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National

OpenAI-Pentagon deal faces same safety concerns that plagued Anthropic talks

Technology

Claude dethrones ChatGPT as top U.S. app after Pentagon saga

Business

The companies pledging tariff refunds to customers and how to get them

War is the new get-rich-quick play on prediction markets

4 reasons why the U.S. attacked Iran with Israel

World

Your D.C. Weekend: New museum exhibits you don't want to miss

Go see Nick Cave at the Smithsonian and these other shows.

Things to Do

It&#x27;s a great weekend to explore D.C.&#x27;s newest museum exhibits — from powerhouse female artists to mammoth-scale installations and American masters.Three newcomers you won&#x27;t want to miss:

Union Station wants a lighting makeover for its facade

Officials say the looksmaxxing would also boost public safety.

News

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Union Station" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2024/12/02/union-station-project-amtrak-moynihan-train-hall" data-vars-content-id="ca68d975-5a06-4223-9e8b-ff37d009fa46" data-vars-headline="Union Station wants a lighting makeover for its facade" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2024/12/02/union-station-project-amtrak-moynihan-train-hall" target="_self">Union Station</a> wants a literal glow-up — nighttime lights outside, brighter bulbs inside.The big picture: The train station&#x27;s CEO has wanted to work with the Trump administration on realizing its <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="longterm modernization project" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2024/05/14/union-station-renovation-progress-update" data-vars-content-id="ca68d975-5a06-4223-9e8b-ff37d009fa46" data-vars-headline="Union Station wants a lighting makeover for its facade" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2024/05/14/union-station-renovation-progress-update" target="_self">longterm modernization project</a>, and a flashier entrance for D.C.&#x27;s front door might appeal to the president&#x27;s sensibilities.

Exclusive: D.C. mayoral candidate Janeese Lewis George reveals how she'd handle Trump

The democratic socialist dove deep into a range of topics for the first time.

Politics

Mayoral candidate <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Janeese Lewis George" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2025/11/20/janeese-lewis-george-bowser-dc-mayor-election-zohran-mamdani" data-vars-content-id="3c850410-729e-40ed-aaa4-33038fc55d58" data-vars-headline="Exclusive: D.C. mayoral candidate Janeese Lewis George reveals how she&#x27;d handle Trump" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2025/11/20/janeese-lewis-george-bowser-dc-mayor-election-zohran-mamdani" target="_self">Janeese Lewis George</a> would support a new business tax to fund child care for all. And says she&#x27;d work with President Trump on redeveloping downtown.Why it matters: Lewis George is vying against <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Kenyan McDuffie" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/01/15/dc-mayoral-kenyan-mcduffie-janeese-lewis-george-campaign-election-fundraising-fair-elections" data-vars-content-id="3c850410-729e-40ed-aaa4-33038fc55d58" data-vars-headline="Exclusive: D.C. mayoral candidate Janeese Lewis George reveals how she&#x27;d handle Trump" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/01/15/dc-mayoral-kenyan-mcduffie-janeese-lewis-george-campaign-election-fundraising-fair-elections" target="_self">Kenyan McDuffie</a> to lead the nation&#x27;s capital, and her strategy echoes that of fellow democratic socialist Zohran Mamdani, the New York City mayor who isn&#x27;t shy about his disagreements with Trump but also seeks areas of cooperation.

D.C. on the verge of lifting Potomac River recreation restrictions

It's an early sign the region may be turning a corner on what officials have called the worst sewage spill in U.S. history.

