Heist is excited to announce the return of its Summer Series, marking its comeback with an all-day extravaganza for three sun-soaked Sunday Fundays, launching on July 23. Following its incredible success at the Kennedy Center in 2021, the iconic nightclub that was the first to take over a national monument is at it again with the first day-club to pop up against the scenic backdrop of The Wharf DC’s District Pier and Dockmaster Building. The day party will have a number of food options to pair with your sips, including a flavorful taco stand featuring mojito chicken, carne asada and carnitas fillings.
The Wharf’s District Pier and Dockmaster Building will be the playground for some of the District’s top DJs and theatrical performers delivering bottle service as the sun shines and yachts float by – evoking the legendary day parties in St. Barths and St. Tropez. From House Music to Top 40, the music is sure to rock the waterfront. Ten VIP tables each week will be available for purchase (starting at $1,000) and boast views of the Potomac, while general admission starts at $30.
The event will be open rain or shine on August 6 at 2pm. To browse the full menu, reserve a table and pre-order bottle service, please visit https://www.heistsummerseries.
Bourbon Steak’s Tiki Throwdown is back! Showcasing esteemed past and present Bourbon Steak bartenders battling it out to be crowned the ultimate mixologist, this epic throwdown will take place on the Bourbon Steak patio from 4-7pm on Sunday, August 6th.
Guests will get the opportunity to take a front row seat for this boozy battle with local bartenders going head to head as they demonstrate building their signature craft cocktails. Guests will sample each contending beverage while enjoying passed tropical bites, and the results will be in their hands, with their votes determining the reigning champion of the night.
The competitor line up will feature Bourbon Steak’s Head Bartender Engidawork Alebachew, who will be defending his home turf by showcasing his “Fano” cocktail. Engi will be competing with industry experts, Jamie MacBain from Diageo Hospitality, Duane Sylvestre from Campari Group, Torrence Swain from Mezcal El Silencio and Greg Long from Allegory. Please see more details on each contender below.
Tickets are available for $100, with a 10% donation benefitting local charity Worthy Mentoring.
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Contenders:
Engidawork Alebachew
Defending his home turf & representing Bourbon Steak at the Tiki Throwdown is Lead Bartender, Engidawork Alebachew, who will be showcasing his “Fano” cocktail.
Originally from Ethiopia, Engi had previously studied bioengineering before taking his place behind the bar at Bourbon Steak in 2010. Engi quickly realized his love for hospitality, engaging with guests and creating mixology magic, and embarked on a new career. Today, Engi leads the exciting cocktail program at Bourbon Steak creating innovative libations like the wagyu washed Yo, You Got Beef?!.
Duane Sylvestre
Hailing from the Campari Group, Libation Wizz, Duane Sylvestre, will return to Bourbon Steak to whip up his “Selassie” cocktail and protect his former title as Lead Bartender!
With 25+ years of beverage hospitality experience, Duane has an insatiable desire to learn and teach, believing that “raising the tide” for his industry peers benefits the entire food, beverage, and hospitality community. Prior to joining The Campari Group, Duane served as USBG DC Chapter President and led the award winning beverage program at Bourbon Steak.
Jamie MacBain
Coming in hot is The Potion Professor, Jamie MacBain, ready to throw it down at Bourbon Steak with his “Spirit Animal” cocktail and defend his former title as Head Bartender!
A 30-year industry veteran, leader and educator, Jamie has worked at some of the most popular dining establishments in the nation’s capital, including Bourbon Steak. Jamie was also the past president of the DC Craft Bartenders’ Guild, and is currently the DC/MD/DE On Premise Manager for Diageo Hospitality Partnership at Enthuse Marketing Group.
Torrence Swain
Introducing Torrence Swain, The East Coast Cocktail Crusader who will be battling it out at the Tiki Throwdown with his “Malvado Dorado” cocktail and flexing his prowess as former Bourbon Steak Head Bartender!
