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9 cheap or free things to do in DC | May 4-7

You don't want to miss the Running of the Chihuahuas at The Wharf this weekend!

WASHINGTON — As temperatures make their way back up into the high 60s and 70s later this week, take advantage of it and get outside. 

There are plenty of free and cheap events taking place across the District.

From burlesque and comedy shows to a yoga sesh and a chihuahua race, our list has something for everyone.

Every week, WUSA9 is giving you the details on at least nine cheap local activities to check out in your off time.  

Have any more events you think your D.C. neighbors should know about? Email the time, place and description to WUSA-WebProduction@wusa9.com.

Thursday, May 4:

"May the 4th Be With You" Stars Wars weekend, 8th Street SE

Credit: Canva

From May 4 - May 6, the force will be strong on 8th Street Southeast.

Participating businesses will host individual events such as Star Wars trivia games, character meet and greets, and offer discounts in celebration of the popular franchise. 

Attendees are encouraged to show up to the event dressed as their favorite characters and get their party on.

The event is free and no tickets are required to participate. 

For a full list of events and their times click here

Trivia Night at Metrobar, 640 Rhode Island Avenue NE

Credit: Metrobar

It's time to put on your thinking caps.

From 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., head to this Northeast D.C. bar to test your knowledge at trivia night.

The event is free to attend. 

Feel free to come alone or bring your brainy friends with for an extra leg up. 

(P.S. Yappy Hour with District Dogs takes place right ahead of this event. Bring your pip and get your paw-ty on from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.)

Friday, May 5:

Mid-Day Yoga Break, 1101 Jefferson Drive, SW

Credit: Canva

Take your work break outside this Friday as Yoga District founder Jasmine Chehrazi leads a mid-day yoga session from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m.

A small number of yoga mats will be available at a first come, first served basis.

Feel free to bring your own mat and tools. 

Reserve your spot in class ahead of time online

Jazz First Fridays on 8th Street SE Barrack Row

Credit: Canva

Jam out from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at this free event held on the first Friday of the month. 

The 8th Street Barracks Row's monthly Jazz First Friday Live Music Series started back up in April. 

There is no cover charge, but tips to the band are always appreciated!

For more information on the event, click here

The Sweet Spot Burlesque at The Howard Theatre, 620 T Street NW

Credit: BurrowsInk

If you've never been to a burlesque show, you're in for a treat.

From 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., head to the Howard Theatre for a night of poetry, sultry dancing, live music, comedy, strip teases and more as The Sweet Spot takes the stage.

Performing in over 30 cities, The Sweet Spot is a 17-year-old running show produced BurrowsInk.

Drinks and food are available for purchase onsite.

Tickets are $20 per person for standing only and $40 per person for reserved seating.

Purchase your tickets ahead of time online.

Saturday, May 6:

Running of the Chihuahuas at The Wharf, 101 District Square SW 

Credit: Canva

Calling all chihuahua owners in the DMV, the race of the year is coming to The Wharf. 

Check in begins at 1 p.m., with the first race kicking off at 2 p.m.

The race is a 70-foot sprint on the official race track on District Pier.

All dogs will compete in heats of up to eight, with the winners racing in a championship heat for a cash prize.

First place gets a trophy and $100, second place gets $75, and third place gets $50.

Officials say in order for dogs to be eligible to compete they must be 15 pounds or less and no taller than 12 inches at the shoulder, in order to make it fair and fun for all!

The winning dog will be the first to run completely across the track finish line, tail included.

All dogs must be leashed when not racing.

You must be 21 years old or up to consume alcoholic beverages.

Tickets are $30 per pup to register to race. 

If it rains, the event will be rescheduled to Sunday. 

Around the World Embassy Tour

Travel the world without leaving the District during Passport DC's Around the World Embassy Tour.

More than 60 embassies will open their doors to the public during the annual event. Visitors can travel the world through food, art, dance, fashion and music of different countries without every having to step foot outside of D.C. 

The one-of-a-kind experience will begin at 10 a.m. and run until 4 p.m. Admission is free and while reservations are not required, they are recommended for visitors to get the latest information.

For more information on the event, like what embassies are participating, click here

Sunday, May 7: 

"Yolks on You" | A burlesque and variety brunch, 1523 22nd Street NW

Credit: Canva

Bringing you burlesque, comedy, and brunch, what more could you ask for?

From 12 p.m. until 3:30 p.m., head to the DC Comedy Loft and Bier Baron Tavern for the variety show.

Tickets are $12 in advance online and $15 at the door. 

2023 DC Poet Project, 1800 Good Hope Road SE

Credit: smolaw11 - stock.adobe.com
Microphone on abstract blurred of speech in seminar room or speaking conference hall light background

Hear the finalists in the 2023 Poet Project perform their poetry, and then live vote to select the winner.

Only attendees who are at the reading for the entire event are allowed to vote at the end.

The DC Poet Project is a poetry series and open-to-all poetry competition culminating in publication of a new book of poetry by a D.C. author. Each event includes reading by featured poets and an open mic. And at each series event the featured poets select one open mic reader the winner. Those winners are then invited to compete in the culminating event to win a $1,000 book contract.

The event is free to attend, register ahead of time online

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