DC Curiosity & Adventure Seekers

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DC Curiosity & Adventure Seekers

Looking for a choose-your-own-adventure book in real life? Curious Caravan designs custom, personalized journeys in the DC-metro area (and beyond!) that

This group brings fun, active, social and passionately curious people together to experience what DC has to offer when you ditch the guidebook and explore what lies beyond the memorials and monuments. Let's see where our curiosity leads us!

05/09/2024

What an absolutely incredible night at listening to Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson discuss her new memoir, "Lovely One." It was so inspiring to be in her presence among a sold-out crowd.

The book title is based on her name - Ketanji Onyika - which means "Lovely One." The captivating narrative traces her childhood from Florida to Harvard — where she performed as a scene partner in drama class with Matt Damon — and ultimately becoming the first Black woman appointed to the Supreme Court, as well stories about family, marriage and parenthood.

The powerful conversation continues Kennedy Center's legacy of hosting impactful cultural conversations and performances on its iconic stages.

Talks, movies + performances that leverage the arts to explore justice + equity issues are offered in a mix of free and paid events through the Center's Social Impact programming; available online.

If you missed last night's uplifting talk, will be hosting a conversation with KBJ about her book at
Martin Luther King Jr Library on Sept 19 (registration req'd). Highly recommend snagging a ticket before they're gone!

02/09/2024

🎵 Wanna Be Startin' Somethin' 🎵 Now at the , "MJ: The Musical" is a jukebox musical that is part live music video, part concert + part biopic woven together like a musical memoir.

More than anything, MJ is a tribute to Jackson’s illustrious career and persona.
Many much-loved songs are performed, but many take on new meanings as they illustrate Michael’s emotions + personal struggles as his career evolves.

Set during Jackson's rehearsal for his historically large-scale Dangerous World Tour in 1992, with flashbacks to his career-changing collaboration with Quincy Jones, and other major milestones along the way, and nods to the Bob Fosse, Nicholas Brothers and Fred Astaire influences on his dancing, MJ shows how grand and inventive Jackson and his artistry were and continue to be.

Does MJ tell all behind “The Man in the Mirror”? No, but that’s not what it’s for. Ultimately, the show is about glorifying MJ the artist, so it takes a superficial look at what lay beneath the surface that inspired his genius, particularly his grand imagination, revolutionary videos + innovative choreography.

MJ is jam-packed with Jackson’s greatest hits, the dancing is spectacular, and the uninitiated may learn a thing or two about this complicated, troubled + extraordinarily talented artist.

Whether you are a fanatical fan of Michael Jackson or just a person who is casually interested in some of his music, you'll be singing and dancing in your seat.

📍 National Theatre //1321 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW
🗓 Thru September 8
💰 $45-$209 (not including fees)

30/08/2024

Meet + . On day two of , the dynamic saxophonist sister-and-brother duo from Baltimore took the Millennium Stage by storm🔥🔥

The siblings have been playing together since they were nine and 10 😲 Now in their early 20s, they're debuting their own compositions + are quickly becoming the leading faces of the rising generation of modern jazz musicians in the DMV. Festivals like the jazz festival are great for introducing you to talent right in your own backyard.

Their solo + joint compositions split the difference between thumping pop-funk, emotive swells of melody + jazz fusion’s heady cosmic undertow. The duo are fans of and you get hints of his influence in their jams.

With rising stars like the Dorseys in the mix, the future of jazz is definitely now!

Incredibly, even playing at Kennedy Center isn't an excuse to skip classes; the sibs still have to go to school today🤪

There are a mix of free and paid DC Jazzfest events with tickets starting at $25. Plus, Fraylife+ members get free tix to festival shows at the over Labor Day weekend thru Sept 1. Check out dcfray.com for more.

IYDK shows at Millennium Stage should 💯 be on your DC bucket list. You can catch renowed international and local artists ranging from spoken word, dance, hip-hop, theatre, and more for free, Wednesdays thru Saturdays at 6pm.

18/08/2024

Artist Rose Jaffe's () style is immediately recognizable. The figures, like the ones in this mural at 1217 W St. NW, are colorful, playful, fluid, + always in motion as they dance with geometric shapes. Looking at her work always puts a smile on our face.

Jaffe is among a growing number of badass female artists transforming DC'S boring walls. You might have seen her work recently at . She is best known for her 2019 Ruth Bader Ginsburg mural commissioned by , a woman-owned real estate company, on U streets NW, where mourners flocked
when the Supreme Court justice died in 2020.

Keep your 👀 open---Jaffe has about 20 murals across DC, which are usually focused on political activism, social justice, natural healing + spiritual grounding.

Let us introduce you to DC's amazing murals + the 🎨 who make it such a vibrant place to live in + visit. 🖼 ➡️🚶🏾‍♀️DM for your custom adventure!