Well versed in spirit knowledge, education and cocktail creation, Torrence Swain is a seasoned industry professional, having represented esteemed D.C. restaurants including Bourbon Steak and Farmers Fishers Bakers. Torrence is now a leader in the spirits industry, serving as East Coast Director of Sales for Silencio Holdings.
Greg Long
Introducing our fifth and final beverage battler ready to flex his “Right By the Beach (Boiiiii)” cocktail at the Tiki Throwdown, Bourbon Steak’s former bartender, Greg Long!
A true cocktail aficionado, Greg started his journey at Bourbon Steak, where he bartended for four years. He then plied his trade at Dante in New York, before returning to DC and calling Allegory home, where he’s whipping up some of the best, most creative cocktails in the country.
On Sunday, August 6th, Bourbon Steak will host a Tiki Throwdown, where former Bourbon Steak bartenders will join Head Bartender Engidawork Alebachew in a cocktail competition, battling it out to be crowned the champion. In addition to sampling each cocktail creation, guests will enjoy Bourbon Steak delights like the Duck Fat Fries and Prime Steak Burger, music from a live DJ and more. The event will be held from 4 to 7pm, with tickets available for $100, with a 10% donation benefitting Worthy Mentoring.
Guests will get the opportunity to take a front row seat for this boozy battle with local bartenders going head to head as they demonstrate building their signature craft cocktails. Guests will sample each contending beverage while enjoying passed tropical bites, and the results will be in their hands, with their votes determining the reigning champion of the night.
The competitor line up will feature Bourbon Steak’s Head Bartender Engidawork Alebachew, who will be defending his home turf by showcasing his “Fano” cocktail. Engi will be competing with industry experts, Jamie MacBain from Diageo Hospitality, Duane Sylvestre from Campari Group, Torrence Swain from Mezcal El Silencio and Greg Long from Allegory. Please see more details on each contender below.
Additionally, Bourbon Steak will be extending its general offerings, launching a new seasonal menu featuring delicious dishes inspired by and designed to be enjoyed during the summer months, including Lobster Cobb Salad, Gazpacho, Halibut, Corn Agnolotti Pasta, Tomato and Watermelon Salad.
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Engidawork Alebachew
Defending his home turf & representing Bourbon Steak at the Tiki Throwdown is Lead Bartender, Engidawork Alebachew, who will be showcasing his “Fano” cocktail.
Originally from Ethiopia, Engi had previously studied bioengineering before taking his place behind the bar at Bourbon Steak in 2010. Engi quickly realized his love for hospitality, engaging with guests and creating mixology magic, and embarked on a new career. Today, Engi leads the exciting cocktail program at Bourbon Steak creating innovative libations like the wagyu washed Yo, You Got Beef?!.
Duane Sylvestre
Hailing from the Campari Group, Libation Wizz, Duane Sylvestre, will return to Bourbon Steak to whip up his “Selassie” cocktail and protect his former title as Lead Bartender!
With 25+ years of beverage hospitality experience, Duane has an insatiable desire to learn and teach, believing that “raising the tide” for his industry peers benefits the entire food, beverage, and hospitality community. Prior to joining The Campari Group, Duane served as USBG DC Chapter President and led the award winning beverage program at Bourbon Steak.
Jamie MacBain
Coming in hot is The Potion Professor, Jamie MacBain, ready to throw it down at Bourbon Steak with his “Spirit Animal” cocktail and defend his former title as Head Bartender!
A 30-year industry veteran, leader and educator, Jamie has worked at some of the most popular dining establishments in the nation’s capital, including Bourbon Steak. Jamie was also the past president of the DC Craft Bartenders’ Guild, and is currently the DC/MD/DE On Premise Manager for Diageo Hospitality Partnership at Enthuse Marketing Group.
Torrence Swain
Introducing Torrence Swain, The East Coast Cocktail Crusader who will be battling it out at the Tiki Throwdown with his “Malvado Dorado” cocktail and flexing his prowess as former Bourbon Steak Head Bartender!
