Camp is wrapping up, the pools have a few good weeks left in them, and school is still just far enough away that nobody wants to think about it yet. That in-between stretch of summer can be the trickiest to fill, are we right? Too short to plan a big trip, too long to just wing it every day. We here at The List have thoughts on ways to keep DMV families busy for the next few weeks.Kids Eat Free with the Washington Nationals. Turn a Nats game into a free meal, kids 12 and under get a free hot dog, chips, and water, with vegetarian and gluten-free options available, at designated concession stands throughout the summer. Look for the Kids Eat Free kiosks by Sections 111 and 143, the Nats Snacks stand at Section 229, the Kids Eat Free stand at Section 320, and Arepa Zone at Section 148. Adults just need to scan their ticket with the child present before the end of the seventh inning.National Harbor Kids Day. Every Tuesday at 10:30 AM through August 25, families can head to the Plaza at National Harbor for free weekly educational programming that rotates just enough to be worth repeat visits. Expect interactive storytime with the Prince George’s County Memorial Library System, PBS KIDS activities with WHUT, meet-and-greets with Prince George’s County Police and Fire/EMS, history activities with George Washington’s Mount Vernon, and art exploration around the Wildlife Wonder Boat with the Prince George’s Arts and Humanities Council.Good Kid-i-zen at Color Burst Park. This family morning of interactive games and crafts returns August 22 with a “Storybook Adventures” theme, turning favorite tales into interactive play and featuring the HCPLS Mobile Library. Story time meets playtime,  a great one for kids who’d rather act out a book than just hear it.The Playground at the National Building Museum. Open through August 30 in Penn Quarter, this immersive play installation by New York design team Snarkitecture is built from plywood and scaffolding and made for climbing, digging, and moving through. It’s part art installation, part playground, and unlike anything else in the city right now, and let’s be honest, the adults will want in too. Tickets are $19 for adults, $16 for ages 1–17, and free for infants.Storytime Studio at the Hirshhorn. Kids ages 0–6 and their caregivers are welcome for an hourlong blend of educator-led read-alouds, play, and art exploration at the Hirshhorn’s Storytime Studio. Sessions run Wednesdays at 10 and 11 AM on an ongoing basis, with Thursday sessions at 10 and 11 AM added through August. It’s free, no registration required, though capacity is limited and entry is first-come, first-served, so arrive early. It’s a genuinely lovely way to introduce the youngest kids to art and storytelling right on the National Mall.Bluey x CAMP: Bluey’s House. Every toddler in the DMV is currently obsessed with Bluey, and this fall you can walk straight into her world. Opening September 4 at CAMP in Tysons Corner Center, this life-sized, immersive walk-through of Bluey’s house lets families explore every room, play games from the show, dance in the playroom, climb a two-story pillow fort and cardboard castle, hunt for hidden details, and catch exclusive animations, before finishing with a meet-and-greet and photo op with Bluey and Bingo. Bluey-themed merch is available for purchase, and timed entry tickets go every 15 minutes.Ghost Tours. For families with kids old enough to enjoy a good spooky story, Ghost City Tours — the world’s largest ghost tour company, runs haunted history walks, paranormal storytelling, and haunted pub crawls across DC and surrounding cities, led by local guides who know the city’s legends best. A different way to learn DC history, with a chill down your spine.Old Post Office Clock Tower. Atop the Old Post Office building, now part of the Waldorf Astoria DC, this observation deck offers panoramic views of DC from more than 300 feet up, along with exhibits on the history of the landmark building. It’s open to the public Wednesday through Saturday, 9 AM to noon, one of the best views in the city, and it’s free.Sloomoo Institute. All ages, but especially slime enthusiasts, will want to check out this 17,000-square-foot, two-level sensory wonderland opening this summer at Tysons Corner Center. Walk across Lake Sloomoo, slingshot slime, take a slime-making class, build your own creation at the DIY Design Bar with over 4 million combinations, sample exclusive floral scents, and play through the interactive installations. Private birthday parties are available too. It’s the closest thing to a real-life ASMR video, and kids cannot get enough.Hershey Super Sweet Adventure. Making its East Coast debut this year, this interactive journey through the Hershey universe lets candy lovers of all ages celebrate Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, unwrap the story behind Hershey’s Kisses, master the Twizzlers twist, taste-test Jolly Rancher flavors, and experience an East Coast–exclusive Bubble Yum activation, ending with a grand finale where guests personalize their own Hershey’s Milk Chocolate wrapper with a selfie. For any kid who treats the candy aisle like a museum, this basically is one. Tickets start at $19.99 per person.However you fill these last few weeks before backpacks and bus stops take over again, the DMV has enough going on to keep everyone, kids and worn-out parents alike, entertained until the first day of school. Get out there and make the most of it.

Grab your stretchy pants, because summer restaurant week season is officially underway across the region, and this year it's less of a single event than a rolling, multi-city feast that runs practically through Labor Day. Whether you're in the mood for a road trip or just want to eat your way through your own neighborhood, here's every restaurant week on the calendar and when to book.Fredericksburg Summer Restaurant WeekJuly 24 – August 2, 2026Restaurants across the 'Burg open up their kitchens for ten days of city-wide dining, a great excuse to make a weekend of it.Baltimore Restaurant Week, 20th AnniversaryJuly 24 – August 2, 2026The region's oldest and largest restaurant week is turning 20, with roughly 70 Baltimore restaurants offering prix-fixe lunch, brunch, and dinner, presented by Downtown Partnership of Baltimore and Visit Baltimore, and sponsored this year by Pompeian Olive Oil.Howard County Restaurant & Craft Beverage WeeksJuly 27 – August 9, 2026More than 45 restaurants and counting across Howard County, plus perks like gift card giveaways with iHeartRadio and 10% cash back through the Local HoCo Open Rewards program.Warrenton Restaurant WeekAugust 10–16, 2026This charming Virginia town's restaurant week features spots like Claire's at the Depot, Harry's, and Weirddoughs Bagels & Brews.Alexandria Restaurant WeekAugust 14–23, 2026Ten days across two weekends of prix-fixe dinner menus spanning chef-driven tasting menus, waterfront spots, and global flavors, with chefs like Jay Quander and Jamie Leeds behind some of the standout menus.Live! Restaurant WeekAugust 16-27, 2026Offering specially priced prix fixe dinner menus available Sunday through Thursday at five participating restaurants across the casino resort.Falls Church Restaurant WeekAugust 21–30, 2026Falls Church's first-ever Summer Restaurant Week brings together 80 restaurants across just 2.2 square miles, one of the region's most diverse culinary scenes, spanning Afghan, Bolivian, Italian, Thai, Vietnamese, Salvadoran, and Ethiopian, and more. Diners can also take on the Restaurant Week Passport, visiting eight or more participating spots for a shot at one of three $100 gift cards.Metropolitan Washington Restaurant WeekAugust 24–30, 2026RAMW's summer showcase spans RAMMY winners, Michelin-recognized dining, and neighborhood favorites, with three-course brunch and lunch for $25 or $35 and dinner for $40, $55, or $65.Looking further ahead, Richmond Restaurant Week returns October 19–25, benefiting local nonprofit Feed More, with three-course meals under $36 at spots like Acacia, Alewife, Conejo, and Pinky's.