17/08/2024

did not disappoint in the first of several sold-out shows for his
debut! We laughed so much our face hurt by the end 🤣 Openers + were also hilarious. Thanks for the heads on the meet and greet after the show!

The DC Improv is one of our favorite places to check out local talent and national tours delivering laughs from the same stage. Most nights of the week, the comedy club puts on standup comedy shows, as well as other comedic acts like sketch comedy, improv, pun-themed comedy politician-impersonating roasts and more.

In addition to the main room in the old restaurant cm disco, there's also a smaller lounge room for more intimate shows. We've enjoyed many shows in both rooms, seeing headliners like Tracy Morgan, , +
in the big room and local comedy troupes and standups and a comedy school in the lounge.

The comedy club has been around since 1992 when it was opened by Budd Friedman, founder of the original Improv in New York. Ellen DeGeneres headlined the opening show + Dave Chappelle was the youngest person to headline when he was 19. It's really cool seeing pictures of all the big names that have come through the doors on the walls inside.

10/10 recommend DC Improv for date night or a fun group hang.

15/08/2024

A new 🖼 in southwest DC is almost ready for blast off🚀

Muralist Joel Bergner () was tapped by to create a community mural that highlights the intersection between earth science + humanitarian action. As Joel explained when we stopped by, people think NASA is just focused on 🌌. But NASA Lifelines uses space data + technology to solve big problems right here on earth. Like, using satellites to identify the closest available aid when there is a natural disaster. How cool is that?!?

When it's done, Bergner's mural, "Satellites of Hope," will feature three scenes that highlight "the transformative power of satellite technology in addressing the challenges faced by communities locally and across the world."

If you didn't know, NASA Headquarters is located in the Southwest neighborhood, near where the mural is being painted, on Hidden Figures Way.

The grand reveal + community celebration will be on August 28 from 2:30pm - 4pm.

Southwest DC is becoming quite a landmark for public art that embodies the community spirit and history of the vibrant neighborhood. DM for a custom experience to discover its distinctive charm.

📍 WMATA Headquarters // 300 7th Street SW

14/08/2024

Have you heard of playback theatre? It's an exhilarating + interactive medium of storytelling where life is imitated by art. We'd never heard of it before until introduced us to . It's the only theatre company in the DC area that we're aware of doing this type of performance art.

The way it works: An ensemble takes an audience member's ideas + stories and turns them into an impromptu performance right in front of your eyes.

Part of the mystery + magic is how intently the actors listen and so quickly the plumb the depth of a story, then turn the mirror back to you, reflecting truths and insights about yourself that you didn't know or expect.

It's truly one of the most unique forms of performing arts we have ever experienced. In fact, merely calling playback a “performance” would be a gross disservice to the magic it actually is. Playback is connection. Movement. Emotion. Unity. Justice. Reflection. Humility. Trust.

Verbal Gymnastics' recent show about the meaning of home at the "Home/Made, Flesh/Bone" exhibit at was so emotional + moving it was, like going to therapy.

We've realized, through various failed attempts at trying to explain this to friends, that one needs to see it to understand it. Or, more colloquially, “see it to believe it” — in this case, “it” being the poetic beauty of Verbal Gymnastics + playback theater.

Follow to learn more about this fascinating form + discover DC's rich and diverse 🎭 scene.

10/08/2024

No, your eyes aren't playing tricks on you. There really is a dinosaur fossil visible from an upstairs window when you walk past .dc.

The sculpture by 🎨 .studio is a skeletal replica of the prehistoric “sailed forehead” dinosaur known as a Velafrons. The bones are covered with an array of colorful beads inspired by the designs of Mexico’s ancient Huichol tribe who lived in the town where the original bones were found.

The 30-foot piece, which is nicknamed Ichiro, made his debut at Burning Man in 2019, before arriving at DC’s fifth annual “Catharsis on the Mall" and eventually making its home at the downtown hotel.

In a city full of party animals, this one definitely stands out!🦖

Explore + discover more unexpected sights in DC with a custom experience! Get in touch to get started🚶‍♂️🏙❤️

06/08/2024

Ah, Paris! 🇫🇷 Watching the Olympics has sparked our wanderlust to revisit the city of lights. Unfortunately, that's not in our immediate travel plans, but you don't actually need to travel far to see a famous Parisian landmark right here in DC.

The Paris Metropolitan Entrance sign in the Sculpture Garden is more than just an example of the Art Nouveau
movement that was popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It's actually one of the few remaining turn-of-the-century Paris Métropolitain entrances that were removed from stations between the 1930s and 1960s.

