Festivals

We invite you to enjoy a day of excitement as we are having Kids Renaissance Festival. Bring the whole family for an unforgettable experience! For your little ones Shipgarten has face painting and arts & crafts, allowing their creativity to shine. The fun doesn’t stop there – we’ve got live music, great drinks, moonbounces, and a full outdoor playground to ensure everyone has a blast. Dogs are more than welcome at Shipgarten, whether on-leash or in our off-leash dog park. Treat your furry friends to Pup Cups and Kongs filled with peanut butter for a delightful family treat. I will have a popup booth for [Swift Running ](https://www.topvirtualstaffing.com/best-running-walking-shoes)so I would be busy that way. But I will also do a scavenger hunt / mini activity. Park over here and there is a FREE shuttle or you can walk! ## [PARKING ADDRESS: 1700 OLD MEADOW ROAD, MCLEAN, VA 22102.](https://maps.app.goo.gl/SGX7NYjPUxiN3Y3m7)

The Signal Film Festival at Silver Branch Brewing Company is dedicated to the power of short-form storytelling, showcasing films up to 10 minutes in length across narrative, documentary, animation, and more. Benefiting the Alzheimer’s Association National Capital Area Chapter, the Signal Film Festival is dedicated to unique cinematic voices that cut through the static to deliver compelling, impactful, and innovative stories. Admission is FREE, seating is limited and on a first come first serve basis. If you do not have a ticket, simply check in at the registration table upon arrival. The Festival takes place in-person on May 31, 2026 the Silver Branch Brewing Company from 4:00pm to 8:00pm. The address is 8401 Colesville Road #150, Silver Spring, MD 20910. PARKING: Paid parking available one block away at the county's Cameron Street Garage on 8530 Cameron Street (Better pricing than street or private parking.) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Tentative Schedule: 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM: Doors Open & Networking 5:00 PM - 5:15 PM: Welcome & Opening Remarks 5:15 PM - 7:30 PM: Film Screenings 7:30 PM - 8:00 PM: Audience Voting & Awards Ceremony 8:00 PM - 10:30 PM: After Party & Networking at the Silver Branch Brewing Co. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Visit [https://www.signalfilmfestival.com](https://www.signalfilmfestival.com/) to keep up to date. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Awards & Prizes: "Silver Branch Award" - Audience Favorite Film "Arlyne Award" - Jury Award for Best Mini Film "Howard Award" - Jury Award for Best Short Film \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- For more information about the Signal Film Festival visit [https://www.signalfilmfestival.com](https://www.signalfilmfestival.com/). To keep up with festival news and details follow us on social media: Facebook - [facebook.com/SignalFilmFestival](facebook.com/SignalFilmFestival) -and- [facebook.com/groups/dcfilmmakers](facebook.com/groups/dcfilmmakers) Instagram - [instagram.com/signalfilmfestival](instagram.com/signalfilmfestival) Twitter - [x.com/signalfilmfest](x.com/signalfilmfest) -and- [x.com/brianfilms](x.com/brianfilms) TikTok - [tiktok.com/@signalfilmfestival](tiktok.com/@signalfilmfestival) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- This event is supported by the Brian Frankel Law Firm, DC Filmmakers Group, Wheaton Film Festival, Silver Branch Brewing Company, and the Alzheimer’s Association National Capital Area Chapter.

Project GLOW Festival – Day 1 (Saturday) | DC Ravers Meetup DC’s biggest EDM weekend starts here. Project GLOW returns to the RFK Festival Grounds for two full days of dance music, immersive art, and festival energy. Day 1 is all about exploring the grounds, meeting people, and diving into the full experience with the group.  Event Details Date: Saturday, May 30, 2026 Time: 1:00 PM – 11:00 PM Location: RFK Festival Grounds, Washington, DC Age: 18+  Tickets Purchase individually through the official festival site / Insomniac. One-day and two-day options are available.  What to Expect • Multiple stages and major artists • Full festival production, art, and energy • A great day to explore and meet other members • Flexible group plan: stay together or roam as you like DC Ravers Plan • Meetup point and timing will be posted in the comments • Optional pre-meetup before entry • Enter together or meet inside • All are welcome, whether you’re going solo or with friends Why Go This is one of the biggest EDM weekends in DC all year. Day 1 is the perfect time to jump in, get oriented, and enjoy the full festival vibe with the group. RSVP RSVP here and comment if you’re going Saturday so we can coordinate.