Summer Ready? The DMV certainly is. Farmers’ markets are starting to overflow, chefs are loading menus with peak-season produce, grills are firing up, and suddenly every meal feels like a good excuse to stay out a little longer. This is the season!  Tomato salads that actually taste like tomatoes, sweet corn in everything, berries on the menu and long lunches that somehow turn into dinner. No judgement. Honestly, this is one of the best times of year to eat around the region.Here at TheListAreYouOnIt.com, we’ve rounded up the can’t-miss bites, menu changes and dining experiences to help you eat your way through summer in the DMV.- Make a night of it with a show + a great pre or post-theatre meal with our theatre + dining guide here- This week’s list of The List’s favorite beverages is right here- From festivals and pop-ups to patio parties, restaurant events, and summer food happenings around the region, we’ve got those covered here- Looking for outdoor dining? Check out our Patio Pleasures + Up On The Roof roundups featuring patios, rooftops, courtyards & outdoor dining spots all across the DMV.So much more summer deliciousness below:MARK YOUR CALENDAR: Bolivian Fest at Casa Kantuta: Following the success of Bolivian Fest DC, Casa Kantuta is launching the inaugural Bolivian Cultural Weekend on August 15 through 16 to celebrate Bolivia's Independence Day. The 2-day event includes the Seis de Agosto Party at Metrobar with Bolivian dance performances, cocktails, and live music, followed by El Mercadito Boliviano at Portrait Social in Georgetown, featuring local artists, authentic food, coffee, artisan vendors, and Bolivian-owned small businesses; casakantuta.comSummer Restaurant Week: Summer Restaurant Week returns August 18–24, bringing special prix fixe menus to restaurants across the DMV. Participating spots will offer 3-course brunch and lunch menus for $25.00 or $35.00, and 3-course dinners priced at $40.00, $55.00, or $65.00. Diners can browse participating restaurants, view menus, and make reservations now, with additional restaurants being added in the weeks leading up to the event; ramw.org/restaurantweekFamily Reunion: Chef Kwame Onwuachi’s acclaimed culinary festival returns August 20–23 at Salamander Middleburg with its 2026 theme, “Folklore: A History of Storytelling.” The multi-day event brings together top chefs, panels, workshops, and immersive dining experiences celebrating Black and Brown contributions to food and culture, with tickets and packages now available; salamanderhotels.com/experience/family-reunion2fifty BBQ Fireside Chats: The DC Food & Beverage Collective is hosting a Texas BBQ Dinner & Fireside Chat on August 27 at 6:00 p.m. featuring 2026 RAMMY Restaurateur of the Year and 2-time James Beard Award semifinalist Chef Fernando Gonzalez and Debby Portillo Gonzalez. Guests can dig into 2Fifty’s barbecue while hearing about the duo’s culinary journey, with proceeds supporting culinary scholarships. Tickets are $45.00 for members and $55.00 for non-members and include food, tax, and gratuity; 2fiftybbq.comWe Rescue 26!: DC Food Rescue's annual WE RESCUE! fundraiser returns on September 17 at the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library, bringing together volunteers, community partners, and local businesses for an evening celebrating the organization's impact. The zero-waste event will feature food and drinks from more than a dozen area restaurants, an open bar, a silent auction, and a program honoring Kate Urbank and DC Food Rescue's continued work fighting food insecurity across the region; givebutter.com/c/we-rescue-26Yottem Ottolenghi at Sixth & I: Celebrated chef and author Yotam Ottolenghi will appear at Sixth & I on October 8 at 7:00 p.m., discussing his latest cookbook Simple Too. In conversation, Ottolenghi will explore his philosophy of bold, approachable cooking and share recipes designed to make flavorful meals feel effortless; sixthandi.orgSnallygaster: The District's beloved craft beer festival returns October 10, taking over 4 blocks of Pennsylvania Avenue NW with 450+ beers from 175 breweries around the world. Along with rare pours and appearances by renowned brewers, guests can enjoy cider, wine, cocktails, live music, food from 25+ vendors, a Shop Made in DC makers market, games, and family-friendly activities. Tickets go on sale July 7 at 10:00 a.m., with proceeds supporting Arcadia Center for Sustainable Food & Agriculture and its mission to build a more equitable regional food system; snallygasterdc.comSHUCK IT! Oyster Festival: The 13th Annual Georgetown Shuck It! Oyster & Beer Festival returns on Saturday, October 17, from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. at Tony & Joe's Seafood Place in Georgetown. Guests 21+ can enjoy all the local oysters and local beer they can handle, plus live music from Johnny Spanninato & The Value Leaders and The Yachtsmen, all while supporting the Oyster Recovery Partnership and its efforts to restore the Chesapeake Bay's native oyster population; georgetowndc.com/event/shuck-it-beer-and-oyster-festival/Chefs for Equality: One of DC's premier culinary fundraisers returns October 19 with this year's "United Plates of America" theme, bringing together top local chefs, mixologists, and restaurateurs for collaborative dinners benefiting the Human Rights Campaign Foundation. Hosted across six venues, the event features chef-driven dinners, cocktail pairings, and a new dedicated cocktail experience at Silver Lyan. Tickets are on sale now; chefsforequality.org NEW & NOTEWORTHY: Grand Prix Picnics: Garden Hospitality is celebrating the Freedom 250 Grand Prix, from August 22-23, with Grand Prix Picnics designed to feed four for $80.00. Guests can choose from 3 to-go spreads from Unconventional Diner, L’Ardente, or Love on the Run at Love, Makoto, featuring everything from burgers and fries to pizza, sushi, and sweets. Picnics are available for pickup or delivery, with optional prosecco or Champagne add-ons for an extra celebratory finish; freedom250gp.comA Little Birdie Told Me (Brunch Alert): Weekend brunch is on at Little Birdie every Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., with playful twists on brunch classics. Highlights include Cacio e Pepe Biscuits ’N’ Gravy, Honey Butter Chicken with johnny cakes, lemon custard-filled Sourdough French Toast, the brisket-topped Birds Nest, and a BLT Benny with dill hollandaise; littlebirdieva.comBlue Duck Tavern (Chef Update:): Park Hyatt Washington, DC has appointed Jesús Abraham Rubio Castillo as the new pastry chef for Blue Duck Tavern and the hotel. Bringing 12 years of pastry and culinary experience spanning Mexico, Louisiana, and South Carolina, Castillo will work alongside Chef de Cuisine Andrew Cleverdon on new pastries and desserts that build on Blue Duck Tavern’s legacy while highlighting local Mid-Atlantic farms and producers; blueducktavern.comIt’s a Bargain?: Chef Ryan Ratino and Hive Hospitality’s new steakhouse is now DC’s only certified Kobe Beef restaurant and one of a select number in the country. To celebrate, guests can experience premium Kobe Beef from Japan for $35.00 per ounce, a significant drop from the $100.00+ price often seen elsewhere; oxandolive.comOmakase at Oribu: Oribu has introduced a new chef’s omakase experience showcasing seasonal seafood through the restaurant’s signature blend of Japanese craftsmanship and Mediterranean influence. Priced at $145.00 per person, the tasting is tailored to guests’ palates and preferences, with courses evolving around the day’s finest offerings; oribudc.comWhat To Do With All Those Tomatoes: The Fountain Inn is leaning into peak summer produce with a new seasonal menu featuring dishes like Gazpacho “Ajoblanco” with green grapes and roasted almond, Scallop “Ceviche,” Burnt Tomato Salad with stone fruit, and Basil & Burrata Caramelle. For something heartier, there’s Stuffed Bobo Farms Chicken with ratatouille, followed by summery desserts like a Stone Fruit & Banana Tart or Chocolate Baked Alaska; fountaininndc.comAnise-Hyssop Ice Cream? Tell Me More: Maison Bar à Vins is celebrating late-summer ingredients with new dishes including Heirloom Tomatoes with whipped feta and raspberry vinaigrette, Miso Caesar with cured duck egg, and Squid Ink Campanelle with Maryland crab and fra diavolo. For dessert, the team is churning anise-hyssop ice cream in-house, using herbs harvested straight from the restaurant’s patio garden and serving it with blackberry and green Chartreuse; maisondc.comNew in Bethesda: Husband-and-wife team Raymond and Amy Yu have opened Sushi Masato, a new family-owned Japanese restaurant in downtown Bethesda bringing Michelin-trained expertise and traditional Japanese techniques to the neighborhood. The restaurant will open on August 19, offering nigiri, sashimi, specialty rolls, seasonal seafood, and 3 omakase-inspired tasting menus priced at $58.00, $78.00, and $98.00 per person; sushimasato.comSacre Sucre & Their Pizza: The Fells Point bakery and café is turning dinner into a new tradition with Pizza Nights every Wednesday and Thursday. Guests can dig into artisan pizzas made with naturally fermented dough alongside wine, cocktails, and Sacre Sucré’s signature desserts. Pizza Nights will run through the end of October, with the possibility of becoming a permanent offering; sacresucre.comLunch & Breakfast, Now at Marcus DC: Executive Chef Anthony Jones has debuted breakfast and lunch service at Marcus DC, bringing his exploration of the Black diaspora and his Southern Maryland roots to the restaurant’s daytime menus. Breakfast highlights include M’s Chicken & Waffles and the Banneker Breakfast Plate, while lunch brings dishes like Shrimp & Grits, a Shrimp & Lobster Roll, Crispy Coconut Rice with grilled salmon, and Jones’ family-inspired Thunder and Lightning salad with summer tomatoes and cucumbers. Breakfast is served 7:00 to 11:00 a.m., followed by lunch from 11:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.; marcusdc.comFrom Chicago, With Love: Husband-and-wife duo G. Bradley Shorten and Meg Schmitt are bringing a new neighborhood bar to Dupont Circle inspired by Midwest hospitality and Italian-American comfort food. The menu centers on tavern-style pizza and scratch-made pasta, with Schmitt lending her cheesemaking expertise to house-made ricotta, mozzarella, and stracciatella. Classic cocktails, Italian wines, and local beer round out the experience; lamernadc.comBaklava French Toast Sounds Good (Brunch Alert): The Mediterranean-inspired restaurant at The Village at Leesburg is now serving weekend brunch every Saturday and Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Executive Chef Ahmed Ibrahim’s new menu puts a Mediterranean and Middle Eastern spin on brunch favorites with dishes like Baklava French Toast, Salmon Benedict, and Mediterranean Avocado Toast, alongside signature tapas, cheese and charcuterie boards, wines, and handcrafted cocktails; falconandfig.comWorth the Trip: America's longest-running soda fountain has officially reopened following a 4-year restoration of its historic Fredericksburg home. Dating back to 1869, the beloved landmark returns with its restored lunch counter, classic soda fountain favorites, nostalgic sandwiches, hand-mixed sodas, and milkshakes, while Executive Chef D'Andre Sykes brings a fresh perspective to the kitchen. The revitalized space also features local artisan goods, with a new downstairs concept, Section 7, set to open later this year; goolricksfxbg.comDolcezza x Rye Bunny Super Sundaes: Dolcezza has partnered with Rye Bunny on 2 limited-edition Super Sundaes available August 10 through September 6, featuring playful sweet-and-savory combinations made with produce from Virginia's Fireside Farm. Choose between the Olive Oil-Basil Sundae with Jimmy Nardello pepper jam and chocolate-eggplant sauce, or the Shiso Sundae with crème fraîche soft serve, caramelized rhubarb, and benne seed