French architect Hector Guimard designed 141 models of the signs that were installed in Paris between 1900 and 1913. His designs were meant to clearly mark the new subway entrances and make the novel form of mass transportation more attractive to riders.

Unbelievably, many of his station entrances were destroyed right up until the 1960s when the Art Nouveau style fell out of fashion in favor of a more modern design. Fortunately for us, at least half have been saved and can still be admired at about 86 Metro stations in Paris. Today, the remaining entrances are beloved and iconic landmarks that are intrinsically linked to the city.

To make it feel more like you're in Paris, this famous work from the beginning of the last century is best enjoyed from one of the outdoor tables with a glass of wine from the pavilion restaurant. Oh la la!

📍National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden // 7th Street + Constitution Ave, NW
⏰️ Daily, 10am - 5pm
💰 Free

05/08/2024

We have a wicked sweet tooth, and when it comes to desserts, we tend to prefer cake or cupcakes over cookies. That is, until now!

Among the maze of food stalls at , , a Black-owned popup bakery, makes some of the BEST cookies we've ever had!

Made with real ingredients, the freshly baked cookies are delicious and worth the indulgence, especially for those who prefer a chewy texture over crunchy. The cookies have a smooth butteriness to them and the perfect amount of sweetness--not tooth-achingly sweet and not boringly bland. Even the ones with toppings are balanced, sweet without feeling overwhelming, meltingly tender, and just soooo good!

Co-founders Andrea O'Neal and Bryant Jones are the brains behind the bakery. Fittingly, Bryant learned the art of baking from his grandmother, Sweetie. Aww! You can learn more about their story in 's new book, "Unique Eats + Eateries in DC."

The bakery swaps out its menu items on a seasonal basis. Its regular flavors include S'mores, Old Fashioned Chocolate Chip, Sea Salt Caramel Crunch, Florida Sugar, Snickerdoodle, Blackout, + Funfetti.

We've heard the cookies are even better when you warm them up! We can't wait to try this trick when the fall cookie flavors come out. Mhmm ... 🤤

03/08/2024

She's a musical trailblazer, but native Washingtonian Madame Lillian Evanti's name is unfortunately not as well-known as others that arose from the city's Black Broadway era.

She was a true diva---the first African American to perform with a major European opera company. She studied and performed to popular acclaim in professional opera companies in Italy, Germany, Austria, England, and France.

But she also maintained deep ties DC. She graduated from Howard University in 1907, and her beloved house in the Shaw neighborhood is on the National Historic Register. She eventually moved to Europe, where her professional opportunities were not as limited by discrimination. She made her professional debut in Nice, France in 1924, and while abroad, adopted the stage name Evanti because it was more European-sounding name.

Although she was receiving praise in Europe, only black newspapers were picking up her success in America.

Evanti returned to Washington periodically and performed on Lafayette Square several times in the 1920s and 1930s, including a private recital at the White House for Eleanor Roosevelt and her friends. She also sang with Marian Anderson as a part of the festivities at a Howard University football game.

Madame Lillian Evanti is memorialized in the with this painting by noted Washington artist Lois Mailou Jones. It's on display in the "Brilliant Exiles: American Women in Paris (1900 - 1939)" exhibit.

You can also see the custom-built Fischer Piano that her father gave to her at in the exhibition "A Bold and Beautiful Vision: A Century of Black Arts Education in Washington, D.C., 1900-2000."

Get a copy of ' book "111 Places in Black Culture in DC" + 's "Black Broadway in DC" to discover more Black history + culture in the District you should know.

📍 National Portrait Gallery // 8th St NW & G St NW
⏰️ Daily, 11:30am - 7:00pm
💰 Free

01/08/2024

Happy Dark Star Park Day! Every year on August 1 at 9:32am, morning light strikes the group of large spheres that make up the Dark Star Park sculpture in Rosslyn and aligns with their shadows on the ground which lasts - much like a real eclipse - only for a few minutes.

The date marks the day that William Henry Ross purchased the land that later became Rosslyn (Ross served as the neighborhood's namesake). Today is the 40th anniversary, and this hidden gem has grown from a little-known curiosity to a community celebration of a beloved landmark.

Dark Star Park combines elements of landscape architecture, sculpture, and astronomy. The piece is comprised of five gunite (air-placed concrete) spheres resembling fallen, extinguished stars, as well as two pools, four steel poles, and two tunnels. The installation is Arlington's first public art installation.

Designed by artist Nancy Holt, the park was commissioned in 1979 and finalized in 1984. The work's resemblance to fallen stars is no coincidence. Holt had a fascination with solar eclipses, as well as in the shadows cast by the sun on the surface of the earth.

Holt carefully designed the installation so that the alignment would happen at the same time every year. She worked with an astrophysicist to make the shadow alignment happen.

