On Tap Magazine // May 2018 by DC Fray // District Fray

Drink. Dine. Do. May 2018

Witness the Renaissance Outside Glenmont MetroCentre Block after block of new dining

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TABLE OF CONTENTS WHO IS ON TAP?

MAY 2018: VOL 20 NO 6 YEAR OF THE DOG The folks behind On Tap admittedly spend too much time thinking about our dogs (we have two full-time office pups and are gearing up for our annual Running of the Chihuahuas on Saturday, May 5), but we know we’re not alone! Our May cover model is the Instagram-famous Navy the Corgi, and she is joined in this issue by a plethora of dog-themed content, including an inside look at We The Dogs DC, soem of our favorite Fido-friendly watering holes and our robust Year of the Dog roundup. May also marks the return of our annual summer festival guide, bursting with opportunities for you to step outdoors and enjoy warm weather. Theatergoers can read our interview with choreographer Sean Dorsey and our preview of Broadway’s Waitress. For beer drinkers, we ventured to Manassas for the scoop on Farm Brew LIVE. Plus, we spoke to Nats announcer Charlie Slowes about the still-early MLB season. And finally, for the audiophiles, we chatted with altrockers X Ambassadors and local act Bottled Up.

Drink. Dine. Do. May 2018

On the cover: Navy the Corgi

Photo: Lindsay Galatro

Designers: Alanna Sheppard and Nick Caracciolo

IN THIS ISSUE Good Booze & Good Boys..................... 4 We the Dogs DC...................................... 6 A Day in the Life: Navy the Corgi........ 8 Year of the Dog.. .................................... 10 Did You Know? Man’s Best Friend..... 12

We The Dogs DC

Instafamous Navy the Corgi

Instagramming for a Cause

A Day in the Life with Navy

n MAY ROUNDUP Drink, Dine, Do...................................... 14 Summer Festival Guide.. ...................... 38 NOVA Fine Arts Festival....................... 66 Outlaw Artists: Printmaking Tour. . .... 68

n SPORTS Charlie Slowes: Nats’ Season Forecast.......22

n DINING New & Notable.. ..................................... 26

Year of the Dog

Festival Fever

Fido-Friendly Spots, Events & More

On Tap’s Summer Festival Guide

n DRINKS Behind the Bar....................................... 28 Bold Rock’s New Seasonal Rosé.. ....... 30 What’s On Tap?...................................... 32

n STAGE & SCREEN Stage & Screen Events......................... 70 BOYS IN TROUBLE.. ................................ 72 Waitress. . ................................................. 74

Broadway’s Waitress

X Ambassadors

Serving Up Music & Pie

Speak Truth, Change Sound

ON TAP | MAY 2018 | www.ontaponline.com

PUBLISHER Jennifer Currie

jennifer@ontaponline.com

MANAGING EDITOR Monica Alford

monica@ontaponline.com

ASSISTANT EDITOR Trent Johnson trent@ontaponline.com

PRINT & DIGITAL DESIGN Nick Caracciolo Devin Overbey KEY ACCOUNT MANAGER Tom Roth tomroth@ontaponline.com

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Natalia Kolenko natalia@ontaponline.com

n YEAR OF THE DOG

FOUNDER James Currie

n MUSIC Bottled Up Removes the Lid.. ............. 76 X Ambassadors Speak Truth............... 78 Music Picks............................................. 82

DIGITAL & ADVERTISING COORDINATOR Kayla Marsh kayla@ontaponline.com

EVENTS & PROMOTIONS MANAGER Shannon Darling shannon@ontaponline.com

EVENTS & PROMOTIONS ASSISTANT Katie Seaman katies@ontaponline.com

OUTREACH COORDINATOR Kelcie Glass kelcie@ontaponline.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Lani Furbank, Joel Goldberg, Keith Loria, Michael Loria, Kayla Marsh, Haley McKey, Courtney Sexton, Valeria Villarroel, Amanda Weisbrod

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Beauty by Photography, Shantel Mitchell Breen, Lindsay Galatro, Mike Kim, Cristina O’Connell, Devin Overbey, Mark Raker, Valeria Villarroel, Amanda Weisbrod On Tap Magazine is published 11 times per year. ©2018 by Five O’Clock Publishing, LLC. All rights reserved. Use or reproduction of any materials contained herein is strictly prohibited without express prior written consent. Go to www.ontaponline.com for more information.

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GOOD GOOD & BOOZE BOYS By Haley McKey and Ziggy the Labrador

I love people. I love it when they rub my belly, I love it when they tell me I’m cute and I especially love it when they give me food. And that’s why I also love bars. I don’t quite understand why, but it seems that after a few drinks, the belly rubs, compliments and cookies are extra abundant. It’s great! So, when my friend Haley asked me to come with her to visit some dog-friendly spots around the DC area, of course I went along. And reader, I was not disappointed.

DACHA BEER GARDEN in Shaw

People Perks: Serves beer, cocktails, wine and food Pup Perks: Open rain or shine thanks to a giant canopy and heaters for cooler days Haley took me to Dacha on a Sunday afternoon. I liked the place right away. We got caught in the rain earlier, so Haley and I walked in looking like wet rats (though I confess, I’ve never seen one of those) and really appreciated the heat lamps. There was plenty of water and (free!) cookies for all. It wasn’t too crowded – maybe due to the rain – so I had plenty of room to stand in the way and wag my tail at people. Haley informed me that this is not usually the case, and sure enough, after awhile things got busy and she told me to lie down under our table and quit being a fire hazard (whatever that means). I obliged, and in a moment of weakness she slipped me a few of her friend Sam’s French fries. I met another dog too! She was a puppy. I forget how exhausting children can be. Haley ordered a fancy bourbon cocktail called a Shawny and a cup of coffee, and Sam got a beer. Sam is a talented artist and drew a picture of me. Someone looked at his drawing and told me I had beautiful eyes. I wanted to kiss her, but I settled for enthusiastic wagging. It’s more polite. Photos: Haley McKey

ON TAP | MAY 2018 | www.ontaponline.com

1600 7th St. NW, DC; www.dachadc.com

ONE EIGHT DISTILLING in Ivy City

People Perks: Serves gin, vodka, bourbon and rye whiskey, plus a rotating menu of thoughtful cocktails; bottles of One Eight’s housemade liquors are for sale at the bar Pup Perks: Dogs are allowed in the tasting room, but not on distillery tours

Haley took me here with her friend Courtney and Courtney’s dog Remy for a “work wine.” Haley tells me that Courtney is also a writer for On Tap, but to be honest with you, I have absolutely no clue what any of those words mean. Like, at all. Anyway, the four of us got a table around the side of the building so Remy and I could relax in the shade. Courtney brought us some water and homemade dog treats, which are sold for 35 cents each. They were delicious, but I have been known to eat things I find in the woods, so maybe I’m not the best judge. Haley and Courtney each had a glass of wine while they worked on their laptops, and I greatly enjoyed the buttery smell of the croissant they shared. Remy fell in love with a beautiful bloodhound we met and, being a bluetick hound himself, he had a lot to say about it. Halfway through, Haley took me to a nice grassy area across the street, which I deeply appreciated (Remy and I drank a lot of water). People walking by, patted our heads and called us good boys. I was overjoyed.

My first impression was that this was a loud place. But then I realized it was loud because the people inside were having fun! Everyone was very happy to see me – even more so than usual. Haley said this was a side effect of something called “liquor.” Whatever the cause, I had a great time. People were fawning over me all night. The best part of this outing was that Haley brought her dad Bill along! (I love her dad so much that sometimes I whine when I see him. It’s really embarrassing.) He got a flight of three different bourbons and Haley got a gin cocktail called a Detroit Radler. It smelled like grapefruit and had what I thought was a meatball at the bottom but alas, it was only a cherry. Again, both the staff and patrons were very nice not only to me, but to Haley and Bill too! They had such a good time meeting new friends that they got another round. Haley ordered Untitled Whiskey #3, a bourbon made in coffee barrels, and Bill ordered an Old Fashioned. Meanwhile, I set my sights on the giant pretzel people were eating at a nearby table. I tried to get Haley to order one for me, but she told me she’s supposed to be watching my weight. I tried to explain that she could still watch my weight while I eat a soft, delicious pretzel, but she said I was missing the point. At the end of the night, we said goodbye and the folks behind the bar gave me my very own bowl of water for one last drink before the ride home. I felt fancy and important.

3211 Wilson Blvd. Arlington, VA; www.northsidesocialarlington.com

1135 Okie St. NE, DC; www.oneeightdistilling.com

NORTHSIDE SOCIAL in Arlington, VA

People Perks: Serves wine, coffee, beer and food Pup Perks: Dogs allowed on the outdoor patio

People here love dogs, and my adventures with Haley prove that in almost every part of town, there’s a place to get a drink with your best friend. I hope she takes me out again sometime. And if she does, I really hope she buys me a pretzel. Check out some of our other favorite pup-friendly watering holes below. Cotton and Reed: 1330 5th St. NE, DC; www.cottonandreed.com Just across the street from Union Market, this distillery allows dogs in the tasting room. Liberty Tavern: 3195 Wilson Blvd. Arlington, VA; www.thelibertytavern.com This Clarendon-based bar and restaurant allows dogs in its outdoor patio area. Vola’s Dockside Grill and Hi-Tide Lounge: 101 N Union St. Alexandria, VA; www.volasdockside.com This seafood restaurant and bar has a dog-friendly patio overlooking the Potomacin the heart of Old Town. www.ontaponline.com | MAY 2018 | ON TAP

By Valeria Villarroel

Photo: Pooch Portrait Studio

s there any other city besides the nation’s capital with such a thriving dog culture? The minute the temperatures reach the mid-60s and the sun beats out the clouds, all the dogs suddenly come out of hiding from hibernation and join their owners at every patio and park throughout the area. Each moment of puppy play dates, brews and bones, puppies and pints, snuggles and sunbathing, and tongue and tail wags is documented on Instagram thanks to @wethedogsdc. We The Dogs DC was born like many modern connections: on Instagram. A DM slide here, a DM slide there, and suddenly, five local women and their beloved pups found themselves members of a brand new pack. Renee Arellano is dog mom to Kingston; Kat Calvitti hangs out with her pup Stella; Marissa Dimino enjoys yappy hours with Teddy; Shannon DiMartino snuggles up with Ruby; and Amber Duggan gets mani-pedis with Izzy. Locals following @wethedogsdc get to catch a glimpse at a day in the life of a local pup (much in the same vein of the

@wethepeopledc Instagram account), where DC area dog owners get to hold the handle for a day and take photos of their canine companions at Fidofriendly spots around the city. We The Dogs’ Insta also features local rescue pups up for adoption. The cuteness factor is off the charts, and it’s all for a good cause. More than just an Instagram handle, We The Dogs DC connects local dog lovers to help support animal rescue organizations and local dog-friendly businesses. “With every dog story comes a human story, and it’s a great way to connect with people,” DiMartino says. “I think by having the handle and showing people who have pit bulls and other dogs that are often times restricted from apartments and other areas, people get to see they are really sweet dogs and just want to be loved.” Last spring, the ladies of We The Dogs had an idea to bring together people from different political and ideological backgrounds to march for a common cause: their pets. What started as an idea for a small gathering of several dozen people swiftly became the

ON TAP | MAY 2018 | www.ontaponline.com

Bipawtisan March; the June 4 event raised more than $10,000 for the Humane Rescue Alliance and Rural Dog Rescue. “People were just really excited about coming together,” says Duggan, the organization’s executive director. Since the march, We The Dogs’ Instagram account has grown to over 6,000 followers. Over 1,600 toys, leashes, beds, food and other essential pet items have been donated to help out rescue organizations such as Rural Dog Rescue, the Puppy Rescue Mission and Worthy Dog Rescue. An additional $2,000 was raised for local dog charities at smaller events, and plans are already underway for a second Bipawtisan March in September – an impressive feat for an organization that’s only been around for less than a year. The pack is also working on a photobook, set to come out this fall. All proceeds from the sale of book will benefit four local animal rescue organizations: OBG Cocker Spaniel Rescue, Lucky Dog Animal Rescue, K-9 Lifesavers and Operation Paws for Homes. Nearly 30 charities were nominated, and the local

community took a vote to whittle the list down to four. Ruby the Bulldog selected the final charity. “Ruby has a hide-and-seek toy, so we taped the charity names underneath the little cups on the toys and put treats in all of those cups, and let her pick the fourth charity,” DiMartino says. The book will highlight different dog breeds visiting iconic DC locations and dogfriendly neighborhood gems around the DMV, and will be available on the organization’s website, via Amazon, and at local booksellers and dog-friendly publishing sponsors. We The Dogs also hosts dogfriendly social gatherings on a regular basis. Thanks to their Instagram community of dog lovers and their social events, dog owners throughout the area have formed local pack walk groups (you can catch Calvitti and Stella at the Meridian Hill one). Pup parents have a place to turn to for advice and support whenever a furry loved one gets sick or injured, and a sympathetic ear when they need to vent about the pitfalls of dog ownership in the DMV, such as breed restrictions in housing and the fact that dogs aren’t allowed on the Metro (take note, WMATA!) While We The Dogs DC isn’t an advocacy organization, just by virtue of highlighting dogs of different breeds and sizes throughout the area – including those looking for their forever homes – the 501(c)(3) manages to bring visibility and awareness about maligned dog breeds by letting followers glimpse at life through literal puppy dog eyes. “The community that we’ve built and encountered through our dogs is absolutely amazing,” Calvitti says. “My life revolves around Stella’s plans now. I don’t have a social life – my dog does.” Don’t miss We The Dogs’ next Yappy Hour on Sunday, May 13. Learn more about We The Dogs DC at www.wethedogsdc.org and follow them on Instagram at @wethedogsdc.

These local animal rescue organizations are dedicated to saving doggie lives (and in some cases, the lives of other furry friends!) in and around the District. Check out their mission statements below.

Animal Welfare Institute www.awionline.org “Since its founding in 1951, AWI has sought to alleviate the suffering inflicted on animals by people. Today, one of our greatest areas of emphasis is cruel animal factories, which raise and slaughter pigs, cows, chickens and other animals.”

DC PAWS Rescue www.dcpawsrescue.org “DC PAWS Rescue is an all-volunteer, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in DC, committed to rescuing homeless animals from high-kill animal control facilities that are often under-resourced and underfunded.”

Howl to the Chief www.howltothechief.com “The place to pamper Capitol Hill pets: premium pet foods for all budgets, delivery, grooming, dog walking, dog wash and adoption events.”

Lost Dog & Cat Rescue Foundation www.lostdogrescue.org “Lost Dog & Cat Rescue Foundation helps homeless pets find their way to loving homes through rescue and adoption.”

Mutts Matter Rescue www.muttsmatterrescue.org “We work in conjunction with shelters and other organizations to help save animals on death row, the strays on the streets or ones in unsafe living conditions.”

Operation Paws for Homes Photos: Cristina O’Connell

www.ophrescue.org “Operation Paws for Homes is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization devoted to the rescue, rehabilitation and placement of dogs who have overcome great odds and deserve wonderful, caring forever homes.”

Worthy Dog Rescue www.worthydog.org “Worthy Dog Rescue is an all-volunteer 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to helping dogs in distress, especially those living on chains, in pens, or in neglectful and abusive situations.”

The Wharf hosted Petalpalooza, a National Cherry Blossom Festival official event, featuring a full day of art, music, beer gardens, s’mores and family-friendly fun along the waterfront.

www.ontaponline.com | MAY 2018 | ON TAP

A Day in the

Life Instafamous

NAVY THE CORGI By Courtney Sexton Photos: Lindsay Galatro

By Kayla Marsh

magine creating a social media account for your pet just for fun, and having it attract almost 40,000 followers within the first year. Your pup’s Instagram is swarmed by likes and comments from dog lovers, brands and fellow Instafamous canines in the District and across the nation. For couple Alex Hibbs and Zach Hopf, posting photos of their pup quickly led to Navy

On Tap: How would you describe Navy’s personality? Alex Hibbs: Yap queen, very high energy. She’s a diva. She loves to meet and play with everybody. Her tail wags a mile a minute. People get intimated because she barks a lot but it’s all very playful, like, “I want you to pet me and run around with me.” OT: When and how did Navy first start to receive social media attention? AH: I figured making Navy her own account was the easiest way to share photos of her with my friends, family and coworkers. We started posting and didn’t expect it to go anywhere, but it did. She’s a pretty unique puppy, so people definitely caught on. We started [the Instagram account] the day we picked her up. Big corgi accounts on

ON TAP | MAY 2018 | www.ontaponline.com

the Corgi’s resounding online success. Now Hibbs, a Department of Defense employee, and Hopf, an IT consultant for Booz Allen Hamilton, devote most of their free time to one-year-old Navy and her booming Instagram account, @navycorgi. We caught up with the Insta celebrity and her parents in Capitol Riverfront’s Yards Park after her photo shoot for our May cover.

Instagram posted a few puppy photos of her. The American Kennel Club contacted us after we posted a little video – our third post – and asked, “Can we share on our social media?” They have thousands of followers and a huge online presence. OT: Have most of her photos and videos been easily circulated? Zach Hopf: Reposts are a big thing. Alex is great at using hashtags depending on the brand and the areas. Through that, reposts happen. AH: It really comes naturally for us. We try to be strategic with it and use hash tags for big accounts, so they will repost it and tag bigger accounts. Some people use a tactic of direct messaging. But we say if she gets followers, she does and if she doesn’t, she

doesn’t. We aren’t going to directly go after people to have them repost our content. OT: Do you feel pressure to post every single day? AH: It can be super overwhelming. Instagram is a highlight reel – we’re only showing the best parts. Navy can be a terror. She barks a lot. We also have a lot of fun with her that we don’t really post [about]. Sometimes there’s so much pressure to post every day, and in ways, it can get competitive. OT: What’s it like as influencers to go out in public where people might recognize Navy? ZH: It can be so surreal. One time, we were walking through Georgetown and we were walking across the street,

Photo: Ian Foulk

and this car slams on the brakes in the middle of traffic. This young girl gets out and starts screaming “Navy, Navy!” And she was like, “I made my mom stop in the middle of traffic to come say hi.” OT: Do you ever interact with followers outside of Instagram? AH: We recently went to Portugal and I had sent a message out. [A few owners and their corgis] came out to meet us and took us on a little tour of their town. They gave us a bandana for Navy. Navy’s not necessarily [always] with us, but the Instagram dog community is so nice – they want to meet you and not just your dog. OT: Do you guys devote most of your time to Navy when you’re not working? AH: Outside of work, we are really big on working out so we’ll go to the gym. But other than that, everything is focused on Navy and we’re like, “Oh, let’s take a trip. Let’s make sure it’s dog-friendly.” Our lives really revolve around her. ZH: We have to be at so many events for Navy: birthday parties, guest appearances, photos or other opportunities, or going to the dog park, doggy play dates, or going to dinner and making sure it’s dog accessible.

OT: How does Navy use her platform to support animal rescues and other pup-focused organizations? AH: There’s an organization called the East Coast Corgi Rescue. On Sunday, we went to a fundraiser for them and we donated a bunch of the free stuff that Navy gets like extra bags of treats. We told them, “If you want to give it out as a raffle or keep it for the rescue dogs, please go ahead.” And donate money too or let them use Navy as a source to promote it. Then there’s We the Dogs DC – we’ve gone to their events and held the handle on Instagram. ZH: We did a small thing for the Animal Welfare League of Arlington. They had an event where they sold tickets. Three dogs and a cat came, and [their owners] talked about social media influencing. We helped promote that event for them too. If people do have something going on, we’re more than willing to help out in any way we can.

Follow Navy the Corgi on Instagram at @navycorgi, and learn more about her at www.navycorgi.com.

NAVY THE CORGI’S CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT Favorite place to nap Between the pillows and the headboard in Mom and Dad’s bed Favorite place to play Dog Run Park at Carlyle in Alexandria, Virginia Favorite place to shop Kriser’s Natural Pet Favorite thing to play with ZippyPaws Burrow squeaky toy Favorite thing to eat Duck Favorite things to chase Frenchies, birds, squirrels

www.ontaponline.com | MAY 2018 | ON TAP

Local Rescues + Adoption Organizations

By Courtney Sexton According to the Chinese zodiac, 2018 is the Year of the Dog. But based on the plethora of pup-friendly happenings in the DC area, the dog days are here to stay. We’ve hunted high and low for everything you and your four-legged friend can do together now and well into the year. From events and fundraisers to parks and places to adopt a new companion, we’ve got your definitive guide to DC dog life below.

Off-Leash Areas + Summer Spots There are lots of places around town that are dog-friendly, but not as many where pups can legally roam free from the tether of a leash. The 35-plus fenced acres of Congressional Cemetery are a favorite, but membership is required and there is a yearly waitlist. If you’re not a part of the in-crowd, try Shirlington Dog Park or Glencarlyn Park, both in Arlington with access to creek areas for canine cool-off sessions. In the District, Yards Park has a small off-leash area, which is a decent option for letting the pup run off some steam if you plan to bring him along to an outdoor concert or al fresco dinner. While Kingman Island, Theodore Roosevelt Island and the wooded area along the Potomac from Fletcher’s Cove toward Chain Bridge are not designated as off-leash grounds, they provide new scents and stimulation for a good trail walk or run. The nearby water and tree canopy provide ways to cool off in the hot summer months, making this a great set of locations for dogs and their humans alike. The canoe, kayak and boat rentals at Fletcher’s boathouse are pet-friendly too! If you and your pup want to skip town altogether, head to one of the dog-friendly Virginia wineries like Three Fox Vineyards or to Delaware’s Dewey Beach where dogs are welcome to bask in the sun and play in the sand year-round. Learn more about these spots below. Congressional Cemetery: www.congressionalcemetery.org Dewey Beach: www.townofdeweybeach.com Fletcher’s Cove: www.boatingindc.com Glencarlyn Dog Park: http://parks.arlingtonva.us Kingman Island: www.kingmanisland.org Shirlington Dog Park: http://parks.arlingtonva.us Theodore Roosevelt Island: www.nps.gov Three Fox Vineyards: www.threefoxvineyards.com Yards Park: www.capitolriverfront.org

ON TAP | MAY 2018 | www.ontaponline.com

City Dogs Rescue City Dogs (and City Kitties) is a foster- and volunteer-based organization that helps place animals from shelters with loving human companions. The organization sponsors adoption events with local businesses like Dogma Bakery and Logan Hardware, and volunteers periodically host Yappy Hours at local bars to raise funds for the puppies and kittens. www.citydogsrescuedc.org Homeward Trails Animal Rescue Like the other great organizations in this list, Homeward Trails makes it their mission to find homes for abandoned, abused and high-kill shelter animals. Homeward Trails also wants to inspire kids to take the lead when it comes to rescue. During the organization’s Camp Waggin’ Tails summer camp in Fairfax, kids ages eight to 13 can “learn all about animal rescue, responsible pet ownership, positive dog training, hear from a variety of pet professionals, and work hands on with carefully selected adoptable dogs while engaging in fun games and projects.” www.homewardtrails.org Humane Rescue Alliance Two years ago, the Washington Animal Rescue League and Washington Humane Society merged to create a mega resource for bringing people and animals together. In addition to adoption services, HRA also provides affordable veterinary care, free pet food for those in need, behavior and training classes, and education and outreach opportunities. www.humanerescuealliance.org K-9 Lifesavers Located in Stafford, Virginia, “K-9 Lifesavers save lives ‘Four Paws at a Time.’” With volunteer drivers and boarding partners, K-9 Lifesavers rescues dogs from low-income rural areas throughout Alabama, Georgia, West Virginia, the Carolinas, Tennessee and Kentucky. Dedicated volunteers drive the pups to the DMV where boarding partners help host the pups until they can be adopted. K-9 Lifesavers also strives to be a support group for adopters and all dog owners. www.k-9lifesavers.org Lucky Dog Animal Rescue Founded in 2009, Lucky Dog saves an average of 100-125 homeless and abandoned animals every month. And while based in DC, Lucky Dog’s outreach goes far beyond the DMV. This past January, Lucky Dog partnered with Southwest Airlines to deliver more than 14,000 pounds of humanitarian supplies to animal rescuers in Puerto Rico and came home to DC with more than 60 dogs and cats who survived Hurricane Maria and were ready to be adopted. www.luckydoganimalrescue.org Rural Dog Rescue Rural Dog Rescue (RDR) is completely foster-based and run entirely by volunteers. The rescue works predominantly with several rural, high-kill shelters that euthanize over 70 percent of dogs, or euthanize within 72 hours in Virginia, West Virginia, and North and South Carolina. When RDR finds dogs that are ready for their forever homes, they provide each pet with up-to-date vaccinations and a microchip. www.ruraldogrescue.com

Dog Days of Summer: Wag-worthy Events Congressional Cemetery’s Day of the Dog Though the venue may seem morbid, it’s way more fun that one might think! This annual festival is a chance for all dogs, not just those who are members of the cemetery’s K-9 Corps, to join in a day of fun and games and romping around the cemetery’s 35-plus acres. Activities include contests, raffles, demonstrations, food trucks and local adoptions. Check out the Day of the Dog on Saturday, May 12 from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Historic Congressional Cemetery: 1801 E St. SE, DC; www.congressionalcemetery.org Humane Rescue Alliance’s Fashion for Paws Runway Show Few things could be cuter than a poodle strutting her stuff down the catwalk. For the 11th year running, Fashion for Paws’ Annual Runway Show will couple the glitz and glam of the fashion world with a great charitable cause. “Participants are Humane Rescue Alliance ambassadors who raise a minimum of $4,000 to benefit HRA for the honor of escorting their fashionably dressed dog down the runway,” according to the HRA website. Complete with celebrity host Carson Kressley from Queer Eye, cocktail attire and a glamorous afterparty, the event sells out every year. Dogs not participating in the runway show are not permitted to attend. Don’t miss Fashion for Paws on Saturday, May 5 from 7 p.m. - 12 a.m. Omni Shoreham Hotel: 2500 Calvert St. NW, DC; https://fashionforpaws.org Pups in the Park Summer in America means baseball, and at Nats Park, that includes all-American dogs! Throughout the season, you can purchase tickets to reserve a seat for your dog in the pet-friendly outfield section of the park. As a bonus, the June 23 game will feature a special pregame pup parade around the warning track. Proceeds from dog tickets benefit the Humane Rescue Alliance. Check out Pups in the Park on May 19, June 23 and on multiple dates in September. Nationals Park: 1500 S Capitol St. SE, DC; www.mlb.com/nationals We The Dogs DC’s Bipawtisan March You wouldn’t be a DC dog if you didn’t participate in political activism. You and your pup can make friends

across party lines while supporting a great cause at We The Dogs DC’s Bipawtisan March on September 23, from 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. with 100 percent of the event’s proceeds donated to local dog rescues. Bipawtisan March: Location TBD; www.wethedogsdc.org

Home Sweet Home: , DC s Dog-Friendly Digs Let’s face it, even in a town as dogfriendly as DC, the traditional rental market offers slim pickings when it comes to finding a place that allows four-legged friends. But the recent uptick in development has also brought an influx of property managers who see this plight as a niche market opportunity, offering amenities specifically targeted at residents with dogs – granted you can afford the perks.