crumble. Rye Bunny is now open seven days a week; ryebunny.comNew at Yume Sushi: Yume is introducing a new All-You-Can-Eat Brunch every Sunday in August from 12:00 to 3:00 p.m. For $85.00 per person, guests can enjoy unlimited brunch favorites during a leisurely afternoon, with reservations required; yumesushiva.comNamak Launches a $40 Family-Style Sunday Feast: Namak is serving a weekly Sunday Feast: a $40 family-style spread from Executive Chef Lindsey Flowers featuring smoked lamb shoulder, saffron rice with barberries, whipped tahini, and green harissa, all served at once. Pair it with a cocktail like the Effendi or a house-made soda, and save room for baklava ice cream or sumac brownie for dessert. Available Sundays, 5–8 p.m. 1813 Columbia Road. namak-dc.comCUT Debuts Ice Cream & Champagne Hours on the Patio: Executive Pastry Chef Ligia Barros is giving Georgetown a new afternoon ritual at CUT by Wolfgang Puck: house-made ice creams and sorbets paired with Laurent-Perrier Champagne. Standouts include Caipirinha Ice Cream with Cachaça and Pretzel Ice Cream with Salted Caramel, plus a kids' menu with a lime "Shirley Temple." It runs Fridays through Sundays, 12 to 5 p.m. 1050 31st St. NW, Cutdc.com NOT NEW, BUT NOTEWORTHY:Weekend Pork: James Beard Award-winning Chef Masako Morishita is serving a limited-quantity Sake Kasu-Cured Pork Chop Thursdays through Sundays. Prepared with pork from Virginia's Autumn Olive Farms and served with miso nori brown butter and a shiikuwasa ponzu arugula salad, the cult-favorite special is available in very limited numbers each night until sold out, so early reservations are recommended; perrysam.comSweet Summer Tasting Menu: Blue Duck Tavern is celebrating summer with a new 5-course tasting menu ($155.00) showcasing seasonal ingredients and optional Virginia wine pairings, alongside a Fare & Balanced Prix Fixe Lunch ($44.00) featuring a choice of starter and entrée. The restaurant is also marking its 2026 Wine Spectator Award of Excellence, recognizing its outstanding wine program; blueducktavern.comEunoia Rolls Out a Mediterranean Brunch Menu for Summer (Brunch Alert): Eunoia, the Union Market Mediterranean spot from Iva and Alex Gotsev, has launched a new brunch menu blending health-forward dishes with cafe-style favorites reminiscent of their former Zeleno. Standouts include a Shakshouka with goat's milk feta, a Bulgarian Banitsa nodding to the Gotsevs' roots, and Bananas Foster French Toast, alongside smoothie bowls and brunch cocktails like the cold brew-mezcal Smokey Sunrise. 320 Florida Ave. NE. eunoiadc.comLate Night Munchies: Late night just got a lot more interesting at Anju, the modern Korean spot from chef Angel Barreto and restaurateurs Danny Lee and Scott Drewno. The trio is bringing back its late-night menu Thursday through Saturday, with food service running 9:00–11:00 PM and drinks pouring until 11:30 PM. On the drink side, expect $5 draft Ichiban and the $10 "Shoot Your Shot" pour with your choice of mezcal, Jameson, bourbon, rye, soju, or Fernet, plus a $13 draft-and-shot combo. Food keeps it delicious with Korean fried chicken, ramyun-spiced fries, and a bulgogi cheesesteak piled with caramelized onions, provolone, and pepper relish. 1805 18th Street, NW; anjudc.com Brunch with a Few (Brunch Alert): Capitano has launched a new weekend brunch, now available Saturdays and Sundays from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at The Wharf. The Italian-inspired menu features dishes like Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, Tuscan Shrimp & Grits, Brioche French Toast, handcrafted pizzas, fresh pastas, and classic brunch favorites, offering a new waterfront destination for leisurely weekend dining; capitanodc.comHandrolls at Daikaya: Due to popular demand, Chef Katsuya Fukushima has extended Daikaya Izakaya's Hand Roll Bar for August 4-8 and August 11-15, available Tuesday through Saturday. The limited-time experience features made-to-order temaki crafted with premium seafood and seasonal ingredients, and now includes kakigori, a traditional Japanese shaved ice dessert, making it the perfect summertime pairing; daikaya.comMajestic Sundays (Brunch Alert): Chef Santiago Lopez has introduced 2 new weekly dining experiences at The Majestic in Old Town Alexandria. Weekend brunch, served Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., features dishes like Meyer Lemon Pancakes, Braised Brisket Hash, and house-made Monkey Bread. On Sunday evenings, guests can gather for a family-style Sunday Supper, featuring Chef Santi's signature fried chicken with classic sides, house-made biscuits, and dessert for a comforting end to the weekend; themajesticva.comAgora Opens Its Doors in Bethesda AND Breakfast Is the Real Headline: Agora has landed its third location,  inside the Hyatt Regency Bethesda. Co-owned by husband-and-wife team Betul and Ismail Uslu, the family-owned Mediterranean favorite just opened for dinne, bringing its signature mezze platters, wood-grilled entrees, and dishes inspired by Türkiye, Greece, and Lebanon to Montgomery County. Lunch and brunch launch later this summer, but the real news is breakfast: Agora Bethesda will be the group's only location serving it seven days a week, with Mediterranean-inspired dishes like fried eggs with asparagus and mushrooms, Aegean avocado toast, and a sunrise porridge made with almond milk and pine honey; agorarestaurants.netPower Lunch (Lunch Alert): Restaurateur Ashok Bajaj and Michelin-starred Chef Carlos Cardona have introduced weekday lunch at Rosselli, bringing a refined Italian midday menu to downtown DC. Served Tuesday through Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., the new offering features house-made pastas, antipasti, panini, and seasonal entrées, with highlights including the Tenderloin & Caramelized Onion Panino, Linguine alle Vongole, Rigatoni al Forno, and Burrata Pugliese. Paired with Italian wines by the glass, the new lunch service is designed for everything from business meetings to leisurely afternoons; rossellidc.comBrunch Fit for a King (Brunch Alert): Sunday brunch is now available at both Rasika locations, served from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. alongside each restaurant's seasonal menu. New brunch specials include dishes like Indian Style Egg Florentine, Baida Roti, Crab Ghee Roast Taco, Chicken Tikka Paratha, and Pistachio Pancakes, plus brunch cocktails including the MimoMango and Imli Margarita; rasikarestaurant.comMaybe Baby Wants To Be In This Corner: La' Shukran has introduced Shukran Corner, a new behind-the-bar dining experience featuring a curated chef's menu served from an exclusive banquette nestled in the heart of the action. Designed for groups of 3-4, the experience includes a selection of La' Shukran favorites, a shared entrée, surprise bites along the way, and optional beverage pairings. With just two seatings available each night, reservations are now open on Resy.; lashukran.com

We here at TheListAreYouOnIt.com love the sun. It doesn’t take much. Give us one warm weekend, a little humidity, and suddenly we are digging out swimsuits and looking for the perfect luxe lounger situation.And lucky for us, the DMV has seriously stepped up its pool game. From rooftop hotel pools with skyline views and cocktail service to wellness-inspired day escapes there are plenty of ways to spend the summer pretending you are nowhere near your inbox.Here are some of our favorite pools around DC, Maryland, and Virginia where you can book a day pass, staycation, cabana, or full-on sun-drenched escape this summer:Hotel Zena: An art-driven boutique hotel celebrating women’s empowerment, Hotel Zena features a stylish rooftop pool with skyline views and a relaxed bar serving cocktails and light bites.The Ven at Embassy Row: The rooftop pool at The Ven is one of Dupont’s best summer hangs. Tag Rooftop Bar & Pool serves spritzes, frozen cocktails, and casual bites with Embassy Row views.Omni Shoreham Hotel: A true DC classic. The Omni Shoreham has one of the city’s largest resort-style outdoor pools surrounded by gardens and greenery near Rock Creek Park and the National Zoo.YOTEL Washington DC: Deck 11 at YOTEL leans fully into rooftop pool party energy with skyline views, cocktails, DJs, and loungers made for all-day summer hangs.Generator Washington DC: The rooftop pool at Generator brings more laid-back European boutique-hotel energy with cocktails, loungers, and a younger crowd near Dupont Circle.Washington Hilton: This longtime DC hotel has one of the largest pools in town plus a separate kids’ pool. Big resort energy in the middle of the city.Arlo Washington DC: Modern and polished, Arlo’s rooftop pool and wraparound terrace offer a more elevated downtown lounging experience.Viceroy Washington DC: The Viceroy’s Hush Rooftop Pool & Bar delivers a calmer rooftop experience with strong cocktails, stylish loungers, and less of the all-day party scene.Hilton Washington DC National Mall The Wharf: Close to both the monuments and The Wharf, this rooftop pool is ideal if you want sightseeing and pool time in the same day.Hyatt Place Washington DC/National Mall: A convenient rooftop pool setup with easy access to museums and monuments for visitors trying to survive summer sightseeing season.Royal Sonesta Washington DC Dupont Circle: One of Dupont’s quieter pool scenes with plenty of seating and a more relaxed atmosphere for long summer afternoons.The Westin Georgetown: Tucked into a quieter courtyard setting near Georgetown and Foggy Bottom, this pool feels more peaceful retreat than party hotspot.InterContinental Washington D.C. at The Wharf: Luxury waterfront vibes with rooftop pool views overlooking The Wharf and the Washington Channel. Easy transition from pool lounger to waterfront dinner reservation.Rosewood Washington, D.C.: One of the city’s prettiest rooftop pool settings with Georgetown rooftops stretching around you and fireplaces adding ambiance once the sun goes down.Pendry Washington DC at The Wharf: The Pendry pool scene is polished and elevated with excellent cocktails, loungers, and major staycation energy.ROOST White House: Apartment-style accommodations plus a seasonal outdoor pool make ROOST a great option for quieter weekends downtown.Washington Plaza Hotel: One of the most iconic pools in downtown DC. The retro outdoor pool near Thomas Circle has been a local favorite for years and still feels very classic DC summer.Hyatt Place Washington DC/US Capitol: Near NoMa and Union Market, this rooftop pool gives you easy access to some of the city’s best dining while still getting your pool fix. Balian Springs: If your ideal summer pool day involves infinity pools, cabanas, cocktails, and fully pretending you have left the DMV entirely, Balian Springs is your move. The Alexandria destination has become one of the region’s buzziest luxury day escapes.MGM National Harbor: The pool complex at MGM National Harbor is true resort energy with cabanas, cocktails, loungers, and sweeping Potomac views.The Watergate Hotel: The rooftop pool at The Watergate is a polished luxury hotel pool scenes with sweeping cityThompson Washington D.C.: The rooftop pool at the Thompson in Navy Yard leans understated with a quiet luxury and excellent proximity to Nationals Park and The Yards.Penthouse Pool Club: One of the city’s few true pool club experiences. Expect rooftop daybeds, DJs, cocktails, cabanas, and all-day summer energy in Adams Morgan.Hyatt House Washington DC/The Wharf: Often overlooked but actually a great rooftop pool option with Wharf views and a convenient location for turning a pool day into a full waterfront evening.The Bethesdan Hotel: For anyone looking to skip downtown traffic, The Bethesdan offers a more low-key suburban resort-style pool day with plenty of space to lounge.Now excuse us while we aggressively reapply sunscreen, lean into Rosé All Day and pretend every pool day is technically a vacation.

