The next few days are full of ways to celebrate local culture in the crisp air, including several fall festivals.
Fall’s doing that thing where it flirts with summer by day and ghosts you by night — the perfect weather for roaming before the big chill sets in. From art openings to roller-skating history lessons, this weekend’s full of ways to celebrate local culture in the crisp air.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 16
Pride in Business Expo 2025
The DMV’s largest LGBTQ+ networking and trade show returns with insights for small business owners and entrepreneurs. Hear from business development leaders and local advocates on the unique opportunities and challenges of launching and scaling LGBTQ+-owned ventures across Northern Virginia, D.C., and Maryland. (The Mayor’s Office of LGBTQ Affairs, 4 – 7 p.m.; FREE with registration)
Culture Series: Snap City — The Art of Roller Skating
Native Washingtonian and historian Tasha Klusmann says “Style” skating should be an official folk art. Her presentation traces the 1960s roots of D.C. and Maryland skating through to today’s “Snappers,” blending archival footage and community stories. The evening includes a sneak peek from Snap City, an upcoming documentary that captures the artistry and energy of the region’s skating scene. (Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library, 7 – 8:30 p.m.; FREE)
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 17
Fragments: Art by Dany Green, Louis-Antoine Gilbert, and J.D. Deardourff
This art exhibit at a local gallery brings together three artists who use mosaic, painting, and collage to turn chaos into harmony. Visit during the opening night party this week — or make a plan to stop by before November 8 by appointment or during one of the other three public events. (Thundershark Gallery, 6 – 9 p.m.; FREE with RSVP)
Kung Fu & Community Service: Celebrating 30 Years of Hung Tao Choy Mei
Celebrate three decades of martial arts, music, and community action with this exhibit from the Hung Tao Choy Mei Leadership Institute. The opening ceremony features Virginia Ali of Ben’s Chili Bowl and a grand dragon-naming celebration. Explore exhibits on kung fu, African drumming, and Chinese cultural arts — all honoring a legacy of creativity and service in D.C. (Dupont Underground; 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; FREE, ongoing through Nov. 9)
Hill Family Biking: Monuments T(w)een Ride
See the monuments glow under night skies on this guided 8.8-mile ride just for adventurous tweens and teens. Helmets, lights, and water bottles are a must. Snacks and reflective vests will be provided. This is a no-drop ride, so everyone stays together from start to finish. (Maury Elementary Parking Lot; 7 – 9 p.m.; FREE)
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 18
Bathe-ing DC
Take a deep breath and step into a citywide celebration of relaxation and community. Explore the Sauna Village with aufguss rituals, cold plunges, and poetry-infused steam sessions, or wander through food stalls and a maker’s market at Sandlot. The event is a preview of Therme DC, a wellness center planned for Ward 8 (no set opening date yet). (Sandlot Anacostia, 10:00 AM–8:00 PM; continues Sunday, Oct. 19, 12 – 6 p.m.; FREE)
Kids Euro Fest Family Day
Families are invited to the Embassy of Spain for a vibrant day of stories, crafts, and performances from across Europe. Children can meet Miffy from the Netherlands, try Latvian block-building, or test their luck with the EU spin-the-wheel. Bring your lunch or sample European bites as you explore 15 countries in one festive afternoon. (Spanish Cultural Center; 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.; FREE with registration)
Your weekly roundup of ways to get involved in D.C.
Plus, a chance to question D.C.’s Attorney General.
Franciscan Monastery Fall Festival
Celebrate the season with local food and handmade crafts at the monastery gardens, along with the charm of Lamb Mowers’ visiting sheep! The SPCA will also host a pet adoption fair for those looking to start autumn with a new four-legged companion. (Franciscan Monastery; 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.; FREE)
Planet Word’s 5th Wordiversary Celebration
Let your inner word nerd shine at Planet Word’s birthday bash. Expect games, music, and hands-on language fun for all ages at the Franklin Square museum. Chat with curators and experiment with the Language Science Station, or just relax in the Wordplay Lounge. Raffle prizes are up for grabs! (Planet Word; 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.; FREE)
Mandala Magic: Exploring Doodle Art
Tap into your inner artist at this drop-in workshop exploring the meditative beauty of mandala drawing. Led by artist Alia Bakry, participants will learn how to build intricate, layered circular designs. It’s family-friendly, beginner-friendly, and a reminder that doodling can be a doorway to calm. (Art Enables; 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.; FREE)
12th Annual Adams Morgan Apple Festival
Celebrate one of D.C.’s sweetest traditions with heirloom apples, fresh pies, and friendly neighborhood competition. It’s a delicious way to welcome fall and support the Sitar Arts Center — one $6 slice at a time, while they last! (The Line DC; 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.; FREE)
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 19
Run Hope Work: Run for a Better Life 5K, Fun Run, and Kids Run
Start your Sunday with movement and meaning at a local nonprofit’s’s annual 5K. The flat course (!!) winds through Anacostia Park, followed by shorter race options, family activities like jugglers and face-painting, and food to refuel. Funds raised will help DC youth gain skills, training, and confidence through wellness and workforce programs. (Anacostia Park Roller Skating Pavilion; 8:30 -11 a.m.; $15-45)
Turkish Festival 2025
Journey through centuries of Turkish art and tradition in one vibrant afternoon. Enjoy live Ebru marbling, explore copper and carpet exhibits, and sip Turkish coffee while having your fortune told in the shadow of the U.S. Capitol building. (Pennsylvania Avenue NW, between 3rd & 6th Streets; 11 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.; FREE)