John Leguizamo plays Nelson in "The Other Americans" at Arena Stage.
Photograph: Tony PowellJohn Leguizamo plays Nelson in "The Other Americans" at Arena Stage.
Photograph: Tony Powell

The best things to do in Washington, D.C. this weekend

Dance the night away at a Regency ball, rock out at Adams Morgan PorchFest, and more in Washington, D.C. this weekend.

Helen Carefoot
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Halloween events will be in the rearview by the end of this week (!!!) and so begins the official kickoff of the holiday season in the District. Although temps are dropping and the leaves are finally leaving the trees, there's still so much to do in D.C. that you'd be remiss to hunker down inside. Why not dress in your best Regency finery and dance the night away at a historic mansion in Georgetown? Or, spend a night on the town taking in some theater, or rock out to some great bands at Adams Morgan's semi-annual PorchFest? Here is a roundup of some of the best things to do in Washington, D.C. this weekend. 

RECOMMENDED: The best things to do in Washington, D.C.

Best things to do in Washington, D.C. this weekend

  • Things to do
  • Exhibitions

The first special presentation to grace the galleries at the Folger Shakespeare Library after its major renovation, this exhibit is a look at the life and work of Esther Inglis, one of the most influential woman artists you may never have heard of. Inglish, who was alive from about 1570 to 1624, is best known for her detailed decorated mini books, some of which are only about the size of a deck of cards—and many of which are now on display at this new exhibition, which you can view for free. Take a look at Inglis' intricately detailed works and illustrations, and learn more about the social and political environment that drove her to create. 

  • Things to do
  • Performances
  • Main Avenue Waterfront

It’s always a treat when stars take the stage in D.C. Emmy and Tony Award-winner John Leguizamo stars in a play he penned himself about how a Colombian-Puerto Rican laundromat owner deals with his flagging business and family secrets that surface after his son returns home from a mental wellness facility.

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Various locations in Adams Morgan 
Sat, 2-6pm

More than 100 bands will play for free in one of D.C.'s best neighborhoods at this semi-annual neighborhood event. Fall PorchFest will also include plenty of specials and disounts at beloved neighborhood eateries. Take a look at the full music map to see who is playing where.

  • Things to do
  • Exhibitions

Ever wanted to get up close to some of film’s most famous cars? The International Spy Museum is now giving us non-special agents a peek at the vehicles by the most famous spy in the world. This collection of 17 pieces features cars, submarines, motorcycles, and more, plus lots of props and scale models used to bring 007 to life.

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  • Things to do
  • Exhibitions

A joint collaboration between the National Portrait Gallery and the American Archives of Art, “Felix Gonzalez-Torres: Always to Return” is an extensive exploration of the trailblazing portraitist’s work. Gonzalez-Torres uses various objects and methods—in one case, piles of colorfully wrapped candies—to explore identity and place. The exhibition, which is free and doesn't require a reservation in advance, also includes installations in Downtown D.C. to emphasize the boundlessness of Gonzalez-Torres’ work.

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  • Things to do

Every Sunday, Shop Made in DC makes space for crafters of all kinds to set up shop at its two locations (Saturdays take place at Union Market, Sundays in Georgetown). Bring whatever project you’re working on, or sit at the community table stocked with art supplies and let your mind wander.

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