What to Do in DC on a Summer Day Off

Image courtesy Pixabay

Maybe your office has "Summer Fridays" or you just have a vacation day burning a hole in your pocket. you make the call or email and call off work, but then what? The possibilities are virtually endless, but if you're in need of some summertime in DC inspiration, we have got you covered!

1. Sleep in - Hopefully, we don't actually have to encourage you to do this, but it's your day off. You deserve it.

2. Enjoy your favorite amenity - Take a swim at the pool or squeeze in a workout at gym at The Louis to get your day off to an energizing start!

3. Make it a long weekend - Plan a weekend trip to the Chesapeake Bay, Bethany Beach, or Cape May - all of which are within driving distance of Washington DC.

4. Hit the roof - Visit one of DC's top ranked rooftop bars (via Thrillist). Establishments with stellar rooftop views in the 14 Street/U Street/Shaw area include Masa 14, El Centro D.F., Marvin, Lost Society, Local 16, Nellie's Sports Bar, The Brixton, DC 9, 1905 Bistro & Bar, and Dunya Restaurant & Bar!

5. Explore the exhibits at your favorite museum - If you take a day off in the middle of the week, you won't have to fight off the crowds of tourists at your favorite museum!

6. Get in a full 18 holes - When was the last time you went golfing? Get in a round of golf early in the day before the heat sets in! Visit Golf DC for additional resources and upcoming events.

7. Rent a boat - Cruise the waters of the Potomac, or anywhere in the area really. Go in on a boat rental fee with a couple of friends. You can rent boats with or without captains, so whether you prefer to be in control (with a license, of course) of want to sit back and relax with a cold one in hand, you can find a vessel that's right for you!

8. Do something you've always wanted to, but never had time for - If you're going to use a vacation day, make it count! Maybe you've always wanted to try a particular restaurant or rent a paddleboat at the Tidal Basin. Carpe diem!

With so many stores, activities and attractions in the area, it is hard to narrow down the options. The important things are to relax and do what makes you happy on your next day off or long weekend!

What tops your personal list of things to do on your day off? Share yours on The Louis' Facebook or Twitter pages!

Additional sources consulted:
Capitol File Magazine

Furnish Your Home at The Louis

Image courtesy Pixabay

Once you have signed the lease and start packing the moving boxes to move into The Louis, then comes the fun task of...shopping! How do you want to decorate your new space? What vibe do you want it to have? Luckily, in the 14th & U area, there are many home furnishing stores to find beautiful new pieces of furniture and other decor items for your new apartment home. If you are unsure where to begin, here are some of our favorites:

Home Rule | 1807 14th St. NW

If you share the philosophy that you can never own too many kitchen gadgets, then Home Rule is going to be your new best friend! USA ice cube tray? Check. Contoured ice cream scoops for the perfect scoop? Check. Do you need these things? Maybe not, but you'll buy them anyway. Home Rule is open Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sunday from noon to 5:30 p.m.

Room & Board | 14th & T St.

It's pretty easy to spend hours upon hours inside Room & Board. Located in a restored Ford Motors showroom, there are 4 floors to explore. If you're in search of a new sofa, Room & Board offers an extensive selection of fabrics. Many of the pieces you'll find at Room & Board are made in America! Store hours are Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Salt & Sundry | 1401 S St.

If you have more of a boho decor affinity, you will find plenty of pieces to complete your rooms at Salt & Sundry. While the store offers tables, most of their decor consists of accent/complementary pieces of furniture, including bar carts and fixings to go on it, candles, throws and more. Visit the store Tuesday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

West Elm | 1728 14th St., NW

West Elm carries a wide variety bedding, furniture, home decor, lighting and kitchenware in fun and modern designs. Get lost in the store's two floors of home decor! The store is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

If none of these stores have quite the pieces you're looking for, consider checking out the District Flea, which is held on Saturdays through October! With so many stores and shops in our area, it is difficult to list them all, but it's almost impossible to go a block without seeing a home furnishing/decor store! 

What do you think are our area's hidden home decor gems? Follow The Louis' Facebook and Twitter pages and share yours!

Additional sources consulted:

Borderstan

DC Racked

Washingtonian

Ways to Celebrate July 4th in DC

This Saturday, July 4, the United States of America will celebrate its 239th birthday! Because we live in city of such strong historical and political significance, there will be no shortage of ways to celebrate this Independence Day in the District. With an extra long weekend ahead, get ready to do some celebrating, American style!

Fireworks
What would the Fourth of July be without a fireworks spectacular? According to Washingtonian Magazine, some of the best views in the city that are nearby your apartment home at The Louis can be found on the DNV Rooftop, Brixton and Satellite Room. If you're seeking a more exclusive experience, head up to the rooftop at The Louis or purchase a ticket for the W Hotel's annual "Boom with a View" fireworks and cocktail event.

Image courtesy Pixabay

National Independence Day Parade
Parades have become an American tradition and the National Independence Day Parade will surely get you into the patriotic spirit! The parade begins at 11:45 AM at Constitution Avenue and 7th Street, and continues down Constitution to 17th Street.