Telltale Tails , What s in a Wag?

When many people see a dog wagging his or her tail, they immediately think that dog is happy. But that is not always the case. Dogs use a different language to express how they’re feeling than people do, and their tails can really talk. What’s most important for humans to know is that not all wags mean the same thing. Here are five common wags and what they can indicate.

2M Street

Broad-sweeping, loose and generally side-to-side at a moderate speed: This is the one we like to see! It means, “I’m pleased,” or that there is no sense of threat or challenge.

City Market at O

Tight, circular motion at moderate to high speed: This is generally an indicator that the dog is uncomfortable in the situation, unsure how he/she should act or may be a bit high-strung. This wag should be taken as a sign of caution, though not necessarily aggression.

The Hepburn

Low, tucked and slow to moderate speed with half of the tail in motion: This wag is a classic sign of submissiveness. If your dog is using this wag, he or she isn’t necessarily having the best time, but may just be trying to signal that she “comes in peace.”

Neighborhood: NoMa Petmenities: Private dog park, grooming station, community yappy hours and a resident bulldog, Emmy www.2mstreet.com

Neighborhood: Shaw Petmenities: Rooftop dog park, dog washing stations, pet walking and grooming referrals, and quarterly yappy hours www.citymarketato.com

Neighborhood: Kalorama Petmenities: Onsite pet spa and a pet wash station www.thehepburndc.com

Park Chelsea at The Collective Neighborhood: Capitol Riverfront Petmenities: Dog wash station, rooftop dog run, and easy access to Garfield, Canal and Yards Parks www.thecollectivedc.com

Pro Tip: Pup-Friendly Hotels

Friends and family heading to town with Fido? There are lots of great petfriendly lodging and hotel options, including Hotel Monaco, Hotel Palomar, Hotel Madera, Liaison Capitol Hill, The Carlyle and many others!

High, stiff, and fast-paced or vibrating: This is usually a sign of an active challenge. Pay close attention to the situation and extract your dog if necessary. Half tail at a moderate speed: This one is a little vague. It means, “I’m a little tentative here, so not going to put on the full-works display.” It can be a warm up to a hello, or a show of a bit of insecurity. Common wag facts courtesy of www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/caninecorner/201112/what-wagging-dog-tail-reallymeans-new-scientific-data

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By Amanda Weisbrod

1. There are 60-plus dog parks in the DC area. Visit www.bringfido.com to find the park that best suits your furry friend.

2. Approximately 3.3 million dogs enter animal shelters in the U.S. each year, yet only 1.6 million shelter dogs find homes. Check out pages 6 and 10 to find out where you can adopt. 3. The most popular name for a dog is Max, according to a recent survey. Other popular names include Molly, Sam, Zach and Maggie.

5. An average dog can comprehend about 250 words and count up to five, nearing the same brain aptitude level as a human toddler. 4. In the U.S., 40 percent of all households have at least one dog.

7. Totoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s role in The Wizard of Oz was played by a female Cairn Terrier named Terry, and the Taco Bell dog is actually a female Chihuahua named Gidget.

8. DC Mayor Muriel Bowser signed the Standard of Care for Animals Amendment Act last October, improving animal protection laws in the District by mandating pet caretaking standards. No more leaving Fido tied up outside in the winter or stranded in a car in the summer!

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9. There are more than 150 dog breeds, divided into eight classes: sporting, hound, working, terrier, toy, non-sporting, herding and miscellaneous.

6. Contrary to popular belief, dogs do not sweat by salivating. They sweat through the pads of their feet.

10. Spiked dog collars originated in ancient Greece to protect pupsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; necks from vicious wolf attacks. Facts courtesy of the following articles: #1: www.bringfido.com #2, 4: www.aspca.org #3, 6, 7, 9: www.mspca.org #5, 10: www.animalplanet.com #8: www.aldf.org

San Antonio Bar & Grill El Chucho Resturante Judy Cactus Cantina Mayahuel Johnny Pistolas Alero

Front Page Buffalo Billiards Cuba Libre Don Juan Midlands Impala Cantina Los Cuates

= Denotes bars that feature Corona & Corona Light

Lauriol Plaza CafĂŠ Citron La Molienda El Centro Due South Dock Bar Agua 301 Mi Vida Cantina Bambina

Tio Javier Hawthorne Rito Loco Flash Cortez Toro Toro Bravo Bravo Embassy Row

the spring weather on the patio while enjoying all-you-can-eat barbequed pork, grilled oysters, sides, beer, wine, non-alcoholic beverages, and a raffle with great prizes. Event starts at 5 p.m. Tickets $35-$40. Rocklands Barbeque and Grilling Company: 3471 Washington Blvd. Arlington, VA; www.doorwaysva.org

All Drink, Dine, Do event listings are provided by the venues hosting them.

THROUGH FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26 Canine Cruises For a limited time, the Capital’s canine residents can join their human families on the Potomac for a series of dog-friendly 45-minute sightseeing cruises around Alexandria’s Seaport. While passengers take in views of historic landmarks along the waterfront, their four-legged friends can also expect to enjoy fresh water and tasty treats onboard. All are invited, with or without a canine companion. Various dates and times. Tickets starting at $18 for adults, $12 for children. Dogs ride free! Alexandria City Marina: 105 N Union St. Alexandria, VA; www.potomacriverboatco.com

WEDNESDAY, MAY 2 Shakespeare Theatre’s Waiting for Godot Young Prose Night In Waiting for Godot, Samuel Beckett’s absurd, anarchic exploration of time, life is vaudeville and tragedy, philosophy and confusion,

teetering on the edge of despair, yet tuned with Beckett’s unique blend of poetry and humor. Purchase a ticket to Young Prose Night (YPN) and you’ll be invited to a postshow reception with the cast, including complimentary drinks by special guest brewery Goose Island and STC’s wine sponsor, Constellation Brand Wines. Show starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets $25. Shakespeare Theatre’s Lansburgh Theatre: 450 7th St. NW, DC; www. shakespearetheatre.org

THURSDAY, MAY 3 Rocklands’ 10th Annual “Shed Your Coat” Pig & Oyster Roast Join Doorways and Rocklands for a special anniversary event. Take part in the 10th annual “Shed Your Coat” Pig & Oyster Roast and celebrate Doorways’ 40th anniversary by helping them reach a special goal: raising $10,000 to support youth and young families transitioning out of homelessness into apartments of their own. Relish

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Scholar Spotlight: Faces in Japanese Art Few subjects have the power to command a viewer’s attention like the human face. It is often the part of an artwork that holds one’s gaze the longest and elicits the deepest affective responses. This talk will survey the long history of depicting the human face in Japanese art—from the Tale of Genji Scrolls to the prints of Utamaro. 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Free to attend. Japan Information & Culture Center, Embassy of Japan: 1150 18th St. NW, DC; www.us.emb-japan.go.jp/jicc

FRIDAY, MAY 4 Art on the Rocks Local mixologists compete for the ‘Art on the Rocks’ champion title at The Art League’s event, coinciding with their biennial Ikebana (Japanese flower arranging) exhibit. Your ticket allows you to taste these creations and vote for your favorite, as well as sample food pairings, dance to live music, and view innovative art. 7:30 10:30 p.m. Tickets are $45-$55. The Art League: 105 N. Union St. Alexandria, VA. www.theartleague.org Down Wilson at Nationals Park Every Friday home game, the best place to pre-game is at the Budweiser Terrace inside the ballpark. As the Nationals warm up to play the Phillies at 7:05 p.m., head to the Budweiser Terrace pregame show for live classic and modern rock tunes from Down Wilson, and enjoy ice cold beer. 5 - 7 p.m. Included with game tickets. Nationals

Park: 1500 S. Capitol St. SE, DC; www.mlb.com/nationals Duffy’s May the 4th Be With Us Party Party with Chewbacca in your best Star Wars costume at Duffy’s Irish Pub. Complete with drink specials, photo ops with a life-size Chewbacca and a costume contest, this event has everything you need to celebrate Star Wars in style. 9 p.m. - 1:30 a.m. Free to register. Duffy’s Irish Pub: 2106 Vermont Ave. NW, DC; www.dcduffys.com JuMakDC Korean Feast and Fundraiser JuMak and District Space are proud to present a Korean feast for a great cause. Justin Ahn will be preparing a four-course meal (plus a surprise or two) featuring his signature takes on classic Korean cuisine. Drinks will be available a la carte and will be prepared by District Space’s inhouse beverage team, 1 Ounce or 2 Cocktail Collective. Expect inspired cocktails as well as traditional Korean beer and soju. 7 - 10 p.m. Tickets $60. District Space: 3522 12th St. NE, DC; www.districtspacedc.com Poetry and Spoken Word Join us at Second Story Books in Rockville as award-winning poets, Nancy Naomi Carlson and Christina Daub, read from their work. Includes open mic. 7:30 - 8:30 p.m. Free to attend. Second Story Books: 12160 Parklawn Dr. Rockville, MD; www.secondstorybooks.com The Poetry Brothel: Washington, DC Welcome to a unique and immersive poetry event that takes poetry outside classrooms and lecture halls and places it in the lush interiors of a bordello. The Madame presents a rotating cast of poets, each operating within a carefully crafted character, who impart their work in public readings, spontaneous eruptions of poetry, and most distinctly, as purveyors of private poetry

readings on beds, chaise lounges and in private rooms. 7:30 p.m. - 12 a.m. Tickets $40. The Bier Baron Tavern: 1523 22nd St. NW, DC; www.thepoetrybrothel.com

SATURDAY, MAY 5 Around the Embassy World Tour Cultural Tourism DC will celebrate the 11th Around the World Embassy Tour, part of Passport DC, a month-long celebration of worldwide cultures. More than 40 embassies will participate, offering visitors the opportunity to learn about culture, food, fashion, and more. Full media alert with details is below, as well as a link to register as media for the event, allowing press to skip any lines during the tour. 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Free to attend. Around the World Embassy Tour: Various locations on Dupont Cir. NW, DC; www.culturaltourismdc.org

Big Brew Day As a pre-cursor celebration to National Homebrew Day on May 7, Tysons Biergarten is looking for 3–5 homebrew clubs to come and celebrate Big Brew on the 5th. Tysons Biergarten will provide space, picnic tables, electricity, and carbon filtered water. Water collection for brewing will start a few minutes after 10 a.m., food and beverage service will begin at 11 a.m. At 1 p.m., raise a glass to cheers to the father of homebrewing, Charlie Papazian. Throughout the rest of the day they’ll have live music, fun and games in the Biergarten. 10 a.m. - 2 a.m. Free to attend. Tysons Biergarten: 8346 Leesburg Pike, Tysons, VA; www.tysonsbiergarten.com Cinco de Mayo at Maté Lounge Salsa into the night with a live DJ at Maté Lounge’s Cinco de Mayo party. Register to attend to skip the cover and for $5 drink specials. Fashionable dress encouraged. 21+ only. 8 p.m. -

1:30 p.m. Free to register. Maté Lounge: 3101 K St. NW, DC; www.matedc.com Cinco de Mayo Cooking Class Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with a delicious, fiesta-worthy menu of dishes featuring your favorite Mexican flavors. Menu items include Fish Tacos with MangoAvocado Salsa & Cilantro Cream, Chicken Flautas with Tomatillo Sauce and Flourless Mexican Chocolate Cake with Tequila Whipped Cream. Each ticket includes a welcome cocktail, appetizer and a wine or beer of your choice. 6:30 - 9:30 p.m. Tickets are $75. Tastemakers: 2800 10th St. NE, DC; www.tastemakersdc.com Derby Party at Mt. Vernon Country Club Can’t make it to Kentucky to watch the Derby? Join the next best thing at the Junior Friends of the Campagna Center’s annual Derby Party fundraiser. Hosted at a country club, the event features cocktails like the southern classic

mint julep, appetizers, and supports the Campagna Center’s efforts to better the youth and adults of the greater Alexandria community. Don’t forget to sport your best derby attire. 5 - 9 p.m. Tickets are $60. Mount Vernon Country Club: 5111 Old Mill Rd. Alexandria, VA; www.mountvernoncc.org Kentucky Derby Party Break out your hats, bow-ties, and seersucker suits for a Churchill Downs style soirée at Pennsylvania 6 for the 144th Kentucky Derby. In celebration of the most fashionable sporting event of the year, Pennsylvania 6 will offer unlimited Old Forrester mint juleps, rosé, champagne, and complimentary light bites in the main bar and on the patio (weather permitting). Be sure to show up in your finest southern style as a prize will be awarded for the best derby attire. 21+ only. 5 - 7 p.m. Tickets are $60. Pennsylvania 6: 1350 I St. NW, DC; www.pennsylvania6dc.com

Cantina Bambina is a unique combination of a concession stand with a bar on the rooftop patio above. We are located in the heart of the Wharf on the Transit Pier and offer unparalleled views in a relaxing park-like atmosphere. You can still get away without going away.

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SATURDAY, MAY 5

SATURDAY, MAY 5 Nature Inspired Jewelry Show by Artist Roxan Waluk Enjoy perusing wearable art in the form of hand sculpted fine silver, gemstones and semiprecious beads. Featured artist Roxan Waluk incorporates her love of gardening and nature into her work, literally and figuratively, and the results are stunning. A portion of every sale will go to benefit The Sato Project, dedicated to rescuing abused and abandoned animals in Puerto Rico. Parkfairfax Party Room: 3360 Gunston Rd. Alexandria, VA; www.parkfairfax.info

SATURDAY, MAY 5 SUNDAY, MAY 6 Great Falls Spring ArtFest This two-location celebration of the arts features works by new and established artists in the Great Falls community. The festival will also include works for sale, so you can support local artist by adding an original painting, photo, or jewelry piece to your collection. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Free to attend. Grange Schoolhouse: 9818 Georgetown Pike, Great Falls, VA; Studios in the Village Center: 756 & 776 Walker Rd. Great Falls, VA; www.greatfallsstudios.com

SUNDAY, MAY 6 BARnival Come one, come all to this Spring’s most spirited carnival, featuring adult fun and games including ring toss and corn hole. Enjoy cocktails in liquid and cotton candy form and a slice of Timber

Seventh Annual Running of the Chihuahuas Kick off Cinco de Mayo with On Tap, Corona and The Wharf at the Seventh Annual Running of the Chihuahuas on District Pier. Don’t miss DC’s funniest Cinco de Mayo celebration! The day includes the races – broadcast on an 18-foot video wall – beer gardens, live music from Jeff From Accounting, pet friendly exhibitors and an activity zone powered by D.C. United! Play the games and enter to win tickets to a match at the new Audi Field. All race proceeds benefit Rural Dog Rescue. 1–5 p.m. Free to attend but must be 21+ to consume alcohol. For all the info visit www.cincodc.com. District Pier at The Wharf: 101 District Square SW, DC; www.wharfdc.com

Pizza. There will be Cocktail Competitions all night. 6 - 11 p.m. Free to attend. Republic Restoratives Distillery: 1369 New York Ave. NE, DC; www. republicanrestoratives.com International Doodle Dog Day Ripley+Rue created this holiday last year with the help of thousands of Doodles around the globe in over 10 major cities! This will be the first for Maryland to participate getting doodles from DC, Baltimore, and Annapolis together for an epic Doodle Romp. Free food and drinks for both dogs and their humans at the event. Epic giveaways, free goodie bags and more. 12 - 2p.m. Tickets are $8. Shaw Dog Park: 1673 11th St. NW, DC; www.shawdogs.org Jazz Brunch at Blackfinn Enjoy a unique brunch experience at Blackfinn for the perfect Sunday. Relax and unwind to live music by talented Blue Dot Jazz Troupe while enjoying a delectable brunch buffet for $15. There’s also a Bloody Mary bar and mimosa brunch bundles. 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Blackfinn Ameripub, Merrifield: 2750 Gallows Rd. Vienna, VA; www.blackfinnameripub.com Literary Hill BookFest This year’s event will feature

ON TAP | MAY 2018 | www.ontaponline.com

over 40 local authors, exhibitors, and vendors from right here on Capitol Hill. And don’t forget to head over to the Poet’s Corner Open Mic at 3 p.m. across the street at the patio of Tunnicliff’s Tavern. 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Free to attend. Eastern Market, North Hall: 225 7th St. SE, DC; www.literaryhillbookfest.org Silver Spring Arts & Crafts Spring Fair Spring is the season of new beginnings. Fresh buds bloom, animals awaken and the earth seems to come to life again. Welcome the season, with the first edition of our seasonal Silver Spring Arts & Crafts Fair. Because the event takes place one week before Mother’s Day, this will be the perfect opportunity to find the perfect gift for mothers. 1 - 6 p.m. Free to attend. Silver Spring Veterans Plaza: 1 Veterans Place, Silver Spring, MD; www.fb.com/chiceventsdc

WEDNESDAY, MAY 9 Watercolor and Cocktails Join cookbook author and illustrator Marcella Kriebel in an evening of watercolor painting of an original recipe by mixologist Gina Chersevani. Participants will enjoy a specialty seasonal cocktail prepared by Buffalo and Bergen, and each will be supplied line art of an illustrated recipe of Chersevani’s

drink to paint in watercolor. Watercolor techniques will be shared as well as a demo of how to make the drink at home. Each participant will bring home one of Chersevani’s classic cocktails as a hand colored illustrated recipe. Art materials for this project are included. 21+ only. 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. Tickets are $50. Union Market: 1309 5th St. NE, DC; www.unionmarketdc.com

THURSDAY, MAY 10 Grand Opening Celebration at Signature Residences at Reston Town Center Join On Tap for complimentary light fare, local craft beer, live jazz music, and local art presented by Greater Reston Arts Center. There will be unique bites from Passion Fish, Barcelona and Mon Ami Gabi that you won’t want to miss. Sip on the “Signature” cocktail or try local craft beer. Take in a showcase of featured art from Reston Arts Festival artist and explore all that Signature has to offer. 7 - 9 p.m. Free to attend, but must RSVP. Signature Residences at Reston Town Center: 11850 Freedom Dr. Reston, VA; www.signaturersvp.com

THURSDAY, MAY 10 SUNDAY, MAY 13 Apollo Festival Apollo Festival of Masonic Arts is a World Celebration of the Symbolic Culture of the Freemasonry, organized by the Association of Masonic Arts, and hosted by different Grand Lodges around the World. The main purpose of the Festival is to present the centuries old Masterpieces of the Craft and contemporary Art products, made by Brethren from different cultures and countries. The festival will also include lectures and presentations, concerts and musicals, and student contests in poetry, fine arts, music and short documentaries. Thursday 2-10 p.m., Friday and Saturday 9 a.m. - 10 p.m., Sunday 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Tickets are $300. George Washington Masonic National

on the scene

WhiskyFest DC at the Marriott Marquis offered attendees the opportunity to sample nearly 300 whiskies from around the world including scotch, bourbon, rye and other spirits.

Photos: Cristina O’Connell

FOR MORE PHOTOS FROM THESE AND OTHER EVENTS, VISIT THE ONLINE GALLERY AT WWW.ONTAPONLINE.COM.

It’s that Friday-after-work, summer’s-almost-here kind of feeling. Cheers to hand-muddled mojitos & more than 100 rums from around the world.

Gaithersburg | Tyson’s Corner | Annapolis PaladarLatinKitchen.com www.ontaponline.com | MAY 2018 | ON TAP

Memorial: 101 Callahan Dr. Alexandria, VA; www.masonicarts.net

FRIDAY, MAY 11 “The Last Dragon” Bartender Throwdown Local bartenders will have the chance to be an ambassador to their own brand and showcase their skills in a mad contest of wit, will and determination. Bartenders will compete for speed, creativity, originality and quality in their cocktails in a series of grueling events that will separate the wolves of the industry from the sheep on the floor. This is an opportunity for the best bartenders in the city to look the DMV right in the face and show the world why they love bartending so much. 7 - 10 p.m. Tickets are $10. Mythology Lounge: 816 H St. NE, DC; www.mythology-lore.com Meet the Medium Happy Hour Grab cocktails and friends, and get a peek into your best life at the Medium Happy Hour at Station Kitchen & Cocktails in The Embassy Row Hotel. 6-10:30 p.m. Tickets $30. Station Kitchen & Cocktails at The Embassy Row Hotel: 2015 Massachusetts Ave. NW, DC; www.destinationhotels.com/ embassy-row-hotel Waterfront Patio Party When crisp artisanal sorbetto meets refreshing prosecco, warm-weather, waterfront magic happens! Guests are invited to experience the 2018 sgroppino program with complimentary snacks and tastes of Tova Hillman’s new sorbetto floats. 5 - 7 p.m. Free to attend. Osteria Morini: 301 Water St. SE, DC; www.osteriamorini.com

SATURDAY, MAY 12 New Orleans Seafood Festival Join us at the first New Orleans Seafood Festival to grace the Nation’s Capital during Mother’s Day Weekend. Experience authentic New Orleans culture

by indulging in cajun and creole food, music, art, and drinks; make sure you stop by the pop-up Bourbon Street Bar and French Market! 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. and 5–9 p.m. Tickets are $29 $129. The Carousel at National Harbor: 137 National Plaza, National Harbor, MD; www.nationalharbor.com Rated Art 2018 Enjoy the works of the residents of the Arlington Arts Center while sipping on unique art inspired cocktails with food pairings from local restaurants. VIP ticketholders can win a collection of vintage wines and get an early look at the silent auction offerings. Ticket and silent auction sales will benefit the Arlington Art Center’s multiple programs. 8 p.m. - 11 p.m. Tickets are $90-$140. Arlington Arts Center: 3550 Wilson Blvd. Arlington, VA; www. arlingtonartscenter.org Taco, Beer, Tequila Festival If you identify as a taco lover, you’ll love this festival. DC’s best taquerias and taco trucks come together to showcase their best tacos along with 8 margarita bars, over 25 craft breweries and a tequila/mezcal pavilion. 21+ only. 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. and 5 - 9 p.m. Tickets are $45-$75. The Yards: 136 N St. SE, DC; www.theyardsdc.com

THURSDAY, MAY 17 Nat Geo Nights: The Science of Genius Every third Thursday of the month, join us for special monthly happy hours with stories from National Geographic Explorers, fun interactive activities, lively music, food, and drink specials at our cash bar. Tickets include free admission to the National Geographic Museum. Neuroscientist Steve Ramirez, observational astrophysicist Jedidah Isler and biomedical engineer David Moinina Sengeh are pioneers in their fields, pushing the boundaries of what we think is possible. 5:30 - 8 p.m. Tickets $20. National

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Geographic Museum: 1600 M St. NW, DC; www. nationalgeographic.org

FRIDAY, MAY 18 Uncle Jesse Band at NationalsPark Every Friday home game, the best place to pregame is at the Budweiser Terrace inside the ballpark. As the Nationals warm up to play the LA Dodgers at 7:05 p.m., head to the Budweiser Terrace pre-game show for fun 90s covers from Uncle Jesse Band, and enjoy ice cold beer. 5 - 7 p.m. Included in game admission. Nationals Park: 1500 S. Capitol St. SE, DC; www.mlb.com/nationals

SATURDAY, MAY 19 A Royal Watch Party The Dish & Dram literally rolls out the red carpet to celebrate the revolutionary union between the US and UK with a celebration fit for a king (queen, prince or princess) all day long on Saturday, May 19 beginning at 7 a.m. Not only will the televisions be trained on the Royal Wedding, but along with standard menu items, The Dish & Dram will start the day with a brunch including classic Bangers & Mash. The Dish & Dram: 10301 Kensington Pkwy. Kensington, MD; www.thedishanddram.com DC BBQ Bash Join before the Washington Nationals battle the Dodgers for the DC BBQ BASH and enjoy live music, delicious BBQ from your favorite DC-local food trucks, beer, and more. Enjoy Rocklands Barbeque and Grilling Company, Sloppy Mama’s BBQ, Due South, Hill Country Barbecue Market, Fat Pete’s Barbeque, BBQ Bus Smokehouse and The Bullpen. 3 - 7:30 p.m. Tickets $60. The Bullpen: 1201 Half St. SE, DC; www.livingclassrooms.org DC Bike Ride DC Bike Ride is a closed-road, car-free bike ride that traverses 20 miles of DC streets past

monuments and memorials. DC Bike Ride is a non-competitive scenic bike ride that culminates with a Finish Festival in front of the U.S. Capitol. The event raises support for WABA to make streets safer for all. 8 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Tickets $32.50-$175. DC Bike Ride: West Potomac Park at 100 West Basin Dr. SW, DC; www.dcbikeride.com Taste of Lake Ridge Reid’s Prospect The Taste of Lake Ridge at Reid’s Prospect is a community celebration of good food, exhibitors, performances and live music. This family-friendly event allows you to stroll through the dozens of fun exhibitors outdoors at your leisure while sampling some of the delicious offerings of local restaurants and chefs. 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Tickets $10-$50. Reid’s Prospect: 4640 Daisy Reid Ave. Woodbridge, VA; www. reidsprospectapts.com

SATURDAY, MAY 19 – SUNDAY, MAY 20 Wine in the Woods Wine in the Woods is one of the premiere events in the region and a source of pride for Howard County. The entire Department of Howard County Recreation and Parks has worked together as a team to produce this event. It has become a tradition and a mainstay for the local community and beyond, becoming a sparkling tourist attraction that brings visitors from far and wide. The event runs rain or shine. Tickets are not refundable or exchangeable and can only be used for the day you purchased them. Festivities begin at 11 a.m. on both days. Tickets $25-$30+ Wine in the Woods: 5950 Symphony Woods Rd. Columbia, MD; www.wineinthewoods.com

WEDNESDAY, MAY 23 Gordon Biersch Tapping Party Join Gordon Biersch at Navy Yard for a tapping party to

celebrate the release of their New England Style IPA. Their patio will also be open to enjoy. 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. Free to attend. Gordon Biersch Navy Yard: 100 M St. SE, DC; www. gordonbiersch.com Pop-Up Magazine Pop-Up Magazine is a live magazine, created for a stage, a screen, and a live audience. Contributors, who range from Oscar-winning filmmakers to bestselling authors as well as emerging talent, tell reported, never-before-told multimedia stories. Plus, thier musical collaborators Magik*Magik Orchestra score the stories on-stage. You’ll end the night gathered around the bar, performers and audience together. Shows are one night only, and nothing goes online after—you have to be there to see them. Show starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets $29-$49. Warner Theatre: 513 13th St. NW, DC; www.popupmagazine.com

FRIDAY, MAY 25 Yards Park Summer Concert Series: Pebble to Pearl Spend your Friday night relaxing at Yards Park in Capitol Riverfront. Spread a blanket and enjoy a night of R&B with Pebble to Pearl. Concert is free and the stage is located on the boardwalk. Ice cold Corona beers and wine will be available on-site at the outdoor tented bar. 7 - 9 p.m. Free to attend. Yards Park: 355 Water St. SE, DC; www.capitolriverfront.org

SATURDAY, MAY 26 The Creepy Morty’s Ricktacular Revue: Interdimensional Burlesque & Variety Show It’s time to get schwifty with Maki and friends! Enjoy a salacious interdimensional romp from Gazorpazorp to The Citadel. Show your love for the zany characters of Rick and Morty by donning your best costume. 8:30 p.m. - 12 a.m.

