Arts Haven
Release Date: Wednesday, August 17th 2011
The Washington Examiner’s ARTS ON FOOT sponsored by Wines of Argentinareturns for the first time as a complete weekend affair on Saturday, September 10 from 11:00 am to 7:00 pm, and Sunday, September 11 from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm. It’s free, fun, and filled with vibrant visual and performing arts offerings, and food galore …
Centered at 8th and F Streets in front of the Smithsonian American Art Museum(SAAM) and the National Portrait Gallery, this year’s arts festival will once again span four blocks and feature a juried fine Art Market with more than 100 artists selling their wares. Live entertainment will cover two stages, and the popular Cultural Corridors,supported by The Pink Line Project with hands-on activities offered by DC museums, galleries and theaters and the O Organics' Cooking As Art Pavilion, where acclaimed DC chefs demonstrate their culinary and artistic talents, will delight the masses.
Because this year marks the 10th anniversary of 9/11, several commemorative activities also are planned, including an interactive Arts as Healing workshop sponsored by the 9/11 Arts Project and CREATE Arts Center.
Not to be missed: the Restaurant Sampling Courts, replete with signature dishes from Cuba Libre (801 9th Street), Rosa Mexicano (575 7th Street), Luke’s Lobster (624 E Street), Matchbox (713 H Street), Oya Restaurant & Lounge (777 9th Street), Zaytinya (701 9th Street), and other top eateries. Food trucks join the fun on Sunday.
For the second consecutive year, the Shakespeare Theatre Company will invite area theaters and performance troupes to Sidney Harman Hall(610 F Street) to showcase their programs on Saturday. Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company (641 D Street), Ford’s Theatre (511 10th Street), and others will be present.
As you can see, there’s something for everyone, but it doesn’t end here. Other attractions include the pARTicipate areas, sponsored by The Washington Examiner, where the public comes together to create murals and other pieces; the Neighborhood Showcase, highlighting diverse fall programming at Penn Quarter and Downtown cultural venues; Alternative Arts, with surprise offerings and unconventional presentations; and theSafeway Wine Gallery, with tastings and seminars, located in the new Riot Act Comedy Theater (801 E Street).
The DowntownDC BID and the Pennsylvania Quarter Neighborhood Association produce this annual event, which kicks off the fall arts season. Both WAMU 88.5 and MIX 107.3 WRQX are proud media partners. For an event program, grab a copy of The Washington Examiner on September 7 and September 8, or get one on site at the festival. For more information, visit www.artsonfoot.org.
