Sorry for the delay this week, life got in the way! 🦃

Thank you for everyone who came out to the tartare tasting at Ugly Duckling on Sunday, I had a blast trying all the food and chatting with everyone.

Thanksgiving Volunteering at Food For All DC

Join us for a volunteer shift at Food For All DC near Logan Circle on Tuesday (11/25) morning. Spend the morning helping to pack groceries for homebound individuals.

Last year, Peter Sage at Food For All told us that we were the group with the most laughter of any group who has come to volunteer before. It's a fun way to give back while also meeting new people.

​👉Spots are limited--sign up today to grab your spot!​

Can't make it? Details on how to help them are listed too!

Valerie

Five years, one pandemic, and a whole lotta wine later... it’s time to party.

🎉 Join us on Sunday, December 7 at 1 PM for the St. Vincent 5th Anniversary Feast — an all-day, all-inclusive wine-soaked celebration featuring Chef Joel’s famous bites, flowing drinks, live jazz, a chocolate fondue fountain, tarot card readings, a mini holiday market, and pure festive chaos (the good kind).

Your ticket gets you unlimited access to food, drink, music, and magic — both upstairs and in our heated outdoor tent. No fancy dress code. Just bring your wine-loving friends, your appetite, and your smiling face. This is the feast to end all feasts.

​👉 Get your tickets now​

Give your opinion, and check back next week for the results.

Last week, I asked: It can be hard to make new friends. Would you be interested in a 6 week friendship intensive where the same group meets every week to explore DC? You responded:

• Yes (88.6%)
• No (11.4%)

Tried & True features your favorite go-to restaurants that have been around for a while and serve you consistently good food.

This Week's Feature: Pho 14

"Pho14 Veggie summer rolls and vermicelli with beef" Sara

Locations: 1436 Park Rd NW; 1769 Columbia Rd NW; and 4201 Connecticut Ave NW in DC
​Website​

😋 What is your favorite tried and true restaurant?

Where do you find yourself going back time and time again? Reply and let me know to be featured and share the love for a local DC restaurant.

✨ Premium subscribers: Events calendar is here!

Now you can search and filter events by category, date, and my top recommendations, as well as see it in an easier to read list view or on a calendar. Choose between a monthly or weekly view.

And it's mobile friendly! Go check out all the events.

Our premium subscribers get the full event list (250+!), weekly updates, and VIP access to exclusive Not Bored in DC events.

Looking for something specific? Check out these options:

• ​Art lover's Itinerary​
• ​Hidden gem theaters​
• ​Where to see fall foliage​
• ​Holiday volunteer opportunities​
• ​Best Christmas markets​

• 📖 Black Printmakers of Washington, DC is a documentary screening about Percy Martin and Michael Platt, who created vital printmaking spaces for Black artists when galleries and museums shut them out. You'll get to hear from the filmmakers and artists themselves in a discussion afterward. Wednesday 11/19. Free.
• 🧠 Bring your broken stuff to this fix-it clinic where you can learn to repair small appliances, electronics, toys, and clothes with help from other DIY enthusiasts. It's like a sustainability meetup where you actually leave with something working again! Wednesday 11/19. Free.
• 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Watch a neighbor take on Jeopardy! at this fun watch party at Kbird Bar and enjoy drinks, cheer on Josh Chen, or stick around for a Q&A after the show. Wednesday 11/19. Free.
• 🧠 Bring whatever you're working on to this chill writers workshop where you can write fiction, nonfiction, or anything in between with prompts and snacks provided. All experience levels welcome, plus you can share your work if you want to. Wednesday 11/19. Free.
• 🧠 Ever wondered how locks actually work? Learn lockpicking basics at this monthly meetup where actual locksmiths teach you the craft in a friendly classroom setting. No experience or tools needed. Wednesday 11/19. Free.
• 🖼️ NMWA Nights is your monthly chance to explore the galleries with a cocktail in hand, plus live music, art-making activities, and tours after regular hours. Two drink tickets are included, so you can sip while you wander through the women's art collection. Wednesday 11/19. $25.