National Archives
Home to the Declaration of Independence, the National Archives is holding several events to get visitors involved in their celebration of the historical document. From 10 - 11 AM, join the Archives for a dramatic reading of the Declaration of Independence by costumed interpreters Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Benjamin Franklin and Ned Hector. Following the reading, and through 4 PM, visitors may visit the Boeing Learning Center for crafts and other activities.

BBQ
Fire up the grill and have an all-American cookout! If you don't want to do the cooking yourself, head down to City Tap House for the Beer-B-Q Battle from noon to 5 PM. Guests will vote for their favorite beer and barbecue pairings, play cornhole and enjoy $5 drafts. Tickets cost $15.

Of course, there are many more events taking place throughout the holiday weekend. Where will you be? At home baking an apple pie and grilling, or on a rooftop bar in the city? Share you plans with The Louis on our social media pages on Facebook and Twitter. Happy Independence Day! Have a safe and happy holiday!

Get Ready for a BBQ Battle

Image courtesy Pixabay

One of the best aspects of summertime living is definitely cooking on the grill. If you enjoy indulging in all meats smothered in barbecue sauce or dry rubs, then you will not want to miss the Safeway National Capital Barbecue Battle 2015! In fact, the National Capital Barbecue Battle has been named a "Top 10 BBQ Event" by both the Travel Channel and Discovery.com. This annual competition among both local and national barbecue artists takes place this weekend, June 27-28, in downtown Washington DC.

Even if you aren't exactly obsessed with barbecue, there is a variety of ways to enjoy this event. Visitors will not only be able to enjoy samples and food demonstrations, but also live entertainment from more than 30 bands. Some of the bands providing music stylings include The Morrison Brothers Band, The Exclusives, X-Factor, Chuck Brown Band, Be'la Dona, and more. There are also areas for BBQ-related merchandise, book signings and even an NBA exhibit.

Now back to the main event - the barbecue. Throughout the weekend, 7 different competitions will be held: Safeway's National Barbecue Championship, The National Pork BBQ Championship, Open Nature All Natural Lamb Contest, Safeway USDA Choice Best Beef Contest, Safeway Select Extra Meaty Rib Contest, America's Best Sauce Contest and Military Chefs Cook-Off. The winners of these contests will be awarded cash prizes and/or trophies.

Is your mouth watering in anticipation? The festival will take place off of Pennsylvania Ave., behind the Ronald Reagan Building, between 9th and 14th Streets. Festival hours are from 11 AM to 9 PM on Saturday, and from 11 AM to 7:30 PM on Sunday. Tickets, which range from $12 - $75, may be purchased online.

From your apartment home at The Louis at 14, this event is easily accessible via Metro. The closest stops to the event are at Federal Triangle, Archives-Navy Memorial-Penn Quarter, and Metro Center.

Enjoy one of the most popular summer events in Washington DC by joining in on the barbecue festivities! Your taste buds will be glad that you did! Have you attended the Barbecue Battle in pervious years? Do you plan to partake this weekend? Share your thoughts with us on The Louis' Facebook and Twitter pages! Pro-tip: Keep the napkins handy!

Additional sources consulted:
About Travel

Capital Pride 2015

June is national LGBT Pride Month and the District has been celebrating it for 40 years! Each year, Capital Pride produces nearly two weeks of LGBT events aimed toward educating, celebrating and entertaining the metropolitan DC area. While DC's Pride events began on June 3, this weekend is the culmination of Pride - the Pride Fest and Parade!

Pride Parade

This year's Pride Parade takes place this Saturday, June 13 at 4:30 PM. The parade route begins at 22nd & P Streets and ends in The Louis at 14th's neighborhood at 14th & S Streets. The parade route is 1.5 miles total and travels through DC's Dupont Circle and Logan Circle neighborhoods. The parade is expected to wrap up at 7:30 PM. The theme of this year's parade is Flashback. E!'s Ross Matthews will officiate a wedding on top of the Marriott float on the corner of P & 15th Streets.

Pride Festival

The 40th Annual Pride Festival is on Sunday, June 14 from noon to 7 PM. Pride Fest will be along Pennsylvania Ave. between 3rd and 7th Streets. While the festival closes at 7 PM, the concert will continue through 9 PM. In addition to the entertainment, the festival features more than 300 exhibitors, ranging from community organizations to  The festival is family-friendly and free to attend. However, it is recommended that pets stay at home. There will be kid's areas, including one with an inflatable water slide and face painters. For the adults, a few beverage gardens will be scattered throughout the festival areas.

Performers at the Pride Concert reflect this year's theme, incorporating artists from the 80s, 90s and today. The lineup includes Carly Rae Jepson, Wilson Phillips, En Vogue, Katy Tiz and Amber. The concerts begin at 1PM.

While these are a couple of Pride's biggest events, there are events going on daily through Sunday! To view a full schedule of events, visit the Capital Pride website.

With the Pride Parade taking place right in your apartment home's backyard, will you be attending? What other Pride activities have you been looking forward to? Share your thoughts with us on The Louis' Facebook and Twitter pages!

