Apr
23
Thu
8th Annual National Mall Benefit Luncheon @ Constitution Gardens
Apr 23 @ 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM

Each spring, the Trust for the National Mall hosts our Annual Benefit Luncheon to raise funds to restore, improve and preserve America’s most visited national park: the National Mall. As one of Washington, D.C.’s premier events, the luncheon brings together more than 1,000 philanthropists, business leaders, government officials, and diplomats to support the Campaign for the National Mall. Last year alone, the luncheon raised roughly $1.5 million in vital funds to support America’s Front Yard.

This year’s luncheon will take place Thursday, April 23, 2015 at 11:30 a.m. on the grounds of Constitution Gardens, the 38-acre space located just north of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. Our featured keynote speaker is Sheila C. Johnson, co-founder of the BET network, founder and CEO of Salamander Hotels & Resorts, and vice chairman and partner of Monumental Sports & Entertainment. This event will serve as the catalyst for generating further awareness and support for the Trust’s upcoming rehabilitation of Constitution Gardens. Attendees will also learn about the project’s innovative designs and focus on environmental sustainability.

Food & Friends’ 19th Annual Dining Out for Life @ Various
Apr 23 @ 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM

On Thursday, April 23rd, diners across the Washington metro region will stand up against HIV/AIDS, cancer and other life-challenging illnesses by sitting down at restaurants participating in this year’s Dining Out for Life® fundraiser (www.foodandfriends.org/dol).

Now in its 19th year in Washington, DC, Food & Friends enlists the benevolence of area eateries – from Hyattsville to Shirlington, from Dupont Circle to Georgetown – in support of children and adults facing life-challenging illnesses who benefit from the organization’s nutrition services. More than 90 area restaurants have pledged to contribute 25% to 100% of that day’s proceeds to directly benefit Food & Friends’ programs and clients in the National Capital Region.

“Diners can easily make a huge impact on the lives of so many in need in our community simply by going out to dinner on April 23rd,” says Food & Friends’ Executive Director Craig Shniderman. “Funds raised by big events during the year like Dining Out for Life® make it possible for us to serve thousands of meals each day to those living with the challenges of HIV/AIDS, cancer and other debilitating illnesses.”

Founded in 1988, Food & Friends is the only organization providing specialized meals, nutrition counseling and friendship to people living with HIV/AIDS, cancer and other life-challenging illness within a 5,346 square mile service area. The nonprofit’s staff of professional chefs and registered dietitians designs meals that meet the special dietary needs of persons living with a broad range of illnesses. Since its inception, Food & Friends has provided more than 18 million meals to more 26,000 individuals, and has helped family members, friends, and loved ones provide care and support. Food & Friends fulfills its mission through a partnership with 10,000 volunteers and a dedicated staff of 52. Their confidential services are free of charge to individuals and families living throughout Washington, DC, and 14 counties of Maryland and Virginia.

Last year, Dining Out for Life®, raised more than $200,000. In 2015, Food & Friends is thrilled to have more than 90 restaurants on board, including those that are donating their entire evening’s proceeds to Food & Friends – Freddie’s Beach Bar & Restaurant (100%), Annie’s Paramount Steak House (100%) and Ristorante Tosca (100%).

Please visitwww.foodandfriends.org/dol for a complete listing of participating restaurants. 

Apr
24
Fri
25th Annual FONA Garden Fair and Plant Sale @ National Arboretum
Apr 24 @ 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

25th Annual FONA Garden Fair and Plant Sale

At the US National Arboretum in the New York Avenue Parking Lot

3501 New York Avenue NE, Washington, DC 20002

 

April 24-25, 2015

April 24

10 am – 1 pm : Members Only Hours

1 pm – 4 pm : Garden Fair and Plant Sale opens to the public

Food Options – Dirty South Deli

 

April 25

9 am – 4 pm: Garden Fair and Plant Sale open to the public

Food Options – D.C. Taco Truck

Music from Washington Revels

Strawberry Planting Craft for Children

 

Admission is free to both the Garden Fair and Plant Sale and the US National Arboretum. For more information, visitwww.fona.org/gardenfair/.