• 📖 Explore the fascinating story behind lacrosse’s Indigenous roots and its rise as America’s fastest growing sport with Sovereignty, Lacrosse, and Olympic Controversy, featuring a talk and book signing with author S.L. Price and Haudenosaunee Nationals Board Chairman Leo Nolan. Thursday 11/20. Free.
• 🖼️ Check out this free exhibition celebrating American art featuring works by female artists and artists of color from Howard University and University of Maryland collections. The Phillips Collection opens its doors for free on the third Thursday of every month, so it's the perfect time to explore art that tells diverse American stories. Thursday 11/20. Free.
• 🧠 Learn to read tarot cards in a small group workshop that focuses on building your intuition rather than memorizing meanings. You'll practice with The Wild Unknown deck and leave feeling confident to keep learning on your own. Thursday 11/20/2025. $100 early bird.
• 🖌️ Create your own autumn table decorations at Shaw Library and make your next fall gathering extra special. All ages welcome, so bring the whole family for some crafty fun! Thursday 11/20. Free.
• 🖌️ Make your own pressed-flower mason jar lantern at Sapphic Crafting Night while enjoying a free cocktail, Truly, or draft beer. Thursday 11/20. $15.
• 🖌️ Make your own holiday cards from scratch using printmaking techniques and fancy papers with artist Alex Donahue. You'll spend three hours getting creative with other makers at Plaza Artist Materials. Thursday 11/20. $30.

• 🧠 Test your digital skills and earn a certificate that looks great on your résumé with these NorthStar assessments covering everything from basic computer skills to social media. Just bring earbuds and arrive 30 minutes early to snag one of the 16 spots. Friday 11/21. Free.
• 🕺 Catch the energy of the Darude Storm25 World Tour 2025 with the iconic track Sandstorm lighting up Soundcheck in DC. Friday 11/21. $28+*
• 🎭 Find hidden free tickets in local little free libraries for Cupboard's Cabaret on Nov 21st and enjoy a night of clowns, alt comedy, and a wild open mic at Dupont Underground. Thursday 11/21. $15.
• 📖 Find the perfect kids’ books for ages 2 to 16 with expert picks from Melissa LaSalle at Kids Gift Guide Live while enjoying hot chocolate and personal shopping help. Friday 11/21. $27.
• 🖌️ Make your own spell jars and charm bags filled with herbs, rose petals, and cinnamon to carry good energy and intentions at this hands-on Spell Jar and Charm Bag Making Workshop. Friday 11/21. $30+.
• 🍲 If you’re still on the lookout for a good whiskey taste, you might find them at the Whiskey Washback, where you’ll taste 100+ whiskies, including bourbons, ryes, and scotch. Friday 11/21. $125+.*
• 🤓 Get ready for some friendly competition at Hops Water and Yeets Board Game Night where you can play everything from Mario Kart to skeeball while sipping craft beer at City State Brewing. It's part arcade, part board game night, and totally welcoming to players of all skill levels. Friday 11/21. Free.
• 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 SZN'D: A 30 & Over Friendsgiving brings together folks 30+ for good food, themed cocktails, and R&B classics while supporting the Capital Area Food Bank. Think buffet-style comfort food, photo booth fun, and making new friends over gratitude and great music. Friday 11/21. $18.
• 🕺 Have fun learning Salsa with a free beginner lesson before open dancing to a DJ at the Back Room Salsa Night in Glen Echo Park’s Ballroom Back Room. Friday 11/21. $12.
• 🎭 Barry Farm Teen Flick & Chill-Movie Night is exactly what it sounds like: movies, snacks, and hanging out with friends at the rec center. Perfect low-key Friday night if you want to relax and catch a flick. Friday 11/21. Free.