Additional sources consulted:

Metro Weekly

Day Trip: Louden County Wine Country

Did you know that within 25 miles of Washington DC sits one of the area's finest wine countries? Louden County, Virginia is home to more than 40 wineries! If you're itching to escape city life for an afternoon or weekend, consider sipping your way through Louden County. Here are just a few highlights - to learn more about Louden County wineries, visit Visit Louden.

Doukenie Winery

Voted the "Favorite Tasting Room in Virginia" in 2013 and 2014, Doukenie Winery's tastings are a bargain at only $10 per person. Tastings include two reds, four whites and a dessert wine. Doukenie Winery is located in Purcellville.

Fabbioli Cellars

Located in Leesburg, Fabbioli Cellars has been in business since the late 80s, but didn't move to Virginia until 2000. Their standard tasting consists of 7 wines and small bites, and costs between $15-$20, depending on the number of people in your party. 

Stone Tower Winery

Stone Tower Winery is located on a farm on Hogback Mountain in Leesburg. While a new tasting room is currently under construction, you can still attend tastings on the property Thursday through Monday from 11 AM to 6 PM, and Tuesday and Wednesdays by appointment.

Sunset Hills Vineyard

Sunset Hills Vineyard is set on a 140 year old farm and is dedicated to using solar power to run their machinery. Their regular events series include Late Night Fridays, "Welcome Spring" Weekends and Wine Club Parties. You can visit their tasting room in Purcellville Monday through Thursday from noon to 5 PM, and Friday through Sunday from noon to 6 PM. 

The drive to Louden County is a little over an hour from your apartment home at The Louis at 14, making it an easily accessible weekend trip! Some of these wineries even allow dogs, though they're required to be on a leash and are not permitted in the tasting rooms (please visit each winery's website for more information). Have you visited any of these or any other Louden County wineries? Which would you recommend? Share your favorites on The Louis at 14 Facebook and Twitter pages! Cheers!

Additional sources consulted:

Thrillist

Memorial Day Weekend in DC

When it comes to patriotic national holidays, Washington DC is the city you want to be in. As our country pauses to take time to honor the soldiers who lost their lives in battle for our country on Monday, we also have the opportunity to celebrate and enjoy the freedoms that were gained in those battles. From patriotic concerts to parades, this weekend offers many opportunities to celebrate!

National Memorial Day Concert
The National Memorial Day Concert takes place on the West Lawn of the US Capitol on Sunday, May 24 at 8 PM. This year's concert hosts are actors Gary Sinese and Joe Mantegna. The 26th annual concert will feature performances from Gloria Estefan, the National Symphony Orchestra and appearances by Laura Benanti, General Colin L. Powell, USA (Ret.) and Laurence Fishburne. American Idol winner Nick Fradiani will be performing "The Star-Spangled Banner." The concert will be broadcasted live on PBS if you do not have the opportunity to make it to the Mall. Viewers may also post messages and stories on the Wall of Remembrance. The concert is free to attend, but will be broadcasted live on PBS if you do not have the opportunity to make it to the Mall. From your home at The Louis at 14 to the West Lawn is about a 30-minute Metro ride.

National Memorial Day Parade
The American Veterans Center's National Memorial Day Parade is Monday, May 25 at 2 PM. The parade begins at Constitution Ave. and 7th St. and runs along Constitution to 17th St. The parade began in 2005 and started being broadcasted to soldiers around the world in 2008. Participants include Memorial Day Concert hosts Gary Sinese and Joe Mantegna, Miss America 2015 Kira Kazantsev, Food Network chef Robert Irvine, The Smashing Pumpkins and American Idol winner Caleb Johnson. The parade's Grand Marshals are dozens of surviving World War II Veterans. This event is also easily accessible via Metro. It's about a 15-minute ride from The Louis to the the Archives station.

These events are some of the largest not only in the DC-area, but in the nation. Have you attended either of these events in the past? If not, it is a wonderful way to honor those who lost their lives defending our country and to enjoy our beautiful city. Do you plan to attend this year's events or do you have other plans? Share how you will be spending Memorial Day weekend on The Louis at 14's Facebook and Twitter pages!

Celebrate DC Yoga Week

Namaste! If you have ever taking a yoga class at The Louis yoga studio or have attended a class at an outside studio, you know what a sense of calm regular practice can provide. This week allows the opportunity to gather with other DC-area yogis, and to celebrate and practice together. May 3-9 is the official DC MetroYoga Week! Although the week has already begun, there is still plenty of time to enjoy activities ranging from Yoga on the Mall and $5 drop-in classes at participating studios.

Yoga on the Mall
DC Yoga Week will culminate on Saturday, May 9 with Yoga on the Mall. The event takes places from 11 AM through 1 PM at the Sylvan Theater Stage. This will be an all-levels practice, complete with warmups and music! Be sure to bring a mat, towel, sunscreen and plenty of water to say hydrated and safe throughout your practice on the National Mall! While the forecast says partly cloudy, you could still get sunburned, and the high temperature is projected to be 85 degrees. To get to the National Mall from The Louis at 14 apartment homes, take the Green or Yellow Line Metro to the Archives stop. It's about a 10-minute ride. For complete details on Yoga on the Mall, click here. To view participating studios for donation-based or $5 classes, click here.