The Signal Film Festival at Silver Branch Brewing Company is dedicated to the power of short-form storytelling, showcasing films up to 10 minutes in length across narrative, documentary, animation, and more. Benefiting the Alzheimer’s Association National Capital Area Chapter, the Signal Film Festival is dedicated to unique cinematic voices that cut through the static to deliver compelling, impactful, and innovative stories. Admission is FREE, seating is limited and on a first come first serve basis. If you do not have a ticket, simply check in at the registration table upon arrival. The Festival takes place in-person on May 31, 2026 the Silver Branch Brewing Company from 4:00pm to 8:00pm. The address is 8401 Colesville Road #150, Silver Spring, MD 20910. PARKING: Paid parking available one block away at the county's Cameron Street Garage on 8530 Cameron Street (Better pricing than street or private parking.) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Tentative Schedule: 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM: Doors Open & Networking 5:00 PM - 5:15 PM: Welcome & Opening Remarks 5:15 PM - 7:30 PM: Film Screenings 7:30 PM - 8:00 PM: Audience Voting & Awards Ceremony 8:00 PM - 10:30 PM: After Party & Networking at the Silver Branch Brewing Co. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Visit [https://www.signalfilmfestival.com](https://www.signalfilmfestival.com/) to keep up to date. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Awards & Prizes: "Silver Branch Award" - Audience Favorite Film "Arlyne Award" - Jury Award for Best Mini Film "Howard Award" - Jury Award for Best Short Film \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- For more information about the Signal Film Festival visit [https://www.signalfilmfestival.com](https://www.signalfilmfestival.com/). To keep up with festival news and details follow us on social media: Facebook - [facebook.com/SignalFilmFestival](facebook.com/SignalFilmFestival) -and- [facebook.com/groups/dcfilmmakers](facebook.com/groups/dcfilmmakers) Instagram - [instagram.com/signalfilmfestival](instagram.com/signalfilmfestival) Twitter - [x.com/signalfilmfest](x.com/signalfilmfest) -and- [x.com/brianfilms](x.com/brianfilms) TikTok - [tiktok.com/@signalfilmfestival](tiktok.com/@signalfilmfestival) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- This event is supported by the Brian Frankel Law Firm, DC Filmmakers Group, Wheaton Film Festival, Silver Branch Brewing Company, and the Alzheimer’s Association National Capital Area Chapter.

# **FREE HUGS** **FREE HUGS on the National Mall are happening again!!** **"Spreading More Love"** Here are two videos of past FREE HUGS gatherings: [FREE HUGS October 2017. 32 sec.](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jh7v3zucDas) [FREE HUGS Veterans Day 2016. 58 sec.](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ebTt9Q177zQ) **HEY EVERYONE!** Now that the Flu, COVID and RSV have subsided, we are **RESUMING OUR MONTHLY FREE HUGS GATHERINGS!!** FREE HUGS gatherings generate so much excitement, joy, appreciation, connection, peace, love, smiles, “Thank you’s,” lots of laughter and such positive energy!! Our FREE HUGS movement is all about "Spreading More Love" regardless of political, religious, racial or gender identification or any other identification. **!! IMPORTANT !!** We meet OUTSIDE of the National Museum of Natural History on the NATIONAL MALL SIDE OF THE MUSEUM near the Refreshment stand. ADDRESS: 1306 Madison Dr. NW · Washington, DC **PARKING:** On the street parking OR [Nearest Parking](https://washingtondc.bestparking.com/destinations/national-mall-parking) **METRO:** Smithsonian National Mall Metro Station (NOT Independence Ave.) **We hope you will join us for an AWESOME time!** \*\*Lots of [Hugs...jeff**](http://hugs...jeff%2A%2A/) 301-885-8259 (c) \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* Note 1: if you agree to participate in any FREE HUGS Event, you agree to the following terms: By choosing to attend this event, you are acknowledging the risks involved (COVID, etc.), and you are committing to participate nonviolently and in accordance with the law. You agree: (i) not to engage in any act of violence or violation of any applicable law (ii) to obey the orders of authorized event marshals and law enforcement authorities (iii) that any Meetup group will not be responsible to any injury or damage to your person or property resulting from or occurring in the course of your participating in the Event; and iv) to release and forever hold harmless Jeff Maurer, Meetup group and their respective employees and volunteers from liability for any such injury or damage. Note 2: FREE HUGS gatherings are 1. NOT for advertising our businesses; 2. NOT about promoting political or religious or racial or gender issues or any other issues.