FRIDAY, JUNE 1

Tickets are $15-$100. The Bier Baron Tavern: 1523 22nd St. NW, DC; www.facebook.com/ makilovesunicorns Memorial Day Distillers Festival Join us for a full day of spirits, beer, wine, BBQ, live music and lots of fun in support of Operation Turbo, which is an organization dedicated to putting together and sending care packages to active duty military members stationed overseas. With distillers, vineyards and brewers from all over Virginia, there will be lots to sample. 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Free to attend. Tickets for sale for purchases of drinks and food. Falls Church Distillers: 442 South Washington St. Falls Church, VA; www.fcdistillers.com The Midnite BBQ Come celebrate American food, music, and style with Midnite BBQ, a twist on the traditional BBQ, created by influencers with a love of great vibes and variety. All food lovers are welcome, as Midnite BBQ accommodates those with restricted diets and discerning tastes. Featuring the best from local food trucks, chefs, and DJs. 4 p.m. - 2 a.m. Tickets are $25-$30. Gateway DC: 2700 Martin Luther King Junior Ave. SE, DC; www.midnitebbq.com

WEDNESDAY, MAY 30 2018 Best of Bethesda Party This year’s Best of Bethesda Paty will feature 22 award-winning restaurants with specialty cocktails, wine and beer. There will also be live music by the DMV’s own Justin Trawick. Lastly, you’ll have a chance to meet Olympic gold medalist and Rockville native Haley Skarupa, a member of the U.S. Women’s Hockey Team. 6-9 p.m. Tickets $68. Hyatt Regency Bethesda: 1 Bethesda Metro Center, Bethesda, MD; www.bethesdamagazine.com

ON TAP | MAY 2018 | www.ontaponline.com

FRIDAY, JUNE 1 – SATURDAY, JUNE 2 Savor 2018 Discover the perfect pairing. Mingle with the people behind the beers. Delight your senses under the soaring columns of the historic National Building Museum. A must-attend for craft beer aficionados and foodies alike, SAVOR offers a memorable craft beer and food experience to a limited number of guests in a truly unique atmosphere. At SAVOR, 90 small and independent breweries from around the country showcase 181 beers, each one thoughtfully paired with a small plate that will dazzle your palate. 7:30-11 p.m. Tickets $135. National Building Museum: 401 F St. NW, DC; www.savorcraftbeer.com Whiskey Explorer Series: American Whiskey Enjoy a tasting of America’s finest whiskey and dive behind the barrel during the Whiskey Explorer Series. Taste, experience, and discuss what makes American whiskey unique. The class will be guided by our staff allowing you to sit back and relax while we make you into a whiskey expert. If you’ve ever wondered what makes Bourbon, Rye, and American whiskey unique this is the class for you. 7 - 8 p.m. Tickets $25. Reliable Tavern: 3655 Georgia Ave. NW, DC; www.reliable-tavern.com

Yards Park Summer Concert Series: Burnt Sienna Spend your Friday night relaxing at Yards Park in Capitol Riverfront. Spread a blanket and enjoy a night of high-energy, party band cover tunes with Burnt Sienna. Concert is free and the stage is located on the boardwalk. Ice cold Corona beers and wine will be available on-site at the outdoor tented bar! 7 - 9 p.m. Free to attend. Yards Park: 355 Water St. SE, DC; www.capitolriverfront.org

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 13 & FRIDAY, JUNE 22 Shakespeare Theatre’s Camelot Young Prose Night Four-time, Tony Awardwinning musical Camelot explores the struggle for civilization and goodness in a society that’s accustomed to violence and hate. Purchase a ticket to see Camelot at Young Prose Night (YPN) and you’ll be invited to a post-show reception with the cast, including complimentary drinks and STC’s wine sponsor, Constellation Brand Wines. Wednesday 7:30 p.m. Friday 8 p.m. Tickets are $25. Shakespeare Theatre Company’s Sidney Harman Hall: 610 F St. NW, DC; www.shakespearetheatre.org

JOIN US! For a Grand Opening celebration at VY / Reston Heights, Reston’s newest upscale apartments. Enjoy complimentary food and drinks from some of Reston’s finest restaurants, musical entertainment, and model apartment tours.

Thursday, June 7 | 7 - 9pm RSVP at www.VYRestonHeightsRSVP.com

11830 Sunrise Valley Drive, Reston, VA. 20191 VyRestonHeights.com | 571.389.8837

Play-by-Play Voice

Charlie Slowes Expects Nats to Heat Up with Weather By Joel Goldberg

Center Fielder Adam Eaton

able television is a luxury for many people these days. That means that Nationals fans who wish to follow their team could have trouble accessing MASN, the Nats’ home broadcasting network. Hence, the importance of radio. “Sometimes all it takes is a comeback like this to turn your fate around,” an authoritative voice crooned over the airwaves. That was Charlie Slowes, the play-by-play announcer for the Nationals’ radio affiliate 106.7 FM The Fan, speaking on April 16 during a tight game between the Mets and the Nats. A few pitches later, Michael A. Taylor, who entered the game with a .193 batting average, walked to force in the goahead run, and the Nats went on to win 8-6. Taylor’s go-ahead walk came at a critical juncture early in the season. The Nats lost eight of their previous 11 games entering the series against the Mets, who stormed out of the gates to a 12-2 record. The Nationals ended up taking two of three

ON TAP | MAY 2018 | www.ontaponline.com

games in the series to stop their early season skid. For all 14 seasons that Nats baseball has existed in DC, Slowes has been the voice calling the games, engaging fans through the airwaves. When we got a chance to chat with Slowes off-air, he noted that it’s important not to sound the alarms just because of a slow start. “You’re talking about a tenth of a season,” Slowes told On Tap the morning after the April 16 game, adding that there’s reason to keep the faith in a reigning first-place team. “I’m always excited at the start of a season. They’ve got Scherzer and Strasburg at the top of the rotation. They’ve got a backend of the bullpen that they didn’t really have last year, with a track record of success. Bryce [Harper] looks like he’s primed for a big, big year.” Slowes noted that this April was abnormally cold and dismal, hardly the kind of weather that wakes Major League hitters out of their offseason slumbers – even the cherry blossoms stayed in their beds a few weeks longer than expected.

Photos: Courtesy of the Washington Nationals Baseball Club

“Hell, let’s see the weather get warm,” Slowes said. “It hasn’t really been baseball weather. But you figure by May, it will be.” Any baseball fan worth his weight in pine tar knows that warm weather and hitting go together like spaghetti and meatballs. Moreover, key pieces in the Nats’ lineup were missing at the start of the April 16 game. Adam Eaton, Anthony Rendon and Daniel Murphy – essential pieces in the Nationals’ batting order – spent time out of the lineup in April because of injury. The Nationals entered the April 16 game with MLB ranks of 13th in runs scored, 19th in team batting average and 15th in team on-base plus slugging. At the end of 2017, the Nats ranked fifth, fourth and fourth in those categories, respectively. With a fully loaded lineup, one would expect the numbers to more closely resemble last season’s. But unlike last season, when the Nats finished 20 games ahead of the secondplace Marlins, our team has more to worry about than just their own performance. The National League East has vastly improved.

CATCH GREAT LIVE MUSIC Before Every Friday Home Game!

2018

BUDWEISER MUSIC SERIES

5/4 Down Wilson 5/18 Uncle Jesse 6/8 7 Deadlies

6/22 Lloyd Dobler Effect

7/6 7/20 8/3

Justin Trawick & The Common Good Lovely Rita Scott Kurt & Memphis 59

8/17 8/31 9/7 9/21

As If Hand Painted Swinger The Reflex Turtle Recall

Music @ 5:00 | Game @ 7:05 AN

PRODUCTION

Pitcher Stephen Strasburg

Photos: Mark Raker

“I’m always excited at the start of a season. They’ve got Scherzer and Strasburg at the top of the rotation. Bryce Harper looks like he’s primed for a big, big year.”

As the Nationals warmed up to play the New York Mets for their home opener, Jeff From Accounting played a live pregame show featuring 90s rock tunes on the Budweiser Terrace.

ON TAP | MAY 2018 | www.ontaponline.com

For example, the Mets welcomed back their young pitching phenom Noah “Thor” Syndergaard and potent hitters Michael Conforto and Yoenis Céspedes, all of whom missed significant time in 2017. Meanwhile, the Braves and Phillies have started to reap the benefits of their “rebuilding” phases. For both teams, a talented crop of young prospects has finally begun to arrive at the Major League level. But maybe a little competition isn’t so bad. “Maybe that will be a good thing,” Slowes said. “When you are a runaway winner in the division, and you don’t play any meaningful games, then September becomes a little bit more like spring training. Then you’ve got to flip a switch [when the playoffs begin].” After a shaky performance coming out of this year’s spring training, the Nationals needed to search hard to flip that proverbial switch. If nothing else, the Nats – to invoke another idiom – have gotten a wake-up call to start the season. For more info on the Nats’ 2018 season, go to www.mlb.com/nationals. Nationals Park: 1500 South Capitol St. SE, DC 202-675-6287; www.mlb.com/nationals

2-DAYS OF PREMIER CYCLING | JUNE 9-10

JOIN SUN

Open to cAyY’S CHALLENGE clists of a ll abilitiesRIDE

PROUDLY BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE BOEING COMPANY

SATURDAY | CLARENDON PRO-AMATEUR RACES / KIDS RACES A tradition since 1998, boasts the Washington, DC region’s premier Amateur and Professional bike races.

SUNDAY | CRYSTAL CITY

RACES BOTH DAYS. FREE KIDS Register online or same day.

PRO-AMATEUR RACES / CHALLENGE RIDE / KIDS RACES Starting in 2008, the Challenge Ride has become the area’s largest non-competitive, participatory ride. Closed course for the Challenge Ride.

NEW THIS YEAR!

$5 OFF Challenge Ride Registration

USE CODE: ONTAP

Options to Support an Official Beneficiary with your Challenge Ride. No Federal endorsement intended or implied.

MAGAZINE

Photo: Courtesy of Sababa

By Lani Furbank On Tap keeps locals in the know about the hottest new food and drink spots around town and the top culinary happenings of the month. Read on to get the inside scoop on what’s new and notable in the DC area.

NEW

Fancy Radish

Photo: Courtesy of Fancy Radish

Open: March 20 Location: H Street Lowdown: Vegans and omnivores alike rejoiced when Vedge Restaurant Group out of Philadelphia planted their first restaurant in DC. While everything on the menu is completely vegan, owners Rich Landau and Kate Jacoby aren’t trying to push an agenda. They’re just serving vegetables. It’s the way they serve them that makes a splash. Each dish takes a humble piece of produce – like a radish – and elevates it with artful techniques and vibrant flavors. Digging in to small plates like the Chioggia beet picnic, the trumpet mushroom “fazzoletti” and the spicy dan dan noodles, I would have easily believed they were laden with butter and cheese. The menu strikes a balance between the refined cuisine at their Philly flagship, Vedge, and the edgy street food at V Street. The restaurant’s namesake fancy radishes are adapted from the menu at Vedge. At the bar, vegetables also shine in drinks like the Peridot Meteor with gin, celery and olive oil or the Raphanus Shade with rye, radish, black vin and amaro ferro-kina. There are also a variety of natural wines and a handful of draft beers. The space has an industrial vibe, which is softened by earth tones and a mural spanning the restaurant that depicts a vegetable’s life cycle from seed to sprout. 600 H St. NE, DC; www.fancyradishdc.com

ON TAP | MAY 2018 | www.ontaponline.com

Kaliwa

Photo: Courtesy of Kaliwa

Open: March 28 Location: The Wharf Lowdown: Restaurateur power couple Cathal and Meshelle Armstrong, known for Alexandria hot spots Society Fair, Hummingbird and more, opened their latest restaurant at The Wharf. The pair are serving three Asian cuisines that are near and dear to their hearts: Filipino, honoring Meshelle’s heritage; Korean, as an ode to Chef Cathal’s Taekwondo training; and Thai, because it’s their family’s food of choice. The menu is divided into sections for each country, with milder flavors in Filipino dishes like Kalderetang Cordero, slightly spicier funky notes in Korean Jae Yuk Gui and super hot spice levels in Thai Nuer Pad Prik. Most dishes are heavily sauced and meant to be eaten with rice, but there are also a few noodle dishes, hearth-roasted proteins and other classics like lumpiang. With minimal descriptions on the menu, the restaurant provides a glossary of commonly used terms (gochujang, calamansi) and servers are always available to elaborate. The pamphlet also offers some conversational phrases in Tagalog, Korean and Thai. The name Kaliwa means left, which Cathal promises is not a political statement, but rather a nod to his left-handedness and to the restaurant’s departure from the norm. Meshelle designed the space, featuring woven basket light fixtures, rope netting and bright blue hues to emulate a night street market. 751 Wharf St. SW, DC; www.kaliwadc.com

Photo: Courtesy of Georgetown Events

NOTABLE

Sababa

Photo: Courtesy of Sababa

Dates: May 11, June 15, July 13, August 10, September 14 Location: The Bullpen Lowdown: Once a month throughout the summer, a flock of food trucks converges at The Bullpen fairgrounds in Navy Yard for a massive festival. The event offers live music, cold drinks, games and a full lineup of food trucks to choose from. At the May event, guests can enjoy mac and cheese from CapMac, crêpes from Crepe Love, empanadas from DC Empanadas, frozen custard from Goodies, lobster rolls from Red Hook, and more. It’s open to all ages until 9 p.m., at which point it shifts to 21 and over. Admission is free. 1201 Half St. SE, DC; www.thebullpendc.com/truckeroo

Photo: Courtesy of BLT Steak

Open: March 15 Location: Cleveland Park Lowdown: After a quick set change, Ashok Bajaj opened Sababa in the space formerly occupied by Ardeo. The new restaurant’s menu focuses on modern Israeli cuisine, which has roots in both Jewish and Arab traditions. Dishes display influences from the Middle East, Turkey and Greece. Meals often start with salatim – small portions of salads and spreads to share – and then progress into hummus and small plates. I couldn’t get enough of the vegetarian dishes, from charred eggplant and roasted halumi to fried cauliflower and Israeli salad. Kebabs and large plates are also available, like sumac- and onion-marinated steak, shakshuka and braised lamb shank. The restaurant’s name comes from the Hebrew slang for cool, and the design reflects this, evoking the port of Tel Aviv with Mediterranean tiles, canvas sails on the ceiling and wood paneling to represent a grape arbor adorned with string lights. The beverage program consists of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean wines, plus house cocktails that showcase Israeli spices and flavors. 3311 Connecticut Ave. NW, DC; www.sababauptown.com

Truckeroo

Wines Over Washington

Spoken English

Photo: Courtesy of Spoken English

Open: March 30 Location: Adams Morgan Lowdown: Erik Bruner Yang’s second project within the LINE Hotel is now open for business, and it’s unlike any restaurant you’ve visited in DC. Spoken English is modeled after the Japanese Tachinomiya – a standing-room only restaurant where people stop by for snacks and drinks after work. The casual, communal concept is situated in the kitchen with two counters facing a wood-fired Grillworks oven. It can only accommodate between 12 to 16 people at a time, and the close quarters encourage guests to socialize with their dining companions and strangers. The menu provides a choice between having a few bites, like skewers and small plates, or enjoying a full meal of whole roast duck and chicken yakitori. The whole chicken yakitori consists of eight courses, each a different cut of the bird such as thighs, stuffed wings, crispy skin, bone broth, liver mousse and more. To drink, there’s a selection of sake and beer, as well as a few cocktails. Reservations are not accepted. 1770 Euclid St. NW; www.thelinehotel.com/dc

Dates: May 17, June 21, July 19, August 16, September 20 Location: BLT Steak Lowdown: The rooftop of this downtown steakhouse has stunning views of the city, the Potomac River, the Washington Monument and the White House. This makes it a prime location to enjoy a glass of wine while watching the sunset. BLT Steak’s Wines Over Washington gives winos a chance to explore new wine varietals al fresco paired with classic fare by Chef de Cuisine Michael Bonk, as well as live music. The series takes place one evening per month through the summer. The first event will feature selections from Lanterna Wines. Tickets are $65 per event, or $275 for the entire series. 1625 I St. NW, DC; www.bltrestaurants.com/bltsteak/washington-d-c/winesoverwashington

www.ontaponline.com | MAY 2018 | ON TAP

BEHIND THE BAR

By Amanda Weisbrod

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo the right way at brand new tequila bar Cortez and trendy mezcal mainstay Espita Mezcaleria, both located in Shaw, or at recently opened Mayahuel Cocina Mexicana in Woodley Park. Find out what the bartenders at these hip spots have to say about their mezcal- and tequila-based creations.

SAM HELFSTEIN

Photos: Amanda Weisbrod

JORDAN UTZ

Bartender, Cortez

Bartender, Espita Mezcaleria

On Tap: What would you say is your most popular tequila cocktail? Sam Helfstein: The passion fruit margarita. It’s made with El Jimador Blanco tequila, lime juice, a little bit of agave, triple sec and passion fruit puree. You get the choice of a salt or sugar rim. OT: What first attracted you to Cortez? SH: It seemed festive, bright and fun, and I wanted to try something different. I’m used to working in whiskey bars, so this is a definite change.

On Tap: Has working at Espita made you more passionate about mezcal? Jordan Utz: Absolutely. Coming here, I got to develop a passion. I learned all of the nuances about the individual varieties. Every bottle up there has its own characteristics and I think because my background was initially more wine-focused, I can apply a lot of that to mezcal because it’s very terroir-based. Each village and each specific agave is going to have its own expression, and produce unique and specific flavors.

OT: Do you think DC is lacking in tequila bars? Is Cortez filling that space? SH: I think that the style of Cortez brings something different to the table because there’s fast, casual dining on the lower level and there’s not really food upstairs – it’s more for just drinking frozen margaritas and fun stuff like that. You don’t find a lot of that in the city.

OT: What is Espita’s take on being authentic rather than traditional? JU: Every ingredient, sauce and spice is made from scratch using largely authentic ingredients. As for the mezcals, we only sell responsibly sourced, traditionally made mezcals here. It’s becoming trendy, but mezcal is just not that kind of spirit. The agave takes a long time to grow. A single agave plant takes at a minimum about eight years to mature, so you can’t rush it. Mezcal shows when it’s cheaply made.

OT: What do you love most about the atmosphere here? SH: Everything. Everyone has a really positive, happy vibe. When you walk in, you see how vibrant and bright the murals are. It’s really fun. People get excited and they’re always taking pictures.

OT: Why do you think mezcal is so popular right now? JU: Because it’s uncharted territory for a lot of people, there’s an element of curiosity. With mezcal, the reward is really high. If you can really take the time to get to know it, there’s so much depth and nuance about it.

Cortez: 1905 9th St. NW, DC; www.cortezbardc.com

ON TAP | MAY 2018 | www.ontaponline.com

Espita Mezcaleria: 1250 9th St. NW, DC; www.espitadc.com

CLASSIC MARGARITA

TEHUANA GIRL

El Jimador Blanco tequila Triple sec Lime juice Agave

Yellow chartreuse Espadin mezcal Wheat beer Elderflower Honey Lemon

Created by Robin Miller

SPIKE your cocktail ST. Elder rita

WALTER FUENTES & MYNOR MARTIN

Bartenders, Mayahuel Cocina Mexicana On Tap: What inspired Mayahuel’s opening? Walter Fuentes: We want to bring something new. Mezcal is something that’s going to get more and more popular like tequila did. We’re seeing a lot of people like the smokiness of the mezcal and the different layers of flavors that mezcal brings. We like mezcal because it brings you different parts of Mexico. OT: What’s your most popular mezcal cocktail? Mynor Martin: The Chingon is mezcal, scotch, Cocchi vermouth and Angostura bitters. It’s like a Manhattan, but Mexicana-style. The other one is the Smoked Mayahuel. It’s like an Old Fashioned with tequila, mezcal, cinnamon, simple syrup and bitters with mesquite cherry wood on fire.

2 oz Silver Tequila 1 oz St. Elder .5 oz Fresh Lime Juice Shake all ingredients with ice & pour into a chilled glass and garnish with lime.

OT: What makes Mayahuel’s cocktails stand out? MM: We use only fresh fruit. We don’t use any sour mix or fake stuff. We care about perfect drinks. WF: We try to keep good quality house tequila and mezcal. We don’t want to use bad quality [liquor]. We want you to come back the next day and drink again, not be hung over!