Trying Yoga for the First Time?
If you have never practiced yoga, here are some important facts to be aware of.

• Stay hydrated - Whether you're doing heated yoga or not, it's important to stay hydrated so you don't pass out or cramp.
• Don't push too hard - If you've never done yoga before, it's likely you won't be as flexible as some of your classmates and that's okay! As you go through the poses, you'll gradually increase your flexibility. If a pose is too much, as your instructor for a modification.
• Introduce yourself - Before class begins and after it ends, you don't have to be silent. Introduce yourself to your instructor and those around you!

Live at The Louis? Visit Our Studio!
For more information, contact Resident Services.

Sources consulted:
DC Metro Yoga Week
WUSA
Active Life DC

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo in DC

When May 5th rolls around on the calendar, do you think of it as just another day, or as Cinco de Mayo? Whether you're of Mexican descent or just love a good margarita, living in a city as diverse as Washington DC allows us to celebrate many different cultural holidays. Whether you seek a large, national festival or a bar scene celebration, there are events close to The Louis at 14 apartment homes for you!

National Cinco de Mayo Festival
The National Cinco de Mayo Festival takes place this Sunday, May 3 at the Sylvan Theater on the National Mall.  The fiesta will be held rain or shine from noon to 6 PM. This will be the 23rd annual event held by the Maru Montero Dance Company. The event, also known as "Latin America's Family Reunion," is free to the public to attend!

Here's what you can look forward to: music, dance, arts and crafts for the kids, art exhibits, a mercado (market) and more! So whether you love to dance salsa or consume salsa, your cravings will be satisfied! For more information on this event, visit the Maru Montero Dance Company website, About.com or Party Earth. To get to this event from The Louis, take the Green or Yellow Line Metro from U Street to Archives.

El Centro D.F.
If you're seeking something a little more "fiesta-like," El Centro D.F. has become known throughout the district for its authentic Mexican cuisine and its fun Cinco de Mayo atmosphere. This year's celebration includes an all you can eat taco buffet, $5 drink specials and a DJ! The celebration will last almost the entire day, running from noon through 11 PM. The first 250 attendees will receive a gift. Please note, tickets are only available at the door and must be paid for in cash. Tickets are $20. For more information, visit El Centro D.F.'s website. Guess what? This event is just a 2-minute walk away from your home at The Louis!

Have you gone out for Cinco de Mayo in Washington DC in year's past? Where are your favorite spots to celebrate? Share you thoughts and comments with us on The Louis at 14 Facebook and Twitter pages. Feliz Cinco de Mayo!

Hank's 8th Annual Oyster Fest

Are you ready for a taste of summer vacation? Bring back those memories of spending summers on the shore this Saturday! Join other seafood lovers as they converge on Hank's Oyster Bar in Dupont Circle for the 8th Annual Oyster Fest! This event is a "must attend" if you consider yourself a DC foodie!

What will you feast on at Hank's? The menu includes all-you-can-eat fresh oysters on the half-shell, fried oysters, BBQ oysters, popcorn shrimp, Old Bay fries and onion rings! In addition to all these fabulous eats, the event also entails all-you-can drink draft beers, including Elysian Brewery, 21st Amendment, Lagunitas, and Flying Dog Brewery.

Now that your mouth is watering, here's the essential information. The event takes place this Saturday, April 25 from 11 AM to 3 PM. Tickets are $80 per person and can be purchased here. Please note, to attend the event, you must be age 21 or over. Oyster Fest will be held rain or shine.

Hank's Oyster Bar was founded in 2005. It was nominated for "Best New Restaurant" in 2006 and "Best Neighborhood Restaurant" in 2007. Chef Jamie Leeds is one of Washington DC's most well-known chefs, mainly due to Hank's successes.

Interested in attending the all-you-can-eat oyster extravaganza? Hank's Oyster Bar is located at 1624 Q Street, NW, which is about a 15-minute walk away from The Louis at 14 apartment homes. Enjoy a fun afternoon of oysters, fried food and craft beer, then you can simply walk home to The Louis and enjoy a beautiful evening on the rooftop with friends! Sounds like a fantastic way to spend a Saturday in Washington DC, doesn't it?

Have you attended any of Hank's past Oyster Fests? What are your favorite dishes on their menu? Share your thoughts with other residents at The Louis!

For more information about Hank's Oyster Bar, click here. For more updates on The Louis at 14 apartment homes, visit our website and follow us on Facebook or Twitter.

Sources consulted:
Hank's Oyster Bar
Party Earth
Washingtonian Magazine

Explore the Softer Side of Red Wine at Vinoteca

The Louis at 14 apartment homes are close to a number of Washington DC's finest restaurants, which is one of the reasons we love our location at 14th and U Streets. If you're looking for a night out on the town or a happy hour to stop at on your way home from work, there is always more than one option available to you.