Georgetown French Market @ Book Hill
Apr 24 @ 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

The 12th annual Georgetown French Market, held in the Book Hill neighborhood, is a D.C. tradition that marks the arrival of spring. The Georgetown Business Improvement District (BID) announces that the popular shopping weekend—perfect for shoppers, foodies and families—will return Friday, April 24 and Saturday, April 25 from 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Book Hill boutiques, antique stores, restaurants, salons and galleries display their discounted wares in an inviting open-air market, evoking the outdoor markets of Paris. Neighborhood restaurants will also offer specials and French fare, including sweet and savory crepes, grilled merguez sausages, pastries and macarons.

Located a few blocks north of Wisconsin Avenue and M Street NW, Book Hill—named after nearby Book Hill Park, at Reservoir Road NW—is known for its historic charm. “The buildings along this stretch of Wisconsin Avenue were built in the late nineteenth century and now house some of the most unique local shops in the city,” said Georgetown BID Vice President Nancy Miyahira. “The French Market is a time to buy items you can’t find anywhere else, at incredible prices, and to explore what makes Georgetown such a special place.”

On Saturday, the TD Bank parking lot at 1611 Wisconsin Avenue becomes a community gathering spot from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., and families are encouraged to bring the kids and enjoy live music, strolling mimes, face painting and more.

What:  12th annual Georgetown French Market

When:  Friday, April 24 and Saturday, April 25; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Where:  Book Hill neighborhood; Wisconsin Avenue between P Street and Reservoir Road

For more information, visit http://www.georgetowndc.com/events/french_market/.

Parking & Getting There

In true European style, visitors are encouraged to leave their cars behind and travel to Georgetown using alternate modes of transport. Capital Bikeshare Stations are located throughout Georgetown; closest stations are at O Street at Wisconsin Avenue near the CVS and in the 1800 block of Wisconsin Avenue, across from the Georgetown Safeway. For additional transportation ideas, visit http://www.georgetowndc.com/getting_here/.

 

Apr
25
Sat
25th Annual FONA Garden Fair and Plant Sale @ National Arboretum
Apr 25 @ 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

25th Annual FONA Garden Fair and Plant Sale

At the US National Arboretun in the New York Avenue Parking Lot

3501 New York Avenue NE, Washington, DC 20002

 

April 24-25, 2015

April 24

10 am – 1 pm : Members Only Hours

1 pm – 4 pm : Garden Fair and Plant Sale opens to the public

Food Options – Dirty South Deli

 

April 25

9 am – 4 pm: Garden Fair and Plant Sale open to the public

Food Options – D.C. Taco Truck

Music from Washington Revels

Strawberry Planting Craft for Children

 

Admission is free to both the Garden Fair and Plant Sale and the US National Arboretum. For more information, visit www.fona.org/gardenfair/.

Georgetown French Market @ Book Hill
Apr 25 @ 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

The 12th annual Georgetown French Market, held in the Book Hill neighborhood, is a D.C. tradition that marks the arrival of spring. The Georgetown Business Improvement District (BID) announces that the popular shopping weekend—perfect for shoppers, foodies and families—will return Friday, April 24 and Saturday, April 25 from 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Book Hill boutiques, antique stores, restaurants, salons and galleries display their discounted wares in an inviting open-air market, evoking the outdoor markets of Paris. Neighborhood restaurants will also offer specials and French fare, including sweet and savory crepes, grilled merguez sausages, pastries and macarons.

Located a few blocks north of Wisconsin Avenue and M Street NW, Book Hill—named after nearby Book Hill Park, at Reservoir Road NW—is known for its historic charm. “The buildings along this stretch of Wisconsin Avenue were built in the late nineteenth century and now house some of the most unique local shops in the city,” said Georgetown BID Vice President Nancy Miyahira. “The French Market is a time to buy items you can’t find anywhere else, at incredible prices, and to explore what makes Georgetown such a special place.”

On Saturday, the TD Bank parking lot at 1611 Wisconsin Avenue becomes a community gathering spot from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., and families are encouraged to bring the kids and enjoy live music, strolling mimes, face painting and more.

