As a DMV college student, finding ways to unwind in between studying, working, and stressing is essential. If you are a DMV native, sometimes the common experiences offered in D.C. can become a little bland. The endless array of art shows, pop-ups, and museums – particularly the ones that don’t change exhibits as often – can sometimes leave a dry taste in the mouths of thirsty college students looking to explore and find the next immersive experience.
Luckily, I have the pleasure of researching and hand-picking some upcoming fall events curated just for college students.
Here are the Top 5 :
1. College Night: Artists and Collectors
National Gallery of Art
November 18th, 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
College Night: Artists and Collectors is an event that will be held at the National Gallery of Art on November 18th, from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Thankfully, the tickets are free after registration and after presenting your college ID. If you are looking for an immersive and expansive art experience told from the perspective of North Carolina college students across the state, this just might be the event for you. You can experience the Phillips Collection as they honor collectors and creators through the NCMA’s 2022 college celebration. The celebration will also provide music, art sales, fashion, and a Mamis and the Papis DJ set. So, if you have an artistic palate and are looking to devour alternative southern expression, don’t miss out!
Register for your tickets here: https://visit.ncartmuseum.org/7080/7081
2. College Thursdays at Club Elevate
Club Elevate
Every Thursday, 9:00 p.m. – 2:00 a.m.
If you’re looking to unwind and decide you want to go clubbing, Club Elevate just might be the vibe. Elevate offers that familiar chocolate city vibe, with various events based on the season and the time of the month. For those who can’t wait for Friday or the next holiday, it’s understandable, luckily Club Elevate has College Thursdays from 9:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. The club offers 3 upscale floors, hookah bar services, a full-service bar, as well as live music and DJs. The highly recommended club has been described as having a friendly owner as well as friendly bouncers, convenient QR code access, quick service, parking (for those who struggle to find a space), and unlimited vibes. So, if you’re looking for the perfect way to unwind after you have just past that midterm, check out Club Elevate!
No link: Updated attendance details will be posted for the public in the future.
3. Men’s Basketball: Maryland Terrapin’s vs. Binghamton Bearcats
Xfinity Center
November 15th, 7:00 p.m. – 12:00 a.m.
If you’re a sports fan, the Maryland Terrapins vs. Binghamton Bearcats may be of interest. It takes place November 15th at 7:00 p.m. at the Xfinity Center in College Park, MD. Whether you attend the University of Maryland or Binghamton University doesn’t matter, just taking part in a sports event is a great way to meet new people. Who knows, you may even meet a buddy to take to your sports event. Aside from the social possibilities, attending a sports event is a great way to grab some food, scream your head off with some friends and take a break from all those hours of cramming.
So even if you aren’t already a sports fan or are a fan of another team, there are a lot of possibilities within and benefits of giving it a try!
Here’s a link to get your tickets: https://www.vividseats.com/maryland-terrapins-mens-basketball-tickets-xfinity-center—md-11-25-2022–sports-ncaa-basketball/production/4053269?utm_medium=organic&utm_source=google_eventsearch
4. College Night Open Mic hosted by Malachi Byrd
Busboys and Poets, Brookland Location
Next Event: December 9th , 9:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.
*Every 2nd Friday of Each Month*
If you’re a little more into the open mic scene, College Night Open Mic, hosted by Malachi Byrd might be a little more up your alley. This Busboys and Poetry event takes place every 2nd Friday of the month at the Busboys and Poets Brookland location. The next event will be on December 9th at 9:00 p.m. While the next open mic does not take place until next month, it is worth the wait. This experience includes a two-hour artistic display of some of D.C.’s finest artistic college student voices, captivating audiences with diverse spoken word performances. Whether you want to come and watch, come and take part, or both, the Busboys family welcomes all! Musicians, comedians, rookies, and all other talents are encouraged to take part in this creatively wholesome event. Busboys routinely feature different colleges and universities or individual alumni artists and point out that it is “a great alternative to college nightlife!”
Visit this link to find out more: https://www.busboysandpoets.com/events/th-evt-21602843/
5. Finding Tamika Panel Discussion
Howard University, HU School of Law, Moot Court Room
November 15th, 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
If you want to mix up your daily routine an informative panel discussion might do the trick. Activist, actor, and author, Erika Alexander will be having a discussion on her Audible podcast Finding Tamika on Tuesday, November 15th from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Howard University. Finding Tamika is a story about a missing 24-year-old African American woman from Spartanburg, South Carolina named Tamika Huston. Tamika’s disappearance began to raise awareness for other missing black women and girls. The panel will not only discuss the lack of awareness but also the exposure of systematic negligence. If this sounds like something that might pique your interest, click the link for tickets down below.
Visit this link to attend the panel: https://calendar.howard.edu/event/17941/finding-tamika
The DMV is a lively place so keep your ear to the ground and eyes peeled for the latest events, as they come in fast. Never limit yourself to just art events or clubs, try something new! You never know who you might meet or what hobby the event might inspire you to take up.