One of our neighborhood favorites, Vinoteca, periodically hosts wine tasting events on Tuesdays. This coming Tuesday, April 21, you can experience "The Softer Side of Red Wine." The class will feature 5 to 6 new wines from New Zealand, France and the United States, accompanied by small bites. You don't need to be a "wino" to attend these classes! They're lead by local sommeliers and questions and conversation are encouraged throughout the class. If you love to drink red wine, this is a wonderful opportunity to learn more about it!

The tasting takes place from 7-9 PM in Vinoteca's upstairs lounge. Reservations for the event are required as the class is limited to 20 participants, and a 48-hour cancellation policy also applies. The class costs $45 plus tax. If you are interested in making a reservation for this event, click here.

Thrillist features this event on its list of "13 Things to do in DC this April," so why not give it a try if you're looking for a fun date night idea or a night out with your friends? The best part? Vinoteca is only a 5-minute walk away from The Louis at 14, so you don't have to worry about driving home or finding a taxi!

If you are unable to attend this tasting, but are interested in future events at Vinoteca, you can view the full schedule on their website.

Have you previously attended a wine tasting at Vinoteca or another local restaurant? What did you think? Share your thoughts and comments with us! Cheers!

U Street Funk

U Street is known for Ben’s Chili Bowl, eclectic cultural spots and fun shopping. But on May 2, it will be known for one thing and one thing only - funk! After receiving approval from the city on April 3, the Funk Parade will officially return! The day long festival is parts parade, street fair and music festival.

The day includes a fair from noon- 5 PM followed by the parade from 5-7 PM and culminates with the music festival from 7-10 PM! The parade route will run from Howard Theatre to Lincoln Theater and will shut down the U Street corridor for the day. Last year, the first year of the event, drew 25,000 visitors to U Street. While local officials were very supportive of a second year, a response from the city took longer to receive. From WAMU:

(Mayor) Bowser spokesman Michael Czin told Bandwidth in January that Funk Parade was on the mayor’s radar, but it needed to work its way through the “normal process” of approving street closures. “We are a pro-funk administration,” Czin said.

The Funk Parade was started by Justin Rood and Chris Naoum, who share a mutual love for community, music and U Street. If you are interested in volunteer opportunities with the parade, fill out this form. If you would like to contribute to the parade, you can donate to their Indiegogo campaign.

The Louis at 14 apartment homes are just a 4-minute walk away from the Lincoln Theatre. Our rooftop offers an excellent bird’s-eye view of the parade route! Invite your friends over to enjoy the parade then head downstairs to enjoy the live music on the street!

Will you be joining in on the U Street Funk Parade? Hope to see you there! It’s going to be an exciting day to be on U Street!

Where to Watch the NCAA Tournament

As of this weekend, March Madness will officially begin! If you're ready to watch your favorite college teams compete, and hopefully, win your office pool, there are quite a few restaurants in DC that want to watch the game right along with you! Get your brackets ready and mark down these venues to watch the game, courtesy of Eater DC: 

1. Smith Public Trust
They’ll have all of the games on their large screens starting at noon, but in addition to the proliferation of foam fingers and shouting fans, there will be brewery specials on different days of the tournament. Look for specials on House Studio, Sierra Nevada, Victory Brewing Company, Three Stars, Soap Clothing, Boulevard and Atlas Brew Works.

3514 12th St NE
Washington, D.C. 20017
Visit website
(202) 733-5834

2. Noelia Italian Kitchen
Their deal caters more to the March Madness fans who prefer creating brackets and checking the scores later than those who want to watch every minute of every game. Any guest can fill in a bracket (one per meal) and at the end of the tournament, the person (or people) with the best bracket will get lunch or dinner from Noelia for a year.

1319 F Street NW
Washington, D.C. 20004
Visit website
(202) 347-1020

3. Cork
The Dupont wine bar is staying on theme and they will sell Sweet Sixteen wine flights for $16. The Cork Market has also started selling a BBQ wing package with their in-house hot sauce and blue cheese dressing for basketball fans that would rather set up their own parties.

1720 14th St NW
Washington, D.C. 20009
Visit website
(202) 265-2675

4. Roofers Union
Roofer’s Union probably doesn’t expect anyone to skip out of work for the games where the 16 and 11 seeds fight it out for entry into the round of 64, but they will be open at 11:30 a.m. for prime viewing on both Thursday and Friday.

2446 18th St NW
Washington, D.C. 20009
Visit website
(202) 232-7663

5. Jack Rose Dining Saloon
The AdMo whiskey bar’s Rooftop Madness starts on Wednesday and runs through the 29th. Expect deals for $5 pints, $6 punch and $7 whiskey and half price specials on bite sized dishes like their wings, clam dip and shrimp hushpuppies.

2007 18th St NW
Washington, D.C. 20009
Visit website
(202) 588-7388

6. City Tap House
The games will almost be a background to their four-tiered, two day competition called Tap-It-Ology. Starting at noon on Thursday, sixteen craft beers will compete for the title of Official Beer of March Madness. The sixteen beers (which include Atlas and DC Brau contenders) will be discounted to $5 during the hours of competition and whichever beers sell the most pints will move on to the next round.