Well versed in spirit knowledge, education and cocktail creation, Torrence Swain is a seasoned industry professional, having represented esteemed D.C. restaurants including Bourbon Steak and Farmers Fishers Bakers. Torrence is now a leader in the spirits industry, serving as East Coast Director of Sales for Silencio Holdings.
Greg Long
Introducing our fifth and final beverage battler ready to flex his “Right By the Beach (Boiiiii)” cocktail at the Tiki Throwdown, Bourbon Steak’s former bartender, Greg Long!
A true cocktail aficionado, Greg started his journey at Bourbon Steak, where he bartended for four years. He then plied his trade at Dante in New York, before returning to DC and calling Allegory home, where he’s whipping up some of the best, most creative cocktails in the country.
AdMo Vibe is a series of free, outdoor concerts featuring local musicians in Kalorama Park on Columbia Road, NW in Adams Morgan. Concerts will be held on Wednesdays in August.
AdMo Vibe is the ultimate setting for a family night out, date night, relaxing evening in the park, or solo adventure. The bands will be playing various genres of music including folk, pop, country, classical, rock, jazz, and more. Participants can picnic with takeout from a local restaurant, enjoy good vibes with neighbors and friends, and visit an array of shops and boutiques just steps away before or after the performances.
CONCERT SCHEDULE:
– Wednesday, August 2 from 6-7:30pm: Darcy Dawn (Country)
– Wednesday, August 9 from 6-7:30pm: Emma G (Pop & Soul)
– Wednesday, August 16 from 6-7:30pm: Justin Trawick and the Common Good (Bluegrass, Rock, Reggae and Hip-Hop)
– Wednesday, August 23 from 6-7:30pm: Washington Metropolitan Gamer Symphony Orchestra (Video Game Music!)
NOTE: On Wednesday, August 23, Because Science will be hosting a free science + music themed activity during the event in Kalorama Park. Details: At Because Science, we celebrate the intersection of science and art, which includes music! Stop by and make your own instrument to take home. We’ll also have fun sound demos to help you “see” sound. All activities are free and hosted by your neighborhood science nerds at Because Science at 1759 Columbia Road, NW. Adults and children are welcome to participate. The activity is best suited for kids over 5. More details can be found here.
For a limited time, Adams Morgan restaurants will be offering specials before, during, and after the concerts. These to-go style meals are perfect for a picnic in the park. Visit admodc.org/admovibe for a complete list of restaurant specials!
Did someone say live music, delicious food, and drinks? The inaugural season of Jazz @ Met, produced by the National Landing BID, DC Jazz Festival and Amazon, has a weekly lineup of jazz artists.
Starting June 15 through August 17, doors will open to guests every Thursday at 4 PM and music starts at 5 PM. The year’s lineup includes:
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June 22: Heidi Martin
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June 29: Langston Hughes II Quartet
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July 13: Julian Berkowitz Quartet
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WHEN: Every Thursday from June 15 to August 17 from 4:00 to 6:00 PM
WHERE: Met Park (South Fern Street, Arlington, VA 22202)
Friday, July 28, 10 a.m.
Friday, August 11, 10 a.m.
Friday, August 25, 10 a.m.
Gardens at the National Museum of the American Indian
How do we protect the museum’s croplands from natural pests? Convergent lady beetles, better known as ladybugs, are a natural pesticide used by our groundskeepers to maintain the health of our gardens. Join experts from Smithsonian Gardens outside our museum on the National Mall to learn how to identify a ladybug and other fun insect and garden facts. Then place a few ladybugs on plants yourself.
This program is for visitors of all ages. Children should be accompanied by adult caregivers. Program subject to cancellation in case of inclement weather.
Grab your popcorn and relax on the lawn at Met Park for a weekly outdoor movies series, produced by the National Landing BID.
Come anytime after 6 PM to pick up occasional swag and grab a bite to eat at one of the participating food trucks or pack a picnic. Movies will begin at 7 PM.
