekend events (more to come)

Yeah, you aren’t going anywhere for Labor Day. I know, it’s kind of pathetic, but it doesn’t mean you can’t have fun just like everyone else. don’t forget, some people actually come HERE for Labor Day. Well, DC-bound or staying home people, this is for you:

1. MoneyTown at Little Miss Whisky’s Golden Dollar(funk, soul, afrobeat, bougaloo)
(source: DC SOUL RECRODINGS) Moneytown is every 1st Friday at Little Miss Whiskey’s Golden Dollar (1104 H Street NE Washington DC). Fantastic sound system, nice dance floor, Southern BBQ

2. Watch late (real late) movies at this regular after-hours event in DC. These are movies of any kind, chosen by the audience. Sunday September 5, 2010 and every 1st Sunday 2:30 am – 6:30 am Cover: donation-based
Short URL: http://fuse.ms/8YxcZU
Venue URL: http://www.bloombars.com
RSVP Link: http://www.facebook.com/

3. Hmmm…This looks fun, i don’t know how he’s going to be playing these back to back, but DJ Dredd will work it out.. DJ Dredd Presents: Prince vs The Neptunes Dance Night. (Source fusicology) Featuring all the music and video by the Prince camp and the hits by Pharrell and Chad Hugo, aka The Neptunes. Tickets on sale now. Labor Day Weekend. Sunday September 05, 2010 9:00 pm – 2:00 amAll Ages Cover: $13.
$15 day of show. Music: Hip Hop, Soul Rock. http://fuse.ms/bzPq5n

****************MORE TO FOLLOW**********************

No Money, No problems: Free Things to Do in DC this week

Recognize the inconic marquee above me? If you do, and MOST DEFINITELY if you don’t, take yourself over to the LAST WEEK of the Ain’t Nothing Like the Real Thing: How the Apollo Theater Shaped American Entertainment at the NMAAHC gallery at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History. Many of us don’t realize how choreography and music have been shaped by the shows at the Apollo over the years.

Website: http://nmaahc.si.edu/section/programs/view/43

2. August 27, 7:30 pm (free) 6th Annual DC Poetry in the Park, with Cornell West Theory and Special Guest The Last Poets, Rock Creek Park. Carter Barron Ampitheater at 16th and Colorado, NW DC. Info: http://fuse.ms/cKFDHY

3. The Cornel West Theory opened for Public Enemy at the 9:30 club — but you can also come check out their open rehearsal at BloomBars August 24th 9 to 11 pm! No cover, but…the suggested donation of $10 goes towards supporting Bloombars and keeping costs low for musicians to access its space for rehearsals like this one…Come check out what has been dubbed as “the most important hip hop group in DC” Info: http://fuse.ms/aIYIpp

4. Salsa, merengue, Latin Jazz at Guarapo with Rudy Gonzales y Su Locura. do it again, or learn to do it now. Baila! http://fuse.ms/chTtwV

5. Columbia Heights Day this festival has free yoga, live musical acts ranging from hip hop to rock and beyond, activities for the whole family, and a host of vendors. http://fusicology.com/_siteadmin/editevent.php

6. Movies on the Potomac (From dc.about) During the summer months National Harbor, Maryland, the waterfront development on the Potomac River, presents free classic movies on the Plaza’s big screen. The movies will be screened on Sundays, after sunset. Seating is not provided, so attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs. Coolers and outside food and beverages are not allowed.
2010 Movie Schedule
August 29 – Spiderman
September 5 – Land Before Time
September 12 – Raiders of the Lost Ark
September 19 – ET: The Extra-Terrestrial
September 26 – Jurassic Park

Waterfront Street
National Harbor, Maryland http://www.nationalharbor.com/

7. Bloombars, is a great place with positive vibes. Not only is it a place with great performers, it also has many classes and community outreach events. Conscious Hip Hop, Spoken Word, Cumbia, Indigenous and Revolutionary music are typical of its “Seed the Sound” Sundays, but one could see any type of performance there. Info: http://fuse.ms/dnif9n

call for submissions: Furious Dancing (via Widening the I)

i am enthused about this, the author of the Color Purple and other books will be right in DC for her fans!

Love this idea and can't wait to see the exhibit! CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS “Hard Times Require Furious Dancing: The Art Exhibit” Curated by Sonja Johansson and Simone Jacobson Open to: DC, MD and VA based artists, collectives and design teams Location: Busboys and Poets @ 5th & K, Washington, DC (www.busboysandpoets.com) Call for Ent … Read More

via Widening the I

Sound in Town: DC Weekend Concert/Musical Event Picks

There’s so much stuff I’d like to see, and its seems like as time passes, DC’s concert selection is getting better and better. Too bad I can’t be in two places at once or three…but here’s what I’d see if I could this weekend:

1. Sol Power Block Party (from fusicology.com) SATURDAY AUGUST 14TH – 1PM-6PM – FREE! Featuring SOL POWER Allstars: DJ STYLUS & MEISTRO Plus Special Guests: JUAN ZAPATA & JOE L .Afro.Latin.Brazilian.House.Disco.Funk LIVE PERCUSSION & LIVE MURAL PAINTING…. SOL POWER is an ALL AGES event FAMILIES WELCOME Sweat to the rhythms of Cuba, Brazil, Puerto Rico & West Africa. info link: http://fuse.ms/aAH9dn

2. N Street Art Market: Saturday and Sunday: Art Extravaganza with music, vendors, other perfromers, next to the DC convention center..This is the last weekend! Ladies Dj lessons Sunday: info link: http://fuse.ms/bSaXIQ

3. PUBLIC ENEMY: Public Enemy performing from the classic “Fear of a Black Planet” w/ Octave & Kendo the Almost Famous 8:00 PM Doors $35 Saturday August 14, 2010 8:00 pm – 2:00 am Info link: http://fuse.ms/9MpdNh

4. Zo! & The Foreign Exchange Sound+System feat. Rapper Big Pooh, Eric Roberson, and Darien Brockington. Come celebrate and experience the release of SunStorm at U Street Music Hall Info link: http://fuse.ms/anF7kJ .

5. Lalah Hathaway & Dwele together for two nights! Birchmere Music Hall Info link: http://fuse.ms/d4bKWw

Sol Power Block Party

 

 

 

 

Sol Power Block Party

Why oh why do so many things pick the same time to happen? Sigh, i really want to see this event, take pics of people with their whistles and bells…Come out to this family friendly event.

Arts On N Street

Arts On N Street. I thought I’d share this…i am definately making it out there since its the last weekend of this….fantastic way to get the arts to the people in DC!!