Fun fact: One common mistake about Dark Star Park Day is that the August 1 alignment is meant to celebrate the birthday of Grateful Dead lead guitarist Jerry Garcia. This assumption is compounded by the coincidence of the band’s song titled “Dark Star.” The park is also a popular spot for Star Wars themed events thanks to its name.

If you missed the celebration, be sure to mark your calendar and set your alarm for this time again in 2025!

30/07/2024

Follow the yellow brick road! Look up and you'll spot a colorful Wizard of Oz-themed mural peering down from the wall outside in Dupont Circle. Titled "Friends of Dorothy," DMV artist
painted it more than 20 years ago.

For those that don't know, “friend of Dorothy” is a slang term for gay men that originated in the q***r community. It comes from the Wizard of Oz and its lead, Judy Garland, who is considered a gay icon.

When the mural was painted, the building was the home of Omega DC, a neighborhood gay bar that was open for 35 years.

Dupont Circle itself has been a center for LGBTQ+ life since the mid-1960s. While still gay-friendly today, the 2000s have seen a drop-off in new LGBTQ+ spaces and closures of longtime establishments.

But Dupont Circle still remains as the heart of the city’s q***r identity, and Brooks' mural is a vivid reminder of its past.

Discover more murals + their connections to DC history with a custom experience. 🎨➡️🚶🏾‍♀️DM to start exploring!

📍2122 P St. NW

26/07/2024

Public art not only beautifies a space, it can also send a powerful message. Tucked away in a little pocket park in DC is a colorful piece that speaks volumes.

Located in Murrow Park in , "Common Ground" by artist is a series of 25 connected picnic tables and benches designed to being people of different backgrounds and cultures together along Pennsylvania Avenue west of the White House.

Originally created for a park in Queens, New York, each table has a handmade mosaic pattern with a different colorful design inspired by that neighborhood's unique mix of immigrants and iconic architecture. With so many people of different backgrounds + cultures living and working in DC, it perfectly reflects our diverse neighborhoods, too.

The location of the installation also sends a message. Murrow Park is named for the late Edward R. Murrow. He is the first journalist to have Federal parkland named after him. A pioneer of radio and television news broadcasting, Murrow spent his career at CBS and is considered one of journalism’s greatest figures, noted for his honesty and integrity in delivering the news.

Interested in discovering more public art hidden gems? Let us show you with a custom adventure! 🎨➡️🌇

23/07/2024

Kamala Harris has already made history as the first woman, the first Black person and the first person of South Asian descent to serve as vice president of the United States. She's posed to make history again, having captured enough delegates to be the Democratic presidential nomination. If elected, Harris would break one of the highest glass ceilings left for women in the United States -- that of occupying the country's top office.

When she was elected VP, artist Swiss artist .art created this "glass ceiling breaker" portrait celebrating Harris shattering the glass ceiling.

We remember feeling hope, excitement, and optimism seeing this powerful portrait when it was displayed on the National Mall by the Lincoln Memorial. It was heart-warming to see so many girls -- especially Black and brown girls -- pose for pictures with it. We hope those emotions will be reignited in the days and weeks ahead and carry through to the voting booth in one of the most critical elections of the modern era.

The shattered glass portrait is currently on display at the MLK Library as part of its "Black Feminist DC" exhibit on the ground floor.

17/07/2024

"Fasten your shackles," it's going to be a bumpy ride. So begins the hazardous voyage across the Middle Passage aboard the Celebrity Slave Ship at 's production of "The Colored Museum."

Although it was written nearly 40-years ago, George C Wolfe's shameless satire that both celebrates and mocks African-American identity and stereotypes, is still immensely relevant.

Directed by booked and busy , the play is presented as a series of vignettes that act as museum exhibits satirizing Black American history. In keeping with the theme, there are exhibits created by local arts and students at the Duke Ellington School of Art around the stage and in the lobby that audience members can view and read about prior to the start of the play (so arrive early!).

Sitting on wooden seats meant to resemble those on a slave ship, the audience is part of the exhibit, too. The seats become more uncomfortable the longer you sit, which adds an additional bite to the tone of the play.

The sketches are at times hysterical, at times depressing. Some of them hit home, while others are more murky. In the ridiculous but oh-so-profound sketch “The Hairpiece,” a woman is confronted by her two outspoken wigs — one an Afro, the other long, straight, and flowing — over not just which hair to wear, but what kind of Black woman she should be.

The ensemble cast moves seamlessly from character to character and from humor to heartbreak, with DC drummer drawing the scenes together with a rhythmic beat.

Not everyone in the house will be sure when to laugh as the exhibits dip fearlessly into discomforting waters. But the play’s end ties together all the pieces with all five characters on stage having a large dance party as a celebration of Black joy and survival.