D.C. is aiming to lift its restrictions on <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Potomac River" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/02/13/sewage-spill-potomac-river-safety-fishing-swimming-future" data-vars-content-id="6c022735-497c-4c20-8ad3-0e1621adaeec" data-vars-headline="D.C. on the verge of lifting Potomac River recreation restrictions" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/02/13/sewage-spill-potomac-river-safety-fishing-swimming-future" target="_self">Potomac River</a> recreation on March 2 — three weeks after the last sewage surge was reported (<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Superbowl Sunday&#x27;s &quot;wipegate&quot;" data-vars-click-url="https://www.wusa9.com/article/tech/science/environment/non-flushable-wipes-more-sew[…]tomac-river-super-bowl/65-bbe1af6c-6dd0-4aad-bb99-1fcb16a2c650" data-vars-content-id="6c022735-497c-4c20-8ad3-0e1621adaeec" data-vars-headline="D.C. on the verge of lifting Potomac River recreation restrictions" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.wusa9.com/article/tech/science/environment/non-flushable-wipes-more-sew[…]tomac-river-super-bowl/65-bbe1af6c-6dd0-4aad-bb99-1fcb16a2c650" target="_blank">Superbowl Sunday&#x27;s &quot;wipegate&quot;</a>) and six weeks after the initial spill.Why it matters: It&#x27;s an early sign the region may be turning a corner on what officials have called the worst sewage spill in U.S. history — and a test of public trust in the river.

Duck meets disco at Navy Yard's new Chinese restaurant

Canton Disco opens Feb. 17 with modern Cantonese plates, tea cocktails and party energy.

Food and Drink

Duck. Disco. Dancing. A lively Chinese restaurant is about to light up Navy Yard.Why it matters: Canton Disco is an exciting hometown collab — pairing chef Timothy Yu (whose family ran Wheaton dim sum legend <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Hollywood East Café" data-vars-click-url="https://mocoshow.com/2025/07/25/beloved-hollywood-east-cafe-to-close-doors-after-29-years/" data-vars-content-id="e38a5a7c-d9e7-48b1-9d4f-b4bbdd7fdb44" data-vars-headline="Duck meets disco at Navy Yard&#x27;s new Chinese restaurant" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://mocoshow.com/2025/07/25/beloved-hollywood-east-cafe-to-close-doors-after-29-years/" target="_blank">Hollywood East Café</a> for nearly 30 years) with <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Maxwell Park" data-vars-click-url="https://www.maxwellparkdc.com/" data-vars-content-id="e38a5a7c-d9e7-48b1-9d4f-b4bbdd7fdb44" data-vars-headline="Duck meets disco at Navy Yard&#x27;s new Chinese restaurant" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.maxwellparkdc.com/" target="_blank">Maxwell Park</a> drink mastermind Brent Kroll and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Scarlet Oak" data-vars-click-url="https://www.scarletoakdc.com/" data-vars-content-id="e38a5a7c-d9e7-48b1-9d4f-b4bbdd7fdb44" data-vars-headline="Duck meets disco at Navy Yard&#x27;s new Chinese restaurant" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.scarletoakdc.com/" target="_blank">Scarlet Oak</a>&#x27;s Brian Schram for a day-to-night spot built for eating and partying.

Giant at 90: The supermarket that changed how D.C. shops

It's the 90th anniversary of Giant, D.C.'s first modern supermarket.

Supermarkets can be stressful now — inflation, $9 eggs and tech that feels one step shy of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="stalking" data-vars-click-url="https://www.cnn.com/2026/01/12/business/wegmans-facial-recognition-technology" data-vars-content-id="3d43d9e2-7c24-45ec-9c01-3f30e8a4bb79" data-vars-headline="Giant at 90: The supermarket that changed how D.C. shops" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.cnn.com/2026/01/12/business/wegmans-facial-recognition-technology" target="_blank">stalking</a>.But here&#x27;s a rare feel-good story: Giant Food turns 90 today, and it&#x27;s marking the milestone with a nearly <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="$1 million donation" data-vars-click-url="https://thewashingtonlobbyist.com/giant-food-marks-90th-birthday-with-90-days-of-giving-campaign/" data-vars-content-id="3d43d9e2-7c24-45ec-9c01-3f30e8a4bb79" data-vars-headline="Giant at 90: The supermarket that changed how D.C. shops" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://thewashingtonlobbyist.com/giant-food-marks-90th-birthday-with-90-days-of-giving-campaign/" target="_blank">$1 million donation</a> to local food banks.<ul><li>Its Washington history is more influential — and a lot weirder — than you might think.</li></ul>

Trump-stacked commission eyes Pennsylvania Avenue overhaul

The last overhaul of the 1.2-mile stretch came in the 1970s.