Mayahuel Cocina Mexicana: 2609 24th St. NW, DC; www.mayahueldc.com

SMOKED MAYAHUEL Mesquite cherry wood on fire El Silencio mezcal Milagro tequila Simple syrup Cinnamon

PLEASE ENJOY RESPONSIBLY.

www.ontaponline.com | MAY 2018 | ON TAP

By Trent Johnson Drink aficionados can be a fickle bunch, often resulting in cliques for beer enthusiasts, wine connoisseurs and spirit experts. Stepping outside of your comfort zone can be difficult, but Bold Rock Cider is used to bending norms to introduce folks to the wonders of hard cider. Earlier this year, the cidery released its new rosé hard cider. To get some insight on the latest and greatest beverage of Bold Rock, we talked to head cider maker Ian Niblock about the spring seasonal. On Tap: How long had you workshopped a rosé cider? Why did you decide to develop this drink? Ian Niblock: We’ve had our eye on a rosé-style cider for quite some time now. Like how our IPA (India Pressed Apple) is a gateway cider for beer drinkers, we wanted a style that would entice wine drinkers to give us a chance. We hear all the time from beer drinkers that they had no idea cider could taste that good, but they never would have tried it if not for the connectivity to beer. We saw that same opportunity in rosé cider, and we think many wine drinkers are going to be surprised by the great taste of Bold Rock Rosé. OT: What are some similarities between your rosé hard cider and rosé wine? IN: What anyone will notice first is the color. Bold Rock Rosé has a deep, rich pink hue immediately recognizable as rosé. Bold Rock Rosé is the driest cider we have ever released in a six-pack, with just enough sweetness to accentuate the strawberry [and] raspberry notes reminiscent of a Gewürztraminer rosé. OT: Do you think cider drinkers might hesitate to try the cider because of its name? IN: There has certainly been a need to educate the consumer on what rosé cider is, but rosé is such a popular wine style that there is plenty of awareness out there already. Our version is just a little bit of a twist that only uses apples, but still has a taste profile very similar to that of a rosé wine. Photos: Courtesy of Bold Rock

OT: What were your thoughts upon first tasting the cider? Did you guys nail it right away or did it take a while to get the recipe down? IN: Bold Rock Rosé went through all sorts of trials and iterations, but when you hit the right recipe, you know. We had a moment when we were tasting some trial recipes and we all honed in on one in particular and said, “That’s the one!” It was pretty rewarding. OT: What has the response been like so far? Do you guys plan to keep it as part of your seasonal rotation? IN: The response has honestly been tremendous. The sheer amount of excitement surrounding the announcement followed by the subsequent success of Bold Rock Rosé in the marketplace has exceeded all expectations. We feel blessed to have such loyal customers who look forward to our seasonal releases, but the rosé has been embraced by longtime Bold Rockers and new entrants to the cider category alike. OT: What’s next on the horizon for Bold Rock? Are there any strange or unusual drinks that you’re excited about? IN: I can’t give away too much, but the rest of the year will not disappoint. As far as “strange and unusual” goes, we recently renovated our original cider barn into the Barrel Barn, which serves as both a small batch crafting facility and intimate tap room. The Barrel Barn will be our test bed of cider innovation, exploring the depths of cider, from yeast experiments to barrel aging and beyond. Guests can look forward to plenty of limited-run cider styles – some in kegs, some in cork and caged bottles. However, you’ll have to make the trek to our Nellysford Cidery to experience those styles as they will only be available at the Barrel Barn for now. For more information on Bold Rock and where to pick it up locally, visit www.boldrock.com.

ON TAP | MAY 2018 | www.ontaponline.com

All What’s On Tap listings are provided by the venues hosting them.

Greetings, beer nerds! As you likely know, there are a number of fantastic spots in the DMV where you can grab a pint, and their menus are always evolving and adapting to your tastes. If you’d rather avoid the guessing game, check out what’s coming up at a few of these fine establishments.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 2

TUESDAY, MAY 8

THURSDAY, MAY 10

Dacha Beer Club Join Dacha for New Belgium Brewing Company’s release of the self-proclaimed “World’s Dankest Ale” Hemperor HPA release party. Come learn about what makes up the Hemp IPA and play plinko for some New Belgium swag. Also on tap: the Tartastic Strawberry Lemon Ale and Citradelic Tangerine IPA. 4-10:30 p.m. Free to attend. Dacha Beer Garden: 1600 7th St. NW, DC; www.dachadc.com

Beer Dinner with DC Brau Craft beer is a passion, an obsession and a journey. Join the team at DC Brau for a beer dinner. From hoppy to malty to sour, take a trip through all the flavors. You’ll enjoy a welcome reception with passed bites and a glass of Brau Pils before moving to a seated dinner featuring four brews and four courses from Executive Chef Stuart Ameter. 6-8:30 p.m. Tickets are $65. Matchbox Vintage Pizza Bistro: 521 8th St. SE, DC; www.matchboxrestaurants.com

The Founders Brewing Beast Feast Join B Side and Red Apron Butcher as they celebrate their partnership with the North Carolina Hog Grower’s Association and their beautiful Berkshire Hogs with a no-holds-barred Beast Feast. The party kicks off at 6:30 p.m. with a live butchering demo and cocktail hour featuring Red Apron charcuterie and Founders Solid Gold. Afterward, guests will sit down with a fourcourse meal showcasing the different cuts of the pig paired with Founders Brewing Company beers. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Tickets are $60. B Side: 8298 Glass Alley, Farifax, VA; www.bsidecuts.com

FRIDAY, MAY 4 Tröegs Beer and Victory Beer Craft Beer Party Join for the first Craft Beer Garden Party on Kingbird Terrace to celebrate the opening of this new beer garden. From 5-7 p.m., enjoy bottomless draft pints from Tröegs Independent Brewing and Victory Brewing Company. After 7 p.m., drinks will be available for purchase by the glass. Tickets are $25. The Watergate Hotel: 2650 Virginia Ave. NW, DC; www.thewatergatehotel.com

SUNDAY, MAY 6 and MAY 20 Sun, Salutations and Suds Who can resist the combination of sun, salutations, and suds? Denizens Brewing Co. is taking its monthly yoga series back outside in the beer garden so you can enjoy all three! Join for an all-levels yoga class in the sunshine, followed by a pint (or three) in the beer garden. No previous experience necessary. Class will be led by Stephanie Nale of Gingerbean Health & Wellness. Starts at 10:30 a.m. Tickets are $18. Denizens Brewing Co.: 1115 East-West Hwy. Silver Spring, MD; www.denizensbrewingco.com

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WEDNESDAY, MAY 9 The Allagash Brewing Coolship Bash Join The Sovereign as they welcome the fine folks from Allagash Brewing Company. On this night, they’ll showcase 20 different beers from the Portland, Maine brewery, including rare kegs of Coolship Red, Belfius and Saison Gratis. Back in 2007, Allagash became the first American craft brewery to install their very own Coolship. This unique fermentation vessel – shaped like a wide, shallow brownie pan – is most famously used to produce the legendary Lambics of Belgium. 5-11 p.m. Free to attend. The Sovereign: 1206 Wisconsin Ave. NW, DC; www.thesovereigndc.com Bell’s Brewery Presents Hops, Hops and More Hops Join Rustico Ballston as they host the team from Bell’s Brewery. On this night, they’ll pour 10 different drafts from their good friends from Michigan, including rare kegs of Double Two Hearted and Hopsolution. Headlining the list is Double Two Hearted Ale. Don’t miss this intensely hoppy brew, bursting with notes of grapefruit and pine. 5-11 p.m. Free to attend. Rustico Ballston: 4075 Wilson Blvd. Arlington, VA; www.rusticorestuarant.com

THURSDAY, MAY 10 and MAY 24 Beer and Board Games at Sugar Shack A little beer, a little sugar, classic board games and a few friends – it’s the perfect casual weeknight hang every Thursday at Sugar Shack Arlington. On alternating Thursdays, they’ll have a new craft brewery in-house to talk beer and take over three taps for two weeks. Enjoy flights, pints, beerglazed donut hole pairings and more. 4:30-9 p.m. Free to attend. Sugar Shack Donuts and Coffee: 1014 S Glebe Rd. Arlington, VA; www.sugarshackdonuts.com

SATURDAY, MAY 12 Bleu & Brew Festival Don’t miss the Bleu & Brew Festival, where you can drink beers paired with gourmet cheeses specially selected by the Culpeper Cheese Company. The event features over 18 breweries and cideries with more than 44 beers on tap. Come for the beer and stay for the music, as live bands are set to perform throughout the day. Food trucks will also be onsite. 12-6 p.m. $60-$70. Old Bust Head Brewing Company: 7134 Farm Station Rd. Warrenton, VA; www.oldbusthead.com

JUST RELAX AND ENJOY THE VIEW

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Eat Your Pizza Four Seasons Beer Festival Spring Fest will be hosted at Pizzeria Paradiso’s location in Hyattsville, Maryland with a mobile pizza oven, local vendors and independent breweries. All proceeds from Spring Fest will benefit the local Hyattsville nonprofit ArtWorks Now. Beverage Director Drew McCormick has selected Mid-Atlantic breweries including local breweries DC Brau and Right Proper Brewing Company to pour at Spring Fest. 12-5 p.m. Tickets are $20-$25. Pizzeria Paradiso Hyattsville: 2034, 4800 Rhode Island Ave. Hyattsville, MD; www.eatyourpizza.com

FRIDAY, MAY 18 Port City Debut of Ideaal Tripel Port City is unveiling its latest addition to their lineup of Belgian-style ales: the Ideaal Tripel. Honey gold with a thick cap of mousse-like foam, Ideaal Tripel’s deceptively dry body provides a perfect playground for spicy Belgian yeast character, marrying complexity and approachability. Ideaal will

be available on draft and in six packs to take home. 3-11 p.m. Free to attend. Port City Brewery: 3950 Wheeler Ave. Alexandria, VA; www.portcitybrewing.com

SATURDAY, MAY 19 Sour Mania Beer Festival at Mad Fox Pucker up and come help Mad Fox celebrate all things sour at the brewing company’s first-ever sour beer festival at Market Square in the City of Falls Church. Mad Fox’s team is searching high and low for an excellent selection of sour beers. They will be grilling some awesome food and will have live gogo band music too. 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Tickets are $25-$65. Mad Fox Brewing Company: 444 West Broad St. Falls Church, VA; www.madfoxbrewing.com

MONDAY, MAY 14 - SUNDAY, MAY 20 American Craft Beer Week For the 13th year in a row, the Brewers Association invites you to celebrate American Craft Beer Week®, the nationwide celebration of U.S. small and independent craft brewers. The weeklong tribute provides an opportunity for craft brewers to share their diversity, creativity and passion for the beverage they love. From May 14-20, DMV-based breweries and other beer-focused locales will be holding events including exclusive brewery tours, special beer releases, beer and food pairings, tap takeovers, and more to celebrate everything you love about America’s ever-advancing beer culture. Visit www.craftbeer.com for more news and a list of participating local breweries.

A Destination Worth Visiting:

Farm Brew LIVE By Trent Johnson Farm Brew LIVE is an immersive experience for anyone in search of a catch-all outdoor hangout spot. At the center of this 10-acre operation in Manassas, Virginia is 2 Silos Brewing Company, a local brewery specializing in delectable beers that are exclusively found at Farm Brew. Silos is accompanied by Yard Stage, where local musicians play in front of folks enjoying food and beer from The Pit BBQ or treats from the La Gringa food truck. “Every part of this whole campus is the experience,” says Meredith Arnest, Villaglo Hospitality Group’s Director of Brand Development. “We want to bring people here, whether they’re coming for the live music and they get a beer or they’re here to drink and they see the music. Our shows are free, so you can come enjoy the music while enjoying the craft beer or craft food and make a real experience out of it. It’s a great place to hang out. Pets are welcome as well.” The brewery has been thriving since its October 2017 opening, and is even expanding. With added equipment in the form of tanks and barrels, Silos is set to unveil more beer varieties and quantities. “The response has been absolutely wonderful,” Arnest says. Another feature set to debut later this year is The Black Sheep Whiskey + Wine + Noshery, which is the now-renovated original Thomasson Barn, including exposed-beam vaulted ceilings. The vintage locale will also serve as an additional space for entertainment and provide private dining rooms. “We’re bringing it back to life,” Arnest says. “We took pictures of everything to make sure we preserved the integrity of the building. There will be locally sourced whiskeys, and it’ll feature a great wine menu as well.” The barn itself served as a major draw when scouting locations for the campus, Arnest says. Despite its distance from the District, cofounders Forrest Morgan and Marcus Silva were confident that people would make

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X Photo: Trent Johnson

the trek if they knew quality awaited them. “It’s a great location and is very visible,” Arnest says. “A lot of the vision was that this would be a true destination. We have to make people want to come out here to see live music and have craft beer. Every time you come here, it’s something unique.” Cohesion is a big part of the experience that Farm Brew is creating, with brew styles meant to accentuate the food menus and vice versa. Because all the meats are smoked in-house, and all of the brews are executed in the neighboring building, collaboration between the creatives lends itself to memorable mixtures. “There are so many options,” Arnest says. “[We] have a full-service restaurant, barbecue and a food truck all right here in the backyard.” She says the response for the beer in particular has been very positive. “Our flagships (Virginia Cream Ale, Commonwealth Black IPA, NOVA White Belgian and Old Dominion Imperial Stout) provide a good array in levels of ABV, taste and flavor. All of our bartenders are well-versed in beer and are excited to talk about it.” Virginia Cream Ale is Arnest’s favorite, but like everything else at Farm Brew, there are numerous options so you have the ability to choose more than one aspect to enjoy. For more information about Farm Brew LIVE’s beers, music calendar and upcoming additions, visit www.farmbrewlive.com. Farm Brew LIVE: 9901 Discovery Blvd. Manassas, VA 703-420-2264; www.farmbrewlive.com

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NEW ENGLAND STYLE IPA Wednesday, May 23rd 5:30-7:30pm Join us at the Navy Yard Location!

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100 M Street SE | Washington, DC | 202.484.2739 HopFest 2018 returned for a fourth year with an afternoon featuring local, hoppy beers to support the DC Brewersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Guild at DC Brau.

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ummer starts now. It is said that Memorial Day is the unofficial start of summer, but we beg to differ. When the calendar turns to May 1, the DC area explodes with a frenzy of festivals and outdoor fun. Following is a list of highlights, from free concerts to road trip-worthy adventures. The entire list will be online all summer, and weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be adding to it as new info comes in, so be sure to visit www. ontaponline.com for updates. As always, the listings are provided courtesy of the organizers or culled from online postings. Please check event websites before heading out the door, as ticket pricing is often tiered and lineups are subject to change. Happy festival season!

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NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Ends 8/5/18. For rules and complete details visit TROEGS.COM/TRIP |

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FRIDAY, MAY 4 SATURDAY, MAY 5 M3 Rock Festival Now in its tenth year, M3 Rock Festival has grown from up-andcomer to a definitive way to party like it’s 1989. Start with the annual Kix-Off Party on Friday, and head into the festival on Saturday. M3 features enough hard rock and hair metal bands to make your head spin. Lineup includes Ace Frehley, Kix, The Marshall Tucker Band and Tom Keifer. Doors at 5 p.m. Tickets are $60-$850. Merriweather Post Pavilion: 10475 Little Patuxent Pkwy. Columbia, MD; www.merriweathermusic.com

SATURDAY, MAY 5 Derby-Q This community festival will feature specialty beer and bourbon tastings along with a variety of barbecue vendors. Live blues artists like Moonshine Society, Anthony “Swamp Dog” Clark and Marshall Artz will perform onstage while the crowd anxiously awaits the showing of the Kentucky Derby on the big screen. General admission tickets include a souvenir tasting glass, 10 beer tasting tickets and more. 2-8 p.m.1 p.m. early admission packages available. Tickets are $10-$65. Old Town Hall: 3999 University Dr. Fairfax, VA; www.fairfaxva.gov

FRIDAY, MAY 4 - SUNDAY, MAY 6 Sleepy Creek Spring Dig Returning for its 5th year, this annual camp-out offers a stellar line up of local roots music and national superstars. Other

attractions include playgrounds, parades, face-painting, food, arts & crafts, late night bonfires and open jam circles. Sleepy Creek events remain dedicated to providing fun for all ages and creating memories that last a lifetime. Thursday night pre-party starts at 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday 12:30 p.m. - 1 a.m. Sunday exit party at 11:30 a.m. Tickets are $40-$85. Free admission for kids 15 and under. Sleepy Creek on the Potomac: Joshua Ln. Berkeley Springs, WV; www.sleepycreekpresents.com

SUNDAY, MAY 6 Fiesta Asia Silver Spring Fiesta Asia Silver Spring brings together diverse Asian cultures on one street where participants can experience the richness of the arts and tradition the region has to offer. Happenings include live performances, open market exhibitors, interactive displays, AsiaMoves dance lessons and much more. 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Free. Fiesta Asia Silver Spring: 916 Ellsworth Dr. Silver Spring, MD; www.fiestaasia.org

FRIDAY, MAY 11 Breakin’ Even Fest This punk rock music festival in DC features headliners Spanish Love Songs, Wolvesx4, American Television and Fake Bodies. Music lovers everywhere can come enjoy and support local bands that are sure to light up DC. All Ages. Doors open at 8 p.m. Tickets are $10. The Pinch: 3548 14th St. NW, DC; www.breakinevenfest.com

FRIDAY, MAY 11 SATURDAY, MAY 13 Preakness Balloon Festival The Howard County Fairgrounds will brighten the skies this year as the centerpiece venue for the long-running balloon festival. Spectators will enjoy the wonder of hot air balloons, specialty crafts, entertainment and good food during this family-friendly festival. Friday and Saturday,

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6:15 a.m. - 9 p.m. and Sunday, 6:15-8 a.m. Balloon ride tickets are $225. Howard County Fairgrounds: 2210 Fairgrounds Rd. West Friendship, MD; www. preaknessballoonfestival.com

SATURDAY, MAY 12 Funk Parade Funk Parade, a one-of-a-kind day fair, parade and music festival, celebrates the spirit of funk that brings people together in the U Street neighborhood’s vibrant music and arts scenes. The lineup includes Ari Lennox, Be’la Dona, Mannywellz, DJ Underdog and Ron Holloway Band, among others. 1 p.m. - 12 a.m. Free to attend, but donations appreciated. Funk Parade: Along U Street in NW, DC; www.funkparade.com Maryland Craft Beer Festival Celebrate your favorite Maryland breweries at the Maryland Craft Beer Festival. More than 40 all-Maryland breweries will present 180plus unique, finely crafted ales and lagers. This festival features live music, an eclectic display of Frederick-based art and a variety of food offerings prepared to partner perfectly with craft beers. 12-5 p.m. Tickets are $40-$55, with $15 designated driver tickets available. Carroll Creek Linear Park: 44 South Market St. Frederick, MD; www.mdcraftbeerfestival.com Of Ale and History Beer Fest Find more than 60 beers available for tasting including European imports, American craft brews, hard ciders and specialty beers at the longest running beer festival in Virginia. Enjoy live music all day from Cazhmiere and The Robbie Limon Band. Admission includes a commemorative tasting glass, eight beer tastings, and access to all vendors. 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. At the gate, tasting tickets will be $30. Designated drivers or guests under 21 may purchase admission tickets for $10,

including two non-alcoholic beverages. Belle Grove Plantation: 336 Belle Grove Rd. Middletown, VA; www.bellegrove.org Park Potomac Spring Festival Enjoy a drink in the wine garden, food samples from local restaurants, treats from food trucks, and live music from the 19th Street Band at this spring festival. For the little ones, check out the Squeals on Wheels petting zoo, face painting, balloon twisting and more. 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Free to attend. Park Potomac Spring Festival: 12435 Park Potomac Ave. Potomac, MD; www.parkpotomac.com

SATURDAY, MAY 12 SUNDAY, MAY 13 Bethesda Fine Arts Festival This year’s Bethesda Fine Arts festival features 130 artists in various genres including live rock, jazz, and reggae music. Walk through the festival and peruse unique jewelry, clothing and furniture on display. Then stop by local restaurants to enjoy pizza, barbecue, sandwiches and ice cream. Saturday from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Free to attend. Bethesda’s Woodmont Triangle: Along Norfolk, Auburn and Del Ray Avenues in Bethesda, MD; www.bethesda.org

SATURDAY, MAY 12 SUNDAY, JUNE 10 Virginia Renaissance Faire Find music and dancing, shops filled with the finest crafts, and a variety of foods and beverages at the Virginia Renaissance Faire. Sample the ales, ciders and mead in the Barleycorn Tavern or the Lake Anna wines near the Woodland stage. Join the militia in pike drill or present a case in the Court of Common Pleas. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Tickets are $10. Lake Anna Winery: 5621 Courthouse Rd. Spotsylvania, VA; www.varf.org

THURSDAY, MAY 17 SATURDAY, MAY 19 Domefest Head to the lineup page to view all of the bands playing at Domefest 2018 alongside Pigeons Playing Ping Pong, Broccoli Samurai, The Magic Beans, The Mantras, McLovins, Mungion, The Fritz and more. Stay tuned to social media for fun updates including themes, late night acts and workshop information. Thursday 2 p.m. Sunday 12 p.m. Tickets are $100. Fort Royale Farm: 5575 Bedford Valley Rd. Bedford, PA; www.domefestival.com

Reston, VA; www.restonarts.org/ fineartsfestival Spring Wine Festival & Sunset Tour Celebrate the history of wine in Virginia with exclusive evening tours of the mansion and cellars, more than 20 Virginia wineries, and live jazz overlooking views of the estate and the Potomac River. 6-9 p.m. $38-$42 for general admission. Mount Vernon Estate & Gardens: 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Hwy. Mt. Vernon, VA; www.mountvernon.org

Largest

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SATURDAY, MAY 19 THURSDAY, MAY 17 – SUNDAY, MAY 20 Riverrock This uniquely Richmond event features everything from music to mud pits, bikes to beer, and climbing to kayaks. Rock the day and night away, watch professional athletes thrill the crowd, and maybe even get a little dirty yourself. Visit the Go-RVing interactive village and try a kayak in the canal, venture on a group hike, or even demo a slackline. Thursday 5-11 p.m. Friday All Day. Saturday 8 a.m. - 9:30 p.m. Sunday 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Ticket prices vary. Historic Tredegar: 500 Tredegar St. Richmond, VA; www.riverrockva.com

FRIDAY, MAY 18 SUNDAY, MAY 20 Northern Virginia Fine Arts Festival Festival attendees will enjoy viewing inspiring and innovative art in a wide variety of media and styles, interacting directly with artists from around the country, and exploring their own creativity in the Family Art Park, featuring free face painting and balloon animals. Expect to get a festival guide with over $50 worth of dining certificates. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Free to attend, but $5 donations are appreciated. Reston Town Center: 11900 Market St.

Adventure Brewing Company 4th Anniversary Festival This brewery birthday party features day-long live music, rotating taps, breweries with their own stations, food trucks and local vendors. New this year is a food truck rodeo and a kiddie carnival, proceeds from which will go to the Gwyneth’s Gift Foundation. 12-10 p.m. Tickets are $14-$27. Adventure North: 33 Perchwood Dr. Fredericksburg, VA; www.adventurebrewing.com Budweiser InfieldFest For the 10th anniversary, InfieldFest is taking things to the next level. Forget what you know about the Budweiser InfieldFest, because 2018 is prepared to bring an entirely new and elevated festival experience. Party with Post Malone, ODESZA, 21 Savage, Frank Walker and DJ Vice. Through all the sounds and attractions, it’s easy to forget you’re partying in the middle of Pimlico track, during one of the most historic races in the world. 8 p.m. Tickets are $100-$385. Pimlico Race Course: 5201 Park Heights Ave. Baltimore, MD; www.preakness.com Fiesta Asia Street Fair The 12th annual National Asian Heritage Festival’s signature event, the Fiesta Asia Street Fair, features more than 1,000 performers on five stages

This Summer, Learn to Dance! June 7 - June 11 Westin - Alexandria, VA

Lessons: • Salsa • Bachata • Kizomba • Zouk

Salsa & Bachata Bootcamp! Fundamentals for beginners on Sat & Sun

Performances: Watch incredible performances by renowned artists!

Nightly Themes:

Every night a different theme to enjoy and dance the night away!

Plus Brooklyn’s Top Salsa Band,

“Los Hacheros”

LIVE on Saturday Night! Visit www.capitalcongress.com for more info, including the workshop schedule and the ticket sales

@CapitalCongress www.ontaponline.com | MAY 2018 | ON TAP

representing more than 20 cultures for nine consecutive hours. Enjoy live performances from musicians, vocalists, dancers and martial artists, Pan-Asian cuisine, a shopping bazaar, kid-friendly interactive activities, a talent competition, a cultural parade, Bollywood street dancing, and exhibits of traditional and contemporary Asian crafts and beer. 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Free to attend. Fiesta Asia Street Fair: 400 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, DC; www.fiestaasia.org Sour Beer Festival Pucker up and join the first ever Sour Beer Festival! Sample more than 15 special and limited edition sour ales from around the region and across the country at this outdoor event. Enjoy live Go-Go music and fantastic food while sipping some truly tart ales. 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Tickets $25-$65. Mad Fox Brewing Company: 444 W Broad St. Falls Church, VA; www.madfoxbrewing.com

bark park and a kids’ zone. 12-6 p.m. Free to attend, but tickets are required for beer, wine and tastes. Taste of Arlington: Between N. Randolph and N. Monroe Streets on Wilson Boulevard in Arlington, VA; www.tasteofarlington.com

THURSDAY, MAY 24 SUNDAY, MAY 27 DelFest With acts like the Del McCoury Band and Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder, this familyfriendly music festival is pure bluegrass bliss. Also, learn from the some of the best musicians in the business at DelFest Academy hosted by the Travelin’ McCourys and other all-star musicians. Various times and performances each day. Singleday passes are available for $50$70; four-day passes for $225.50.