"Colored Museum" is a must-see that contemplates, educates, and captivates.

📍 Studio Theatre // 1501 14th St NW
🗓 Thru August 11
💰 Tickets are $40 to $95, with discount options available

15/07/2024

That's week one of down, one more to go!

One of the great things about Fringe is the thrill of the unknown--you never really know what kind of show you're going to see. There are amazing shows, and there are good shows, and there are terrible shows, but everyone is giving it their all. The best performances give you new ways to think about life and the world. The worst will give you a great topic of conversation with your friends.

Of the five shows we've seen so far, our favorite has been "Black Smoke Showing - Stories of African American Firefighters." Despite the somewhat serious sounding title, the show uses stories and jokes to tell hidden facts about African-American contributions to firefighting, told by Nick
Baskerville (), a veteran African-American firefighter from Virginia.

Also worth seeing is "Love West of Dupont Circle," a very DC, opposites-attract love story about two journalists with hugely different religious and political views despite their shared Catholic faith. Fair warning: It might be triggering for some.

Another great thing about Fringe is the amazing instant community between the theatre-goers, volunteers, and performers that springs up before and after shows. Because the shows are at a small handful of venues, you'll run into familar faces, and it's so much fun to compare notes about what to see or skip. "Over Her Dead Body" and "The Harber Conundrum" have been getting enthusiastic thumbs up.

Week two of Capital Fringe runs July 18 - 21 in multiple locations across . Tickets are $15.

Which Fringe shows have you really liked? Share in the comments!

14/07/2024

The West Lawn at has been transformed into a temporary art gallery for the summer with "Transform DC" murals.

Transform DC is an art project in which DC public school students from 9-12 grade collaborate to create large-scale murals. For this third edition, the theme is the "Sound of DC."

DC is home to the White House, US Capitol Building and iconic monuments and memorials, but more importantly, it’s the home of a vibrant community and culture.

Walking through the mural gallery is like taking a journey through the city's musical legacy. There are images of DC notables like Marian Anderson, Marvin Gaye, Chuck Brown, and Duke Ellington (of course!). You'll also see depictions of old-school style music posters, street musicians drumming on plastic buckets at Gallery Place, New Balance shoes, and shoutouts to Mumbo Sauce---all things that give DC its unique flavor. The kids' artwork is really impressive!

Stop by to check out these awesome murals before they leave the lawn on September 2.

📍National Building Museum // 401 F Street NW

10/07/2024

Taking place August 28 - Sept 1 at locations across DC, culminating with a blockbuster blowout at over Labor Day weekend, the 20th anniversary will be here before you know it!

Featuring an incredible mix of international, DMV, and emerging jazz superstars, the five-day festival is one of the biggest in the country. After all, what better place to celebrate jazz than the birthplace of Duke Ellington?

From artist info, tickets, insider tips, where to eat and drink, and even where to find bathrooms, check out 's DC JazzFest guide for everything you need to know to get your festival on!

Link in bio and online at districtfray.com.

Follow for DC JazzFest rewards as a Fraylife+ member.

06/07/2024

How frigging cute is this storefront?! Drawn by the adorable Hello Kitty painting on the building, we went inside , not knowing what to expect.

Inside is a wide variety of fun kitschy fashion, accessories, jewelry, gifts, and even cool custom luggage inspired by the 60s to the 90s, ranging from owner Michelle “Noodles” Smith's signature t-shirts to repurposed furniture designed with photos of celebrities — including Bob Ross, Michael Jackson and David Bowie. The family-run, Black-owned store also sells everyday lifestyle needs like bracelets, coffee mugs, and Funko Pops.

You'll find so many unique and unusual and handmade items in every corner of the store. It's a treasure hunters dream! The idea for the store was inspired by Georgetown’s old punk outfitter Salamander Commander, where the owner used to work.

If you love nostalgia items, are looking for a quirk statement accessory, fun gift for that friend that lives outside the box, cool urban flare for your home or you're just the urban artsy type, you'll definitely want to check them out.

Ready to shop local? Discover neighborhood gems with a custom adventure that has a personal touch.

02/07/2024

Since its debut during COVID, 's art alley has become a mainstay in Mount Pleasant. The outdoor gallery features rotating artwork from local photographers and organizations, so you never know what you'll find when dropping by.

On a recent visit, we found a really cool exhibit co-curated by that highlights Vietnamese American creatives and explores the duality of what it means to be Vietnamese and American. It was so great seeing as one of the featured artists!

Located in the heart of the neighborhood, right behind , the art alley is a great little spot to browse while waiting for your order, after hitting up the farmers market or jamming at 's 6ft Apartys on the weekends, or just out taking a walk.

