As the official summer months begin and draw hotter weather, here are some activities to keep you sane. This weekend you can have a classic beach day without leaving D.C. or you can distract yourself from impending deadlines by taking your office job outside.
Friday
Farragut Fridays
The work, internship or summer class grind can get you down during the week so call in sick or bring your afternoon meeting outside in Farragut Park. Farragut Fridays are packed with food, lawn games and competitions, or you can forgo your traditional office and work outside at the tables and chairs, while using the complimentary wifi. The afternoon will also include a visit from dogs from the Humane Rescue Alliance from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. – perfect if you’re missing your own furry friend this summer. To close out your day, stay for the Golden Cinema feature, which features a night time showing of The Princess Bride at sunset.
Farragut Square, K and Connecticut streets. Begins at 9 a.m. Free.
Saturday
25th Annual Giant National Barbecue Battle
The true sign of summer is an outdoor barbecue, and you’ll find a giant sized version in the District this weekend. Celebrity chefs will cook alongside District locals and people from around the country to compete for the best barbecue, leaving you with mouthwatering dishes served for $11, $22 or $33 depending on the restaurants participating. In addition to these plates of food, a sampling tent and other chances to capture all of the unique flavors will be available for attendees, so bring your appetite. In addition to the blazing barbecue food, 30 different reggae, rock, jazz, blues and R&B bands will be performing all afternoon.
Pennsylvania Avenue between Third and Seventh streets. 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. $12.
Sunday
Beach Party at Drift on 7th
If you want to trade humid city streets for a sunny day at the beach but can’t stray from the District this summer, head down to Drift on 7th for a day of classic beachside fun. Though you won’t be surfing the ocean waves, Chef Ferhat Yalcin is preparing traditional seaside food like clam bake platters (2 for $50), burgers with fries ($12) and other dishes to make you feel like you’ve escaped the city life. Coronaritas ($8) and Jello Shots ($5) will also be served to provoke some spring break memories. Beach games like cornhole will be available to play while summer hits are spun by the on-site DJ. The only thing missing from your day at the beach will be the ocean.
Drift on Seventh, 1819 Seventh Street NW. 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Free.