901 I St. NW
Washington, D.C. 20536
Visit website
(202) 644-9433

7. Redline
This crowds at the gastropub can be just as spirited as those at the Verizon Center; not surprising that they’re showing all of the games on their big screens. They’re currently taking reservations for tables (info@dcredline.com).

707 G St NW
Washington, D.C. 20001
Visit website
(202) 347-1248

8. Meridian Pint
The Columbia Heights bar will open early on Thursday and Friday, but additionally, they’ll offer $4 drafts on four local beers (because it’s the road to the Final Four -- get it?). DC Brau’s Penn Quarter Porter, Port City’s Optimal Wit, Devil’s Backbone’s Vienna Lager and 3 Stars’ Ghost will be the $4 drafts. The bartenders will be handing out brackets and will give away up to $500 in prizes.

3400 11th St NW
Washington, D.C. 20010
Visit website
(202) 588-1075

9. The Star and Shamrock
Tomorrow, this bar will likely be St. Patrick’s Day Central, but it will also be the start of their bracket giveaways and drink specials. Also, their celebratory deals have the distinction of lasting through March 29.

1341 H St NE
Washington, D.C. 20002
Visit website
(202) 388-3833

10. Town Tavern
Adams Morgan has no shortage of sports bars, but this might be the only one offering a free pitcher of beer (for parties of ten or more that book in advance). For those just showing up, there will be $12 Bud Light Pitchers, $3 Budweiser and Bud Light bottles and $6 burger baskets. They will be open early for every tournament game.

2323 18th St NW
Washington, D.C. 20009
Visit website
(202) 387-8696

11. Penn Social
Thursday and Friday, the Penn Social bar will open at noon. For those that are a little pickier about their gametime libations, they will have over 30 beers on tap.

801 E St NW
Washington, D.C. 20004
Visit website
(202) 697-4900

12. Bracket Room Sports Lounge & Eatery
For the third year in a row, Bracket Room will run it’s Shot Madness contest. Patrons can fill out brackets before the tournament and once the games are underway, they can start voting for their favorite shot. The winner of Shot Madness will be Bracket Room’s official shot of the year and will get championship treatment (read: a discounted price) until next year’s Shot Madness. And yes, they will be open early for the games.

1210 N Garfield St
Arlington, VA 22201
Visit website
(703) 276-7337

13. Open Road Grill & Icehouse
Open Road has specials on buckets of beer and wing and beer combos, and will begin happy hour at noon during March Madness games.

8100 Lee Highway
Falls Church, VA 22042
Visit website
(571) 395-4400

14. Ventnor Sports Cafe
Ventnor has its own bracket, specials and more.

2411 18th St NW
Washington, D.C. 20009
Visit website
(202) 234-3070

DC Area March Film Festivals

If you consider yourself a film fanatic, then you will be quite busy this month! Our area is offering several film festivals throughout March, ranging from the environment to documentaries. Some of these include panel discussions and Q&As afterwards. Washingtonian highlights this month's festivals:

Environmental Film Festival in the Nation’s Capital
Various Venues
This year’s festival goes on thanks in part to a $15,000 contribution from the National Endowment for the Arts. More than 150 films, including several DC, US, and world premieres, examine climate change, endangered wildlife, clean-water issues, and related topics. A highlight: Filmmaker Luc Jacquet presents a survey of his films, including the Oscar-winning March of the Penguins and Ice & Sky, a new work. March 17-29; selected films $10 to $12, others free.

Northern Virginia Jewish Film Festival
Opening night, Theater J; other screenings, Angelika Mosaic
See 16 contemporary films focused around the Jewish faith or made by Israeli artists. Top picks include The Green Prince, a thriller based on the memoir of Mosab Hassan Yousef, a Palestinian who spied for Israel; Arlo & Julie, a quirky tale of a couple who become obsessed with the mysterious daily delivery of puzzle pieces to their doorstep; and Above and Beyond, about the early days of the Israeli Air Force. March 19-29; $12; festival pass $64.

Bethesda Film Fest
Imagination Stage
Filmmakers from the Washington area will be around to answer questions after their five short films at this festival, making it an excellent chance to familiarize yourself with local talent. Be sure to catch The Stillbrave 100, which chronicles Springfield runner “Tattoo” Tom Mitchell as he completes a 100-mile trail, dedicating each mile to a different child with cancer. March 20-21; $10.

Annapolis Film Festival
Various Venues
Catch 70 documentaries, narratives, and shorts, plus Q&As and panel discussions. Don’t miss the searing Oscar-nominated documentary The Act of Killing, in which members of an Indonesian death squad reenact the murders they committed. March 26-29; $12; festival pass $105.