Summer in the city just hits differently. The sun stays out a little longer. The sidewalks stay busy a little later. Suddenly there are outdoor movie nights projected onto giant screens, jazz spilling into sculpture gardens, and entire neighborhoods turning into open-air gathering spaces. This season the city is overflowing with activations and there's so many reasons to linger outside just a little longer before heading home.So here’s your guide to what’s buzzing this summer around the DMV, the concerts, exhibits, movie nights, pop-ups, festivals, and outdoor hangs making the most of these long warm nights.Looking to make splash? Check out our summer pool guide, here.The Great Outdoors:Snooze, You Lose: Dancing on the Waterfront: Dancing on the Waterfront: Summer Series is a free weekly outdoor dance class right on the Potomac. This event takes place in Georgetown Waterfront Park, where participants of all ages and skill levels gather to embrace the joy of dancing. Every week, a DJ will spin a mix of music, blending various genres and beats. From salsa to square dancing, bachata, country line dancing and kizomba, you’ll get to try an array of dance styles. Want to loosen up before you bust out those dance moves? Take advantage of happy hour in Georgetown. Tuesday evenings, 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. through July 28. For more information, click here. Snooze, You Lose: Toned-Up Tuesdays at City Center: Level up your spring fitness routine with complimentary outdoor yoga and sculpt classes led by Corepower Yoga every Tuesday from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. through July 28, 2026. more information here. Snooze, You Lose: Sundeck Summer Reads: The Yards invites book lovers to trade screen time for turning pages at Sundeck Summer Reads, a free event series designed for readers of all kinds. Each week, The Yards Sundeck will transform into a literary paradise where guests can browse a complimentary library featuring 150 free books, discover their next favorite read, shop used books, enjoy hands-on activities and treat themselves to pop-ups from Yards retailers. You  are also encouraged to bring gently used books to donate to The Yards Community Library. Complimentary book tickets will be released on a rolling basis throughout the series, with tickets for the next week available July 9, July 16 and July 23. The event series kicks off on July 8 with a book signing with local journalist Marisa Kashino, author of “Best Offer Wins”. Other dates include Wednesday, July 15, Wednesday, July 22, Wednesday, July 29, and Saturday, August 1 from 10-11am: Kids' Day with Austin Graff. 355 Water Street SE; The event is free to attend, but registration is required. What a Show:AdMo Vibe: The Adams Morgan BID is bringing back AdMo Vibe, its free outdoor summer concert series, for four Thursday evenings of live music, dancing, and community gathering in one of DC's most vibrant neighborhoods. Held on Thursday evenings in July and August, AdMo Vibe invites you to enjoy live performances under the summer evening sky. This year's lineup showcases an eclectic mix of local talent, with a particular emphasis on soulful sounds, sing-along favorites, and genres that reflect the cultural richness of Adams Morgan and Washington, DC. For more information, click here. 2026 AdMo Vibe LineupThursday, July 30 - Sofa City, Pop & R&B CoversThursday, August 6 - North Cap Band, Pop & R&B CoversThursday, August 13 - Langston Hughes II, JazzThursday, August 20 - Downtown Tumbao, Latin JazzThursday, August 27- Rain Date Fridays at the Fountain: Step into the rhythm of summer at a free weekly concert series at Water Park, National Landing's outdoor food hall. Throughout the summer, guests can enjoy live music from soul and R&B to indie pop, jazz fusion and cumbia. Grab food and drinks from Water Park's lineup of local food kiosks, including Duke’s Grocery, Paradiso Pizzeria Pronto, Bird’s Eye Thai, Monstera, Pho Wheels, Spot of Tea, Queen Mother’s Kitchen, and more. Fridays from July 17 to August 21, 2026 from 5:30 to 8:00 p.m. Music begins at 6:00 p.m. Water Park | 1601 Crystal Drive, Arlington, VA; Reservations are encouraged via Eventbrite.2026 lineup:July 24: Sing Steph (Soul/R&B)July 31: Marilyn Hucek (Indie Pop)August 7: Alex Hamburger (Jazz Fusion)August 14: Taisha Estrada (Latin jazz and soul)August 21: Chicha Morada (Cumbia Amped in the Park: Unwind to live music under the stars at Columbia, Maryland's Color Burst Park. Select Thursdays throughout the summer, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Through August 20th. For  the full lineup and for your free RSVP, click here. National Sculpture Garden - Jazz in the Garden: Jazz in the Garden returns on Friday evenings. This season’s theme, “American Sounds,” is a nod to the nation’s 250th anniversary. Travel across the country through music, exploring our many traditions—from Appalachian and Americana to Creole jazz, Hill Country blues, contemporary jazz, and more. Fridays through August 14 (except June 5 and July 3). Plus, special pre-show dance classes on June 12 and July 24. To give everyone an equal chance of getting passes to attend this popular program, registration is available through a lottery. The lottery takes place the week before each event, opening on Monday at 10:00 a.m. and closing Friday at noon. If selected, you’re welcome to register for up to four passes. Passes are required for ages 2 and up. For more information, click here. Tunes in the Triangle: Pack a picnic and get ready for another iteration of Tunes in the Triangle. Mt Vernon Triangle will break their free music series into A-Side/B-Side June and September segments to maximize optimal weather conditions. The June portion will be held in Milian Park, while the September session will be in Cobb Park. Don’t miss June’s all-star line-up of female vocalists. Wednesdays in June and September from 6:00 to 7:30pm. Free. RSVP here. Bethesda Summer Concert Series: Every Friday this summer, from 6:00-8:00 p.m., head to the corner of Norfolk & St. Elmo Avenues to enjoy a free outdoor concert, and food and drinks from downtown Bethesda restaurants. Just like in previous years, adult beverages will be available for purchase from local restaurants, and can be enjoyed within the concert site. Want to know who else to expect this summer? See the full line-up here. Through September 18, 2026.The Square Rockville Summer Concert Series: Longer days, warm nights, and live music under the open sky—summer is officially sounding better. The Square Rockville has announced the 2026 Summer Concert Series, bringing a lineup of live performances to The Square all season long. Grab your lawn chairs, picnic blankets, and dancing shoes. Whether you’re planning a night out with friends, date night, or a family-friendly evening, these concerts are the perfect way to enjoy summer at The Square. Fridays, through September 11. For a full calendar, click here.  Summer Concerts & Pop-Up Market: Art Place at Fort Totten is heating up for the summer with free fun for the whole family. On select Fridays throughout the summer, live music takes the stage in partnership with DC Fray, alongside pop-up markets, local shopping, fresh food and more. Summer Concert Series: New this year, Art Place is partnering with the Riggs Park Farmers Market to bring even more local vendors and fresh fare to the concert series. Select Fridays from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.June 26: THE BREAKAWAYSJuly 3: Too Much Talent BandJuly 17: Justin TrawickJuly 24: Love Joy GroupAugust 21: Fearless Eras (Taylor Swift Tribute)August 28: La Unica400 Galloway Street NE; All events are free and open to the public. For more information and to RSVP, click here.Snooze, You Lose: Art Place Pop-Up Market SeriesDiscover local creativity at Art Place’s new Pop-Up Market Series. Browse a curated collection of local vendors and artists offering handmade goods, artwork and one-of-a-kind finds while enjoying live music and offerings from homegrown Tz'ikin Café. Saturday, June 20 from 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.Saturday, July 18 from 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.5198 South Dakota Avenue NE; All events are free and open to the public. For more information, click here.See all the shows coming to town in our Theater Roundup, here.  