Let us show you more artsy hidden gems like this with your own custom experience! 🎨✨️

01/07/2024

We were so excited to meet and hear , and , three renowed DMV artists, talk about their craft, creative process and art as self-care in a fantastic artist talk moderated by .ark at .

Luis Peralta Del Valle is a renowed muralist well-known for his portraits of African American historical figures. You'll know his work when you see it. David "Dez" Zambrano is one of the best custom sneaker artists in the world whose murals and paintings explode with color and energy like a rap beat. Levi Robinson's work is thoughtful and contemplative, capturing thoughts, feelings, and emotions and exploring perspectives about race, gender and other complex issues.

But beyond their talent and the amazing work in their collaborative show, "Crescendo," we love how they openly support other artists in the DMV arts community. Maybe it's the DIY spirit that's so rooted in DC'S DNA, but that same welcoming attitude is present throughout the art scene here, regardless of your knowledge about art.

Artist talks like this one at the intimate Petworth art gallerybare such a great way to get to know the DC art scene. Plus, they deepen your understanding of the artwork in an exhibit, allow you to connect with artists and other local creatives and art lovers, and broadens your perspectives---all while surrounded by beautiful art!

It was great seeing impressionist artist come thru and running into emerging artist .art after seeing her work in a collective show curated by .art.island. That's another reason artist talks are awesome, seeing old and new friends!

The "Crescendo" exhibit runs thru July 20th. Follow Art of Noize for updates on exhibits and more artist talks!

📍Art of Noize // 821 Upshur St. NW (Rear)
⏰️ Thurs - Sat, 12 - 6pm; Sun - Wed, Closed
💰 Free; artwork available for purchase

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With a honeyed rasp and soul-tinged guitar riffs, DC singer-songwriter and guitarist @mary_el1 brought a funky rock and soul sound to her set at @downinthereeds and contagiously good vibes🤘🏾 We first saw her perform at an intimate set at @honfleurgallery earlier this year, and she was equally in command of the crowd @theparksdc. Here, she cut loose and hit a serious groove with a high-energy performance complete with impressive musicianship and some head-bobbing original songs. #CuriousCaravan

Fusion band @redbaraat closed out @downinthereeds with a high-energy performance that turned into a dance party with members of the audience joining the group on-stage. The group was new to us but the sound of hard-driving North Indian bhangra with elements of go-go, hip-hop, jazz and raw punk energy immediately had us hooked! It's joyful music that uplifts your spirits and gets your feet tapping and demonstrates why music is so essential to the soul. Red Baraat will be back in DC in March 2023 for their annual show @thehamiltondc so save the date. #CuriousCaravan

@downinthereeds founder @cenaoum's talent for booking talent for DC music festivals is second to none. He proved it once again at this year's festival. A festival attendee who traveled from Fairfax to hear @medsingers live for the first time described the band's sound as powwow punk, but that doesn't come close to capturing the absolutely spellbinding musical experience this group delivers. Combining traditional powwow music with elements of punk, swirling electronics and rock in a genre-defying explosion of sound, we've never heard anything like it. In keeping with the festival's "healing power of music" theme, this is sonic medicine. If you get the chance to see them live, just get a 🎟 and go! #CuriousCaravan

If you're a local fan of murals, no doubt you know @nokingscollective and have seen their work all across the city. It was amazing to get a chance to see two of their artists, @niaketurah and @nokittenheel, create live murals up close and personal at @downinthereeds. Early in the morning there was nothing but a blank slate and by the end of the day, two vibrant murals! They had very different styles yet they both perfectly fit the vibe of the festival. Having a live mural was a new addition this year and it was a blast seeing people stop and engage with the artists and use the murals as a backdrop for 📸 . If you didn't get a chance to see the artists at work during the festival, check out Nia's fantastic mural of Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson in Logan Circle and Kathrine's work decorates the outside of @thelaneivycity . We hear No Kings will be busy in the coming months so keep your eyes open for new 🎨 What did you think of the live mural? #CuriousCaravan

What a beautiful day! Saturday's @downinthereeds was an awesome day-long celebration of music, culture, community, art, diversity and good vibes. As fall festival season draws to a close in DC, the third annual music festival had something for everyone with unique programming on each of its three stages. With an impressive lineup from local favorites like @soundofthecity and @mary_el1 and genre-defying groups @medsingers and @redbaraat and art activations from @nokingscollective @negritude222 and @tbarnescreates , the family-friendly fest offered everything you ❤️ about music festivals in a beautiful and historic setting @theparksdc with the color of fall leaves adding to the excitement. We'll be sharing some of our favorite moments in upcoming posts. Tell us about your favorite part in the comments! #CuriousCaravan

