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This week: Catch Union Market's immersive Street Fest, shop a vibrant outdoor market featuring AANHPI artists and creators, and more.
Additions to Last Week's Lineup
Street Fest [Arts Festival] May 29-June 6 | Union Market District | FREE
Two action-packed weekends transform Union Market District with immersive art installations, pop-up galleries, live music, and dance parties. This year's festival features an exceptional roster of talented artists creating community-wide experiences throughout UMD. Added bonus: Jason Bowers of DC Mural Tour is offering two special 90-minute guided tours exploring the area's vibrant public street art while introducing visitors to eight featured pop-up galleries. Tours have limited space and require advance registration. Information | Tour Registration
From Brotherman to Batman Artist Conversation [Artist Talk] May 30, 6:30-8:30 PM | Phillips@THEARC | FREE
Award-winning illustrator Shawn Martinbrough joins three-time Eisner Award nominee and journalist David Betancourt for an engaging discussion about comic book culture and the multifaceted artist experience. The evening offers unique insights into the creative process behind influential contemporary comics and includes light refreshments, music, and a special pop-up featuring beloved DC comics retailer Fantom Comics. Register
SAMASAMA Market [Market] May 31, 4-8 PM | Freer Gallery of Art | FREE
Celebrate Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month at this vibrant outdoor market featuring AANHPI artists and community creators. Meet the makers behind the beautiful artworks and enjoy food offerings that showcase the rich multicultural landscape of the diaspora community. The event includes hands-on crafts at the SAMASAMA table with Julie Wu, DJ sets by Les The DJ, and a chance to take reimagined school photos with photographer Airin Yung. Tickets
This Week
Mei Mei Chang: UNCERTAIN INTERIORS [Exhibit] Opens June 1 | Freight Gallery | FREE
Step into an intimate exploration of memory and the fragmented nature of consciousness through Mei Mei Chang's thought-provoking installation. The artist presents a domestic scene constructed entirely from cardboard—a replica of a room that might have been lived in, or perhaps exists only as a memory of a particular place and time. Chang examines how our recollections serve as proxies for actual experiences while creating new memories in the process. Located within an elevator space, the installation becomes a metaphor for transition and containment. Information
Looking Ahead
Smithsonian's Solstice Saturday [Extended Museum Hours] June 21 | Various Locations | FREE
Mark the first Saturday of summer with extended museum hours and special programming throughout the day and night across multiple Smithsonian locations. Experience late-night access to collections and exhibitions with unique programs and performances celebrating the summer solstice. Hours vary by location: some museums open until 10 PM, others until 11 PM, with the National Museum of African Art staying open until midnight. Information
Juneteenth Community Day [Cultural Celebration] June 21, 11 AM-4 PM | National Museum of African American History and Culture | FREE
Celebrate freedom and cultural heritage through the vibrant traditions of the African diaspora in the U.S. and Caribbean. This year's event honors both Juneteenth and Caribbean American Heritage Month with high-energy dance and music, a dynamic Regg'Go concert blending reggae with DC's Go-Go music, hands-on Caribbean-inspired art activities, and a special fusion menu at Sweet Home Café. The celebration welcomes visitors of all ages to experience the rhythms, stories, and flavors that define diasporic heritage rooted in resilience and joy. Registration required. Register