Let's All Go to the Drive-In:Dive-In Movies at Hotel Zena: Float in the rooftop pool and catch a movie at Hotel Zena. Movies will be shown every Wednesday starting at 9:00 p.m. (weather permitting). Free for registered hotel guests. For attendees not staying at the hotel, passes can be purchased on Eventbrite for $30 per person, and include a bag of popcorn and a complimentary mocktail, or signature cocktail. Through September 9th. For movie line up and to book a pass, click here.The Drive-In at Union Market: The Drive-In at Union Market is back for the 14th season. It’s the perfect blend of movies and munchies with amazing concessions. From street food to Michelin-starred fine dining, experience it all at Union Market District. Get tickets to watch from the comfort of your car or bring chairs and blankets for a cozy picnic-style setup in front of The Market. No tickets are needed to watch on Neal Place. Once a month through October. See full schedule and purchase tickets here.Tysons Summer Programming: This summer, PenFed Plaza debuts its new large-format digital board, creating a new gathering place for outdoor entertainment at Tysons Corner Center. The screen will take center stage for the return of beloved family movie nights, kicking off Thursday, June 19 with Space Jam, followed by National Treasure on Thursday, July 17 and Cars on Thursday, August 21. The August showing will feature a special collaboration with PenFed Credit Union to bring the auto theme to life with added surprises and family-friendly fun. You are invited to bring a stadium folding chair or cozy blanket, gather with family and friends, and enjoy a summer evening under the lights on PenFed Plaza. Movie nights will continue into the fall, with additional showtimes to be announced soon. All showings are 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Museum Visits:Snooze, You Lose: Making Their Mark: The National Museum of Women in the Arts is presenting Making Their Mark: Works from the Shah Garg Collection, on view through July 26. The major exhibition features 80 works by nearly 70 influential women artists spanning from 1946 to today, highlighting the powerful role women have played in shaping abstract art. Drawn from the Shah Garg Collection, the show includes painting, sculpture, textiles, ceramics, and mixed media works exploring themes of identity, form, and artistic innovation across generations; nmwa.orgJack Boul Exhibit at Park Hyatt: Park Hyatt Washington, D.C. is showing a special year-long exhibit featuring monotypes by artist Jack Boul. Jack Boul (1927-2024) was a painter, printmaker, and sculptor whose work can be found in the National Gallery of Art, the Smithsonian, the Phillips Collection, the Library of Congress, and many other public and private venues. Born in New York, Jack Boul spent most of his life in Washington, D.C., as an art professor at American University. He was among the founders of the Washington Studio School. This special collection is curated by his son, David Boul. parkhyattwashington.com Camouflage: Designed to Deceive: Explore the world of camouflage and deception in a new multi-sensory, immersive experience at The International Spy Museum. The special exhibition, Camouflage: Designed to Deceive, examines the fascinating history of camouflage and its many secret connections to espionage. From its origins in the natural world to its contemporary applications in the battlefield and beyond, the exhibit explores the impact of camouflage on covert operations and intelligence gathering throughout history. The exhibit spans the intersecting worlds of science, design, military and political history, art, fashion, and pop culture. Utilizing real stories, artifacts, and immersive media, visitors will get an up-close look at how concealment has influenced espionage throughout time and why it remains essential in today’s digital world of surveillance. Tickets are available now for $15. Visitors can also add the exhibition to general admission for just $13. spymuseum.org Blacklisted: An American Story: This exhibit explores the Hollywood blacklist and the federal government’s loyalty investigations that upended thousands of lives during the Red Scare. Through powerful personal stories, rare artifacts, and film clips, the exhibition reveals how fear, politics, and identity collided—and what was lost when dissent was silenced. From the late 1940s through the 1950s, all three branches of government sacrificed First Amendment rights in the name of security. Freedoms of speech, association, and assembly came under fire. Hundreds of people lost their jobs, thousands resigned under duress, and many more stood by quietly, afraid of repercussions for their real or imagined political participation. On loan from Jewish Museum Milwaukee, the exhibition incorporates film, archival material, oral histories, costume, and photography to examine the shifting definition of what it meant then—and what it means now—to be a patriotic American, and who gets to decide. simpletix.com Museum of Illusions: Located in the heart of CityCenterDC, Museum of Illusions offers a visual, sensory, and educational experience that feels equally fun for kids, teens, parents, and adults. With more than 50 exhibits, it’s an easy indoor option for families looking for something engaging to do after camp or once the school day is done, especially since the museum stays open later than many traditional DC museums. It also works well for date nights or evening plans, given its central location near some of the city’s best food and drink destinations. For more information, click here.Capital Jewish Museum Anniversary: Celebrate the 150th anniversary of the historic synagogue at the heart of the Capital Jewish Museum. Uncover the history of the historic synagogue in a new permanent lobby installation, highlighting its dedication in 1876, its time as a commercial retail space, the 1960's effort to preserve and restore the building, and its three moves to avoid demolition. See guidebooks, artwork, and commemorative ephemera that reveal how Jewish Washingtonians marked America’s Centennial (1876), Sesquicentennial (1926) and Bicentennial (1976). Enjoy this rare opportunity to view “Freedom Road,” a 10x14-foot needlepoint tapestry created by the Washington Jewish community as part of the celebration of the American Bicentennial in 1976. Designed by artist Yankel Ginzburg, the piece depicts the parting of the Red Sea, celebrating the journey from bondage to freedom. Sixty-one crafters from across DC, Montgomery County, and Northern Virginia brought this vision to life. For more information, click here.Beverly Pepper Ten Monumental Sculptures: A solo exhibition of monumental works by celebrated American sculptor Beverly Pepper is now on view along the expanded New York Avenue Sculpture Corridor through June 1, 2027 Hailing from an era when women artists were routinely ignored, and where very few women worked in industrial materials, Pepper’s contribution is especially significant. That she managed to persevere and to thrive – with dozens of major public works and pieces in numerous international museums and private collections – is testament to her personal strength and the enduring power of her sculpture. In Beverly Pepper Ten Monumental Sculptures, Pepper (1922–2020) returns to weathering steel, a material she helped pioneer for sculptural use in the early 1970s.  In parallel with the outdoor sculpture exhibition, the National Museum of Women in the Arts will present Beverly Pepper: Earthworks, a showcase exhibition of work by Pepper. Beverly Pepper: Earthworks will include the inaugural installation of a film highlighting the global reach of Pepper’s land and architectural-scale works, paired with several smaller sculptures and maquettes. Challenging the perception of such work as the purview only of men, the show reveals Pepper’s ambitious approach to creating bold large-scale works in metal, as well as site specific and land art. On view from October 24, 2026 through April 25, 2027, the exhibition offers a unique opportunity for visitors to the outdoor sculpture project to gain a greater insight into the practice of this pioneering artist. More on Beverly Pepper can be found HERE. More on past installations of the New York Avenue Sculpture Project can be found HERE.Disco Ballston: In partnership with Insight Property Group, the Ballston Improvement District (BID) reveals a new pop-up art installation called Disco Ballston. Similar to the minds behind it, the installation focuses on a forward-looking approach to enhancing experiences for anyone interacting with Ballston, Arlington. Designed by local branding agency Design Army, you are invited to interact with the installation through a house and techno music experience via a scannable QR code on-site. This track, curated by DJ and producer Saeed Younan, is meant to blend bold visuals with electric sounds to create a truly immersive experience