Virginia Wine & Craft Festival Grab a drink and hit the caves. Relax and enjoy shopping for handmade crafts from over 100 vendors, artists and crafters from all over the East Coast, listen to live music, play games and try wine from 20 different wineries. 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Free entry; $25-$30 for wine tasting. Historic Downtown Front Royal: 106 Chester St. Front Royal, VA; www. wineandcraftfestival.com

SUNDAY, MAY 20 Taste of Arlington The Taste of Arlington transforms Wilson Boulevard and neighboring streets into a family-friendly street festival with dining, music and entertainment for all ages. This annual festival features the cuisine of more than 50 Arlington restaurants and two food trucks, two concert stages, an expanded beer and wine garden with Deschutes Brewery’s Street Pub, a 5K race benefiting Girls on the Run, a

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FRIDAY, MAY 25 SUNDAY, MAY 27 Farm Brew LIVE Brewgrass Festival Whether it’s your first or 10th time on campus, Farm Brew LIVE always has a plethora of going-ons at its facility. The last weekend in May marks the first ever Brewgrass Festival, which features a total of nine bluegrass bands rocking The Yard stage, including the Hackensaw Boys. As always, folks can enjoy house-smoked Pit Barbecue and more than 10 brews from 2 Silos. Various start times. Free to attend. Farm Brew LIVE: 9901 Discovery Blvd. Manassas, VA; www.farmbrewlive.com

Allegany County Fairgrounds: 11400 Moss Ave. Cumberland, MD; www.delfest.com

SATURDAY, MAY 26 SUNDAY, MAY 27 Caribbean Wine Festival Listen to steel drums and reggae beats while enjoying arts and crafts, great food and the island vibes of this wine festival. Open your palate to unique Linganore wines and take home a souvenir wine glass. 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Tickets are $20-$25. Linganore Wine Cellars: 13601 Glissans Mill Rd. Mt. Airy, MD; www.linganore-wine.com

THURSDAY, MAY 31 SUNDAY, JUNE 3 Herndon Festival The Herndon Festival takes place in downtown Herndon and attracts an average of 80,000 people each year. This outdoor festival provides a funfilled experience by combining the joy of an outdoor concert with the thrill of a summertime carnival. There’s something for everyone. Thursday, 6-10 p.m. Friday, 5-11 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m. - 11 p.m. Sunday, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Free. Herndon Parks and Recreation: 777 Lynn St. Herndon, VA; www.herndonfestival.net

SATURDAY, MAY 26 MONDAY, MAY 28 Rockville Hometown Holidays Enjoy several dozen live performances on four different stages featuring rock, reggae, country and Americana artists. There will be marching bands, floats and more at the Memorial Day parade from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Runs various times throughout the weekend. Free to attend. Rockville Town Center: 30 Maryland Ave. Rockville, MD; www.rockvillemd.gov

THURSDAY, MAY 31 SATURDAY, JUNE 2

FRIDAY, JUNE 1 SATURDAY, JUNE 2

Mountain Music Festival Mountain Music Festival is an annual celebration of the best outdoor adventures West Virginia has to offer, with live music to match. Situated on a 1,500-acre outdoor adventure resort in the New River Gorge, Mountain Music Festival brings the spirit of Appalachia to life through its two greatest exports: music and wilderness. This year, Mountain Music Fest welcomes Umphrey’s McGee, Aqueous, Big Something and many more to the stage atop Wonderland Mountain. Tickets are $200-$724. ACE Adventure Resort: 1 Concho Rd. Minden, WV; www.mountainmusicfestwv.com

SAVOR: An American Craft Beer & Food Experience A must-attend for craft beer aficionados and foodies alike, SAVOR offers a memorable craft beer and food experience to a limited number of guests in a truly unique atmosphere. At SAVOR, 90 small and independent craft breweries from around the country showcase 181 beers, each one thoughtfully paired with a small plate that will dazzle your palate. 7:30-11 p.m. on both days. Tickets starting at $135. National Building Museum: 401 F St. NW, DC; www.savorcraftbeer.com

May 18–20, 2018 Sponsored by

Jamie Langhoff, Morning Glory, fabric and thread on canvas, 20 x 16 x 1 inches

Friday-Sunday, May 18-20, 10-5

Something for everyone! Works from 200+ artists Free Family Art Park And more…

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FRIDAY, JUNE 1 SUNDAY, JUNE 3 The Capital Jazz Fest Come see Earth, Wind & Fire, Diana Krall, Smokey Robinson, Snarky Puppy, Anita and more jazz and soul music artists at Merriweather Post Pavilion’s Capital Jazz Fest. Enjoy fine arts & crafts at the festival marketplace and culinary treats from the food court, plus artist workshops, plus meet and greets. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Friday. Doors open at 10 a.m. both Saturday and Sunday. Tickets are $69.50-$245. Merriweather Post Pavilion: 10475 Little Patuxent Pkwy. Columbia, MD; www.merriweathermusic.com

SATURDAY, JUNE 2 Great Grapes Wine & Food Festival Great Grapes! has grown to be Baltimore’s premier casual Maryland wine festival with live music, fun festival eats, arts

& crafts, and a free kids’ area. Grab a souvenir glass and stroll from tent to tent, sipping and savoring the hundreds of wines from more than 25 Maryland wineries available for tasting at Oregon Ridge Park. 1-8 p.m. Tickets are $29-$39. Oregon Ridge Nature Center: 13555 Beaver Dam Rd. Cockeysville, MD; www.uncorkthefun.com Takoma Trukgarten Don’t miss this event featuring local beer, food trucks and live music. Participating breweries include: Denizens Brewing, Waredaca Brewing, Union Craft Brewing, 7 Locks Brewing and more. Plus, enjoy bites from tons of food trucks including Say Cheese, Hardy’s Barbeque and others. 12-5 p.m. Tickets are $10-$35; $45 at the gate. City Parking Lot: 201 Ethan Allen Ave. Takoma Park, MD; www.mainstreettakoma.org

don’t miss dc’s hottest event!

SATURDAY, JUNE 2 SUNDAY, JUNE 3 FSGW Washington Folk Festival The 38th Annual Washington Folk Festival showcases the diversity of traditional music in the Washington area. All musicians, storytellers, dancers, and craftspeople live in the greater Washington metropolitan area and volunteer their talents to put on a first-class festival of national renown. 12-7 p.m. both days. Free to attend. Glen Echo Park: 7300 MacArthur Blvd. Glen Echo, MD; www.fsgw.org Summerfest DC Get your own tasting glass and enjoy more than 125 carefully selected craft beers in a single afternoon. Enjoy live music, unlimited wine and cider tasting, and at least 15 amazing food selections. 21 + only. Saturday at 12:30 p.m. to Sunday at 3 p.m. Tickets are $27.95-$67.95. Capitol Riverfront Festival

Grounds: 136 N St. SE, DC; www.summerfestdc.com Vintage Virginia Since 1982, Vintage Virginia has offered an opportunity to taste from nearly half of Virginia’s homegrown wineries, from the most renowned to the new and exciting. Saturday 12 - 6 p.m. Sunday 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Tickets cost $29-$49. Bull Run Special Events Center: 7700 Bull Run Dr. Centreville, VA; www.vintagevirginia.com

SUNDAY, JUNE 3 Taste of Peru DC Taste of Peru celebrates the cultural influences and the creativity of Peruvian chefs all over the United States. The event promotes the unique culinary perspectives of local and international chefs. 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Tickets are $15-$40. University of the District of Columbia: 4200 Connecticut Ave. NW, DC; www.tasteofperudc.com

DERBY-Q FESTIVAL Saturday May 5 1:00pm-8:00pm Old Town Square 10415 North Street, Fairfax

JUNE 23RD-24TH

Tickets on sale at:

www.Derby-Q.com

PENNSYLVANIA AVE, NW (3RD-7TH STREETS)

Craft Beer Tastings and Famous Kentucky Derby Mint Juleps

BANDS 1:00pm-3:15pm Moonshine Society

30 BANDS ON 3 STAGES

Plain White T’s, Ocean Park Stand-off, SEE-I featuring members of Thievery Corporation, EU with Sugar Bear, Be’la Dona, I&I, BYB, and much more. BUDWEISER BEVERAGE GARDENS • WINE & MICRO-BREW TASTING FREE FOOD SAMPLES & MUCH MORE

TICKETS $15 | PURCHASE TICKETS AT: BBQINDC.COM

ADMISSION Over 21 General Admission - $10 Early Bird VIP Unlimited Beer Tasting Package - $65 Unlimited Beer Tasting Package - $55

4:00pm-6:15pm Anthony “Swamp Dog” Clark 6:30pm-8:00pm Marshall Artz Watch the Kentucky Derby on the BIG screen!

Early Bird VIP Beer Tasting Package - $35 Beer Tasting Package - $25 Event benefits USO Metro & Capital Area Food Bank

ON TAP | MAY 2018 | www.ontaponline.com

Sponsored by:

presents FREE Outdoor Concert Series Live Bands Every Friday! Old Town Herndon 777 Lynn Street (behind the Herndon Municipal Center)

6:30 - 10:30 pm Corporate Sponsors

2018 Music Schedule The Community Bank of the Nation’s Capital

May

4 11 18 25

2U (U2 tribute band) + Big Al’s Truck Gonzo’s Nose (band reunion) LauraLea & Tripp Fabulous (Dewey Beach party band) Here’s to the Night (’90s)

June

1 8 15 22 29

Herndon Festival (No Friday Night Live!) Love Seed Mama Jump (Dewey Beach power house) GoodMan Fiske keeton (’90s alternative) Drop Dead Sexy

July

6 13 20 27

August

3 10 17 24

Shane Gamble Band + Scott Kurt & Memphis 59 (country) Kristen & the Noise (Dewey Beach party band) Herr Metal (’80s hair metal) + Dr FU JunkFood The Reflex (’80s) Almost Journey (Journey tribute band) + South Bay Screaming Monkeys Social Call (guitar rock)

Gold Sponsors

MainStreet Bank Mindy Thunman (RE/MAX Living) Tim Nachazel/Investin D Banzon Design Mile 20 at the Breeze Party DC Events Pipe Hitters Union Queenb Creative

Silver Sponsors Arts Herndon Canine Carousel Egan, Berger & Weiner, LLC Erie Insurance – Pugh Agency Griffin-Owens Insurance Group Winmar Construction Bronze Sponsors Adams-Green Funeral Home All-American Landscaping Dr. Finley’s Family Eyecare

For more information, visit www.HerndonRocks.com

Food, Beer & Wine Available

Flynn Realty Associates Fulton Bank Herndon Dairy Queen Linda Sells Herndon (Pearson Smith Realty) Meadows Farms Nurseries Mid-Atlantic Power Northwood Construction Richey Property Management Select Wines Stitely & Karstetter, CPAs Tri-Tek Engineering

@herndonrocks

THURSDAY, JUNE 7 MONDAY, JUNE 11

SATURDAY, JUNE 9

Capital Congress Capital Congress is the largest Salsa Festival in the DC area. Since 2005, thousands have come to DC to dance Salsa and other Latin styles in this family-friendly environment. Instructors from around the world teach daily dance workshops to all levels, and Brooklyn’s top salsa band Los Hacheros performs live on Saturday night. All ages welcome. Various times. Tickets are $110-$350. The Westin: 400 Courthouse Sq. Alexandria, VA; www.capitalcongress.com

FRIDAY, JUNE 8 SUNDAY, JUNE 10 Celebrate Fairfax! The 37th annual festival features concerts on eight different stages, with headliners like Good Charlotte, Gin Blossoms, Sugar Ray and more. The festival features an abundance of other attractions like a petting zoo, carnival rides and a karaoke championship along with nightly fireworks and plenty of great food. On Sunday, 12 local and regional breweries offer tastings and beer focused activities at The Sunday Brew. Friday 6 p.m. - 12 a.m., Saturday 10-12 a.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Various ticket packages and admission prices available. Use promo code “ONTAP” for $2 off your ticket. Fairfax County Government Center: 12000 Government Center Pkwy. Fairfax, VA; www.celebratefairfax.com

THURSDAY, JUNE 7 SUNDAY, JUNE 10 Capital Pride 2018 Celebration Join the LGBTQ+ community for four celebratory days, from the Rooftop Rally and Pride Brunch to a block party and parade. On Sunday, June 10, head to historic Pennsylvania Avenue for the Pride 2018 Festival in the nation’s capital, presented by Live! Casino & Hotel. Enjoy a full day of entertainment, music, food, drink, education and celebration. The Pride Festival includes three stages of national and local talent including Alessia Cara and Troye Sivan, and will host 300 exhibitors including local community groups and businesses, food vendors, and organizations looking to promote their products and services to our community. It is free to attend,

but VIP packages are available for purchase. Capital Pride 2018 Celebration: Various locations around DC; www.capitalpride.org

FRIDAY, JUNE 8 SUNDAY, JUNE 17 DC JazzFest This citywide festival presents more than 90 bands and over 300 artists at 60 venues including Yards Park, the Kennedy Center, Howard

ON TAP | MAY 2018 | www.ontaponline.com

Kingman Island Bluegrass and Folk Festival Join DC’s signature folk festival in its ninth year with headliners Gangstagrass and The American Songster Revue, along with a host of other featured artists. Celebrate spring at this Best of DC 2018 award-winning festival with amazing local talent, tremendous local merchants, and the natural beauty of the nation’s capital. This year is special because the festival will coincide with the celebration of the “Year of the Anacostia River.” 12-8 p.m. Tickets are $35-$45. Kingman Island Bluegrass and Folk Festival: 575 Oklahoma Ave. NE, DC; www. kingmanislandbluegrass.info Theatre and Nats Park, all capped by a two-day extravaganza at The Wharf. This year’s featured artists include Leslie Odom Jr. at The Anthem, R+R=NOW, Chucho Valdes & Gonzalo, Rubalcaba and many more. Various show times, ticket prices and venues. DC JazzFest: Various locations in DC; www.dcjazzfest.org

SATURDAY, JUNE 9 Breaux Vineyards Cajun Festival Come join your Cajun cousins at Breaux Vineyards for our 21st Annual Cajun Festival. Enjoy wine tastings, craft vendors, Cajun fare for sale, and more at this annual celebration of the 21st Annual Cajun heritage. Starting off the day, we will have

SATURDAY, JUNE 9 Starr Hill IPA JAMBEEREE This festival celebrates everything about Virginia’s IPA and live music scenes. Attendees will sample more than 50 different IPAs from more than 15 Virginia breweries, featuring rare and exclusive offerings from Starr Hill. A showstopping lineup of live music performances will complete the ultimate Starr Hill experience alongside food trucks, games and proceeds to benefit a local nonprofit organization. Doors open at 12 p.m. Tickets $12-$15. If you miss out on the fun, catch it again on June 16 in Roanoke at the Starr Hill Pilot Brewery and Side Stage. Starr Hill Brewery & Tap Room: 5391 Three Notched Rd. Crozet, VA; www.starrhill.com live music with the exceptional Billy Thompson. Following be ready to get on your feet with The Dixie Power Trio for the rest of the afternoon. 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Tickets cost $15-$20. Breaux Vineyards: 36888 Breaux Vineyards Ln. Purcellville, VA; www.breauxvineyards.com

FRIDAY, JUNE 15 SATURDAY, JUNE 16 Beer, Bourbon and BBQ Enjoy beer, bourbon, music, cigars and barbecue. Admission buys you a souvenir glass, so you can enjoy an all-youcare-to-taste sampling of the 60 beers and 40 bourbons on tap. The amazing barbecue selection includes the Shrine of Swine, featuring pulled pork right from the source. There’s

FRIDAY, JUNE 15 SATURDAY, JUNE 16

THURSDAY, JUNE 14 SUNDAY, JUNE 17

Taste of Reston Taste of Reston, produced by the Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce, is the largest outdoor food festival in the area, and was voted “Northern Virginia’s Best Food Festival” multiple times in recent years by Virginia Living. Reston Town Center will host the event’s restaurants and community vendors, and live entertainment on three stages. Friday from 3-11 p.m. and Saturday from 12-11 p.m. Reston Town Center: 11900 Market St. Reston, VA; www.restontaste.com

Firefly Music Festival Your favorite summer weekend is around the corner. Four days, nine stages and over 140 bands. Artists include Arctic Monkeys, Logic, Foster the People, Jimmy Eat World, Cold War Kids, Eminem, The Killers, Kendrick Lamar, SZA, alt-J, MGMT and many more. Various show times and ticket prices ranging from single-day to camping passes. Firefly Music Festival: The Woodlands in Dover, DE; www.fireflyfestival.com also live rock and blues music all day. The event comes to Leesburg in October as well. Tickets cost $39-$115, and $29 for designated drivers. 6-10 p.m. on Friday and 12-6 p.m. on Saturday. The Plateau at National Harbor: 165 Waterfront St. National Harbor, MD; www.beerandbourbon.com

FRIDAY, JUNE 15 SUNDAY, JUNE 18 LakeFest Weekend This free festival, part of this summer’s Columbia Festival of the Arts, will feature eVenti Verticali, a performance group from Italy that brings together different art forms including theatre, circus, acrobatics and more. This three-day event includes live music, kids’ entertainment and crafts, a fine arts & craft sale, festival food fare, a beer garden, wine tastings, and a variety of activities for all ages. 10 a.m. - 11 p.m. Free to attend. Columbia

Lakefront: 5575 Sterrett Pl. Suite 280, Columbia, MD; www.home.columbiafestival.org

SATURDAY, JUNE 16 4th Annual Baltimore Wine Fest Join b Scene Events for the 4th Annual Baltimore Wine Fest at the picturesque Canton Waterfront Park. Experience 160+ wines from around the world, gourmet eats provided by local eateries, live music, chef cooking demonstrations, wine seminars, craft beers & spirits, unique shopping and a family zone. 12-7 p.m. Tickets are $11$95. Canton Waterfront Park: 3001 Boston St. Baltimore, MD; www.baltimorewinefest.com Around the World Cultural Food Festival Around the World Cultural Food Festival brings together diverse, authentic, living traditions from different countries around

ON TAP | MAY 2018 | www.ontaponline.com

the world. Their mission is to preserve and strengthen the culture of each country and to give all participants a chance to learn from one another and understand their cultural differences. Saturday 11 a.m.- 7 p.m. Free to attend; VIP tickets available for $25$35. Washington Monument: 2 15th St. NW, DC; www. aroundtheworldfestival.com Silver Spring Blues Festival Enjoy this all-day blues block party with two stages, a fountain to cool off in and plenty of places to eat and shop at the music-filled celebration in downtown Silver Spring. 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. Free to attend. Silver Spring Town Center: 1 Veterans Pl. Silver Spring, MD; www.silverspringblues.com Wine & Spirits Music Festival Attendees will enjoy live and music, exclusive wine tastings, all types of food vendors, and premium spirit vendors. Live Performances by Kima, Be’la Dona and Junk Yard Band. 1-9 p.m. Tickets are $20-$100. East Gateway Pavilion: 2700 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave. SE, DC; www.dcnitelife.com

THURSDAY, JUNE 21 SUNDAY, JUNE 24 By The People By The People is a new, inclusive, international arts and innovation festival that facilitates connection and celebrates creativity. Enjoy fun and free arts installations, performances, talks and programs about life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. The Smithsonian will have extended evening hours on June 23, and augmented reality art at each of the festival sites. 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Free to attend. By The People: Union Market, THEARC West, Washington National Cathedral, Smithsonian Arts and Industries Building, The Parks at Walter Reed; www.halcyonhouse.org/ by-the-people

SATURDAY, JUNE 23 SUNDAY, JUNE 24 26th Annual Giant National Capital BBQ Battle Kick off summer at America’s barbecue party, the 26th annual Giant Barbecue Battle. Pennsylvania Avenue will be smokin’ with rock, reggae, jazz and blues from 30 bands on three stages. Enjoy free barbecue and grilled food samples in the Taste of Giant sampling pavilion while witnessing America’s best eaters onstage at Nathan’s famous hot dog-eating contest. Other activities include free wine samples at Barefoot Beach, the military chef cook-off, celebrity chefs, lots of interactive exhibits and America’s national barbecue championship contest. Saturday 11 a.m. - 9 p.m., and Sunday 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Tickets are $12-$155. Giant National Capital BBQ Battle: Pennsylvania Avenue between 3rd and 7th Streets in NW, DC; www.bbqindc.com

SATURDAY, JUNE 23 Chesapeake Crab & Beer Festival This annual festival is an allyou-can-taste extravaganza complete with over 30,000 crabs, lots of beer, arts & crafts, live music, family fun and more. 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. for session one, 5-9 p.m. for session two. Tickets are $29-$95. Can’t make it? The event comes to National Harbor, MD on August 18. Rash Field: 201 Key Hwy. Baltimore, MD; www.mdcrabfest.com

Celebrate the Beer, Bourbon & BBQ Festival with a VIP Getaway Package! Enjoy VIP tickets to the region’s best BBQ festival. Be the “Big Pig” on campus at the Beer, Bourbon & BBQ Festival featuring a great day of beer sippin’, bourbon tastin’, music listenin’, cigar smokin’, and barbecue eatin’ at National Harbor. Gaylord National Resort’s exclusive VIP Beer, Bourbon and BBQ Festival Package includes: • One night room accommodations for Friday, June 15 or Saturday, June 16 • Two VIP Bacon and Whole Hog Session Tickets at the Beer, Bourbon and BBQ Festival in National Harbor on Saturday from 12pm - 6pm • Exclusive tasting experience in the VIP Area (VIP Area closes at 5 pm) • Two extra hours of sampling! SATURDAY ONLY!

GaylordNational.com or call (301) 965-4000 (refer to code ES1) *Valid Friday and Saturday through 6/16/18. Room package is not refundable 72 hours from arrival date. Event is held rain or shine. Limited number of rooms are available for this promotion. Tax is additional. Offer does not apply to groups of 10 or more rooms. Offer cannot be combined with any other promotions. Blackout dates may apply. Advance reservations required. Other restrictions apply. Rates are per person, per night and based on availability at time of reservations.

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souvenir glass and access to an exclusive private area that includes indoor bathrooms. 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Tickets are $20-$35. Linganore Winecellars: 13601 Glissans Mill Rd. Mt. Airy, MD; www.linganorewines.com

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 27 - SUNDAY, JULY 1 and WEDNESDAY, JULY 4 - SUNDAY, JULY 8 Smithsonian Folklife Festival This festival honors contemporary living cultural traditions and celebrates those who practice and sustain them. Produced annually by the Smithsonian Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage, the festival has featured participants from all 50 states and more than 100 countries. This year will focus on Armenian culture, including influences, contributions and its exchange with diaspora communities in the U.S. In addition, Catalonia will also be highlighted, as the festival will observe how Catalan people channel their creativity to ensure the vitality of their local cultures and livelihoods. Festival hours are 11 a.m. - 5 p.m., with special events taking place most evenings beginning at 6:30 p.m. Festival closes early at 4 p.m. on June 4th. Free to attend. Smithsonian Folklife Festival: Various locations; www.festival.si.edu FreeState Beer, Wine and Seafood Festival Find the area’s best seafood, Maryland craft brewers, Linganore wines, awesome live music, and a special appearance by Justin Schlegel of Justin, Scott and Spiegel on 98 Rock at the Freestate Beer, Wine and Seafood Festival. Purchase a VIP ticket and receive a larger

SATURDAY, JULY 7 SUNDAY, JULY 29 Capital Fringe Festival Check out eclectic theatre, unusual poetry, wild dance performances and even puppetry. With countless performing groups, there’s bound to be something for everybody from theatre to dance, including risky art and untraditional acts. Tickets go on sale June 18. The Logan Fringe Arts Space: 1358 Florida Ave. NE, DC; www.capitalfringe.org

SUNDAY, JULY 8 Silver Spring Arts & Crafts Summer Fair Check out the Silver Spring Arts & Crafts Fair this summer, featuring arts & crafts, food and beverage vendors, and many fun family activities. 2-8 p.m. Free to attend. Silver Spring Veterans Plaza: 1 Veterans Pl. Silver Spring, MD; www.eventbrite.com

FRIDAY, JULY 20 SUNDAY, JULY 22 ARTSCAPE 2018 Check out fashion designers, outdoor sculpture, photography and art cars at America’s largest free arts festival. Experience the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra and other incredible live music on outdoor stages. Expect to see a delicious international menu of food and beverages available throughout the festival. 11 a.m. – 9 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. on Sunday. Free to attend. Artscape: Various locations in Baltimore, MD; www.artscape.org

ON TAP | MAY 2018 | www.ontaponline.com

SATURDAY, JULY 21

SATURDAY, JULY 28

Summer Reggae Wine Festival Shop the open-air market with hand-crafted and imported goods from around the world. Enjoy a day sampling delicious wines and listening to live bands like Ras Slick, Kurlou Reggae Allstars, Yawd Link and Image Band. 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Tickets are $20-$25. Linganore Winecellars: 13601 Glissans Mill Rd. Mt. Airy, MD; www.linganorewines.com

Trifecta Food Truck Festival Over 35 of Maryland’s best food trucks will transform the racetrack into a festive playground with live bands, local craft beer tents, mechanical bull rides, a dunk tank, a pie-eating contest, a kids’ play land, moon bounces, a local artist village and more. 11 a.m. 9 p.m. Tickets are $15. Maryland State Fairgrounds: 2200 York Rd. Lutherville-Timonium, MD; www.mt.cm/trifecta-food-truckfestival/

SATURDAY, AUGUST 4

WEDNESDAY, JULY 25 - SUNDAY, JULY 29 FloydFest It’s a Dreamweavin’ week at FloydFest 2018. This “Best of the Blue Ridge 2018” winner is set in the scenic Virginia Blue Ridge and features Foster the People, Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit, Gov’t Mule, ZZ Ward, Old Crow Medicine Show and many more. Various times for each day. Single, multi and camping passes available for various prices. FloydFest: 894 Rock Castle Gorge Rd. Floyd, VA; www.floydfest.com

THURSDAY, JULY 26 SUNDAY, JULY 29 Doah Fest Doah Fest is a four-day celebration of music, art and community held on a private farm between the banks of the Shenandoah River and the Blue Ridge Mountains. Thursday morning, the bands kick off the festival by filling the farm with great music including jam, reggae, rock, bluegrass and indie. Open 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. Thursday - Sunday. Tickets cost $69-$189. The Farm: 1920 S Page Valley Rd. Luray, VA; www.doahfest.com

PizzaFest DC Experience pizza like never before. From the lahmacun in Turkey to the tarte flambée in France and to the bulgogi Pizza in Korea, taste each country’s unique take on this beloved dish while enjoying a glass of beer. 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Free. PizzaFest DC: 1455 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, DC; www.chiceventsdc.com/ pizzafest-dc

SATURDAY, AUGUST 11 SUNDAY, AUGUST 12 Moonrise Festival Since its debut in 2014, Moonrise Festival has grown into one of the most anticipated East Coast festivals of the summer, touching all corners of the dance floor with styles spanning from heavyhitting bass to hip hop, live electronic acts to house music, and everything in between. The event also features art installations, a sprawling vendor village, amazing food and beverages, stylish VIP lounges, and more. 11 a.m. 11 p.m. both days. Tickets are $164.50-$299.50. Pimlico Race Course: 5201 Park Heights Ave. Baltimore, MD; www.moonrisefestival.com

SUMMER

TICKETS ON SALE NOW!