What:  12th annual Georgetown French Market

When:  Friday, April 24 and Saturday, April 25; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Where:  Book Hill neighborhood; Wisconsin Avenue between P Street and Reservoir Road

For more information, visit http://www.georgetowndc.com/events/french_market/.

Parking & Getting There

In true European style, visitors are encouraged to leave their cars behind and travel to Georgetown using alternate modes of transport. Capital Bikeshare Stations are located throughout Georgetown; closest stations are at O Street at Wisconsin Avenue near the CVS and in the 1800 block of Wisconsin Avenue, across from the Georgetown Safeway. For additional transportation ideas, visit http://www.georgetowndc.com/getting_here/.

 

Strathmore 10th Anniversary Spring Gala @ Music Center at Strathmore
Apr 25 @ 5:30 PM – 10:30 PM

In this 10th anniversary week of opening its hallmark Music Center, Strathmore announces that iconic actressJulie Andrews will celebrate A Dazzling Decade by speaking at the art center’s 10th Anniversary Spring Gala on Saturday, April 25, 2015.With a career that has spanned decades, traversed a myriad of artistic disciplines, imbued fans with fond memories, and inspired millions, there’s no one better to headline this celebration of the past decade, while looking ambitiously toward the future.  Gala guests will begin the evening at 5:30 p.m. with cocktails, followed by a sumptuous dinner, program with Julie Andrews, and an after party with Big Ray and the Kool Kats.

An Evening with Julie Andrews will include a Q&A with the audience and discussion moderated by Washington Post Theater Critic Peter Marks. She will share clips, stories, and conversation about her illustrious, history-making career. Music will be performed by the Strathmore Children’s Chorus. Andrews will not be singing.

The 10th Anniversary Spring Gala symbolizes a major milestone in Strathmore’s history, and will be the stage for announcements of future initiatives for the organization, which has become a touchstone for life and culture in Montgomery County and the greater Washington metropolitan region.  Since it opened in 2005, over 1.8 Million people have attended a performance in the Music Center at Strathmore. Many more have come through for education programs, special events, free community concerts, and festivals. There have been nearly 2,000 performances in the Music Center since its opening, including those by founding partner the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra and resident partner organizations The National Philharmonic and Washington Performing Arts.

Strathmore is supported by a grant from the Maryland State Arts Council, an agency dedicated to cultivating a vibrant cultural community where the arts thrive. An agency of the Department of Business & Economic Development, MSAC provides financial support and technical assistance to non-profit organizations, units of government, colleges and universities for arts activities.
Strathmore is also supported in part by the Arts and Humanities Council of Montgomery County.

Strathmore Presents
10th Anniversary Spring Gala
An Evening with Julie Andrews
Conversation, Stories & Clips
with Peter Marks, moderator
& music by Strathmore Children’s Chorus
Saturday, April 25, 2015

5:30 p.m.         Cocktail Reception
7 p.m.              Dinner
9 p.m.              An Evening with Julie Andrews and music from the Strathmore Children’s Chorus
10:30 p.m.       After Party with Big Ray and the Kool Kats

Tickets (for concert only) $65 – $175 (limited single tickets available for purchase)

Dinner ticket packages include:
$600 Individual Supporter: One ticket to Gala dinner in Music Center, Performance with Julie Andrews, admission to after party with Big Ray and the Kool Kats.
$1,500 Gala Patron: One ticket to Gala dinner, preferred seating for An Evening with Julie Andrews, admission to after party with Big Ray and the Kool Kats, listing on evening’s video recognition, valet parking pass.
$10,000 Sponsor: Table for eight at Gala dinner, preferred seating for An Evening with Julie Andrews, valet parking passes for all eight guests, listing in evening’s video recognition, acknowledgment on Strathmore’s donor wall, newsletter and annual report.

Ticket packages can be purchased by contacting The Sorelle Group at (202) 248-1930 or Strathmore@sorellegroup.com.

