October 10, 2025
Dear Washingtonians,
It will be a busy three-day weekend in DC, and while there are many, many events happening across all eight wards, we want to highlight some of the free activities happening in the city.
You can visit many of the Smithsonian museums and the National Zoo through Saturday, October 11; and there are many other museums that will remain open, including some local favorites:
Additionally, the MLK Library, which is one of eight libraries that will stay open on Monday, is currently hosting the D.I.Y. in the District exhibit, which honors artist-run spaces in DC.
In addition to museums, there are many other free events happening in neighborhoods across the city. You can celebrate autumn at family-friendly events like the Fall Festival at the Francis A. Gregory Library, which will include local vendors, crafts and pumpkin painting, games, live music, and delicious autumn treats. Or go Downtown to check out PUTT in the Park, a pop-up mini golf experience at CityCenterDC. It will also be a busy weekend at Union Market, including the launch of Union Market by Design: Room Service, a free pop-up design showcase at the former Motel 6. There’s even a free community event on Saturday at the Because They’re Funny Comedy Festival which is happening at The Wharf throughout the weekend.
The federal government may be shut down, but DC is open (and, as of next week, open for marriage licenses too). That said, we also know this is a period of uncertainty and anxiety for many workers and families in DC and across the region. If you are a federal worker who is looking for support during the shutdown, please visit fedsupport.dc.gov to find resources and answers to frequently asked questions; and if you are a displaced worker who is looking for your next opportunity in DC, please visit TalentCapital.ai.
Let's stick together and have a great weekend in our beautiful city.
Sincerely,
  Congratulations to Ms. Senior DC, Valerie Robinson, who this week was named Ms. Congeniality at the Ms. Senior America Pageant!
The Department of Parks and Recreation’s free cycling series starts next week! With rides for advanced and novice cyclists, this is an opportunity to meet neighbors, get outside, and go for a ride with community. Bring your own bike, helmet, and water.
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When:
- Advanced: Wednesdays from October 15 to November 19 at 6:30 a.m.
- Novice: Mondays from October 20 to November 17 at 9:00 a.m.
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Where: Meet at the Anacostia Recreation Center, 1800 Anacostia Drive SE
- More information and register here
DC small business owners, mark your calendars for two upcoming opportunities:
The Department of Small and Local Business Development is hosting the annual District Connect small business expo on Thursday, October 23. Enjoy workshops, one-on-one consultations, and networking opportunities.
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When: Thursday, October 23, 9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
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Where: Catholic University, Edward J. Pryzbyla Center, 620 Michigan Avenue NE
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More information and register here (register by October 16)
Additionally, existing or aspiring small business owners with legal questions related to running a business can register for the upcoming Small Business Brief Advice Legal Clinic on Thursday, October 16. At this clinic, entrepreneurs can receive free, one-on-one legal advice from attorneys with the DC Bar Pro Bono Center.
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When: Thursday, October 16, 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
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Where: John A. Wilson Building, 1350 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, G level
- More information and RSVP here
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This Saturday is Community Day at the Capital Jewish Museum—the only museum dedicated to local DC Jewish history—where the entire museum is free to the public. If you haven’t already seen it, now’s the time to check out the LGBTJews in the Federal City exhibition and learn more about our city’s rich history!
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When: Saturday, October 11, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
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Where: Capital Jewish Museum, 575 3rd Street NW
- More information and free tickets here
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 The DC Department of Public Works (DPW) will not collect household trash, recycling, or food waste on Indigenous Peoples’ Day, Monday, October 13. Trash, recycling, and food waste collections will “slide” for the remainder of the week into Saturday. For example, households that normally receive collections on Monday will be serviced on Tuesday.
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