Woohoo! We're soo excited it's Friday because it means @downinthereeds is TOMORROW!! Come out from 11am - 7pm at @theparksdc and enjoy the day-long festival celebrating the power of music in healing with 3 stages of live music, workshops and interactive art activations 🎉💃🏾 If that's not enough, here's what else is on the radar this weekend: ✅️ Sample the eats at @capjewishmuseum food festival ✅️ See the classic rom-com "Holiday" @arenastage ✅️ Wine and dine with George and Martha Washington at @mount_vernon fall wine festival and sunset tour ✅️ Take a virtual trip to Paris at the Notre Dame Cathedral AR @nationalbuildingmuseum Check these out, and more, with our round-up of awesome things to do this month; 🔗 in bio ☝🏾 For a personal adventure in the city customized for you, we'd love to hear from you! #CuriousCaravan

The forecast in DC calls for rain this weekend but that doesn't mean your fun is washed out. Why not take a quick trip to see Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris? Thanks to the immersive VR exhibit @nationalbuildingmuseum , you won't even have to leave the city. We weren't sure what to expect, but it's really cool! Instead of goggles or a headset, you use a histopad, which is a new kind of interactive tablet technology, to "unlock" various activations you'll encounter in the exhibit. The visually-captivating simulation lets you go back in time and witness the building's construction from the ground up, listen to stories from the original builders, explore inaccessible areas as it takes you up to the soaring naves (check any fear of heights at the door) and discover the cathedral’s many secrets. You'll also learn more about the renovation project to restore the famous French structure after the 2019 fire that destroyed most of the roof and other parts of the building. It's an wonderfully innovative journey from the Middle Ages to today for history, architecture, travel fans or curious explorers. #CuriousCaravan

DC's fall music festival season is going strong! Live music is so much a part of the city's DNA, especially at Malcolm X Park (aka Meridian Hill Park). Have you been to a Sunday drum circle?! It's the perfect setting for @nextfestdc , DC's newest music celebration, which showcases the connection between jazz, go-go and funk, and the intersections of community, art and politics. All the things that define "DC culture." This year's NEXTfest was last weekend but follow @longlivegogodc @capitalbop for more live music and to save next year's date. Want to know what festivals are coming up? Check out our fall festivals and events list, which includes the 3rd annual @downinthereeds on Oct 8; 🔗 in bio ☝🏾 #CuriousCaravan

Some of the good times from #ArtAllNight, DC's biggest arts celebration! This city-wide event showcasing our artists, creatives a mnd makers brings neighbors together and makes the city a better place to live. Thanks to the businesses, vlartostd and volunteers who made it all possible ❤️ One of the great things about the District is that you can always find ways to celebrate and support the arts all the time, not just once a year. 🎨 Follow all the artists and performers you liked at Art All Night 🎨 Check out the @202creates events calendar and sign up for their newsletter 🎨 Visit small independent galleries, college art departments, open studio events, farmers markets and craft shows 🎨 Check out local insiders: @dcmusic.live @listenlocalfirst @themusicianship @capitalbop @alchemicalrecords @dcmusicreview @dcmusicsummit @districtlylocal 🎨 Go to the library; @dcpubliclibrary hosts some of the best local music and art events What suggestions would you add? #CuriousCaravan

The Wharf is getting even bigger! Just in time for the five-year anniversary of the completion of phase one, the waterfront destination is getting ready to celebrate the opening of phase two next month. So what does that mean exactly? Well, more of everything! It will welcome eateries from celeb chef Gordon Ramsey, a luxury condo with a car 🛗 (faancy!), a 1.5-acre park, a swank hotel, and 20 additional shops and restaurants. Karaoke fans will also have something to sing about. Live K Karaoke and Dim Sum will be moving in, too. According to Patrick Revord, the Wharf director of community engagement and our WalkingTown DC tour guide, you'll be able to walk the mile-long waterfront from the fish market to Ft McNair and the Titanic Memorial when the project is done. Some of the new shops and restaurants will be opening in October, while others are expected to open later this year and in 2023. Word is Ramsey's Hell's Kitchen (yes it's inspired by the reality show) and his fish and chippy will be opening soon so you'll have time to work up an appetite 😉 Are you excited for phase two or meh? #CuriousCaravan

George Washington University's Textile Museum is a gem--it's the only textile museum in the country. The museum is old (founded in 1925) but the building is new (opened in early 2015). Right now, there's a truly amazing exhibit with an absolutely gorgeous selection of Korean fashion from the traditional clothing (hanbok) of the last royal dynasty to today's K-Pop artists and edgy streetwear styles. It also showcases fashions from pioneering Korean designers like Nora Noh, Lee Young Hee and Icinoo. They say clothes make the man. The exhibit offers a fascinating look into how textiles mirror the social, spiritual, economic and aesthetic values of the societies that made them. The exhibit is spread over two floors and rotates a few times a year. Be sure to stop in the wonderfully curated the gift shop for lovely and unique items. "Korean Fashion: From Royal Court to the Runway" runs thru December 22. Free. #CuriousCaravan

