🤠Washington, DC Events: August 16–August 22, 2026
Upcoming events · August 16 – August 22, 2026
Hey DC! Here's your curated guide to what's happening in the nation's capital this week. From free concerts at the Kennedy Center to Foo Fighters at Nationals Park, DC sports with the Mystics and DC United, the Freedom 250 Grand Prix, and the always-buzzing Eastern Market — it's a big week. Most of these are ticketed shows, so grab your spots early. As always, a few free gems are in there too.
READING LIST / WASHINGTON, DC
AI Ethics
The District's AI Values Alignment handbook gives government teams a public framework for responsibility and transparency. As AI is used in public services, residents need to know when it informs decisions, which official remains accountable, and how to question its effects.
- Handbook for AI Values Alignment / District of Columbia Office of the Chief Technology Officer
The handbook asks agencies to align AI use with District values and keep responsibility for government action clear.
- Weapons of Math Destruction: How Big Data Increases Inequality and Threatens Democracy / Cathy O'Neil · Penguin Random House
Explains how opaque, unaccountable scoring systems can harm people and distort public life.
Upcoming events
Business spotlight
9:30 Club — DC's Legendary Music Venue
at 9:30 Club, 815 V St NW, Washington, DC 20001
DC's legendary independent music venue has been the heartbeat of the city's live music scene since 1980. Catch Foo Fighters, MCR, Koe Wetzel, and more this week — all at one of the most storied stages in the country.
Venue page for 9:30 Club, 815 V St NW, Washington, DC 20001Official source for 9:30 Club — DC's Legendary Music Venue
Community spotlight
DC Central Kitchen
at DC Central Kitchen, 425 2nd St NW, Washington, DC 20001
DC Central Kitchen fights hunger and poverty by training unemployed adults for culinary careers and delivering fresh meals to shelters and schools across the District. Volunteer, donate, or just spread the word.
Venue page for DC Central Kitchen, 425 2nd St NW, Washington, DC 20001Official source for DC Central Kitchen
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