Best DC Spots to Watch the Oscars

After all the buzz about who would be nominated and who was snubbed, Sunday evening the answer to all your burning Academy Awards questions will be answered. The 87th Annual Academy Awards will air Sunday night on ABC, and features host Neil Patrick Harris. If you want to get glamorous and go out for the big night, here's where The Washington Post recommends viewing the show in DC:

Commissary
1443 P St. NW. 202-299-0018. www.commissarydc.com. Free admission.
Commissary's viewing party is a good time that doesn't take itself too seriously, featuring a wall-size projection screen, multiple televisions and a somewhat cheesy menu of snacks and cocktails inspired by Oscar nominees. Fill out your predictions while sipping a bourbon-based "Bullseye" (a nod to "American Sniper") and snacking on a "magic bean and beef stew" ("Into the Woods"). Arrive between 4 and 8 p.m. for the Red Carpet Happy Hour, with one free Oscar cocktail per person and free popcorn. For your own Meryl Streep moment, reserve one of 25 "premium" tickets for $49, which includes a seat in front of the projector screen, three food items and two cocktails.

Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steak House
950 I St. NW. 202-289-0201. www.delfriscos.com. Free admission.
The private dining room at Del Frisco's CityCenter steak house will become a screening room on Oscar night, with the ceremony showing on a 65-inch TV with surround sound. Best Picture-inspired cocktails include the Birdman, with Wild Turkey and blackberries. Interestingly, Del Frisco also offers a tarragon-infused mocktail, the Imitation Game, for just $2.95.

Glamour, Glitter and Gold
Town Danceboutique, 2009 Eighth St. NW. 202-682-2245.www.thedccenter.org. $15 in advance, $20 at the door.
Well-known drag performers Lena Lett and Ba'Naka Deveraux are among the performers at Town's 10th annual Glamour, Glitter and Gold, a fundraiser for the D.C. Center, which provides services to the local LGBT community. Pose for photos on the red carpet, dance to DJs and test your movie trivia to win theater tickets and other prizes. Admission includes popcorn and a cash bar; optional VIP tickets ($100 a pair) include food and drinks.

D.C. Film Institute
Malmaison, 3401 Water St. NW. 202-817-3340. www.dcfilminstitute.org. $35 in advance, $40 at the door.
The Washington Film Institute takes over Georgetown's sleek Malmaison lounge for its Red Carpet Party, with a free glass of champagne for every guest. Plan your outfit carefully: Black tie or cocktail attire is suggested, and the evening begins with a best-dressed contest judged by local salon owner Erwin Gomez and "House of Cards" costumer Randy Rose III.

D.C. Film Society
Arlington Cinema 'N' Drafthouse, 2903 Columbia Pike, Arlington. 703-486-2345. www.dcfilmsociety.org. $20, $15 for members.
Why watch the ceremony in a bar when you can view it on an actual movie screen? The D.C. Film Society's annual "And the Winner Is . . . " party, hosted by film critics Tim Gordon and Bill Henry at the Arlington Cinema 'N' Drafthouse, features an Oscars prediction contest and a serious silent auction. Aside from movie passes and theater tickets, last year's swag included DVDs autographed by Kathleen Turner and a "Her" poster signed by director Spike Jonze.

Commemorate the 150th Anniversary of Abraham Lincoln's Assassination

On April 14, 1865, Abraham Lincoln, our nation's 16th president, was assassinated at Ford's Theatre. Throughout 2015, various events throughout Washington will mark the 150th anniversary of Lincoln's assassination and death. Many of these events (courtesy of about travel) will be held at Ford's Theatre, located in downtown DC.

The Widow Lincoln
January 23-February 22, 2015. Ford’s Theatre. Set during the weeks following Abraham Lincoln’s murder at Ford’s Theatre, the world premiere drama  portrays Mary in the aftermath of her husband’s death as she mourns the post-war life they will never share. A post-performance discussion will be held on February 3. Theater tickets should be purchased in advance through Ticketmaster.com.

Through Lincoln's Words: Target Oratory Residency and Festival
February 10-11, 2015, 10:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. Ford’s Theatre. More than 375 local elementary and middle school students will perform a selection of President Abraham Lincoln’s speeches. This year’s program features students who have benefitted from the integration of historical speeches and letters into History and English classes to help strengthen their understanding of history and improve their public-speaking skills. Tickets will be available on a first-come basis on the day of event.

President Lincoln Is Dead: The New York Herald Reports the Assassination
February 13, 2015. The Newseum, 6th and Pennsylvania Ave. NW Washington DC, opens an exhibit featuring an unparalleled collection of all seven editions issued by the Herald on April 15, 1865, chronicling the shooting of Abraham Lincoln at Ford's Theatre, his death, the hunt for his assassin and the swearing-in of the new president.

Second Inaugural Address Panel Discussion
Civil War to Civil Rights: The Last Great Speeches of Abraham Lincoln and Martin Luther King, Jr.
March 4, 2015, 7:30 p.m. Washington National Cathedral, 3101 Wisconsin Avenue NW, Washington, DC. Moderated by MSNBC’s Chris Matthews, the panel discussion focuses on Lincoln’s Second Inaugural Address and Martin Luther King, Jr.’s “I’ve Been to the Mountaintop” speech. This event explores how the powerful words of these men and their final great speeches recognized the polarizing divisions of our nation and called for a unified American identity. Free tickets will be available beginning January 26, 2015.