Happy Friday! There's lots of reasons to be excited for the weekend from 🛼 at historic Anacostia Park to @dcwallsfestival graffiti bash and Adams Morgan Day, the longest neighborhood festival with music, food and more! And that's just for starters! For details and more events and activities, check out "Wanderlist," our curated list of awesome things to do in DC this month; 🔗 in bio. #CuriousCaravan

No one throws an outdoor party like Anacostia! The east of the river neighborhood hosted live jazz of all genres at not one, not two but SIX locations throughout the flourishing arts district as part of @dcjazzfest . We loved seeing longtime faves @thejogoproject and discovering so many new bands and artists like @yusefhoodjrart that make DC such an arts-rich city to explore. This was a fantastic event, not just to experience music and the arts, but also to get to know Anacostia for those that know it in name only. While it may be new to some, the neighborhood has been a quietly thriving arts and cultural scene for years. From @anacostiaarts @honfleurgallery @craigkraftstudio @smithsonianacm and @anacostiaplayhouse, Anacostia has a rich culture scene that's very different from other parts of DC. If you missed this event, we hear rumors of something big being planned for @artallnightdcshaw on Sept 23-24 so plan to venture east of the river and experience the arts like you'll only find in Anacostia. #CuriousCaravan

One of the best places to hear live music in DC is the Martin Luther King Jr Library. Wait, what? Yep, you read that correctly! The rooftop of the newly renovated building has turned into a unique and unexpected spot to listen to and discover local musicians. @dcpubliclibrary rocks🤘🏾 Musician @herbscottmusic hosts a jazz series there featuring classics, contemporary hits and original interpretations. You can catch him and his mates on July 28. The rooftop is also the stage for DC Punk Archive shows. The next one is on August 10. With amazing views of the city, a lush garden and nooks for intimate conversation, and museums and great places to eat just steps away, the MLK Library rooftop is a great date night spot or place chillout and escape the hustle and bustle. 📍: 901 G Street NW #CuriousCaravan

Like dessert after a great meal, fireworks are the best part of any Fourth of July celebration! Of course, the National Mall is the most popular place to watch @nationalmallnps set off the colorful display, but locals know there are lots of other spots that have amazing views and lots of space for picnickers. Check out our blog for our 12 🎆 picks for viewing the light show and capturing great photos, too. Tell us your favorite spot for fireworks vieong in the comments! Plus, download our FREE city guide for the 10 best places to pick up the perfect summer picnic for wherever you decide to watch the fireworks. 🔗 in bio ☝🏾 #CuriousCaravan

Who's ready for the long weekend?! It's the perfect time to get out there and discover the city beyond the monuments and memorials: 🎉 Kick back with live music and amazing waterfront views @capitalriverfront 🎉 Enjoy a sunset military parades @barracksrow 🎉 Walk like an Egyptian at the new King Tut immersive exhibit @natgeomuseum 🎉 Celebrate Juneteenth with festivities that honor Black history, freedom and joy 🎉 Check out our guide of 10 places to pick up the perfect summer picnic Your weekend plans are covered with our roundup of things to do this summer, Juneteenth events, and more! 🔗 in bio ☝🏾 #CuriousCaravan

Outdoor 🎶 summer concerts are an intrinsic soundtrack of the city: enjoying salsa grooves with a picnic in a public park, or stumbling across a cover band performing along the waterfront on the way to dinner, and being pulled in to listen to a few songs. Jazz in the Garden is an ever-popular, but crowded option, so we've curated a bunch of outdoor music alternatives where you can get your groove on💃🏾 And they're all FREE! If you love live music as much as we do, let us introduce you to even more unexpected places to rock out to local bands in DC with a custom experience or itinerary 🤘🏾 #CuriousCaravan

Bonjour! Live music is back in Georgetown with the amazing @dukeellingtondc Jazz Combo providing a lively soundtrack at Book Hill Park for the return of the French Market 🇫🇷 Fantastique! They are such a phenomenally talented group of young musicians! We saw some of the students perform last year @downinthereeds and were blown away. We have a feeling we'll be saying "I knew them when..." in a few years. We've had the pleasure of getting to know lots of local musicians and the ties to the Duke Ellington School run deep. Every time they perform, it keeps the jazz great's legacy alive right here where it all got started. If you missed the Jazz Combo playing today, they'll be performing @mr.henrys.dc, a Capitol Hill institution for live music, in May. Do you love live music as much as we do? Let us introduce you to amazing local talents and unexpected music venues with your own custom-designed experience! 🔗 in bio. #CuriousCaravan

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