1. Washington National Opera Season Preview Concert At Kennedy Center Opera House
If pop music isn't your thing but still want to enjoy the finer sounds of life, this opera preview is an excellent starting point. Think of it as a highlight reel of what you could learn to love. 6 p.m., all ages, no cover
2. SEE CHANGE: Youth > Cameras > Action! At Hill Center
The 7th annual exhibit from Critical Exposure, this opening will celebrate the new exhibit of photography and writing from D.C. students. 6 p.m., all ages, $35
3. Garbarge at 9:30 Club
Shirley Manson and Co. are back after a not very long hiatus. They're on album No. 5, "Not Your Kind of People," growing enough to keep the casual fan interested while still sounding like their old selves. 7 p.m., all ages, $45
4. Mad Men Dinner And Fashion Photo Party
Any excuse to dress fancy, drink cocktails and take home professionally shot photos should be taken. Since this event is also a fundraiser for The Shoot for Change scholarship at the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis school at American Ballet Theatre, it should be extra taken. 6 p.m., 21+, $20 to $60
5. "Gentlemen's Agreement" At American City Diner
The movies are back at the diner. After a winter hiatus, classics from every era of cinema make up the programming. Tonight features a screening of the 1947 Best Picture Oscar winner "Gentlemen's Agreement" starring Gregory Peck. 8:30 p.m., all ages, no cover but you should probably order a few items
TOP 5 FOR THE NEXT 5 DAYS
Thursday, May 24
DuClaw Brewing Company Kick Off Party at The Big Hunt
DuClaw is coming to D.C. They're bringing samples of their Hellrazer IPA, EuForia Toffee Nut Brown Ale, Bourbon Barrel Aged Old Flame, Bourbon Barrel Aged X-1 Imperial Chocolate Rye Porter, Repent Belgian Pent and schwag for their big unveiling.
Friday, May 25
Rock and Roll Spelling Bee at Rock and Roll Hotel
40 fun souls will compete in a spelling bee meant for students in grades fourth through ninth. The fun part is the drinking. The MC can make the contestants drink whenever he so chooses, leading to the grade school experience that would require years of therapy.
Saturday, May 26
Life Unreal Art Show at Northside Social
This art show showcasing the super neat cartoons of Evan Keeling and Scott White opens on Saturday. If you're not familiar with the solid D.C. comic scene, this could be a fun introduction.
Sunday, May 27
Squeeze at Ram’s Head
This English new wave band has been around since the mid 70s. Sure, they've broken up a few times, went on hiatus a few times and have more than 3x the amount of past members to current members, but so what? They're stopping by and kind of have to play "Up the Junction."
Monday, May 28
Memorial Day Parade
This years parade will feature a tribute to soldiers that served and sacrificed in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation New Dawn. The parade will begin at Constitution Avenue and 7th Street NW, proceed west on Constitution, past the Ellipse, ending at 17th Street NW.