for those walking through. N Stuart Street & Wilson Boulevard, Arlington, VA.National Building Museum — "The Playground" New York design team Snarkitecture has installed an immersive play space made from plywood and scaffolding where kids (and let's be honest, adults too) can climb, dig, and move. Open through August 30th. $19 for adults, $16 for ages 1 to 17, free for infants. Penn Quarter. Where Else You'll Find Us:Old Post Office Clock Tower: The historic Clocktower at Waldorf Astoria DC once again welcomes the public, reopening one of the city's most unique—and free—observation experiences. Get the chance to take in panoramic views of the nation's capital from atop the landmark Old Post Office building, a hidden gem that has long been a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The Clocktower offers sweeping views of Washington, DC from more than 300 feet above the city, along with exhibits that explore the history of one of the capital's most recognizable buildings. Open to the public Wednesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon. Smithsonian Starstruck: An Immersive Experience: This virtual reality experience places you in Outer Space. Created in collaboration with the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory, the experience takes you on a seamless journey through the cosmos, from dazzling galaxies to the edge of a black hole. Climb aboard powerful telescopes and uncover the universe’s greatest mysteries in immersive 3D. Ages 10+; ticket prices start at $29; 926 F Street NW; for more information, click here. Jeopardy Bar League Trivia at Water Park: Test your knowledge and compete with friends at Jeopardy! Bar League Trivia, the official interactive bar trivia experience inspired by America’s Favorite Quiz Show. Hosted live and designed for fast-paced fun, this weekly trivia night brings the excitement of the iconic game show into a social bar setting. Mondays at 7:00 p.m. Water Park | 1601 Crystal Drive, Arlington, VA.Sandbox VR: Sandbox is a futuristic VR experience for groups of up to six where you can see and physically interact with everyone inside, just like the real world. Inspired by Star Trek’s Holodeck, these exclusive worlds let you feel like you’re living inside a game or movie, and are built by EA, Sony, and Ubisoft veterans. Located in City Center DC; citycenterdc.com Sloomoo Institute: A new slime experience will open its doors at Tysons Corner this summer. Spanning 17,000 square feet over two levels, this sensory, ASMR-driven wonderland invites all ages to walk on slime at Lake Sloomoo, slingshot, and play with never-ending textures. The new Sloomoo features slime-making classes where guests can learn how to make Sloomoo Slime from scratch, host private birthday parties, experience the expanded DIY Design Bar with over 4 million combinations, smell exclusive new floral scents, and play in the interactive installations. Tysons Corner Center.Hershey Super Sweet Adventure: Embark on an interactive journey complete with games, active play and family-friendly moments designed to spark imagination and connection for candy lovers of all ages. Visitors will celebrate the perfect combination in Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, uncover the delight that wraps Hershey’s Kisses Milk Chocolates, master the art of the Twizzlers Twists, experience the bold flavors of Jolly Rancher candies and more. For its East Coast debut, the experience will feature never-before-seen activations including a playful celebration of Bubble Yum Bubble Gum and an all-new grand finale experience where guests can personalize their own Hershey’s Milk Chocolate bar wrapper with a selfie and other fun options. Tickets for Hershey Super Sweet Adventure will be available starting at $19.99 per person. HersheySuperSweetAdventure.com 

Summer drinking season in the DMV looks a little different than the rest of the year. Wine lists get lighter and colder, spritzes return to every cocktail menu in town, frozen drinks make their comeback, and bartenders start leaning into seasonal ingredients like berries and herbs and tomatoes from local farms. Even beer gardens and breweries shift into warm-weather mode with seasonal pours and outdoor events.Here at TheListAreYouOnIt.com, we’ve rounded up all the can’t-miss cocktails, happy hours and summer sipping events happening around the DMV right now.- Make a night of it with a show + a great pre or post-theatre cocktail or dinner with our theatre + dining guide (here)- This week’s list of The List’s favorite food finds is right here- From cocktail pop-ups and wine tastings to brewery events + summer beverage happenings around the region, we’ve got those covered here- Looking for outdoor sipping season? Check out our Patio Pleasures + Up On The Roof roundups featuring patios, rooftops, courtyards & outdoor cocktail spots all across the DMV.So much more glass-raising goodness below:MARK YOUR CALENDAR Summer Restaurant Week: Summer Restaurant Week returns August 18–24, bringing special prix fixe menus to restaurants across the DMV. Participating spots will offer 3-course brunch and lunch menus for $25.00 or $35.00, and 3-course dinners priced at $40.00, $55.00, or $65.00. Diners can browse participating restaurants, view menus, and make reservations now, with additional restaurants being added in the weeks leading up to the event; ramw.org/restaurantweekSnallygaster: The District's beloved craft beer festival returns October 10, taking over 4 blocks of Pennsylvania Avenue NW with 450+ beers from 175 breweries around the world. Along with rare pours and appearances by renowned brewers, guests can enjoy cider, wine, cocktails, live music, food from 25+ vendors, a Shop Made in DC makers market, games, and family-friendly activities. Tickets go on sale July 7 at 10:00 a.m., with proceeds supporting Arcadia Center for Sustainable Food & Agriculture and its mission to build a more equitable regional food system; snallygasterdc.comChefs for Equality: One of DC's premier culinary fundraisers returns October 19 with this year's "United Plates of America" theme, bringing together top local chefs, mixologists, and restaurateurs for collaborative dinners benefiting the Human Rights Campaign Foundation. Hosted across six venues, the event features chef-driven dinners, cocktail pairings, and a new dedicated cocktail experience at Silver Lyan. Tickets are on sale now; chefsforequality.org NEW & NOTEWORTHY: Maybe You Won’t Let This Go: Mi Vida is getting into the World Cup spirit with the Copa de Mi Vida, a specialty cocktail made with Herradura Reposado Tequila, pineapple, D'Anjou pear, and mint. During live matches, guests can also score 50% off select cocktails for 15 minutes whenever a yellow or red card is issued; mividamexico.comTheater Kids’ Cocktails: Kbird Bar is mixing craft cocktails, community events, and local art this August. In addition to weekly Wednesday trivia, guests can browse a vending machine stocked with pocket-sized artwork and handmade goods from DMV artists. The month's lineup also includes a fragrance lab social, board game speed dating, an artist auction reception, a gin and vodka tasting, and a book talk, making Kbird a lively neighborhood destination beyond the bar; kbirddc.comWhere Evenings Be-Gin: This August, The Hay-Adams is transforming Top of the Hay into "Where Evenings Be-Gin," a limited-time rooftop pop-up celebrating botanical gin cocktails and panoramic city views. Guests can sip creative gin and tonics—including a zero-proof option—while overlooking the White House and Washington Monument. The experience returns August 10–11 from 5–8 p.m., with additional dates announced weekly throughout the month; hayadams.comTrilogy of Tonics: Kyojin is cooling things down with 3 new seasonal cocktails designed for summer sipping. The lineup includes the Matcha No Kaze ($21.00), a refreshing blend of herb-infused vodka, citrus, tonic, celery bitters, and matcha; the Scarlet Elixir ($20.00), featuring Cabernet, apple brandy, and amaretto; and the tropical Fifth Element ($20.00), crafted with rum, velvet falernum, passionfruit, orgeat, and citrus; kyojindc.com NOT NEW, BUT NOTEWORTHY: Not For Long Pop-Up Bar Opens at Union Market: Gina Chersevani has opened Not For Long, a limited-run Italian liquor lair inside Union Market built around the phrase "cogli l'attimo," seize the moment. Beverage Director Michael Saccone crafted a menu of Negronis, Spritzes, and an Italian Margarita, with seasonal soft serve and gelato to close things out, all under a disco ball spinning Italian '70s tunes. It's open now, but true to the name, won't be for long. Thursday 3–9 p.m., Friday 3–11 