Events
What's happening in our neighborhood. From historic traditions to new community gatherings.
Author Events at Politics and Prose
LiteraryPolitics and Prose hosts hundreds of author readings, book signings, and discussions each year. Check their website for the current schedule.
Multiple events weekly
Historical Note
Since opening in 1984, Politics and Prose has hosted every major American author from Toni Morrison to Barack Obama. The bookstore's events have become a key stop on national book tours.
Teen Scene @ Tenley
FamilyWeekly program for teen patrons with rotating activities including video games, origami, crafts, and special presenters.
Weekly
More InfoCONVERSATIONS WITH BOOKSELLERS — NURTURING HOPE
FamilyJoin booksellers as we share our thoughts on books for youth.
More InfoRACHEL ELIZA GRIFFITHS — THE FLOWER BEARERS
LiteraryA moving memoir about family and loss.
More InfoChildren's Storytime at Tenley-Friendship Library
FamilyFree storytime for children ages 0-5 with songs, fingerplays, and picture books. A wonderful introduction to the library.
Tuesdays and Thursdays
Historical Note
The Tenley-Friendship library branch opened in 1928, serving the community for nearly a century. The current building dates to 2010, replacing the original structure.
Gentle Yoga with Beth Lawrence
FamilyGentle yoga for adults of all ages in Meeting Room 1. Free and open to the public.
Every Wednesday
More InfoTenley Movie Night: Into the Woods
FamilyEvening film screening of 'Into the Woods' (2014), rated PG. Free admission.
More InfoDOROTHY A. BROWN — GETTING TO REPARATIONS
LiteraryHow building a new economy can address racial injustice.
More InfoFriends of Tenley Library Book Sale
CommunityShop a range of donated titles with proceeds supporting the library. Located in the Friends' space on the 2nd floor. Cash only.
More InfoMARGARET ATWOOD — OLD BABES IN THE WOOD
LiteraryNew stories from the master of speculative fiction.
More InfoEnglish Conversation Group
EducationESL conversation circle led by professional interpreter Carol Ruppel. Best for intermediate level and above English learners.
Every Friday
More InfoBONNIE GARMUS — LESSONS IN CHEMISTRY
LiteraryA novel about a 1960s chemist who becomes a TV cooking show host.
More InfoAMOR TOWLES — TABLE FOR TWO
LiteraryNew stories from the author of A Gentleman in Moscow.
More InfoWard 3 Democrats Monthly Meeting
CivicMonthly meeting of the Ward 3 Democratic Committee featuring guest speakers, local issues discussion, and community organizing.
Second Wednesday of each month
Historical Note
Ward 3 has been a politically active community since DC gained home rule in 1973. The ward has produced several DC Council members and remains highly engaged in local politics.
AU Park Neighbors Meeting
CivicQuarterly meeting of AU Park residents to discuss neighborhood issues, development projects, and community concerns.
Third Wednesday of March, June, September, December
Historical Note
AU Park developed in the 1920s-30s and residents have organized to protect the neighborhood character ever since. The current civic association dates to the 1950s.
Tenleytown Farmers Market
MarketFresh produce, baked goods, local honey, and artisan products from regional farmers and producers. A neighborhood gathering spot on Saturday mornings.
Every Saturday, April through November
Historical Note
Farmers markets have a long history in the Tenleytown area. Before the neighborhood developed, this land was farmland supplying Georgetown and Washington markets.
American University Spring Commencement
EducationAmerican University's spring graduation ceremony celebrates degree recipients from all schools and colleges.
Annually in May
Historical Note
American University held its first commencement in 1916, just two years after opening. The ceremony has grown from a handful of graduates to thousands each year.
Fort Reno Summer Concert Series
MusicFree outdoor concerts featuring local and touring bands. Bring a blanket and picnic to the highest point in DC for an evening of live music under the stars.
Every Monday and Thursday in July and August
Historical Note
The Fort Reno concerts began in 1968 and became famous for launching DC punk and indie bands in the 1980s and 1990s. Bands like Fugazi and Jawbox played here before becoming nationally known. The tradition continues with a mix of established and emerging artists.
Friendship Heights Holiday Festival
CommunityAnnual holiday celebration with tree lighting, carolers, Santa visits, and refreshments. A beloved neighborhood tradition.
First Saturday of December
Historical Note
The Friendship Heights community has celebrated the holidays together since the neighborhood developed in the 1920s. The current festival format dates to the 1970s.
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From the Archives
Many of our neighborhood events have deep historical roots. The Fort Reno concerts date to 1968. The farmers market tradition stretches back to when this was farmland. Every gathering connects us to those who came before.
Explore the Timeline