Come the whole time or if you just spend 30 minutes. All are welcome. You are welcome and encouraged to bring your own coloring supplies but, if you don't have any, I will have plenty and am happy to share! (coloring books, colored pencils, and markers). Part of the mission of this group is to provide us an opportunity to check out AND SUPPORT local businesses. So, please don't bring any outside food/drinks and, while purchasing something isn't at all a REQUIREMENT to participate in the event, I do strongly encourage you to try something from the vendor :) I look forward to seeing and meeting you there! ***\*\*DISCLAIMER*\*\*** Photos may be taken during the event to be shared here on Meetup so feel free to let me know if you'd like to be excluded from them.

I’m excited to announce our next culinary outing! We will be heading to Corner Bites in Rockville, MD, to enjoy some authentic Cantonese cuisine. Corner Bites is a popular dim sum restaurant in Rockville, Maryland, known for its authentic Cantonese cuisine, including classic items like har gow, siu mai, and roast duck, served in a modern setting with order-by-the-menu service rather than carts. Monthly Culinary Meetup Note: If you were a previous no show or canceled on the day of when there's a waitlist, you're not guaranteed a seat. - Mellisa

We're seeing Tuner at the 4:10pm show at Regal Gallery Place. Your host will be in seat F3. Let's get dinner afterwards.

Many of us carry the weight of loss in our hearts—be it a beloved family member, cherished friend, or loyal pet. A Traditional Curanderismo Cross Over Ceremony it’s also a celebration of life and the love that transcends to the afterlife. On Sunday, May 31st, we will hold a Crossover Ceremony designed to honor the lives of our loved ones, including our precious pets who have passed. This respectful heartfelt ceremony is a beautiful way to celebrate their lives and the love we shared. Please note this is a sacred ceremony with individuals who may be grieving and anyone who is not respectful will be kicked out without a refund. Ceremony Details: Time: Doors open at 9 AM, Cacao Meditation at 12pm-12:30pm. Crossover will officially start at 2pm and we will finish approximately at 6pm. Please note we will lock the door during the cacao meditation 12pm-12:30pm and from 2pm-6pm no exceptions. Before you register send me a message to go over the schedule and what to bring. This is a long ceremony but it is the one of the most beautiful ceremonies in the Curanderismo Tradition. Location: Curanderas Heart Mindfulness and Wellness 5852 Washington Blvd STE 5 Arlington VA 22205 Energy Exchange $88 (Option to pay via Zelle, Venmo or CashApp) We will create a beautiful altar together, where everyone is encouraged to bring a personal item that represents their loved one. This can be their favorite food, drink, flower, or even a small photo. If you have your loved one’s ashes, you are welcome to bring those as well. What to Bring: Mandatory: A bouquet of flowers Mandatory: Wear white clothing and a red bandana or hairband Mandatory: A dish to share for our potluck (the theme is salads, any type of salad) This ceremony is very dear to my heart and takes weeks of preparation.Please arrive on time, as the doors will be closed during the ceremony. Together, let’s embrace the joy of remembrance and celebrate the lives of those we’ve lost. I look forward to sharing this meaningful experience with all of you.