p.m., Saturday 12–11 p.m., Sunday 12–9 p.m. 1309 5th Street. NE. @NOTFORLONGDCJapanese-Inspired Refreshers: Yume Sushi is welcoming the season with a new lineup of Japanese-inspired summer cocktails. Sip the Ember & Pear, blending smoky Scotch with baked pear, honey, lemon, and thyme; the tropical Emerald Wave with vodka, matcha, pineapple, and lime; the light and bubbly Honey Eclipse, made with gin, honey, ginger, passionfruit, and sparkling water; or the Ruby Petals, a vibrant mix of tequila, hibiscus, lime, cinnamon, and grenadine; yumesushiva.comSunset Sensations (Happy Hour Alert): Fiola Mare has introduced a new daily Sunset Happy Hour, available from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m., featuring $12.00 cocktails and spritzes alongside a selection of the restaurant’s signature seafood bites. Highlights include the Lobster Donut, Wild Kampachi Amalfi-Style Crudo, and the Marina Platter, offering a taste of the Georgetown waterfront favorite at happy hour prices; fiolamaredc.comTake Flight: The acclaimed cocktail laboratory from José Andrés has introduced Savor the Season, a new 6-course cocktail tasting that explores the flavors of spring and summer through inventive mixology. Priced at $115.00 per person, the experience features imaginative creations like the Golden Goose with tequila, gooseberry, and saffron, the vegetable-forward Salad Days, the savory Yaki Negi, and the playful Second Slice, crafted with baijiu, parmesan, and bread air. Developed by barmini’s award-winning team, the new flight showcases the bar’s signature blend of creativity, technique, and unexpected flavor combinations; minibarbyjoseandres.com

Once the temperatures hit the 70s in the DMV, we all want to be outside. Patio season is officially here and whether you are looking for a tucked-away garden, a lively sidewalk scene, waterfront dining, or a neighborhood spot perfect for brunch and cocktails, there are plenty of great places to post up this season.Honestly, we think we may have just about every patio in the city on this list,  and yes, there are a lot of them. Consider this your guide to dining al fresco around the DMV. Looking for rooftop season too? Be sure to check out our Up On The Roof roundup featuring rooftop bars and all the sky-high sipping & eating  spots all around the city.2Fifty Texas BBQ: Locations vary; 2fiftybbq.com 600T: 600 T Street NW; 600tdc.com a.kitchen+bar: 1010 New Hampshire Avenue NW; akitchenandbardc.comAl Dente: Dog friendly; 3201 New Mexico Avenue NW; aldentedc.com  ala: 1320 19th Street NW; ala-dc.com All Set: Dog friendly; 8630 Fenton Street, Silver Spring; allsetrestaurant.comAlta Strada: multiple locations; altastradarestaurant.com  Anju: 1805 18th Street NW; anjurestaurant.comApéro: 2622 P St NW; aperodc.comArt & Soul: Dog friendly; 415 New Jersey Avenue NW; artandsouldc.comAstro Beer Hall: Dog friendly; 4001 Campbell Avenue, Arlington; astrobeerhall.com Bar Betsie: 1328 4th Street NE; barbetsiedc.comBastille: 606 N. Fayette Street, Alexandria; bastillerestaurant.com Big Buns: Dog friendly; Locations vary in Northern Virginia; eatbigbuns.comBistro du Jour: 99 District Square SW; bistro-dujour.comBlue Duck Tavern: 1201 24th Street NW; blueducktavern.comBourbon Steak: 2800 Pennsylvania Avenue NW; bourbonsteakdc.comBrasserie Liberte: Dog friendly; 3251 Prospect Street NW; libertedc.com Calico: 50 Blagden Alley NW; calicodc.comCentrolina: 974 10th Street NW; centrolinadc.com Chaplin's: 1501 9th Street NW; chaplinsdc.com Cheesetique: 2411 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria; cheesetique.comThe Commentary: Dog friendly; 801 N. Glebe Road, Arlington; thecommentaryarl.comCork: Dog friendly; 1805 14th Street NW; corkdc.com Corso: 4024 Campbell Avenue, Arlington, VA; corsoitalian.com Crooked Run Fermentation: 22455 Davis Dr #120, Sterling, VA; crookedrunfermentation.com The Dabney: 122 Blagden Alley NW; thedabney.comDacha: Dog friendly; Shaw & Navy Yard; dachadc.com Daru: 1451 Maryland Avenue NE; darudc.comDauphine's: 1100 15th Street NW; dauphinesdc.comDel Mar: 791 Wharf Street SW; delmardc.com dLeña: 476 K Street NW; dlenadc.com Easy Company: 98 Blair Street SW; easycowharf.comElectric Cool-Aid: Dog friendly; 512 Rhode Island Avenue NW; electriccool-aid.comThe Falls: 370 West Broad Street, Falls Church; thefallsva.com Fairmont Courtyard Bar: Dog friendly; 2401 M Street NW; fairmont.com/washington Fiola Mare: 3100 K Street NW; fiolamaredc.com Fish Shop: 610 Water Street SW; fishshopdc.comThe Fountain Inn: Dog friendly; 1659 Wisconsin Avenue NW; fountaininndc.com Garden District: 1801 14th Street NW; gardendistrictdc.com Gatsby: 1205 Half Street SE; gatsbyrestaurant.com Grazie Nonna: 1100 15th Street NW; grazienonnaxoxo.comThe Grill: Locations vary; thegrilldc.com Hell's Kitchen: 652 Wharf Street SW; gordonramsayrestaurants.com Hen Quarter Prime: 2121 First Street SW; henquarterprime.comHeurich House: 1307 New Hampshire Avenue NW; heurichhouse.orgHook Hall: 3400 Georgia Avenue NW; hookhall.comImmigrant Food: multiple locations; mmigrantfood.comIron Gate: 1734 N Street NW; irongaterestaurantdc.com  Jane Jane: 1705 14th Street, NW; janejanedc.comJoon: 8045 Leesburg Pike, Vienna; eatjoon.comKing Street Oyster Bar: NoMa,, Potomac; kingstreetoysterbar.comLapis: 1847 Columbia Road NW; lapisdc.com Le Diplomate: 1601 14th Street NW; lediplomatedc.comThe Liberty Tavern: 3195 Wilson Boulevard, Arlington; .thelibertytavern.com Lyon Hall: 31 North Washington Boulevard, Arlington; lyonhallarlington.com Lulu’s Wine Garden: 1940 11th Street NW; luluswinegarden.comLupo Marino: 40 Pearl Street SW; lupomarinodc.comLupo Verde: 1401 T Street NW; lupoverdedc.com Lutece: 1522 Wisconsin Avenue NW; https://www..lutecedc.com Maison Bar au Vins: 1834 Columbia Road NW; https://www.Maker's Union: Dog friendly'; Arlington, Reston, The Wharf; makersunionpub.comMaketto: 1351 H Street NE; maketto1351.comMasseria: 1340 4th Street NE; masseria-dc.commatchbox: Dog friendly; Locations vary; matchboxrestaurants.com Matt + Tony's: 1501 Mt. Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA; mattandtonysva.comMaxwell Park: 1336 9th Street NW; maxwellparkdc.comMGM National Harbor: 101 MGM National Avenue, Oxon Hill, MD; mgmnationalharbor.comMidlands: Dog friendly; 3333 Georgia Avenue NW; midlandsdc.com Milk & Honey: Bowie, College Park, Fairfax; milknhoneycafe.com Millie’s: 4866 Massachusetts Avenue NW; milliesdc.com Mi Vida: 98 District Square SW; mividamexico.com  Mon Ami Gabi: 7239 Woodmont Avenue, Bethesda; monamigabi.com/bethesda Moxies: Dog friendly; 1111 20th Street NW; moxies.com MXDC Cocina Mexicana: 1610 14th Street NW; mxdcrestaurant.comNina May: 1337 11th Street NW; ninamaydc.comNorthSide Social: Dog friendly; Locations vary; northsidesocialva.com Ometeo: 1640 Capital One Drive, Tysons; ometeotexmex.comOpal: 5534 Connecticut Avenue NW; opal-dc.comOpaline Bar & Brasserie: Dog friendly; 806 15th Street NW; opalinedc.com Ottoman Taverna: Dog friendly; 425 I Street NW; ottomantaverna.com Pascual: 732 Maryland Avenue NE; pascualdc.comPatty O's: 389 Main Street, Washington, VA; pattyoscafe.comPembrook: 1500 New Hampshire Avenue, NW: ThePembrook.comPerry's: 1811 Columbia Road NW; perrysam.com Philippe Chow: 653 Wharf Street SW; philippechow.comPiccolina da Centrolina: 963 Palmer Alley NW; piccolinadc.com Pisco y Nazca: 1823 L Street NW; piscoynazca.com The Point: 2100 2nd Street SW; thepointdc.com Pop Fizz Bar: 2108 Vermont Avenue NW; popfizzdc.comPrimrose: 3000 12th St NE; primrosedc.comProst: 919 5th Street NW; prostdc.comHank’s Oyster Bar at Q Street: 1624 Q Street NW; hanksoysterbar.com/dupont-circle  Queen's English: 3410 11th Street NW; queensenglishdc.comResidents DC: 1306 18th Street NW; residentsdc.comThe Royal: 501 Florida Avenue NW; theroyaldc.comThe Salt Line: Arlington; Bethesda; Navy Yard DC; thesaltline.com  Sfoglina: Downtown DC; Rosslyn, VA; Van Ness Street NW; sfoglinapasta.com   Shaw’s Tavern: 520 Florida Avenue NW; shawstavern.comSonny's Pizza: 3120 Georgia Avenue NW; sonnyspizzadc.comSt Anselm: 1250 5th Street NE; stanselmdc.com Stable DC: 1324 H Street NE; stabledc.comStellina: Mt Vernon Triangle; Tyson's; Union Market; stellinapizzeria.com Supra: 1205 11th Street NW; supradc.com Taco Bamba: Some dog friendly; Locations vary; tacobamba.comTaberna del Alabardero: 1776 I Street NW; alabardero.com Taqueria Xochi: Locations vary; taqueriaxochi.com Terra Gaucha: 1651 Chapman Avenue, Rockville; https://www.terragaucha.com THRōW Social D.C.: 1401 Okie Street NE: throwsocial.com Tony & Joe’s: 3000 K Street NW; tonyandjoes.comUnconventional Diner: Dog friendly; 1207 Ninth Street NW; unconventionaldiner.com Vagabond: 1836 18th Street NW; vagabonddc.com Villa Yara: 2815 M Street NW; villayaradc.com Zaytinya: 701 9th Street NW; zaytinya.comZeppelin: Dog friendly; 1544 9th Street NW; zeppelindc.com