Music Center at Strathmore
5301 Tuckerman Lane
North Bethesda, MD 20852

For additional information or to purchase tickets, visit www.strathmore.org or call (301) 581-5100

Apr
26
Sun
NMWA Silver Tea @ National Museum of Women in the Arts
Apr 26 @ 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
The Women’s Committee of the
National Museum of Women in the Arts
And Co-Chairs Gladys Lisanby and Betty Dettre
Request the pleasure of your company for a
Silver Tea Celebrating the Museum's Silver Collection
Sunday, April 26, 2015
2:00 – 4:00 P.M.
Silver Presentation by Nancy Valentine in the Performance Hall
Afternoon Tea follows on the Mezzanine
R.s.v.p. by April 20
$80 Members • $100 Non-members
Valet Parking Available
A portion of the proceeds is designated for the care
and conservation of the Museum’s Silver Collection.
May
1
Fri
Art on the Rocks @ The Art League
May 1 @ 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM
What: Six works of art paired with six new cocktails, six appetizers, and jams by DJ Ayes Cold
Where: The Art League, 105 North Union Street, Alexandria, VA
When:
 Friday, May 1, 7:00–10:00 pm
Tickets:
$55. Must be 21 years of age or older to attend with valid ID

What is Art on the Rocks?
The Art League has thrown down the gauntlet! We’ve challenged local mixologists from Chadwicks, Columbia Firehouse, GBD Fried Chicken & Donuts, Mason SocialRedRocks Neapolitan Bistro, and Virtue Feed & Grain to each select a piece of artwork as inspiration to whip up a new, artistic cocktail & pair it with a delicious appetizer. Enjoy the artwork/cocktail/appetizer trifectas and help us select a new Arton the Rocks champion.

Click here to preview the cocktails!

Ticket holders sample all of the delicious pairings and vote for their favorite at the event. A panel of experts, including representatives from Catoctin Creek Distillery and Green Hat Distillery, will crown the winner of the most creative cocktail, appetizer, and artwork pairing.

Jams by DJ Ayes Cold will complete the evening.


Location:
105 North Union Street
Studio 21
(located in the Torpedo Factory Art Center)
Alexandria, VA 22314

Information:
http://www.theartleague.org/content/art_on_the_rocks
703-683-1780

Founded in 1954, The Art League, Inc., a 501(c)(3) organization, is among the nation’s largest and oldest multi-service organizations for visualartists. As a major component of the cultural fabric of Alexandria, The Art League offers extensive exhibit opportunities for artists through its gallery, outstanding fine art education through the school, and valuable outreach programs to the local community. The Art League is headquartered in the landmark Torpedo Factory Art Center.

May
4
Mon
Sonoma Shows ‘Somm’ @ Sonoma Restaurant & Wine Bar
May 4 @ 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM

DC wine institution Sonoma Restaurant & Wine Bar will transform into a wine-centric movie theater showing the critically acclaimed documentary Somm on Monday, May 4 at 6pm.Accompanied by a panel of DC wine experts, DC’s original wine bar will invite guests to its cozy Sonoma Avenue Lounge for a full movie theater experience, with a wine flight tasting and an unlimited popcorn bar featuring fun house made varieties, like Classic Butter, Ranch, Dill Pickle-Spiced and Truffle, for $30 a person.

As Somm follows four sommelier hopefuls on their journey to compete against the best in the business and pass the test to become Masters, Sonoma will be hosting its own local wine tasting competition. Sonoma Beverage Director and sommelier Woong Chang will be joined by sommeliers Elli Benchimol ofRange and Andrew Stover of Oya and Sei to conduct a guided wine tasting with guests-and then compete against one another in a blind wine tasting, just as is done in the film.

In addition to the fun popcorn bar, guests can also select from Chef de Cuisine James Marroquin’s a la carte menu house made movie snacks, like Popcorn-Marshmallow clusters, Old Bay-Spiced Candied Nuts, Soft Pretzel Twists with mustard or bacon peanut butter, and Crispy Chickpeaswith coriander & cumin.

Space is limited and tickets can be purchased via Eventbrite For more information, please visit www.sonomadc.com or call 202.544.8088.

 

Who:   Sonoma Restaurant & Wine Bar

Sonoma Chef de Cuisine James Marroquin

Sonoma Beverage Director Woong Chang

Range Sommelier Elli Benchimol

Oya and Sei Sommelier Andrew Stover