LIVE FROM HERE

WITH CHRIS THILE FORMERLY A PRAIRIE HOME COMPANION

MAY 26

STEVEN TYLER AND THE LOVING MARY BAND THE SISTERHOOD BAND

JUN 21

JOHN FOGERTY | ZZ TOP: BLUES AND BAYOUS TOUR MAY 29 + 30

BARENAKED LADIES

LAST SUMMER ON EARTH TOUR

BETTER THAN EZRA KT TUNSTALL

WOLF TRAP ORCHESTRA

MIKKY EKKO

JUN 7

TROMBONE SHORTY, GALACTIC, PRESERVATION HALL, AND MORE!

MOTOWN THE MUSICAL JUN 26-28

JAKE OWEN

INDIGO GIRLS

DAWES

JUN 3

JUL 10

AUG 23

JUN 1

WITH CHRIS JANSON

ALISON KRAUSS WITH

DAVID CROSBY AND FRIENDS JUN 6

BARRY MANILOW JUN 8 + 9

JUN 29

ZZ WARD

AUG 19

HISS GOLDEN MESSENGER

MARGO PRICE

JOHN PRINE

THE REVIVALISTS

JASON ISBELL AND THE 400 UNIT

BRUCE HORNSBY & THE NOISEMAKERS THE WOOD BROTHERS

MAY 25

ROGER DALTREY PERFORMS THE WHO’S TOMMY JUN 10 + 12

AUG 17

JUL 2

THE WASHINGTON BALLET GISELLE

FITZ AND THE TANTRUMS X AMBASSADORS

JUL 24

BRYAN ADAMS AUG 5

SHOVELS & ROPE

THE WAR & TREATY

GAVIN DeGRAW PHILLIP PHILLIPS

THE LIFE TOUR

BOY GEORGE & CULTURE CLUB THE B-52S

AUG 31

ZIGGY MARLEY STEEL PULSE

THOMPSON TWINS’ TOM BAILEY

LES BALLETS TROCKADERO DE MONTE CARLO

JUL 18

TRIBAL SEEDS

5 SECONDS OF SUMMER

DR. DOG MANCHESTER ORCHESTRA

CASINO ROYALE IN CONCERT

NATIONAL SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

JUN 19

CRITICAL EQUATION TOUR

SEP 1

MEET YOU THERE TOUR

SEP 5

JUL 22

(SANDY) ALEX G JUN 22

SUNDAY, AUGUST 12 Taste of Linganore - Wine, Beer and Food Festival Presented by Linganore Winecellars & Red Shedman Farm Brewery, this event promises something for everyone, young or old, families and singles and is guaranteed to bring out the inner foodie in everyone. The event will showcase some of Frederick, Baltimore and DC’s favorite restaurants, caterers and food trucks. Stroll the grounds to shop unique vendors while enjoying this foodie paradise. 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Tickets are $10$15. Linganore Winecellars: 13601 Glissans Mill Rd. Mt. Airy, MD; www.linganorewines.com

wineries along with great music, good food and a variety of arts and crafts vendors. 12-7 p.m. Tickets are $25-$40, with $100 VIP tickets available. Anne Arundel County Fairgrounds: 1450 Generals Hwy. Crownsville, MD; www.kegsandcorksfest.com Hot August Festival The Revivalists and Karl Denson’s Tiny Universe are festival favorites, but added to this lineup are Trampled by Turtles and The Marcus King Band. Gates open at 11 a.m. General admission is $58-$199. Oregon Ridge Park: 13555 Beaver Dam Rd. Cockeysville, MD; www.hotaugustfestival.com

SATURDAY, AUGUST 18

THURSDAY, AUGUST 23 SUNDAY, AUGUST 26

7th Annual Kegs and Corks Festival Head to the Anne Arundel County Fairgrounds for a beer and wine festival featuring 16 craft breweries and 16 Maryland

Comcast Outdoor Film Festival Enjoy free outdoor movies on some of the largest screens in the country. Experience the old-school feel of a drive-in

Cinco de Mayo Saturday, May 5 Farm Brew LIVE Campus-wide Event

Featuring DJ Freedom, NOVA’s Best Latin DJ Silos Cerveza on tap! Crisp, golden and authentic Mexican style lager

theater while helping to raise funds for a great cause. Films include Coco, Black Panther, The Lion King and Wonder Woman. Gates open at 6:45 p.m., movies start at 8:45 p.m. Free to attend. Strathmore Mansion: 10701 Rockville Pike, North Bethesda, MD; www.filmfestnih.org LOCKN’ Festival Jam band fans: it may not get better than this. Two nights and four sets of Dead & Company, and three nights of awesome music from Tedeschi Trucks Band, Lettuce, Sheryl Crow, Blues Traveler, Foundation of Funk and so much more. The stellar lineup is only matched by the beautiful setting in the mountains of Virginia. Various times. Tickets are $259-$299. Infinity Downs Farm: 1510 Diggs Mountain Rd. Arrington, VA; www.locknfestival.com

SATURDAY, AUGUST 25 Cigar, Bourbon and Beer Festival Join for an amazing day of cigars, bourbon and craft beer. Hogshead Cigar Lounge will be showcasing all kinds of different cigars from their lounge, as well as have representation from the following cigar brands at our festival; Perdomo, Fartello and Romeo y Julieta. They will be showcasing Bourbons from all across the country and some from right here in Virginia. This portion of the event is sponsored in part by Brown-Forman. Check out some of their fine spirits they offer like Jack Daniel’s, Woodford Reserve and Old Forester. They will have 20 craft beers from our local Fredericksburg Breweries sampling some of their awardwinning beers. 4-9 p.m. Tickets $10-$60. Fredericksburg Fairgrounds: 2400 Airport Ave. Fredericksburg, VA; www.vaciderfest.com

Brewgrass Festival Bluegrass, Brews & BBQ Friday-Sunday May 25-27 9 Bluegrass bands on stage featuring Hackensaw Boys 10+

Silos beers on tap!

Visit FarmBrewLIVE.com & Follow us on Facebook for full event listings.

9925 Discovery Blvd I Manassas, Virginia, VA 20109 I 703.420.2264 I 54

ON TAP | MAY 2018 | www.ontaponline.com

summer time where DC meets in

Join us for sunny days and spectacular sunsets at The Wharf, featuring a fantastic lineup of waterside activities and special events.

MAY 5

Running of the Chihuahuas

JULY 1, 8, 15, 22, 29

Sunday Brunch

MAY 18

Bike to Work Day Pit Stops

JULY 4

4th of July Patriots’ Party

MAY 19

Blessing of the Fleet

JULY 7

Saturday Night Dancing Soccer & Sangria

JULY 11, 18, 25 JUNE 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 JUNE 2

Waterfront Workouts

Saturday Night Dancing

Wednesday at The Wharf

JULY 14

All-Star Game Salute

JULY 28

Shark Bites & Brews

JUNE 9

AUGUST 1, 8, 15, 22, 29

Pride on The Pier

JUNE 16–17 JUNE 21

Wednesday at The Wharf

DC Jazz Fest

Corona’s Lightest Day

AUGUST 25 Capital Dragon Boat Regatta

SEPTEMBER 15

Police & Firefighters Appreciation Picnic

Dates, times, and performances are subject to changes and additions.

JUNE 3, 10, 17, 24 Sunday Brunch JUNE 6, 13, 20, 27

AUGUST 18 Glow in the Dark Kayaking

AUGUST 4

Wednesday at The Wharf

Saturday Night Dancing

AUGUST 5, 12, 19, 26

Sunday Brunch

Download the District Wharf App

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*Taste Well

*Live Well

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*Work Well

RESTON TOWN CENTER FRI JUNE 15: 3pm-11pm * SAT JUNE 16: 12pm-11pm

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FREE PARKING

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 1 - SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 2 Virginia Scottish Games You can wear a kilt and bring your dog! The Scottish Games are one of the few places inside the Commonwealth where you can experience authentic Scottish culture and traditions, including spectacular highland dancers, bagpipes, adorable Scottish dogs, cool British cars and sheep herding. Gates open at 9 a.m. both Saturday and Sunday. Tickets are $20-$30. Great Meadow: 5089 Old Tavern Rd. The Plains, VA; www.vascottishgames.org

at Reston Town Center both Friday & Saturday

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 15

BANDS + DJs

5th Annual Baltimore Seafood Fest Baltimore loves its seafood, that’s for sure! Charm City also loves all the wonderful local restaurants that truly make Baltimore one of the best places for foodies to visit. Why the Baltimore Seafood Festival? Baltimoreans are so proud of their crab cakes, crab soup, shrimp salad, local oysters and of course, Maryland blue crabs. It seems fitting to host a waterfront festival showcasing some of Baltimore’s favorite restaurants serving their signature seafood dishes. 12-7 p.m. Tickets are $11-$95. Canton Waterfront Park: 3001 Boston St. Baltimore, MD; www.baltimoreseafoodfest.com

Voted “Best Food Festival” in Northern Virginia By Virginia Living Magazine!

PINNACLE SPONSOR

HOST SPONSOR

Tickets on Sale at

www.RestonTaste.com /restontaste

World Heritage Festival The one and only National Mall’s Around The World Cultural Food Festival is bringing you on August 25th at Ida Lee park in Leesburg, VA, the World Heritage Festival. There are several food vendors who will showcase only ethic food from countries like Colombia, India, Lebanon, Peru, Thai and of course US. Fresh smoothies and traditional beverages will also be included in their menus. 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Free to attend. Ida Lee Park Recreation Center: 60 Ida Lee Dr. Northwest Leesburg, VA; www.fb.com/chiceventsdc

ON TAP | MAY 2018 | www.ontaponline.com

/restonchamber

DC Wine Fest Specially curated wineries serve patrons tastings over a multi-session, all-day, all-night vino experience. You’ll have the chance to sample premium wine to your heart’s content, while live entertainment keep the party lively during this one of a kind experience. 12-10 p.m. Tickets $35-$60. DC Wine Fest: Location TBD; www.dcwinefest.com Virginia Cider Festival At the Virginia Cider Festival, you and your friends will be surrounded by hard ciders from all across the country. The event will also feature even more Virginia Cider this year from cideries like Blue Bee, Cobbler Mountain, Foggy Ridge, Castle Hill, Albemarle Ciderworks, Buskey, Potter’s, Winchester Cider Works and Bold Rock. There will be a list of over 25 Cider producers, and there will be pouring over 60 ciders. We will also have local live music on the Safford of Fredericksburg stage for your listening pleasure. Be sure to check the weather for what to wear. The event will take place rain or shine (no refunds). 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Tickets $10-$40. Fredericksburg Fairgrounds: 2400 Airport Ave. Fredericksburg, VA; www.vaciderfest.com

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 22 Arts & Ales: Downtown Hyattsville Arts Festival Enjoy more than 100 exhibiting artists and artisans, Maryland breweries, food trucks and vendors, and live entertainment, block by block in Downtown Hyattsville. 12-6 p.m. Hyattsville Community Development Corporation: 4312 Hamilton St. Hyattsville, MD; www.hyattsvillearts.com

ARI LENNOX BE’LA DONA MANNYWELLZ DJ UNDERDOG RON HOLLOWAY BAND FAYCEZ U KNOW MOURNING A BLK STAR TOB PINKY KILLACORN DREAMCAST FOOTSXCOLES AZTEC SUN DJ AYES COLD DJ NATIVE SUN SAM PRATHER’S GROOVE ORCHESTRA BLACK MASALA

BATALA WASHINGTON MICAH ROBINSON HAROLD LITTLE DUPONT BRASS BACKBEAT UNDERGROUND BE STEADWELL JOGO PROJECT GORDON STERLING AND THE PEOPLE THE CLONES OF FUNK CONCERT FOR CAUSES BENEFIT FEATURING MICHAEL “KIDD FUNKADELIC” HAMPTON NAG CHAMPA & UPTOWN ART HOUSE JAM

BLAQUESTONE SIR E.U. KERMIN THE DJ LEON CITY SOUNDS HUMBALAYA THE CORNEL WEST THEORY CHAMPION SOUND DIOR ASHLEY BROWN AND THE DAB BAND KROMANAUTS LUCKY SO & SO’S EAT THE CAKE LOS GALLOS NEGROS HAILLE SUPREME SPINRILLO DJ K-META DJ KASHRAG BIG UGLY TRUCK DANCE PARTY BRASS CONNECTION ODD MOJO PNMA NOT. ALONE HARVEY SOMETIMES RUMBLE IN THE JUNGLE LATE NIGHT DANCE PARTY LA UNICA VOCOLOGY FUNKY MIRACLE WINZDAY LOVE ALL THE BEST KIDS CRUSH FUNK BRASS LOOKOUT GANG COSMIC ROMP THE UNKNOWNS FRANK-O JAZZ STEELO SOUL IN THE GROOVE FEATURING DJ DAN AND CHARLES FEELGOOD PEAR BAILEY RE-ENACTOR ROZ WHITE MALCOLM X DRUMMER AND DANCERS ANACOSTIA DRUMMERS VAVA UNITED SCHOOL OF SAMBA KAZAXE DANCERS URBAN ARTISTRY CAPITOL MOVEMENT DANCE STREET LIGHT DE K PA R ARAIDERS CIRCUS PERFORMERS PYROXOTIC SOKA TRIBE DANCERS UNIVERSAL CAPOEIRA PANLARAF U NLADY STEP RADE PA K N U F E TH M E . C O SCHOOL MARCHING BAND THE BAND MARCHING UNIT TEAM HUNG TAO CHOY MEI LUCKY LIONS EASTERN HIGH K PA R A D W W W. F U N PHELPS ACE HIGH SCHOOL MARCHING BAND MO LUCAS COMMUNITY FOUNDATION MARCHING BAND

T S U @ h t 2 1 Y A M S AT D AY F A I R 1 p m – 7pm

PA R A D E 5 p m – 6pm

$10 MUSIC FEST 7 p m – 1 2am

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 29 Hops & Harvest Festival A beer festival on the Columbia, MD lakefront with unlimited tastings of more than 50 Maryland Brewery beer. The festival also features cideries, artisans and live music. Hops & Harvest Festival: Location TBD; www.hopsandhavest.com

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 28 - SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 30 Devils Backbone Hoopla The Hoopla Adventures are activities, events and workshops that celebrate the seven amazing values that make up the Devils Backbone culture: beer positive, passion, adventure, family, humility, integrity and stewardship. Every activity starts with a question, “Where do we want to go and how are we going to get there?” Devils Backbone’s answer is doing things the right way, never losing focus of the destination and all the while having fun! Come check out the awardwinning beer and Virginia bands. Tickets $20-$450. Basecamp Brewpub and Meadows: 200 Mosbys Run, Roseland, VA; www. dbbrewingcompany.com

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 28 SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 30 Sonic Circuits Festival Sonic Circuits is a Washington, DC area promoter for experimental music. Sonic Circuits seeks to expose audiences to cutting edge contemporary music that defies genres and offer artists new platforms to present their music and opportunities to network and collaborate with artists from around the world. The festival details aren’t ironed yet, but rest assure it’s on the way. Rhizome: 6950 Maple St. NW, DC; www.dc-soniccircuits.org

ON TAP | MAY 2018 | www.ontaponline.com

CONCERT SERIES WEDNESDAYS

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

Summer Shows at Wolf Trap From rock to hip-hop, there may be no venue in the DMV that encompasses more genres than the famed Wolf Trap. This summer is as loaded as ever with performances from Halsey, Bryan Adams, Reba, Dr. Dog, and Queen Latifah with Common to name a few. No matter your musical preference, Wolf Trap is sure to offer a satisfying sonic experience, and the ability to enjoy the outdoors is something not many other venues can match. Step out of the enclosed, dark club toward the sun-soaked stage in Vienna. For showtimes and tickets, visit www.wolftrap. org/tickets. Wolf Trap: 1551 Trap Rd. Vienna, VA; www.wolftrap.org

Wednesdays at the Wharf Concert Series June 6 – August 22 Bring your friends and head to The Wharf each Wednesday evening this summer to listen to live music on Transit Pier. Don’t miss DC favorites such as AZTEC SUN, Justin Trawick and The Common Good, 19th Street Band, Lloyd Dobler Effect and more playing on the floating stage. From indie rock to Latin fusion, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy ice cold beers and food from Cantina Bambina and take a mid-week break. 6-8 p.m. Free. The Wharf: 700 Water St. SW, DC; www.wharfdc.com

Rock at the Row at Pentagon Row July 12 - August 23 Hot bands and cold beer return to Pentagon Row for the annual Rock at the Row series. Every Thursday night, a different band takes the stage and a different restaurant will be featured. Check out and support the local bands, including The Rockets, Nelly’s Echo Band, Kristen and The Noise, and many more. Virginia craft beer will be available for purchase, plus a rotating weekly restaurant partner. Admission to the concerts is free and food and beer is available for purchase. 7-9 p.m. Free to attend. Pentagon Row: 1201 South Joyce St. Arlington, VA; www.pentagonrow.com

THURSDAYS Bethesda Summer Concert Series Thursday evenings, May - July Bask in the sweet melodies and the summer air as you catch the music in Veterans Park. Featuring local favorites like Hayley Fahey Band, Gary and the Groove, Urban Funk, Chuggalug, and more. Various dates, 6-8 p.m. Free. Veterans Park: 7898 Woodmont Ave. Bethesda, MD; www.bethesda.org

Silver Spring Concert Series June 21 - August 8 Enjoy free concerts in the Fountain Plaza in downtown Silver Spring on Thursday nights, featuring acts like Bobby and The Believers, Built For Comfort Band, Moco’s Got Talent and more. 7-9 p.m. Free to attend. The Fountain Plaza: 1 Veterans Pl. Silver Spring, MD; www.downtownsilverspring.com

FRIDAY NIGHT CONCERT SERIES 2018

New Time

Right on the Boardwalk! New

4th Street

y Ave

3rd Street

Jerse

R&B Top 40 Hits Special DC JazzFest Artist World Funk Country Reggae Motown Americana Pop Hits Bluegrass Party Rock Pop Hits Latin Rock Country/Bluegrass

1st Street

Pebble to Pearl Burnt Sienna Marvillous Beats Black Masala Shane Gamble Jah Works Jimi Smooth & HitTime 19th Street Band Jeff From Accounting Trailer Grass Orchestra Practically Einstein Party Like It’s La Unica U.S. Navy Band “Country Current”

Half Street

5/25 6/1 6/8 6/15 6/22 6/29 7/6 7/13 7/20 7/27 8/3 8/10 8/17 8/24

7-9pm at Yards Park | 355 Water Street SE

Tingey Street N Street

Nationals Park

Water Street

Yards Park

om Pot

Ave

Anacostia River

Beer & Wine Available Onsite (must be 21+, no outside alcohol)

yardspark.org | capitolriverfront.org | @YardsParkDC

Navy Yard

FRIDAYS

Rosslyn Rocks! Summer Concert Series June 7 - June 28 Bring your friends and head to Central Place Plaza each Thursday evening in June to listen to live music. Each week, a different cover band will perform including White Ford Bronco, Trailer Grass Orchestra, Driven to Clarity and Party Like It’s. Enjoy the concert while sipping on a glass of wine or having a beer in downtown Rosslyn’s bustling outdoor space. Bring your friends, family and dancing shoes. 6-8 p.m. Central Place Plaza: 1800 N Lynn St. Arlington, VA; www.rosslynva.org

Tunes in the Triangle Summer Concert Series May 31 - August 7 Stop by Milian Park with your friends, family and pets for free summer concerts from great local bands like The Perfectionists, Alison Carney, Pebble to Pearl, Darcy Dawn, Jarreau Williams and Justin Trawick. 6:30-8:30 p.m. on select Thursdays. Milian Park Mount Vernon Triangle: 499 Massachusetts Ave. NW, DC; www.mvtcid.org

Budweiser Terrace Pregame Concerts at Nationals Park Select Fridays May to September Every Friday home game, the best place to pregame is at the Budweiser Terrace inside the ballpark. Enjoy cold Bud and Bud Light and great tunes from local bands like Down Wilson, The Reflex, Hand Painted Swinger, 7 Deadlies, Lovely Rita, Uncle Jesse, Turtle Recall and As If. Concerts run from 5-6:50 p.m. First pitch is at 7:05 p.m. Nationals Park Bud Light Terrace: 1500 S Capitol St. SE, DC; www.nationals.com

Farragut Fridays May 11 - September 28 Farragut Fridays are a full day of getting outside in the Golden Triangle. Starting at 9 a.m., drop in for an outdoor “office” that includes free Wi-Fi, tables and chairs, and games to get your creative juices flowing. At noon, the picnic in the park begins. Grab a bite to eat, play lawn games (cornhole, foosball and table tennis), hang out with puppies, and listen to live music. Then, head back after work for the Golden Cinema movie series. Pre-show fun starts at 7 p.m. Free to attend. Farragut Park: Connecticut Avenue and K Street in NW, DC; www.goldentriangledc.com

ON TAP | MAY 2018 | www.ontaponline.com

Lubber Run Amphitheater Summer Concert Series Schedule to be released This year’s summer concert series features a diverse lineup of internationally renowned musicians and regional favorites. Friday and Saturday shows at 8 p.m., and Sunday shows at 6 p.m. Free. Lubber Run Amphitheater: North Columbus and 2nd Streets in Arlington, VA; www.arlingtonarts.org Rio Concert Series May 4 - October 6 Every Friday and Saturday night, the party is lakeside at the Rio Center. Just outside Union Jack’s and near the paddle boards, enjoy live music from Route 66, Diamond Alley, Mason Dixon, Four Star Combo and more. 6-9 p.m. Free to attend. Rio Washingtonian Center: 209 Boardwalk Pl. Gaithersburg, MD; www.riowashingtonian.com Rock the Block May 25, June 22, July 27, August 24, September 28 and October 26 Rock the Block at Old Town Square in Fairfax is back this summer. Each fourth Friday of the month from June through October, walk, run, ride your bike or drive because you don’t want to miss out on The Reagan Years, My Hero Zero, The Derby Brothers and more. Food and drink vendors will be onsite. Bring chairs or blankets to sit on, and kids can wear swimsuits and bring towels for the splash pad. No pets allowed except service animals. 6:30-9:30 p.m. Old Town Square: 10415 North St. Fairfax, VA; www. fairfaxva. gov/government/parksrecreation/rock-the-block

Friday Night Concerts in Yards Park May 25 - August 24 Spend your Friday night relaxing in the Capitol Riverfront, voted one of DC’s best places for live music! Spread a blanket, grab a cold one and get down with some great local music. Enjoy bands like Jimi Smooth & HitTime, Jah Works, Burnt Sienna, Black Masala and more on the boardwalk stage. The featured artists are fun for the whole family, and beer and wine will be available onsite at the Modelo Especial Bar for adults in attendance. 7-9 p.m. Yards Park: 355 Water St. SE, DC; www.capitolriverfront.org

Herndon Friday Night Live! May 4 - August 24 It’s Herndon Rock’s 24th year of hooking folks up with cold beer, hot tunes and fantastic food during the summer. Featuring party favorites Big Al’s Truck, Gonzo’s Nose, LauraLea & Tripp Fabulous and more, Herndon takes you through the summer with the best local and regional talent from the East Coast. No concert on June 1, but be sure to check out Herndon Festival that day instead. 6:3010:30 p.m. Free to attend. Town Green: 777 Lynn St. Herndon, VA; www.herndonrocks.com