Development

Federal officials want to move on a &quot;once-in-a-generation opportunity&quot; to remake Pennsylvania Avenue.Why it matters: America&#x27;s Main Street — once considered <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="the most prized commercial stretch of D.C." data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2024/04/23/most-expensive-street-commercial-real-estate" data-vars-content-id="ee09af7a-ef24-4fe0-954d-efd19df4ef85" data-vars-headline="Trump-stacked commission eyes Pennsylvania Avenue overhaul" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2024/04/23/most-expensive-street-commercial-real-estate" target="_self">the most prized commercial stretch of D.C.</a> — needs some sprucing up.

D.C. developments to watch in 2026

We have updates on 11th Street Bridge Park, Bezos Learning Center and more.

It&#x27;s a new year for D.C. — time to check in on some real estate projects happening around town.Why it matters: The DMV&#x27;s skyline is constantly evolving, with future developments always in the pipeline — think <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Therme" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2025/03/20/therme-wellness-saunas-thermal-baths-waterslides-renderings" data-vars-content-id="1fe03bad-c81f-4d19-8861-065f86b5198d" data-vars-headline="D.C. developments to watch in 2026" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2025/03/20/therme-wellness-saunas-thermal-baths-waterslides-renderings" target="_self">Therme</a>, or a new <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Southwest neighborhood" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2025/02/03/federal-offices-national-mall-wharf-residential" data-vars-content-id="1fe03bad-c81f-4d19-8861-065f86b5198d" data-vars-headline="D.C. developments to watch in 2026" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2025/02/03/federal-offices-national-mall-wharf-residential" target="_self">Southwest neighborhood</a> — but it can take years to see progress.

Former Key Bridge Marriott site to be developed into housing, hotel, green space

Expect housing, a hotel and public green space.

The developer of the former <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Key Bridge Marriott" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2024/06/12/key-bridge-marriott-demolition" data-vars-content-id="541de2a8-ee00-4da4-a56f-995d187070e2" data-vars-headline="Former Key Bridge Marriott site to be developed into housing, hotel, green space" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2024/06/12/key-bridge-marriott-demolition" target="_self">Key Bridge Marriott</a> site has released plans to reimagine the area.Why it matters: The future of the prime piece of land — which sits by the Key Bridge in Rosslyn, overlooking the Potomac — has been a local point of chatter since Marriott vacated the building several years ago.

D.C.'s buzziest 2025 real estate happenings

Who bought, who's selling. And one ginormous property still under construction.

Real Estate

It was a headline-packed, topsy-turvy year for D.C.-area real estate.The big picture: The DMV saw a surge in splashy &quot;<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Trump bump" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2025/01/10/luxury-home-sales-dc-trump-bump-real-estate" data-vars-content-id="d3f8e75c-9f5a-4f29-a739-2171c61f29b6" data-vars-headline="D.C.&#x27;s buzziest 2025 real estate happenings" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2025/01/10/luxury-home-sales-dc-trump-bump-real-estate" target="_self">Trump bump</a>&quot; sales as mega-wealthy administration members and POTUS orbiters snagged lux spots in the area.

Hang in an igloo at Balian Springs' aprés-inspired winter spa pop-up

Local Brief

If your pampering vibes cater toward &quot;nibbling on charcuterie at Mont Blanc,&quot; but you&#x27;ve got a &quot;stick around town&quot; budget, we&#x27;ve got an outing for you: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Balian Springs&#x27;" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2024/01/07/king-spa-balian-springs-va-review" data-vars-content-id="bf9dc6d0-c1ff-4cbf-ad6f-753ff9d50a15" data-vars-headline="Hang in an igloo at Balian Springs&#x27; aprés-inspired winter spa pop-up" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2024/01/07/king-spa-balian-springs-va-review" target="_self">Balian Springs&#x27;</a> &quot;Aprés Springs&quot; pop-up. Why it matters: The Alexandria mega spa is already a cozy spot to spend a winter&#x27;s day — with multiple saunas, hydrotherapy pools and a Himalayan salt room — but it&#x27;s transformed itself into a French Alps-inspired destination through the end of January.