When the weather turns warm in the DMV, we all suddenly start looking up. Rooftop season is officially here and whether it is cocktails at sunset, brunch with a breeze  or just an excuse to linger outside a little longer, there is no shortage of spots around town to do it.We’ve rounded up rooftop spots all across the DMV for all your sipping and dining while taking in the view. Honestly, there are a lot of them and we’ve done our best to get them all on this list. Not a fan of heights and more of a patio person? We’ve got you there too. Check out our Patio Pleasures roundup featuring all the courtyards, gardens, and sidewalk patios throughout the DMV. 12 Stories at the Intercontinental: 75 District Square SW; www.12storiesdc.com801: 801 Florida Avenue NW; 801dc.com Amazonia: 920 Blagden Alley NW; causadc.com ART DC: 333 G Street NW; artrooftops.comBalian Springs: 6432 General Green Way, Alexandria, VA; baliansprings.com Betsy: 514 8th Street SE (Back alley); thebetsyusa.com Solset Bar at the Boulevard: 2915 Wilson Boulevard, Arlington; www.solsetbar.comBuena Vida Gastrolounge: 2900 Wilson Boulevard, Arlington; buenavidagastrolounge.com Capitano: 975 7th Street SW; capitanodc.com Casamara: 1337 Connecticut Avenue NW; casamaradc.com Ciel Social Club: 601 K Street NW; cielsocialclub.com Colada Shop: multiple locations; coladashop.com CUT Above at The Rosewood: 1050 31st Street NW; rosewoodhotels.com Deck 11 at Yotel: 415 New Jersey Avenue NW; deck11rooftop.comThe Delegate: 901 L Street NW; thedelegatedc.com Hell's Kitchen: 652 Wharf Street SW; gordonramsayrestaurants.comHi-Lawn: 1309 5th Street NE; hilawndc.comHive Bar in The Hive Hotel: 2224 F Street NW; hotelhive.comHotel Heron: 415 New Jersey Avenue NW; hotelheron.comIvy City Smokehouse: 1356 Okie Street NE; ivycitysmokehouse.comJack Rose Dining Saloon: 2007 18th Street NW; jackrosediningsaloon.com La' Shukran: 417 Morse Street NE; lashukran.comLady Bird Rooftop Bar at Kimpton Banneker: 1315 16th Street NW; thebanneker.comLimani: 670 Wharf Street SW; limani.com/washingtonLost Society: 2001 14th Street NW; lostsociety-dc.com  Lucha Rosa at The Moxy: 1011 K Street NW; atlasrestaurantgroup.com/properties/lucha-rosa Madam’s Organ: 2461 18th Street NW; madamsorgan.comMoonraker at the Pendry: 655 Water Street SW; pendry.comO-Ku DC: 1274 5th Street NE; o-kusushi.com  Officina: 1120 Maine Avenue SW; officinadc.comThe Perch at The Watermark: Dog friendly; 1805 Capital One Drive, Tysons; capitalonecenter.com/the-perch Perry’s: 1811 Columbia Road NW; perrysam.com Realm Rooftop Bar & Lounge: 899 O Street NW; donahoe.comOver Under, The Rooftop DC: 476 K Street NW; therooftopdc.comThe Rooftop at The Graham: 1075 Thomas Jefferson Street NW; thegrahamgeorgetown.comSalazar: 1819 14th Street NW; salazardc.com  Sauf Haus Bier Hall: 1216 18th Street NW; saufhausdc.com  Sly at The Morrow Hotel: 222 M Street NE; marcusdc.comSmoke & Mirrors: 867 New Jersey Avenue SE; smokeandmirrorsrooftop.comSUMMIT at The Conrad: 950 New York Avenue NW; conradwashingtondc.com  Syn: 1975 Opportunity Way, Reston, VA; synrooftopreston.com  Takoda: 715 Florida Avenue NW; takodadc.com  Techo Palma: 606 Florida Avenue NW; techopalma.comTiki TNT: 1130 Maine Avenue SW; tikitnt.com Top of the Gate at The Watergate Hotel: 2650 Virginia Avenue NW; thewatergatehotel.com Treehouse: 411 New York Avenue NE; treehouseunionmarket.com Vagabond: 1836 18th Street NW; vagabonddc.comThe Ven at Embassy Row, Tag Rooftop Bar: 2015 Massachusetts Avenue NW; thevenembassyrow.com VUE at Hotel Washington: 515 15th Street NW; thehotelwashington.comWhiskey Charlie: 975 7th Street SW; whiskeycharliewharf.comWild Days at The Eaton: 1201 K Street NW; wild-days-dc.com Yara at Washington Marriott Capitol Hill: 175 L Street NE; @yara_caitol_hill 

Look, we don't need a national holiday to drink rosé,  but we'll absolutely take one. National Rosé Day lands this Saturday, June 13, and we in the area are ready. Blush bubbles, crisp Provence pours, something funky and natural from a wine bar you didn't know you needed, what can we say,  it's all out there. Here's where we like to sip rosé all day:Apéro – A crisp French rosé served with Euro-style small plates that beg for golden hour.Brasserie Liberté – Channel the Côte d'Azur with a chilled rosé from Provence and some steak frites.Cheesetique – A creamy rosé with just enough acidity to cut through all that luscious cheese. Yes, please.Cork Wine Bar – Try their seasonal rosé flight on their outdoor patio.DCanter Wine Shop – Your neighborhood wine shop that takes rosé seriously. Stop in for a curated pour or grab a chilled bottle to go.Fiola Mare – A sparkling Italian rosé made for toasting with views of the Potomac.Jane Jane – The perfect pour in a perfectly styled cocktail den. Ask for their bartender's favorite pink pick.La Bonne Vache – A French wine bar that is exactly where you should hide  away sip rosé alldayLe Diplomate – Their pale Provence rosé is the quintessential summer pour, très chic with oysters.Little Blackbird – Go for their biodynamic rosé, made for sipping with small plates.Lulu's Winegarden – Choose from several chilled rosés in their garden, served by the glass, bottle, or cooler.Maison Bar À Vin – French wine bar vibes, gorgeous pours, and a rosé list that rewards the curious sipper.Maxwell Park – Known for deep wine knowledge, ask the team for a surprising rosé you've never tried before.Patty O's – Enjoy a glass of their summery, strawberry-noted rosé on the most charming patio in town.Planet Wine – Grab a chilled bottle of small-batch rosé to go, or sip one at the bar with some snacks.Pop Fizz Bar – Sparkling rosé, duh — it's called Pop.Primrose – Their dry rosé pairs perfectly with the retro Parisian vibe.Quill at The Jefferson – Elegant rosé service with piano lounge vibes.Rooftop at the Rosewood – Elevated Georgetown views, elevated rosé. Summer sips The Point – A breezy rosé poured on their massive patio, ideal for pairing with seafood towers and waterfront views.Villa Yara – Their rosé flows alongside mezze and Mediterranean charm.

TheListAreYouOnIt’s latest Theatre Guide rounds up what’s on stage across the region. Broadway favorites, touring productions, and bold originals — and you know we have smart pre-theatre dining picks near each venue. From black box gems to big-house blockbusters, the talent here is the real deal.Pro tip: Chasing post-show bites? Old Ebbitt Grill’s kitchen serves until 1 AM. Curtain down, forks up, people! Arena StageCrazy Sexy Cool - the TLC Musical - June 12 through August 9  Where to EatDel Mar by Fabio TrabocchiLimaniMoonraker at the PendryPhilippe Chow Capital One HallNew show info coming soon Where to EatFlore Cafe ModanOmeteo Starr Hill BiergartenStellina PizzeriaWren   Dupont UndergroundNew show info coming soon  Where to EatCasamaraChikoIrongatePizzeria Paradiso The Pembroke Folger TheatreMeasure for Measure - September 22–November 1, 2026Hamlet - March 2–April 11, 2027The Comedy of Errors - May 18–June 27, 2027 Where to EatChikoThe Duck and the PeachParaisoQuill and Crumb Ford’s TheatreNew show info coming soon  Where to EatJaleoMoon RabbitSuccotash PrimeThe Riggs Hotel National TheatreNew show info coming soonWhere to EatCafé du ParcOld Ebbitt GrillThe OccidentalVue Rooftop at Hotel Washington Olney TheatrePlease Underestimate Me: Carla Hall Solo Show: EXTENDED through July 26Kimberly Akimbo - March 18 through April 25, 2027Doubt: A Parable - June 2 through July 11, 2027  Where to EatBrew BellyOlney StationSalt and VineScratch Kitchen Round House TheatreNew show info coming soon  Where to EatAventinoBlack’s Bar and KitchenCubano’sThe Salt Line Signature TheatrePippin - May 12 through July 26, 2026  Where to EatCarlyleCorso ItalianOur Mom EugeniaStellina Pizzeria Shirlington Studio TheatreFeeling Afraid As If Something Terrible Is Going To Happen June 4-July 12 Where to EatCork Wine Bar & MarketJane JaneLe DiplomateMallard Pearl Dive Oyster Palace Shakespeare Theatre Co.Othello - May 19 through June 28Summer Reps: Macbeth & Twelfth Night - July 15 through 25  Where to EatOyamelTonariRasikaZaytinya Synetic TheaterNew show info coming soon  Where to EatBar CollineBeauty Champagne and Sugar BoutiqueNi HaoWater Bar Theatre JNew show info coming soon  Where to EatEttoIron GateHank’s Oyster BarMallard Warner TheatreNew show info coming soon  Where to EatCentral Michel RichardOlio e PiùThe HamiltonThe Henri Woolly MammothA Fine Madness - May 30-June 28Venus - September 9 - October 4 Where to EatCentrolinaLucky DangerRasika