Foster the People

Jason Isbell & the 400 unit

Old Crow Medicine Show

Gov't Mule

The Infamous Stringdusters

Leftover Salmon

ZZ Ward

Tyler Childers

Hiss Golden Messeger

Greta Van Fleet

Keller Williams� Petty Grass feat The Hillbenders

Lukas Nelson & Promise of the Real

Antibalas

Nicki Bluhm

Langhorne Slim

The Lil Smokies

Nikki Lane

Horseshoes & Hand Grenades

The Steel Wheels

NO BS! Brass Band

The Mother Hips�

Son Little

Devon Gilfillian

LINDSAY LOU • KALETA & SUPER YAMBA BAND • SONGS FROM THE ROAD BAND • MR. JENNINGS • SOUTH HILL BANKS • DHARMA BOMBS • MAPACHE THE NATIONAL RESERVE • THE NATIVE HOWL • THE BROADCAST • ERIN & THE WILDFIRE • TRAVIS MEADOWS • MAMA SAID STRING BAND • CHE APALACHE THE HARMED BROTHERS • FIRESIDE COLLECTIVE • SOL SEARCHERS • BLUE MULE • THE FLOORBOARDS • MY RADIO • BLACK MOUNTAIN REVIVAL DEAD RECKONING • OMEGAWOLFE • MORGAN WADE & THE STEPBROTHERS • LOS CHUPACABRAS • GOTE • JORDAN HARMAN BAND • THE JAM • MAD IGUANAS

SATURDAYS

MOVIE NIGHTS TUESDAYS

Tarara Winery Summer Concert Series May 26 - September 29 Dance under the stars with great food and wine at this summer-long series including The Reflex, Still Surfin,’ The VIPs and more. Enjoy a little bit of everything, from 80s hits to country and classic rock. Individual tickets are available as well as $100 season passes. Tarara Winery: 13648 Tarara Ln. Leesburg, VA; www.tarara.com

Adams Morgan Movie Nights May 15 - June 12 Adams Morgan Movie Nights showcase a broad range of films, from classics to awardwinning contemporary and animated features. This year’s lineup includes The Big Lebowski, Hairspray, Jackie and Hidden Figures. The series is held at one of the best outdoor movie-watching venues in the city – the plush new soccer field at Marie Reed School in Adams Morgan, where terraced seating is built into the hillside overlooking the screen. Each movie will start at 8:30 p.m. Free to attend. Walter Pierce Park: 2630 Adams Mill Rd. NW, DC; www.facebook.com/ adamsmorganmovienights

ON TAP | MAY 2018 | www.ontaponline.com

THURSDAYS

Canal Park Movies June 7 - August 23 From classics to the latest Academy Award winners, the people spoke and the movies will be shown! Join the Riverfront community for free movies at Canal Park on Thursday evenings. Films this year include: Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle, Raiders of the Lost Ark, Despicable Me, Easy A, National Treasure and more. Movies begin at sundown. Free to attend. Canal Park: 200 M St. SE, DC; www.capitolriverfront.org

Rosslyn Cinema with Pub in the Park June 8 - August 24 Every Friday this summer in Gateway Park, bring a blanket or low chairs and a group of friends to enjoy a night under the stars with your favorite movies. Movies start at dusk, but the fun starts at 5 p.m. with games and the Pub in the Park. Movies this year include Coco, The Fifth Element, La La Land and more. This event is kid- and dog-friendly. 5-11 p.m. Free. Gateway Park: 1300 Lee Hwy. Arlington, VA; www.rosslynva.org

FRIDAYS Union Market Drive-In May 11 - November 2 The drive-in at Union Market is back for a new season! The first Friday of every month will feature classics like Indiana Jones: Raiders of the Lost Ark and The Lion King, and recent films like Black Panther. There’s a film for everyone. The lot opens at 6 p.m., and films will start at 7:30 p.m. $10 parking fee; free walkups. Union Market: 1309 5th St. NE, DC; www.unionmarketdc.com

est.1985

Gangstagrass | Cris Jacobs

The American Songster Revue (featuring Dom Flemons, Guy Davis, Amythyst Kiah, & more)

Plus over 2 dozen bands spread across 5 stages 12:00 - 8:00PM |

DC’s Favorite Food Trucks

Kayaking

Kids’ Zone Craft Beer & Cocktails

Kingman & Heritage Islands Park | 575 Oklahoma Ave. NE

TICKETS

www.kingmanislandbluegrass.info

P R O C E E D S S U P P O R T L I V I N G C L A S S R O O M S ’ H A N D S - O N E N V I R O N M E N TA L E D U C AT I O N P R O G R A M M I N G I N WA S H I N G T O N , D C

TUNES IN Tunes in THE TRIANGLE at Milian Park (MassTriangle Ave & 5th St.) The 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM 6:30 pm–8:30 pm

May 31:July The21: Perfectionists • Thursday, The Oxymorons at Milian Park (Mass Ave & 5th St.) Jun 14: Zach Cutler/Alison Carney • Tuesday, august 2: Alison Carney Jun 28: Darcy Dawn Special concert and family activities for Jul 12: National Night Pebble Out at 5th To & K Pearl Parking Lot • Thursday 18:Williams Justin Trawick Jul 26: , august Jarreau at Milian Park Aug 7: Justin Trawick STOP Stop BY byWITH withYOUR yourFRIENDS, friendS, FAMILY, family, AND and PETS petSFOR for FREE freeSUMMER Summer CONCERTS concertS

EVERY TUESDAY

EVERY THURSDAY

8:30pm AT UNION JACK’S

8:30pm AT TAPP’D BETHESDA

Enjoy ½ Price Burgers! Based on TV version, NOT a ‘trivia’ based game.

Play along & enjoy 22oz Drafts for the price of a pint!

Free to Play & Prizes!

Gaithersburg (Rio Center)

Photos: Beauty by Photography

mvtcid.org @MVTCiD

(4915 St Elmo Ave)

ON TAP | MAY 2018 | www.ontaponline.com

Wine Spectator’s Grand Tour Washington DC featured more than 200 of the world’s finest wineries pouring their best bottles at the Ronald Reagan Building.

By Amanda Weisbrod Christina Boy

Photo: Chris Thomas

treasure trove of unique artifacts and unexplored creations awaits each visitor at the annual Northern Virginia Fine Arts Festival at Reston Town Center this spring. From May 18-20, visitors can connect with over 200 artists and experience the beauty of handmade wares while simultaneously supporting the festival host, Greater Reston Arts Center (GRACE). Bring $5 as a donation to GRACE and receive a 52-page booklet including information on all participating artists and coupons for Reston Town Center restaurants, retailers and businesses. Festival director and GRACE’s associate curator, Erica Harrison, says many new and exciting changes are coming to the festival this year, including an entire extra day to explore.

Harrison says the best part about the night will be a live performance from Baltimore-based artist Laure Drogoul. “I think what’s really interesting about this year is that it’s a party for our sponsors and supporters, but we’re also trying to do this whole new creative performance art,” Harrison says. “Laure has a giant sculpture called the ‘Illuminated Fountain of Extinction,’ and it highlights a lot of the animals and species that have already or are in the process of going extinct, and I’m super excited about it.” Although the party is by invitation only, you can sign up as a GRACE contributing supporter on their website to get the invite. Festivalgoers who are more interested in daytime activities can look forward to perusing a variety of handcrafted, supremely unique works of art including furniture, jewelry, ceramics, glasswork, paintings, house wares and much more.

By adding Friday to the schedule, Harrison hopes more people will be able to come out to the festival and the artists will have more time to showcase their work. In addition, the 2018 Awards of Excellence ceremony, which honors the best artists of the festival selected by a three-judge panel, is moving to Saturday night during the festival party. GRACE supporters and contributing artists will mingle, drink and be merry at the party as they celebrate and discuss this year’s works of art.

To artists like Christina Boy, a German-American residing in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Madison, Virginia, the festival is a great way to connect with fellow artisans and reach out to potential clients. “Everyone has their own artistic voice, and I believe that free events such as [this festival] are important for people to be exposed to a variety of different and unique work,” says Boy, who specializes in furniture design. “In a world that is becoming more and more homogenized,

ON TAP | MAY 2018 | www.ontaponline.com

NAT GEO NIGHTS Where social meets smart |

5:30–8 P.M.

PHOTO: TAYLOR MICKAL

EVERY THIRD THURSDAY

Photo: Don Renner

festivals like this keep it fresh and different, and help individuals find their own style instead of going for the mainstream.” This is Boy’s second time participating in the festival, and she’s looking forward to displaying her handcrafted furniture including her signature piece, “Stool 33,” as well as benches, barstools with Danish cord seats, fun side tables and more – all designed with the spirit of spring in mind. “Shows are a great way for people to see my work in person, as I believe it is crucial with furniture for them to be able to sit and touch the actual items,” she says. The festival also serves as GRACE’s largest fundraiser of the year, providing the arts center with over half of its annual budget of $500,000 so that it may continue opening exhibits and offering programs at no cost to locals. “We’re trying to bring more attention to the mission of the gallery by encouraging participation and making sure everything is accessible to the whole community, regardless of income,” Harrison says. “It’s really helpful to have the festival as a starting point; hopefully, people will come back and check out GRACE’s other programs and exhibitions.” The festival is still going strong in its 27th year, and thanks to Harrison and her team, it’s growing even stronger. She looks forward to the festival’s bright future and many improvements over the next several years so that GRACE may continue to support artists and encourage artistic engagement in an even greater way. “What I really hope people get out of the festival is that they make a connection – either with a specific artist or by responding to a piece of work that attracts them and becomes special to them. That’s something that you can’t really do with anything but art.” The Northern Virginia Fine Arts Festival runs Friday, May 18 to Sunday, May 20 from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily. The festival party on Saturday, May 19 runs from 7-10 p.m. and is invite only. For more information about the festival’s participating artists and details on how to receive a party invite, visit www.restonarts.org/fineartsfestival. Reston Town Center: 11900 Market St. Reston, VA 703-471-9242; www.restonarts.org/fineartsfestival

Join us for special monthly happy hours with stories from National Geographic Explorers, fun interactive activities, lively music, food, and drink specials at our cash bar. THURSDAY, MAY 17

THE SCIENCE OF GENIUS Learn how National Geographic Explorers Steve Ramirez, Jedidah Isler, and David Moinina Sengeh are tinkering with memories, discovering truths about the universe, and using artificial intelligence to revolutionize healthcare. Your ticket includes one free admission to the National Geographic Museum.

V I S I T N ATG E O.O R G / N ATG E O N I G H T S

NAT GEO NIGHTS EVENT PARTNERS

WASHINGTON, DC BL

17TH & M STREETS NW

FARRAGUT NORTH & WEST

www.ontaponline.com | MAY 2018 | ON TAP

DC S18 NGN On Tap May Print Ad V6.indd 1

67 4/20/18 6:22 PM

O utlaw Artists Take Printmaking on the Road

O By Trent Johnson

utlaw printmaking. Those two words are not some sort of statement. I’m not standing on a step ladder in a free speech zone protesting the medium because a) Why would anyone do that? and b) I don’t know enough about printmaking to stand in front of random strangers on the street discussing the art form. No, outlaw printmaking is a genre within the medium. Just as rock and rap provide a certain aesthetic in music, so does outlaw printmaking in the fine arts. Bill Fick is one of the members in the movement. “I’m very comic-y and cartoonish,” Fick says about his work. “It can be just an iconic image. It’s not really telling a story, but people can form their own narrative from the images. Outlaw printmaking is not particularly defined. It’s a lot of artists working in print with a general rock vibe: sometimes satirical, sometimes edgy.” The renowned artist and veteran teacher is currently on the Speedball Roadshow - U.S. Printmaking Tour. Joined by fellow printmaker Carlos Hernandez, the show is designed to ignite a fervor in people willing to learn about their styles and journeys. The Lee Arts Center in Arlington is set to host the duo on May 12 for a free, six-hour session.

ON TAP | APRIL 2018 | www.ontaponline.com

Artwork: www.carloshernandezprints.com (top), www.billfick.com (bottom)

There’s a mystery to the work we do. People want to know how to cut a block and burn a screen. “It’s an educational process,” Hernandez says. “We teach and show our audience the spirit of printmaking. You get your fingers dirty and you create something that people aren’t familiar with. We’re spreading the gospel, if you will.” Though the art form doesn’t classify as a religion, these two live and breathe the process. Both began their printmaking journeys in college, and though they each approach the medium with a different background – Hernandez with typography and Fick with block carving – each exudes passion for their shared profession.

“When I was in college, I used to do a lot of gig posters with Xerox,” Hernandez says. “It had a punk rock quality to it, and all the great gig posters that were made in the 60s and 70s served as great inspiration. Graphic design and printmaking go hand in hand; it lets me use those [same] techniques.” Fick adds, “[Printmaking] naturally became a medium I work with. I love the carving process when you transfer the block onto a piece of paper, and I love the history of graphic art.”

It’s a lot of artists working in print with a general rock vibe: sometimes satirical, sometimes edgy. A combined offering of these radically different perspectives and approaches is a colossal component of the tour, as each stop includes a modified itinerary pending the wants and desires of the venue. The Lee Center sequences aren’t quite nailed down as of yet, but Fick and Hernandez are up for whatever is necessary. “A lot of it is media-specific, so we’ll focus on screen printing and get technical,” Fick says. “At the same time, we’ll be working on the release print and take turns on the special piece. By the end, we’ll have a mash-up or [the students] will do a totally separate process.” Hernandez continues, saying that sometimes the students want something different, and each artist has their own vision. “We can introduce different styles, and we try to add to their existing programs,” he says. The duo collaborates on pieces throughout the workshops, each taking turns like friends playing a single-player video game. The pair have worked in tandem on countless pieces at previous trade shows, conventions and tours, so stepping on and off on at different points has become second nature to them. “[When] we started working together, we’d always have crowds wherever we were,” Hernandez says. “We’ve had universities and other centers interested in the way we present printmaking. There’s a mystery to the work we do. People want to know how to cut a block and burn a screen.” Most of the time, Fick and Hernadez produce posters, which requires Fick to carve out an image on a block to be printed. Hernandez follows up with printed text. “It’s all about recognizable imagery,” Fick says. Join the printmaking outlaws on Saturday, May 12 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Lee Arts Center. The session is free, but registration is required. Learn more about the event at http://arts.arlingtonva.us/lee-arts-center, and about the individual artists at www.billfick.com and www.carloshernandezprints.com.

Roxan Waluk

Jewelry Designs

Come shop stunning hand created jewelry while enjoying wine, food, fun & friends. Hosted by Soley Boland, Melody Knapp & Kathy Schramek. Parkfairfax Party Room

Saturday, May 5th 12pm-5pm 3360 Gunston Rd. Alexandria, VA 22302

Lee Arts Center: 5722 Lee Hwy. Arlington, VA 703-228-0560; http://arts.arlingtonva.us/lee-arts-center

www.ontaponline.com | APRIL 2018 | ON TAP

By Amanda Weisbrod

THROUGH SUNDAY, MAY 20

WEDNESDAY, MAY 2 - SUNDAY, MAY 6

Snow Child Arena Stage adapted Eowyn Ivey’s Pulitzerfinalist novel, The Snow Child, for the stage with the world-premiere musical Snow Child. Facing the loss of their unborn child, Jack and Mabel move to Alaska from Pennsylvania to restart their life together. During a long, hard winter, the fissure between them grows until it seems impassable. But everything changes once a wild, mysterious girl visits them from the dark woods that surround their small cabin. Matt Bogart, starring as Jack, wants audiences to deeply contemplate Snow Child’s themes before they leave the theater. “I hope that audience members will see some of their own life experiences reflected in this piece, and that we are successful in reiterating what is taught in these old folk tales,” Bogart says. “This folk tale has to do with the impermanence of nature – how nature can sweep in and change your life, how losing a child can change your life, and how gaining a child, whether it’s born into this world or if you create it in your mind, becomes [a form of ] healing.” With Alaskan folk music, a puppeteer and a winter wonderland set, you’ll find yourself alongside Jack and Mabel as they struggle in the Alaskan wilderness. Tickets are $65-$80. Arena Stage: 1101 6th St. SW, DC; www.arenastage.org

Hamlet For the first time since 2007, the legendary Royal Shakespeare Company returns to the Kennedy Center to tell the age-old tale of searing tragedy, murder and revenge. After a student is called home from university to find his father brutally murdered, he sets out on a mission to expose the truth on a journey of madness, murder and lost love. Rising star Paapa Essiedu makes his debut in the U.S. with his lead role in Hamlet. Tickets are $39-$129. The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts: 2700 F St. NW, DC; www.kennedy-center.org

THROUGH SUNDAY, MAY 27

SATURDAY, MAY 5 - SUNDAY MAY 27 The Undeniable Sound of Right Now Father and small business owner Hank struggles to keep his legendary rock club open in 1992 Chicago. As Hank refuses to confront the reality of where rock music is heading, his daughter starts dating a rising DJ star, forcing her father to acknowledge the truth of a different era. Explore themes of family troubles, affection for a bygone decade and the pure awesomeness of 90s rock with the DC premiere of The Undeniable Sound of Right Now. Tickets are $35-$45. The Keegan Theatre: 1742 Church St. NW, DC; www.keegantheatre.com

SATURDAY, MAY 12 - SUNDAY, JUNE 10 1984 In this captivating adaption of George Orwell’s 1984, the crushing realization of a dystopian future is inescapable. In a world with an authoritarian government monitoring every action, expression and thought of the masses, individualism is crushed and challenging the established regime leads to torture, prison and death. Be careful what you think. Big Brother is watching. Thursdays through Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 3 p.m. Tickets are $15-$45. Atlas Performing Arts Center: 1333 H St. NE, DC; www.atlasarts.org

ON TAP | MAY 2018 | www.ontaponline.com

Saint Joan Focused on Joan of Arc’s simple, illiterate, village-girl nature, George Bernard Shaw takes a different approach in telling this classic tale of martyrdom. Instead of portraying her as a witch, a saint or a heretic, Shaw emphasizes her individualism during her journey to liberate France from English control after over 100 years of war. Only four actors play over 25 roles in this engaging, bare-bones production, which The New York Times described as “irresistible” and “a force of nature.” Tickets are $35$79. Folger Theatre: 201 E Capitol St. SE, DC; www.folger.edu

THURSDAY, MAY 17 - SATURDAY, MAY 26 Spook Just an hour before his scheduled execution, ex-police officer Darl “Spook” Spokane is to give a live televised interview from death row. Convicted for murdering five of his fellow officers during what they call the “Morning Roll Call massacre,” Spokane is to explain himself with the entire country watching. There’s a catch: this will be the first time he’s uttered even a single word in three years since the mass shooting. You’re going to want to hear what he has to say. 8 p.m. all dates. Tickets are $20. Logan Fringe Arts Space: 1358 Florida Ave. NE, DC; www.capitalfringe.org

TUESDAY, MAY 22 - FRIDAY, JULY 1 Camelot Amongst magical forests and castles of grandeur, four-time, Tony Awardwinning musical Camelot explores the struggle for civilization and goodness in a society that’s accustomed to violence and hate. It is one leader’s integrity, courage and empathy along with his Knights of the Round Table that will change the course of history. With a doomed romance and an incredible score on top, this musical has won the hearts of theatre enthusiasts for generations. Tickets are $59-$118. Shakespeare Theatre Company’s Sidney Harman Hall: 610 F St. NW, DC; www.shakespearetheatre.org

The Scottsboro Boys Along the lines of Kander and Ebb’s iconic musicals Chicago and Cabaret, the Tony Award-winning duo delivers yet another breathtaking musical. The Scottsboro Boys is a critique on racism and injustice in the South, revealing the true story of nine AfricanAmerican teenagers who were falsely accused of a crime, quickly tried and sentenced to death in complete disregard for due process. Nominated for 12 Tony Awards, this musical transforms a disgraceful moment in American history into a platform for change. Tickets start at $40. Signature Theatre: 4200 Campbell Ave. Arlington, VA; www.sigtheatre.org www.ontaponline.com | MAY 2018 | ON TAP

By Trent Johnson

OYS IN TROUBLE is a dance performance, but it’s not only a dance performance. The show is radically different than what most modern dance is – abstract movements perpetually difficult to follow for the untrained eye. Instead, this piece is based on storytelling, and it’s deeply understandable and relatable. “The first thing people need to know is it’s not boring modern dance,” choreographer Sean Dorsey says. “Most people feel like they don’t ‘get’ modern dance, and for good reason. It’s pretty inaccessible!” The actual product isn’t the only aspect that sets BOYS IN TROUBLE apart from what you might normally see at Brookland’s Dance Place, the show’s DC host on May 19 and 20. Much like Dorsey’s other works, the project focuses on masculinity from a transgender and queer viewpoint. “We do this through full-throttle dance, highly-physical theatre and vulnerable storytelling,” Dorsey says. “One minute we’re flying through the air doing super technical and rigorous dancing, the next minute we’re delivering dialogue and irreverent humor, and the next minute we’re doing movement with storytelling.”

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Photos: Lydia Daniller

This kind of subject matter is a reflection of previous works by Dorsey, who is seemingly unanimously titled the first acclaimed transgender modern dance choreographer. His company Sean Dorsey Dance is located in San Francisco. “As a trans person, I grew up without ever seeing a single other transgender modern dancer, let alone a choreographer. I’ve been so alone on this journey in many ways, all the while facing harsh barriers, judgement and questions from the world. This project pushed me to unleash some defiant energy and righteous, proud anger – and sass.” With the titles and recognition, Dorsey feels a deep sense of responsibility, creating a huge amount of pressure each time he begins to craft a new work. “I had to dance myself into being. I had to insert trans bodies and stories into dance. I care so deeply for my people – for my trans and gender-nonconforming communities – that I often take on too much, and work too hard.” A piece with this kind of emotional weight doesn’t form overnight; Dorsey began initial research on the project three years ago. A year later, he began hosting free community forums on masculinity, led transgender-supportive dance classes and taught self-expression workshops for anyone willing to partake.

Photos: Beauty by Photography

“The themes that arose in these communities guided me as I built the show, which is also built around the dancers’ own experiences and life histories,” he says. “After working for two years creating a show, you wait for a moment when you know that the piece is complete. There were several deep themes related to masculinity that I really, really wanted and needed to get into – sections that explore shame, body shame and questions of self-worth. These lie under everything that is toxic about masculinity.” While the process of developing what would eventually become BOYS IN TROUBLE began years ago, Dorsey is not surprised that the topics he chooses to tackle are still wholly relevant to society. In his view, these issues have perpetually existed within society’s collective subconsciousness. “When I started this project, I could not have imagined how timely and even more urgent it would become. Here’s the thing. Toxic masculinity, racism and white supremacy, transphobia, body shame and gender norms – none of these things are new. These things have plagued us ever since this country was founded on invasion, genocide, slavery, segregation, internment, and the criminalization of trans and queer bodies and love.” All of Dorsey’s dance is uniquely educational about the transgender experience and has been performed all around the country on several tours, but he still feels a lack of acceptance from his own community on a wider scale. Though his work is routinely critically acclaimed and celebrated, he still sees barriers within the medium – walls he hopes to eradicate, one piece at a time. “In ways, the dance field has not changed,” he says. “The field still actively excludes trans and gender-nonconforming people. I am now asking the field to call this a crisis. The barriers are massive and numerous. My national education program, TRANSform Dance, addresses these, and through trainings, workshops and performances, we are working with the field to change.” One of those performances is BOYS IN TROUBLE, and Dorsey is excited for the District to see his work. “If you love the theatre, I guarantee you will be moved deeply and laugh out loud. You will leave with your heart cracked open and transformed. It’s a very, very powerful show.” BOYS IN TROUBLE will be performed at Dance Place on Saturday, May 19 at 8 p.m. and Sunday, May 20 at 7 p.m. Tickets are $15-$30. Learn more at www.danceplace.org.

Shakespeare Theatre’s Potted Potter included the post-show reception Fantastic Beers and Where to Find Them, with specialty beers from Ommegang Brewery and Harry Potter trivia.

Dance Place: 3225 8th St. NE, DC; 202-269-1600; www.danceplace.org www.ontaponline.com | MAY 2018 | ON TAP

Waitress Serving Up Music & Pie

By Keith Loria

Desi Oakley as Jenna

n 2006, an up-and-coming independent film writer and director by the name of Adrienne Shelly was tragically murdered at the age of 40, just three months prior to the acclaimed release of her movie Waitress. A decade later, a musical inspired by the cult fave came to Broadway and wowed the theatre community, garnering four Tony nominations in the process. The play’s all-women creative team boasts a book by Jessie Nelson, original music and lyrics by the six-time Grammy-nominated Sara Bareilles, choreography by Lorin Latarro, and direction by Tony Award winner Diane Paulus (Pippin). A touring version of Waitress will be staged at National Theatre for a three-week run starting May 15. In this production, actress Desi Oakley takes on the role of Jenna, the part that earned Jessie Mueller a Tony nod and brought Bareilles to Broadway for the first time. “I’d be lying if I didn’t say that Sara Bareilles has been someone who I have looked up to and respected for her music career since she began, so knowing that she wrote a musical was kind of like my two worlds combined, as I’m a singer/songwriter myself,” Oakley says. “When I heard about the show, I thought it was a genius idea and I didn’t think something could be so magical.” Waitress follows the journey of Jenna, an expert pie maker, who longs for a life away from her job as a waitress, small town and loveless marriage. The solutions to all her problems might be in a baking contest in a nearby county or the town’s new doctor, and her fellow waitresses are more than happy to butt in and provide their own recipes for Jenna’s happiness. “The story is really important to be telling in this time, and the songs have a lot of purpose,” Oakley says. “This is a story about a woman from a small town who has forgotten her dreams because of her life circumstances. Through this journey of her eyes being open, she learns her true self and is reminded that her dreams are worth fighting for. It’s

ON TAP | MAY 2018 | www.ontaponline.com

Photos: Joan Marcus

a story of friendship, love and self-acceptance.” Oakley has appeared on Broadway in a trio of shows – Wicked, Les Misérables and Annie – and has toured with national tours of Evita and Wicked. She saw Waitress early in its run on Broadway, but never dreamed Jenna would be a part she would one day play. “A lot of times when I see a show, I think, ‘I’d love to do that show,’ but it wasn’t even a glimmer in my eye. I just let the story affect me as an audience member. I think it makes a lot of sense now, but when I was watching it, I just let the story work its magic.” Once cast in the part, Oakley stayed away from listening to the cast recording. She says her voice is prone to mimic, and she wanted to offer he own take on Jenna. “I went back to the feel of what I heard and what I knew from listening to Sara. I read the script again and took a dive into the story to prepare.” Another thing she did was rewatch the 2007 movie version of Waitress. “I had seen it and loved Keri Russell in it, but hadn’t remembered a lot of it,” Oakley says. “We’re dramatizing the story onstage, so there are a lot of differences and a lot of heightened moments. I really like how Diane Paulus has staged it.”