Pajamas, mimosas and free pizza: D.C. brunches for New Year's Day

Go in your pajamas, for mimosas and free pizza.

Restaurants around D.C. are dishing up brunch on New Year&#x27;s Day (a Thursday, if you&#x27;re in the holiday time warp).Why it matters: Kick the new year off on a high note, or recover from New Year&#x27;s Eve.

Scoop: Waymo steps up lobbying after D.C. delays robotaxis

City Hall says not so fast, awaiting a delayed safety study.

D.C.&#x27;s robotaxi rollout has slowed to a crawl, so Waymo has been dropping big bucks on a D.C. lobbying blitz.The big picture: Waymo is <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="tapping $16 billion in fresh capital" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/24/waymo-robotaxis-now-available-in-10-cities" data-vars-content-id="10b7e4d2-fb75-4fc6-af28-ea3c63692e3b" data-vars-headline="Scoop: Waymo steps up lobbying after D.C. delays robotaxis" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/24/waymo-robotaxis-now-available-in-10-cities" target="_self">tapping $16 billion in fresh capital</a> to accelerate its national expansion. But not so fast in D.C., where council members are deferring approval until a long-awaited study gets done.

Balian Springs spa CEO's best skincare tip is free

The Alexandria spa founder talks K-beauty favorites and her $0 beauty secret.

Health

Social wellness is booming. And while D.C. may not (yet) rival New York City&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="bathhouse renaissance" data-vars-click-url="https://www.inc.com/ava-levinson/rise-bathouses-high-margin-business/91292642" data-vars-content-id="f3f700ef-4f37-4569-9dbd-816ffd5ca335" data-vars-headline="Balian Springs spa CEO&#x27;s best skincare tip is free" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.inc.com/ava-levinson/rise-bathouses-high-margin-business/91292642" target="_blank">bathhouse renaissance</a>, Alexandria&#x27;s luxe <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Balian Springs" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2025/12/26/balian-springs-winter-spa-pop-up" data-vars-content-id="f3f700ef-4f37-4569-9dbd-816ffd5ca335" data-vars-headline="Balian Springs spa CEO&#x27;s best skincare tip is free" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2025/12/26/balian-springs-winter-spa-pop-up" target="_self">Balian Springs</a> is quickly becoming a go-to for society soakers.<ul><li>If you haven&#x27;t met the 37-year-old behind the DMV &quot;self-care social club,&quot; it&#x27;s time to know Stephanie Chon.</li></ul>

Exclusive: The Athletic hires Washington Post sports writers

As the Washington Post shrinks, the New York Times is scooping up some of its talent.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="The Athletic" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/05/20/nyt-athletic-profitable" data-vars-content-id="3b5ef17c-040f-49f5-870e-2590cdddb659" data-vars-headline="Exclusive: The Athletic hires Washington Post sports writers" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/05/20/nyt-athletic-profitable" target="_self">The Athletic</a> is hiring a slew of sports reporters from the Washington Post to expand its coverage of D.C. teams.Why it matters: The New York Times is seizing an opportunity to grow as the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Post shrinks" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/05/washington-post-layoffs-bezos" data-vars-content-id="3b5ef17c-040f-49f5-870e-2590cdddb659" data-vars-headline="Exclusive: The Athletic hires Washington Post sports writers" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/05/washington-post-layoffs-bezos" target="_self">Post shrinks</a>, deepening its sports bench and reaching fans in a key local market.

Scoop: Actor Jon Bernthal buys $3.75M house in D.C.

"The Punisher" and "His & Hers" star is planting roots around his hometown.