Let's stroll the artists' booths and enjoy some of the festival's opening day! The Columbus Art Festival features a wide and vibrant range of visual art from local and national exhibitors, plus, live music, and all kinds of food and refreshments, along the waterfront downtown. (The featured painting is by Columbus Arts Festival exhibitor, Joe Engel - joe-engelart.com)

Now in its 26th year, [The Creekside Blues & Jazz Festival](https://www.creeksidebluesandjazz.com/), in Gahanna, gathers world famous groups and performers at a single place for you to enjoy the best Blues & Jazz in Ohio. *SATURDAY NIGHT features: The Urban Jazz Coalition with Special Guest Brian Simpson, North Mississippi Allstars, The Deal Breakers & More.* The three-day cultural celebration features musicians on 3 stages, local food trucks and beverage stations, treats, artisans, and more. **Tickets are $15 for adults online.** Link to purchase tickets: [Creekside Blues & Jazz Festival Tickets](https://tickets.creeksidebluesandjazz.com/e/2026-creekside-blues-jazz-festival). $20 at the door. Military are free. WHAT: Here's the festival [EVENT MAP](https://www.creeksidebluesandjazz.com/Event-Map/). Also, here's the [SCHEDULE](https://www.creeksidebluesandjazz.com/Schedule/) map to help you determine who to see. \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* **Parking -** The Creekside Parking Garage will be open throughout the festival weekend. Entrance is located near the intersection of Mill and North Streets; accessible only by traveling south on Mill Street. **Event parking rate is $5 and collected at entrance to garage. Cash ONLY is accepted at garage entrance for parking.** Although off street parking in the Creekside District is permitted, it is very limited and not recommended. **Shuttle Service** pickup will be at the following location: [AEP Ohio 700 Morrison Rd., Gahanna, OH](https://goo.gl/maps/K9GgvgEdxCHaXsKDA) **Shuttle Service Hours:** Saturday: 1 PM - 12 AM **BRING**: *Be sure to bring a **chair** since there is limited available seating. Also $ or paycard for food and drink.*

Join us for the best **fireworks** show in the Columbus area, [Dublin Independence Day Celebration](https://www.visitdublinohio.com/event/independence-day-celebration/203/)! **7pm**: *We'll gather at **Urban's Pint House*** to meet n greet for a bit and grab some drinks and eats. **8:30pm**: *Head over the* **Bridge to Old Dublin** and **Getaway Brewing** (*second meetup spot*). **9:30pm**: *walk across the street to secure space on the* **top level of the Library Parking Garage.** **9:50pm**: **FIREWORKS SHOW!** **AFTERPARTY**: traffic is bad for a while so either get in line to exit the parking garage OR hang out at **PINS** (or Roosevelt Room) open til late back at Bridge Park. **PARKING**: the garages all around Bridge Park are free!

Join us at Hilliard's Station Park for an evening of fun, froth and frenzy, and best of all...FREE live music!! Grab a cool drink and some eats and plan to be social. (DORA event so folks can carry open adult beverage cups) CENTER STREET MARKET & [CROOKED CAN](https://crookedcanohio.com/) \- for eats and drinks AMPHITHEATER SEATING but bring a lawn chair if you plan to sit a bit. PARKING: lots all around the block. BAND: [TPN](https://trailerparkninjas.com/) is a Midwest staple, playing a continually evolving mix of Top 40, Hip-Hop, and singalongs. Most every song is danceable! RAIN?: We'll meet inside Crooked Can's huge market seating area instead. Celebration at the Station summer concert series runs June through August every Thursday evening. All concerts feature live bands from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Dine at one of the Old Hilliard restaurants. Adults 21+ can enjoy adult beverages outdoors in the designated outdoor refreshment area from 12 - 9 p.m. daily.

Westerville Pride Festival Sat\. June 6\, 2026 \| 5 PM \- 8 PM If you're thinking of attending, or being a sponsor, vendor, or volunteer, visit our website at https://www.westervillequeercollective.org/pride for more information! Location and other info will be announced soon :)