WHEN: Every Friday this summer at 7:00 PM
WHERE: Met Park (South Fern Street, Arlington, VA 22202)
Get ready for the ultimate soundtrack to summer with City Ridge’s summer music series, Rockin’ at the Ridge. Every Friday, kick back and relax on City Ridge’s Great Lawn to enjoy live music, beer, wine and fun in the summer!
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June
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Todd Brooks and Pour Decisions on Friday, June 9
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The Tribe Band on Friday, June 16
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The JoGo Project on Friday, June 23
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Justin Traqick and The Common Good on Friday, June 30
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July
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Rock Creek Revival on Friday, July 7
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The 19th Street Band on Friday, July 14
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Starlight Anthem on Friday, July 21
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The Breakaways on Friday, July 28
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August
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Flashback on Friday, August 4
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Practically Einstein on Friday, August 11
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Lonny Taylor on Friday, August 18
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DTC on Friday, August 25
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Guests are encouraged to bring their own lawn or beach chairs. Beer and wine will be available for purchase throughout the event. While at City Ridge, guests can also stop by Wegmans and Tatte Bakery & Cafe for additional bites and refreshments.
WHEN: The concert series will run every Friday from 6:30 to 8:30 PM from June 2 through August 25
WHERE: City Ridge’s Great Lawn (20 Ridge Square NW, Washington, DC 20016). Hourly parking is available on-site.
HOW: Guests can register for FREE here. More information on the artist line up and event details can be found here.
ABOUT CITY RIDGE: City Ridge is a brand new community located along bustling Wisconsin Avenue, with 690 apartment residences, CAVA’s new corporate headquarters, and Wegmans and Tatte Bakery & Cafe. For more information on City Ridge, its incoming retailers and residential offerings, click here.
Bar Ivy, a “New Restaurant of the Year” RAMMY finalist, is debuting “Live in the Garden” – a twice-a-month live music series on its expansive 125-seat garden plaza — featuring local musicians and happy hour offerings beginning Saturday, July 15.
Bar Ivy’s idyllic (and pet-friendly) patio, shaded with a canopy of lush crepe myrtle trees, will host local musicians every other Saturday from 3:30-5:30pm. The upcoming lineup includes:
- July 29: Justin Trawick
- August 12: Mackenzie Ryan
- August 26: Brian Johnson
Music lovers can come early when Bar Ivy opens at noon, for “Happy All Day” happy hour specials until 5:30pm, such as discounted wine ($8 by the glass, $30 carafes, $10 off bottles), sangria ($8 glass, $35 pitcher), $5 “shorty” beer and sherry, $11 espresso martinis and more.
“Happy All Day” food specials from Chef/Owner Nathan Beauchamp include snacky bites like a crab-meets-Artichoke Dip with local crab, sherry and green onion; jerk-spiced Peel & Eat Shrimp with boozy rum butter; and golden Brandade Croquettes with black garlic remoulade; plus more substantial eats like homemade vegetarian Garganelli pasta with cherry tomato, anchovy, herbs and ricotta; and a Flat Iron Steak with asparagus and hotel butter.
Bar Ivy’s “Live in the Garden” concerts are free to attend, with beverage and food sold a la carte.
The Commentary Social House will host an Artisan Pizza + Craft Cocktail Class on Wednesday, August 16 from 5 pm to 9 pm.
Executive Chef Francecil Ponte will host this interactive class with the help of her Sicilian kitchen supervisor Rita Massa from Napoli, affectionately known by the restaurant team as the “Pizza Queen”. Chef Fran and Rita will share tips and tricks to master the methods of creating authentically Italian crowd-pleasing pies. Appetizers and wine pairings will be served as guests choose from gourmet topping options and customize their personal pizzas.
As each attendee’s pies cook to perfection, The Commentary’s master mixologist will lead the class as they learn to craft in a cocktail lesson.
Guests will choose one of the three time slots offered but are welcome to arrive early and sip on happy hour libations before their class starts.
Tickets will be $50 and can be found here.