Hollywood hotshot Jon Bernthal recently dropped $3.75 million on a home in Chevy Chase, D.C., real estate sources tell Axios — a sign &quot;The Punisher&quot; is planting roots back home.Why it matters: In a town where senators count as celebrity sightings, &quot;The Bear&quot; and &quot;Walking Dead&quot; star showing up at <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Wizards games" data-vars-click-url="https://x.com/WashWizards/status/2013376385692123593" data-vars-content-id="2295a3de-c2ba-4f2e-9250-797a8bff49f7" data-vars-headline="Scoop: Actor Jon Bernthal buys $3.75M house in D.C." data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://x.com/WashWizards/status/2013376385692123593" target="_blank">Wizards games</a> and beloved <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="red-sauce joints" data-vars-click-url="https://www.popville.com/2026/01/dcs-own-spotted-jon-bernthal-filomena/" data-vars-content-id="2295a3de-c2ba-4f2e-9250-797a8bff49f7" data-vars-headline="Scoop: Actor Jon Bernthal buys $3.75M house in D.C." data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.popville.com/2026/01/dcs-own-spotted-jon-bernthal-filomena/" target="_blank">red-sauce joints</a> qualifies as actual star power.

Peak bloom may hit later due to our brutal winter

Plus: New saplings arrive at the Tidal Basin.

Peak <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="cherry blossom" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2023/02/22/cherry-trees-plum-trees-dc" data-vars-content-id="1fb62a16-0fe9-4c55-b09f-fc3c6b06ea11" data-vars-headline="Peak bloom may hit later due to our brutal winter" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2023/02/22/cherry-trees-plum-trees-dc" target="_self">cherry blossom</a> bloom could arrive later than recent years thanks to D.C.&#x27;s record-breaking cold.Why it matters: It&#x27;s been a brutal winter — <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="snowcrete" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/01/28/snow-emergency-extended-as-snowcrete-slows-dc-cleanup" data-vars-content-id="1fb62a16-0fe9-4c55-b09f-fc3c6b06ea11" data-vars-headline="Peak bloom may hit later due to our brutal winter" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/01/28/snow-emergency-extended-as-snowcrete-slows-dc-cleanup" target="_self">snowcrete</a>, the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="sewage spill" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/02/13/sewage-spill-potomac-river-safety-fishing-swimming-future" data-vars-content-id="1fb62a16-0fe9-4c55-b09f-fc3c6b06ea11" data-vars-headline="Peak bloom may hit later due to our brutal winter" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/02/13/sewage-spill-potomac-river-safety-fishing-swimming-future" target="_self">sewage spill</a> — and the District could use some floral joy ASAP.

Jesse Jackson's D.C. legacy

Jesse Jackson became the city's top statehood advocate in the 1990s

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Jesse Jackson" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/17/jesse-jackson-dies-civil-rights-leader" data-vars-content-id="b1dd9a96-8568-4f90-a3f2-f61a2e5d6fda" data-vars-headline="Jesse Jackson&#x27;s D.C. legacy" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/17/jesse-jackson-dies-civil-rights-leader" target="_self">Jesse Jackson</a> once considered running for D.C. mayor, before becoming the city&#x27;s first shadow senator in the 1990s, lending the statehood cause a national spotlight.Why it matters: Jackson, who died on Tuesday at 84, leaves a local legacy of activism.

D.C.'s Lunar New Year guide, other weekend events

D.C. caps its parade with a firecracker show on H Street Northwest.

Chinatown will celebrate the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Year of the Fire Horse" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/04/fire-horse-meaning-astrology" data-vars-content-id="a67224e4-96cd-40e1-9c5c-76e885702f6c" data-vars-headline="D.C.&#x27;s Lunar New Year guide, other weekend events" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/04/fire-horse-meaning-astrology" target="_self">Year of the Fire Horse</a> this Sunday with its annual Lunar New Year Parade.Why it matters: Fire Horse energy is intense, and D.C. will cap its parade with a firecracker show on H Street Northwest.

Your D.C. Weekend: Mardi Gras guide

Plus: More fun for your long Presidents Day weekend

It&#x27;s a long, packed weekend — Valentine&#x27;s Day, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Galentine&#x27;s Day" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/02/11/things-to-do-galentines-valentines-weekend-dc-singles-parties" data-vars-content-id="f47e3afe-6ce7-4ef8-8b31-a20c16268a99" data-vars-headline="Your D.C. Weekend: Mardi Gras guide" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/02/11/things-to-do-galentines-valentines-weekend-dc-singles-parties" target="_self">Galentine&#x27;s Day</a>, Presidents Day — but we&#x27;re going Big Easy energy for non-stop Mardi Gras parties through Fat Tuesday.Why it matters: Po&#x27;boys, Sazeracs and brass bands — enough said!

