TOP 5 PICKS FOR WEDNESDAY, MAY 2
1.) Xiu Xiu At Rock and Roll Hotel
Jamie Stewart's band has been making noise/pop/something almost mainstream accessible music for over a decade. The group is touring for their new record, "Always," a more dark wave album than previous efforts. They might not be as poppy but they're just as ambitious. 8 p.m., all ages, $15
2.) D.C. Design House
One of the best parts about D.C. is the architecture. The buildings may not be tall but the houses are ornate, massive tributes to man. One of those massive houses has been taken over by designers and architects. They spent weeks making over the 10,000-square-foot house in Spring Valley. It's open to the public for almost daily viewing, with proceeds benefitting the Children's National Medical Center. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., all ages, $20, through May 13
3.) Paul Krugman At Poltics and Prose
Cheer up, everybody! Things can and will get better! The 2008 Nobel laureate will explain how. 7 p.m., all ages, no cover, books will be for sale
4.) Karl Ove Knausgaard At Library of Congress
If you're too bummed out to hear a super smart economist talk about the economy but still need to feel like you're doing something a smart person would do, Norwegian novelist Karl Ove Knausgaard will be reading from his novel "My Struggle: Book One" and talk about his country's literature scene. 6:30 p.m., all ages, no cover, books will be for sale
5.) DC Brau Beer Dinner At Fire Works Pizza
A sampling of six of D.C.'s newest beer, five courses of pizza and all on an outdoor patio. Not the worst way to spend a Wednesday night. 7 p.m., 21+, $75
TOP 5 FOR THE NEXT 5 DAYS
Thursday, May 3
Maryland Film Fest at multiple locations
Showcasing over 40 feature lengths, 70 short films, a John Waters' pick and more, the Maryland Film Fest is a providing an excellent reason to head to Baltimore. Through May 6.
Friday, May 4
E. L. James Signs "Fifty Shades of Grey" at Bethesda's Barnes and Nobles
Because you know your mom will want a signed copy of her favorite new BDSM erotica for the Mother's Day. What started as "Twilight" fan fiction is now the next big thing in literature. A new printing and multi-million dollar film deal make this event guaranteed to be packed.
Saturday, May 5
Comic Book Day at multiple locations
Rather than participate in Cindo De Mayo revelry, go visit your local comic book guy. At comic book stores across the world, this celebration of all things drawn and stapled renews once dormant passions for heroes in spandex. Participating stores give out free, no strings attached books for all ages.
Sunday, May 6
Ciné-Concert: Segundo de Chomón shorts at National Gallery of Art
Silent films are given new scores at the National Gallery. Overlooked and under-appreciated features and shorts that haven't been seen or heard of in generations get a second chance for one afternoon. These six shorts with a fantasy theme run 70 minutes, short enough to keep even the kids entertained.
Monday, May 7
Swami Yomahmi at Kennedy Center
You could stay in on Monday night, recovering from the weekend, or get revived witnessing the "Original Sideshow Geek" perform for free.