Second Inaugural Address Commemoration Ceremony 
March 7, 2015. Lincoln Memorial, Washington DC. Enjoy Civil War music, a recreation of Lincoln taking the oath of office and reciting his Second Inaugural Address, learn more about the meaning of the address itself and how its meanings connected the Civil War to the Civil Rights Movement. Free event, no tickets required.

Freedom’s Song: Abraham Lincoln and the Civil War
March 13-May 20, 2015. Ford’s Theatre. This epic musical features the words of Abraham Lincoln and music inspired by the letters of those who lived through the Civil War. With rousing music, stirring speeches and rich, historic costumes Freedom’s Song evokes the soaring hopes and tragic losses of the real people of Civil War America. Lincoln’s inspirational words intermix with these stories, imagining a bloody nation once again unified and the return of a truly United States.

Abraham Lincoln Institute Symposium
March 21, 2015. Ford’s Theatre. Noted authors and historians Terry Alford, Richard Wightman Fox, Stephen A. Goldman, Martha Hodes and Jonathan W. White will discuss aspects of our 16th president’s leadership, his vision for Reconstruction and the effect his assassination had on American society. See the full schedule. Tickets will be available on the day of the event on a first-come, first-served basis.

History on Foot Walking Tours
March-October 2015. Join Detective James McDevitt for a first-hand look at the investigation into the Lincoln Assassination Conspiracy and the events of April 14 and 15, 1865. Led by an actor in costume, the outdoor walking tour lasts approximately two hours and makes at least eight stops in downtown Washington related to Lincoln, the assassination and the Civil War. See more information about History on Foot Walking Tours.

One Destiny
March-May 2015. Ford’s Theatre. The 35-minute play explores the key facts of the assassination while capturing the emotions of that fateful night. Tickets are $7.50 in advance or $5.00 the day of the performance. Tickets can be reserved throughTicketmaster.com.

Silent Witnesses: Artifacts of the Lincoln Assassination
March 23-May 25, 2015. Center for Education and Leadership, 514 Tenth Street NW, Washington, DC. This special exhibition will commemorate the assassination and death of Abraham Lincoln by reuniting—for the first time since April 1865—an extraordinary collection of artifacts that were in Ford’s Theatre or carried by Lincoln the night of the assassination.

The Road from Appomattox
April 9, 2015, 10:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. Ford’s Theatre. A dramatic imagining of the meeting between Robert E. Lee and Ulysses S. Grant on the day after Lee’s surrender at Appomattox, The Road From Appomattox explores how two great and very different generals ended the war with mercy and the best interests of the country in mind. For more information, visit www.fords.org/event/road-appomattox.

The Lincoln Tribute – Two Day Commemoration of the 150th Anniversary 
April 14-15, 2015, Ford’s Theatre Campus, 10 Street NW Washington DC. During the day, visitors can explore the Ford's Theatre Museum, hear a ranger talk, watch a performance of the one-act play One Destiny, take a self-guided tour in the Theatre, or visit the Petersen House and exhibitions at the Center for Education and Leadership. Outdoor History on Foot walking tours led by costumed actors and guided tours of Ford’s Theatre also will be offered. On the street outside, throughout the day and night, actors will share first-person accounts about the end of the Civil War, the experience of being inside the theatre at the moment of the assassination, medical reports from the Petersen House, and the impact of Lincoln’s life and death. On the evening of April 14, Ford’s Theatre will host Civil War living historians on 10th Street to recreate the all-night vigil for Abraham Lincoln. The public will be able to visit the Ford’s Theatre campus throughout the night. The morning of April 15, Ford’s Theatre Society and the National Park Service will mark Abraham Lincoln’s death at 7:22 a.m. with a wreath-laying ceremony; church bells will toll across the city, just as they did in 1865. Tickets are required for entry to the Ford’s Theatre campus and available through Ticketmaster.com.

Now He Belongs to the Ages: A Lincoln Commemoration
April 14, 2015, 9:00 p.m. Ford’s Theatre. Live streamed online and at the Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery in the Robert and Arlene Kogod Courtyard. Event to include readings of Lincoln’s words and stories, Civil War-era music, excerpts from Lincoln’s favorite theatre and operas, and more. The event seeks to remind us that we not only lost a president; we lost a man who treasured his family, his friends and his country with a love so strong it could hold the Union together. Tickets are limited.

National Park Service Commemorative Wreath Laying
April 15, 2015, 7:22 a.m. Petersen House (the house where Lincoln died) The National Park Service will lay a wreath at the Petersen House marking the moment when President Lincoln passed away 150 years ago. A short speaking program will be followed by a moment of silence and church bells tolling across the city, just as they did in 1865. Additional details will be announced in March 2015.

Free Lincoln Assassination Walking Tours
Saturdays at 4:30 p.m. The one-mile free walking tour, given by DC by Foot, examines historical facts and explores many of the famous sites where Lincoln walked himself in Washington, DC. Learn about the assassination plot that changed the nation. Reservations are required. Visit www.freetoursbyfoot.com.