The production’s changes in costumes, lights, sets and sound make it seem in many ways like a film. Oakley feels that’s a great nod to the movie, and fans of that version of Waitress will not be disappointed in the musical.

"It’s a story of friendship, love and self-acceptance." Oakley is enjoying the tour, as she loves traveling to different parts of the country and seeing and experiencing new places. She’s contracted for the tour through at least the fall, and is thrilled to be making the character her own. “My favorite thing is how real Jenna is,” she says. “I hardly ever leave the stage, but if I’m a little tired or stressed or anxious, that’s okay because those feelings work in Jenna. The more real I get, the more she will continue to be real. I’m embracing that and accepting myself, just as Jenna is in the story.” When not onstage, Oakley is pursuing a career in singing and songwriting. “It’s hard to make time for both, and right now, my focus is on this tour. I’m writing when I can, but my second album is on hold. Nothing fuels me like sitting down at the piano, so my heart will eventually lead me back to it.” Oakley’s original music can be found on Spotify and iTunes. Waitress runs at National Theatre from May 15 to June 3. Tickets start at $28. For more information, visit www.thenationaldc.org.

Photos: Devin Overbey

National Theatre: 1321 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, DC 202-628-6161; www.thenationaldc.org

Guests at Nat Geo Nights: Unexpected Origins enjoyed fare, beer and wine while learning from National Geographic explorers about evolution and the origins of the world’s ecosystems. Maiesha McQueen, Desi Oakley and Bryan Fenkart www.ontaponline.com | MAY 2018 | ON TAP

By Trent Johnson

he members of Bottled Up didn’t exactly know what their band name meant when they first considered it. Instead of asking 29-year-old singer-songwriter Niko Rao why he suggested it, they instead floated out numerous explanations – emotions being held back only to be revealed in songs or music that starts off slow thus bottling up energy released in an explosive conclusion, among others. Rao simply nodded along as his band members each tossed worthy theories at him, all different than the real reason he suggested the phrase. “It comes from a Devo song called ‘Bottled Up,’” Rao says, laughing. “I didn’t tell the band why I wanted to name it that and they came up with all these elaborate other meanings, which were interesting.” Yes, the name – like so many others – started as an homage to his favorite band, but the California native has since ceded that the name has evolved past a simple reference, transforming into an apt description for what Bottled Up is as a unit. “I’ve grown to like the name more than just as a reference,” Rao says. “I think it embodies our songwriting, and I definitely write things I keep bottled up.”

A DMV Collective

The Constant of Music

It didn’t take Rao long to find people to jam with after moving to the District in 2016. Like an elaborate domino effect, the musician went to a studio so he could bang on some drums to relieve frustration. Afterward, he badgered the guy at the front desk, Alex Dahms, to join him for a jam session. Alex (drums) brought eventual bassist Colin Kelly to the jam sesh, and during this meetup, lead guitarist Mikey Mastrangelo overheard the trio and asked to join in on the next one. “I kind of pressured [Alex] into jamming with me, because I had a bunch of riffs I wanted to toy around with from [my time in] L.A.,” Rao says. “We really had great chemistry. I didn’t interact with other people very well. Actually, I mostly played all of the stuff myself. I was very controlling over my music. With this band, I’m just happy to play with others who bring things out of our songs.” The group instantly formed a bond and has spent the past two years constantly jamming, writing music and evolving. Their self-titled record contains seven songs of new wave and garage-style surf rock delivered in speedy, two- or three-minute doses. If you’re thinking to yourself, “Wow, that’s a lot of genres in one sentence describing seven songs,” it’s probably because these guys define their genre as “¯\_( )_/¯.” “Well, I would definitely….oh man,” Rao says as he begins to try and describe their sounds for people who may not have heard them yet. “We’re totally new wave. Talking Heads, Devo, B-52s – that stuff is woven into my muscles at this point. I have a very angular, new wave guitar-playing style.”

One thing about the LP is that Rao’s up-and-down history is the emotional through line present in every track. Growing up on the West Coast, he dipped his toe in music after hearing the score of “Final Fantasy VII.” This prompted him to pick up a violin and study classical music, which he kept up with until his grandmother purchased him an electric guitar. “Until that point, I was going to study classical music and play tennis,” he says. “Once I got a guitar and skateboard, all I wanted to do was play rock music, skate and smoke weed. I was 14, and that was a big year for me because I got into all this rock, indie and punk music – all of the stuff you hear in the background of skate videos.” From then on, music was Rao’s life. After high school, he went to college for sound design, where he would formulate music for TV and video games. He also developed numerous drug addictions there, eventually leading to rehab and various group meetings. He ultimately decided to move to the DC area so he could be closer to family, and all the while he continued penning music. “I definitely channeled that in my songwriting. It’s weird when you move to a city because no one really knows your past, and you’re this new, fresh person. You can choose all the colors you want to present. It wasn’t tough for me in the beginning, even now, because I feel like it’s nice to get out. My music deals with the aftermath of that – the emotions in dealing with those overwhelming topics, the things I was locking out. I use music to process this stuff.”

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Photo: Courtesy of Bottled Up

“We don’t play anything off the old LP anymore,” Rao says of the band’s current shows. Since the release of Bottled Up last year, the group has morphed, changing up how they write songs and even the pacing of their tracks. Rao says while the first release featured fast, compact narratives, the follow-up allows for a little more breathing room and is a tad less aggressive, though still energetic. “I was just conditioned to play and think that way,” Rao says. “I don’t like bands that go on too long, and there’s always a point where a song will go on for too long. I think I can sense and feel when a song loses meaning, and I want to stop there.” Rao no longer formulates the chorus, bridge and structure before bringing it to his bandmates; sometimes, he even approaches them with just an inkling of an idea. “I was so stuck in my head with controlling everything. Now working with these guys, I bring something small and they take it to a place I didn’t know was possible.” Before their May 11 show at DC9, the group plans to release two new songs digitally. But even if you miss those or are weary you won’t be able to sing along, Rao made a tongue-in-cheek pun to get you pumped for the concert. “We have a lot bottled up, and we’re ready to explode and show everyone what we’re about,” Rao says, laughing. “We’re going to be theatrical, and we always try to change it up.” Rao and his bandmates are set to take the stage at DC9 on Friday, May 11, opening for Olden Yolk. Doors open at 8:30 p.m. Tickets are $12 and available at www.dc9.club. Learn more about Bottled Up at www.bottledup.bandcamp.com.

Photos: Shantel Mitchell Breen

A Repackaged Bottle

The Decemberists delivered an energetic performance at The Anthem in April. The audience was full of fans who cheered and sang along for their entire set. Tennis opened for the indie rockers.

DC9: 1940 9th St. NW, DC; 202-483-5000; www.dc9.club www.ontaponline.com | MAY 2018 | ON TAP

By Amanda Weisbrod

rom the start, Adam Levin knew it was meant to be. “It was a natural fit. I could just play the drums immediately.” Levin found a place to exercise his passion with brothers Sam (vocals, sax) and Casey (keys) Harris when they formed X Ambassadors in 2009. Since then, the threepiece, alt-rock group has released a full-length album, VHS (2015), and toured with Muse, Imagine Dragons and Panic! at the Disco. As they continue climbing the ladder of fame and success, Levin says he and his bandmates try to appreciate the little things in life as much as possible. This mindset is central to their upcoming album, Joyful. On June 7, X Ambassadors will play Wolf Trap’s Filene Center in Vienna, Virginia to promote Joyful and give listeners a taste of their new sound. The band has already released six singles to test the waters with fans who have been patiently waiting for another fulllength album for three years now. Although Levin says X Ambassadors is still the same band that created VHS, which featured hit singles “Renegades” and “Unsteady,”

ON TAP | MAY 2018 | www.ontaponline.com

Photo: Luis Gispert

the band didn’t want to create a “VHS 2.0.” Their latest singles, “Joyful” and “Don’t Stay,” reveal a transition into a bluesy, soulful sound that features layers unheard of in their previous style. “As we grow as musicians and songwriters, our music is going to grow with us,” Levin says. “We embrace our soul influences and [Sam’s] voice with big choir vocals. There’s a lot more impressive vocal work on this record.”

Photo: Catie Laffoon

X Ambassadors has been teasing Joyful’s release for quite some time, but has yet to announce a solid release date. Levin says 2018 is a safe bet, and we’ll just have to take his word for it. “It’s like a project that never ends because you write something new and it’s really cool and exciting, so it’s a constant shifting of songs,” he says. “We’re just trying to make it the best that we possibly can, and we want to take our time to put it out.” When asked about the message of Joyful, Levin was reluctant at first, but eventually gave a few hints as to what listeners can expect from their new venture into a more soul and R&B sound. “A lot of it is inspired by a friend of ours who’s going through addiction right now, and Sam’s been estranged from this person. I think a good amount of the record is speaking to that and Sam’s personal battle with it. It’s also about the message of taking a step to be joyful about the things that you do have.” Levin says that much of X Ambassadors’ messaging comes from using their privilege as three straight white males to give a voice to marginalized people. Although many bands are afraid they might alienate listeners if they speak out politically, X Ambassadors decided long ago to provoke discussion and change with their music. “People might disagree with our political viewpoints, but we don’t let that stop us from doing what we think is right,” he says. Some examples of their recent political activity include performing a special show to benefit Planned Parenthood on International Women’s Day in 2017 and donating all proceeds they earned for six months after

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the release of their single “Hoping” to the American Civil Liberties Union beginning in March of last year. “I think there are a lot of people right now who feel alienated and attacked, and we want to do what we can to represent them,” Levin says. “If that empowers them to keep fighting the good fight, then we’ve done our job.” Since they began writing music together in 2009, the bond between Levin and the Harris brothers has flourished because of all the trials and tribulations they experienced together as rising musicians. “There were so many times where this band felt like it wasn’t going to happen,” Levin says. “All of the different hurdles we’ve jumped have made us so much stronger.” But to Levin, hurdles and failures are no more than signs to turn around and go the other way. This philosophy is part of what gives X Ambassadors the drive and dedication to put out the best music they possibly can for their fans. “All of the things we’ve been through together and our ability to communicate is what it’s all about. The most important thing in any creative relationship is the ability to be candid and not afraid to say what you think, even if it might hurt some feelings.”

Along with their fearless, go-getter attitude, X Ambassadors embraces a “no bullsh-t” approach that they picked up from Imagine Dragons, who they credit for discovering them. “One thing we learned from touring with Imagine Dragons is to be overly nice to everyone you meet because it pays to do that,” Levin says. “It’s not like we were a--holes before that tour or anything, but we learned there’s no time for any of that rock star bullsh-t.” With the upcoming release of Joyful and a national tour underway, X Ambassadors is steadily moving toward their dream of becoming the headliners of their own major tour and selling out arenas all over the States. But no matter how big they get, they want to continue giving their fans music that they can hold onto during hard times. “We obviously want fans to love the music, but we also want them to feel represented or to find something that they can relate to,” Levin says. “A song can be written about one thing, but a person may hear it and they might not understand what it was originally written about, but it somehow relates to their life. That’s the beautiful thing about music and art, and that’s the message we want to bring with the record.” See X Ambassadors open for Fitz and the Tantrums at Wolf Trap’s Filene Center on Thursday, June 7. Doors open at 7 p.m. Tickets are $30-$55 and available for purchase at www.wolftrap.org. Learn more about the band at www.xambassadors.com. Wolf Trap’s Filene Center: 1551 Trap Rd. Vienna, VA 703- 255-1800; www.wolftrap.org

By Michael Loria and Amanda Weisbrod

SUNDAY, MAY 6

Bullet For My Valentine Come rock out with Bullet For My Valentine and hopefully hear songs off of their latest album, Gravity, set to release on June 29. With influences like Metallica and Slayer, lead singer Matt Tuck wasn’t kidding when he said BFMV is a “hard rock band with metal influences.” I’m secretly praying they’ll play “Tears Don’t Fall” and “The Poison.” Doors open at 6:30 p.m., show starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $27-$81. The Fillmore: 8656 Colesville Rd. Silver Spring, MD; www.fillmoresilverspring.com

MONDAY, MAY 7

Panda Bear Noah Lennox, a founding member of Animal Collective, has been making music as Panda Bear since his teenage years when people first noticed his penchant for drawing pandas on his mixtapes. His last record, Panda Bear Meets the

Grim Reaper (2015), is a downtempo electronic record. In its synths and drums, and even the progressions, it’s reminiscent of 80s synth pop, but in its overall mood it feels more like experimental chill wave. Doors open at 7 p.m. Tickets are $25. 9:30 Club: 815 V St. NW, DC; www.930.com

TUESDAY, MAY 8

Braids Braids hasn’t released new music since Companion EP in 2016, but they’re trying out new material on their latest tour. According to their Spotify playlist, Songs that are Inspiring LP4, their new record is taking influence from Joni Mitchell, Prince, Kendrick Lamar and Fleetwood Mac. I’m not sure how that mix will play out, but I’m sure it’ll sound close to “Joni” off of Companion, which shows ties to Joni Mitchell in the freewheeling melody, but keeps the iconic Braids beats and production that sucks listeners in. Doors open at 7 p.m. Tickets start at $12. Songbyrd Record Cafe and Music House: 2745 18th St. NW, DC; www.songbyrd.com

ON TAP | MAY 2018 | www.ontaponline.com

WEDNESDAY, MAY 9

Kid Brother With three guitarists, a bassist, a drummer and a keyboardist, this six-piece indie rock band really fills the room with their folk and blues-inspired sound. With just over a year of playing together under their belts, Kid Brother already has two quality albums out on bandcamp.com. Not only is their music complex and their lyrics riveting, but they’re also genuinely fun to listen to. Plus, they’re from Northern Virginia, so now you have even more incentive to come to this show. 21+ only. Doors open at 7 p.m., show starts at 8 p.m. Tickets are $10. Gypsy Sally’s: 3401 K St. NW, DC; www.gypsysallys.com

THURSDAY, MAY 10

Moon Boots Moon Boots is a Brooklyn-born and now Brooklyn-based DJ and producer, so it’s little wonder that I was first introduced to him

by a Brooklynite. After school, where he may have studied engineering but more likely Daft Punk, he moved to Chicago, the birthplace of house, and those Chicago days really shine through in his music. He was there on the floor experiencing Frankie Knuckles and Derick Carter and it shows in his music, but perhaps even more so in his live shows. Doors open at 8 p.m. Tickets are $20. Union Stage: 740 Water St. SW, DC; www.unionstage.com

FRIDAY, MAY 11

Wye Oak With their “most gripping and powerful set of songs to date,” Wye Oak created their biggest, boldest music yet on their fifth and latest studio album release, The Louder I Call, The Faster It Runs. Jenn Wasner’s mystical vocals float over complex rhythms and melodies in constant comfort, even though the lyrical content is heavy. For 10 years, Wasner and her musical partner in crime Andy Stack have been working towards a truly great album, and they’ve finally accomplished their goal. Head out to their show tonight to experience their surreal sound in the flesh.

Doors open at 8 p.m. Tickets are $25. 9:30 Club: 815 V St. NW, DC; www.930.com

SUNDAY, MAY 13

THURSDAY, MAY 17

SATURDAY, MAY 12

Frankie Cosmos Their three-part harmonies, eclectic yet catchy pop melodies and deep, playful lyrics are out of this world. Frankie Cosmos, originally the brain child of Greta Kline, transformed into a four-piece masterpiece and really came into its own sound. The New York Times, Rolling Stone and Pitchfork have already praised their sophisticated instrumentals and lofty vocals, so be on the lookout for great things from this group. And come see their live show at Black Cat while you’re at it. Doors open at 8 p.m. Tickets are $15. Black Cat: 1811 14th St. NW, DC; www.blackcatdc.com

Odd Mojo This free Velvet Lounge show follows on the Funk Parade on Saturday, May 12. But don’t let the free tickets fool you. This show is worth way more than that and because it’s free, you definitely shouldn’t miss it. Odd Mojo is an MC from Maryland. Her music and flow recall old school rappers, though her verses boast a contemporary awareness and positivity. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. Free. Velvet Lounge: 915 U St. NW, DC; www.velvetloungedc.com

Jorja Smith The R&B singer-songwriter has been on the rise since her 2016 single “Blue Lights.” To give you an idea of where she’s gone from there, she collaborated with Drake on two tracks on More Life (2017) and wrote a track with Kendrick Lamar for the Black Panther soundtrack in 2018. Smith has also recently collaborated with Stormzy and Kali Uchis. She’s known for the jazz cadences to her singing, recalling at once Rihanna and Amy Winehouse, who Englandnative Smith claims as her biggest influence. Doors open at 6 p.m. Tickets start at $25. Howard Theatre: 620 T St. NW, DC; www.thehowardtheatre.com

Fleet Foxes The calming, ethereal and environmentally focused sounds from Fleet Foxes will take you away to another world of faeries and folklore, yet eerily similar to our own. Complex instrumentals, thoughtful lyrics and hypnotizing vocals will make you want to listen over and over again until you grasp all of the subtleties and hidden meanings beneath the surface. Experience this otherworldly sound for yourself live at The Anthem. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., show starts at 8 p.m. Tickets are $45-$75. The Anthem: 901 Wharf St. SW, DC; www.theanthemdc.com

Jukebox the Ghost If feel-good piano pop tunes are your jam, you’ll love DC natives Jukebox the Ghost. With the release of their 2018 album, Off To The Races, Jukebox the Ghost now has five albums worth of uplifting lyrics and Queeninspired music. Their top track on Spotify, “Everybody’s Lonely,” has an obvious “Bohemian Rhapsody” vibe going on and I absolutely love it. And the band’s little ghost logo is adorable. What’s not to love? Doors open at 7 p.m. Tickets are $25-$60. 9:30 Club: 815 V St. NW, DC; www.930.com

SATURDAY, MAY 19

WEDNESDAY, MAY 16

TUESDAY, MAY 15

The Artisanals Picture 70s George Harrison – hair, mustache and incredible songwriting included. The Artisanals sound a lot like how you would picture Harrison, and they even take sonic inspiration from the rock ‘n’ roll icon himself. The Artisanals have a knack for crescendo in their American folk-rock music – building tension for over half of the song and releasing it to a euphoric combination of keys and the soft plucking of guitar strings. If you’re a 70s rock fan, you’ll love these guys. Doors open at 7:30 p.m., show starts at 8 p.m. Tickets are $10-$12. DC9: 1940 9th St. NW, DC; www.dc9.club

Mdou Moctar From Niger, Mdou Moctar has become something of a star among Tuareg musician. Like Tinariwen, he is among the first Tuareg guitarists to adapt traditional Tuareg music to electronics. Among the crowded scene, he is known for his unique, genre-bending compositions and has become an underground success, playing sold out shows from small DIY clubs to Lincoln Center. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $10. Black Cat: 1811 14th St. NW, DC; www.blackcatdc.com

Quiet Slang Beach Slang’s front man James Alex lets his vulnerable vocals soar in a new, softer project with Quiet Slang. Consequence of Sound writes that Alex put it this way: “Beach Slang is drunk, sweaty sins on a Saturday night. Quiet Slang is salvation on Sunday morning.” With only cello and piano resonating beneath him, Alex’s vocals standout as emotionally charged and meaningful. Depending on your taste, you might even like Quiet Slang better than the original. Doors open at 7 p.m., show starts at 8 p.m. Tickets are $15. Rock & Roll Hotel: 1353 H St. NE, DC: www.rockandrollhoteldc.com

www.ontaponline.com | MAY 2018 | ON TAP

TUESDAY, MAY 22

American Pleasure Club Formerly known as Teen Suicide, American Pleasure Club, led by songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Sam Ray, manages to blend music genres you’d think would go together as well as Chinese food and chocolate pudding. But somehow, they make a combination of American folk, Japanese ambient music, modern rap and 90s indie rock sound surprisingly amiable, laid back and moving. Check out Ray’s 2018 album, A Whole Fucking Lifetime of This, to see what I mean. Doors open at 7 p.m., show starts at 8 p.m. Tickets starting at $15. Songbyrd Record Cafe and Music House: 2477 18th St. NW, DC; www.songbyrddc.com

FRIDAY, MAY 25

full costume, for performances. Doors open at 8 p.m. Tickets start at $8. Flash: 645 Florida Ave. NW, DC; www.flashdc.com

timbres and some of the song structures. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $12. DC9: 1940 9th St. NW, DC; www.dc9.club

SUNDAY, MAY 27

TUESDAY, MAY 29 WEDNESDAY, MAY 30

This Is The Kit Kate Sables has been making music under the alias This is the Kit since 2008. Her music is a kind of alternative folk with a band consisting of regular contributors and ever-changing ones. Their latest record was Moonshine Freeze (2017), some songs of which they got to perform at a NPR Tiny Desk concert in December. For alternative folk, don’t think they’re along the same lines as Bon Iver. Their music is something more raucous and fun. If Ezra Furman gives a somewhat ecstatic take on Americana, This Is The Kit gives a more ecstatic take on British folk, though with little punk influence. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $15. DC9: 1940 9th St. NW, DC; www.dc9.club

John Fogerty and ZZ Top Two Rock & Roll Hall of Fame icons, John Fogerty of Creedence Clearwater Revival and ZZ Top, blues rock legends since the 1970s, are coming to Wolf Trap for two straight dates. Fogerty will be performing his songs from CCR, and from ZZ Top, you can look forward to tracks like “La Grange,” “Sharp Dressed Man” and “Gimme All Your Lovin’.” Doors open at 7 p.m. Tickets start at $45. Wolf Trap’s Filene Center: 1551 Trap Rd. Vienna, VA; www.wolftrap.org

Michael Rault Montreal-based singersongwriter and producer Michael Rault makes music that toes the line between inspiring and plainly derivative. It’s music much like that of another Canadian contemporary, Andy Shauf. It’s heavy on shakers and clean, lush, stringy production. There’s more of a Laurel Canyon influence, however, which really comes out in the guitar

ON TAP | MAY 2018 | www.ontaponline.com

FRIDAY, JUNE 1

WEDNESDAY, MAY 30

TUESDAY, MAY 29

Atish The Atish experience is “deep, emotive, ecstatic.” The Bay Area DJ actually got his start as a software engineer for Facebook, but soon gave that up for producing. Somehow, it makes sense that he moved from the tech industry to DJing the Robot Heart Bus at Burning Man, first in 2011 and for three years following. Since then, he’s made a name for himself for his melodic deep house and his strict devotion to DJing rather than producing. He’s also known as a charismatic performer, engaging the crowd and donning at least a wig, if not a

SayWeCanFly Braden Barrie, SayWeCanFly creator, singer and songwriter, began writing music in his bedroom in Ontario in 2009. Since then, his songs have streamed over 30 million times and he’s toured all over North America. Barrie brings out the 2009 emo kid in all of us with his angsty lyrics, smooth vocals and emotionally driven acoustic melodies. He reminds me of Christofer Drew Ingle (aka 2009 emo heartthrob Never Shout Never), but with darker sad boy vibes. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., show starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $12-$25. Jammin Java: 227 Maple Ave. E, VA; www.jamminjava.com

Japanese Breakfast Japanese Breakfast has traveled through DC several times over the past few years. They started by opening for bands like Mitski and Porches at Rock & Roll Hotel on H Street. On their last DC excursion, they played a Tiny Desk Concert and headlined at Black Cat. Now they’re headlining 9:30 Club. Get your tickets before they sell out or you’ll have to wait until they play at The Anthem. Doors open at 7 p.m. Tickets are $18. 9:30 Club: 815 V St. NW, DC; www.930.com

Top Dawg Entertainment: The Championship Tour The billing for this show should immediately speak for itself. Kendrick Lamar is, of course, leading the show and is easily reason enough to make it out, but other TDE highlights will be there, including SZA, ScHoolboy Q, Jay Rock, Ab-Soul, SiR and Lance Skiiwalker. TDE has been at the front of not just hip hop but also, arguably, music whatsoever. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $39. Jiffy Lube Live: 7800 Cellar Door Rd. Bristow, VA; www.livenation.com

Photos: Shantel Mitchell Breen, Mike Kim and Mark Raker

Early spring brought tremendous musical acts to the DMV, and On Tap was lucky enough to catch more than a few. Some highlights included Ann Wilson of Heart headlining a show at The Fillmore Silver Spring, DC101â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Blossom Bash at The Anthem featuring Bush and Third Eye Blind, and The Strokesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Albert Hammond Jr. lighting up U Street Music Hall.

IF YOU THINK ADVENTURE IS DANGEROUS, TRY ROUTINE. – PAULO COELHO