• 📜 Get an insider's look at President Lincoln's Cottage with a preservation-focused private tour led by the Director of Preservation, who'll show off some of his favorite artifacts. Wear comfy walking shoes for this behind-the-scenes experience. Saturday 11/22. $15-25.
• 🛍️ Find cozy Finnish treats and unique handmade gifts at the Finn Spark Christmas Bazaar where you can snack on Karelian Pies, open face gravlax sandwiches, and warm up with Glögg. This longtime Bethesda tradition happens at River Road Unitarian Universalist Congregation and supports elder care and youth scholarships. Saturday 11/22. Free.
• 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 New York Ave Rec is giving away free turkeys to families in their community, plus there's a Friendsgiving celebration with food and good company. Perfect way to help neighbors and connect with your community before the holidays. Saturday 11/22. Free.
• 🖌️ Learn to make your own eco-friendly soy candles with aromatherapist Habeebah Muhammad at this hands-on workshop where you'll pick between lavender or lemongrass scents and go home with your creation. You'll get all the tips on measurements, ingredients, and making those scents last. Saturday 11/22. Free.
• 🖌️ Spend three hours making as much copper wire jewelry as you want with all tools and materials provided, plus snacks and drinks to keep you fueled. Bring your own stones if you have favorites, or just show up ready to experiment! Saturday 11/22. $18.
• 🖌️ Skip the crowded stores and make your own holiday wreath using fresh herbs, pinecones, and other locally sourced goodies from urban farms. You'll leave with something beautiful and fragrant for your door or table. Saturday 11/22. $66.
• 🖌️ Learn how to twist and shape balloons into cool designs with this How to be a Balloon Artist 101 class that’s perfect whether you’re new or want to sharpen your skills. Saturday 11/22. $249.
• 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Friendsgiving at Rosedale brings together neighbors for a cozy community feast where everyone's welcome at the table. Perfect chance to meet new people and share good food in a relaxed setting. Saturday 11/22. Free.
• 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Martha's Table is throwing a Community Harvest Dinner with chef-inspired seasonal food, activities for kids, and a chance to meet your neighbors over a really good meal. It's the kind of community gathering that reminds you why sharing food with people feels so good. Saturday 11/22. Free.
• 🤓 Games Day at MLK Library is perfect for polishing your Spades skills before Thanksgiving or finally trying that Fast and Furious board game. Bring your own cards or games and hang out with fellow Nerds of Color. Saturday 11/22. Free.

• 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Support local businesses while having fun with this DC-wide scavenger hunt that takes you to small shops and restaurants across the city. You'll complete missions, discover new favorites, and even vote for the best holiday decorations between December 1st-15th. Sunday 11/23. Free.
• 🛍️ This size-inclusive market is all about celebrating yourself with vintage fashion, local art, styling help, and activities focused on self-love and confidence. Plus there's a DJ, coffee, and treats to keep the good energy going. Sunday 11/23. Free.
• 🤝 Help serve Thanksgiving dinner and collect turkeys for families at Ridge Road Community Center. It's a great way to connect with your community and make the holiday meaningful for everyone. Sunday 11/23. Free.
• 🖌️ Get creative with flowers at the Flower Potluck & Workshop where you bring blooms and a vessel to arrange, then mix and match with others’ flowers for a hands-on floral experience. Sunday 11/23. $45.
• 🕺 Eastern Market is turning into an outdoor jazz cafe with live music and cafe tables right at the market. Perfect fall soundtrack while you browse the vendors and soak up those crisp November feels. Sunday 11/23. Free.
• 🕺 Sing DC is a no-pressure community choir where you start with meditation and breathwork, then learn harmonies to songs you actually love. No auditions or judgment, just good energy and the chance to stretch your voice with other people. Sunday 11/23. $25.
• 🖌️ Get your hands messy learning to decorate Thanksgiving sugar cookies with royal icing at this beginner-friendly class in Fairfax. You'll take home 8 beautifully decorated cookies perfect for your holiday table. Sunday 11/23. $114.
• 🖌️ Make your own plant pot while sipping craft beer at this no-experience-needed pottery workshop that's perfect whether you're flying solo or bringing friends. You'll leave with something you made by hand and a surprisingly zen feeling. Sunday 11/23. $75.

🤫 Psst! I couldn't fit everything in this issue. See 90 events happening this weekend and next week like:

• Bring your own supper club
• Learn recipes carved in gravestones
• Turkey Trots
• Blind wine tasting
• Taco Bell 50K

Click the Login link below the form and use the email you're subscribed with.

⚡ More events. More access. Zero FOMO.

Our premium subscribers get the full event list (250+!), weekly updates, and VIP access to exclusive Not Bored in DC events.

​👉 Upgrade to Premium here​

Know of something cool happening? Submit an event for consideration!

* Items marked with an asterisks contain affiliate links (for which I earn a small commission at no additional cost to you) or sponsored. Events are featured based on if I find them interesting and think others will too, regardless if they are affiliate or sponsored.