Your guide to Galentine's and singles parties around D.C.

Whether you&#x27;re single, taken, or &quot;it&#x27;s complicated,&quot; check out these parties, mixers and tastings happening around D.C. this week. Why it matters: Dancing &gt; Valentine&#x27;s dinner.

Your D.C. guide to watching the Winter Olympics

Medal-worthy drink deals and après-ski parties.

The 2026 <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Winter Olympics" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/04/olympic-village-2026-milan-cortina" data-vars-content-id="4a360f0b-37a5-473f-bba7-d9bdeff8781f" data-vars-headline="Your D.C. guide to watching the Winter Olympics" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/04/olympic-village-2026-milan-cortina" target="_self">Winter Olympics</a> kick off Friday and run through February 22.The big picture: You don&#x27;t need cable to keep up with the games — but a six-hour time difference will shape two weeks of early-morning medal events and late-night finishes for U.S. viewers.

D.C.'s Super Bowl gameplan

It's Super Bowl parties galore, with plenty of catering options and bar specials for fans on Sunday.

It&#x27;s Super Bowl parties galore, with plenty of catering options and dine-in specials for fans on Sunday.

Your D.C. Weekend: Extended restaurant weeks, indoor fun

Restaurant week extensions, comedy and horror shows.

Winter restaurant weeks are popping up around the DMV — with plenty of extensions due to the storm.Why it matters: Food and drink deals are a great excuse to get out of the house after this ice-bound week.

Kenyan McDuffie turns up the heat in mayor's race

Zingers are flying in D.C.'s first open mayor's race in a generation.

Mayoral hopeful <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Kenyan McDuffie" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/01/15/dc-mayoral-kenyan-mcduffie-janeese-lewis-george-campaign-election-fundraising-fair-elections" data-vars-content-id="c50096a0-7afb-41b5-949a-d148ee81ab96" data-vars-headline="Kenyan McDuffie turns up the heat in mayor&#x27;s race" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/01/15/dc-mayoral-kenyan-mcduffie-janeese-lewis-george-campaign-election-fundraising-fair-elections" target="_self">Kenyan McDuffie</a> is dialing it up, jabbing his opponent and getting a pep talk from triathlete-turned-mayor Adrian Fenty.Why it matters: The first open mayor&#x27;s race in a generation is sparking debates about ICE and how to fund child care — and zingers are flying as McDuffie tries to differentiate himself from democratic socialist Council member <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Janeese Lewis George" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/02/23/janeese-lewis-george-mayor-race-election-trump-democratic-socialism" data-vars-content-id="c50096a0-7afb-41b5-949a-d148ee81ab96" data-vars-headline="Kenyan McDuffie turns up the heat in mayor&#x27;s race" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/02/23/janeese-lewis-george-mayor-race-election-trump-democratic-socialism" target="_self">Janeese Lewis George</a>.

D.C. asks Trump for money to clean up sewage disaster

Maryland's Democratic governor, meanwhile, shot back at Trump: "Do your job."

Earlier this week, President Trump demanded local officials repair the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Potomac sewage spill" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/02/13/sewage-spill-potomac-river-safety-fishing-swimming-future" data-vars-content-id="d775066a-5dd6-47ea-b7ea-806a6911b80c" data-vars-headline="D.C. asks Trump for money to clean up sewage disaster" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/02/13/sewage-spill-potomac-river-safety-fishing-swimming-future" target="_self">Potomac sewage spill</a> &quot;IMMEDIATELY&quot; or call him and &quot;ask, politely, to get it fixed.&quot;Why it matters: The ask is now out.

Exclusive: D.C.'s snowstorm failures lead resident to run for mayor

Rini Sampath blasts the top candidates for mayor as political insiders

A D.C. resident fed up with the city&#x27;s snow response is running for mayor.Why it matters: Rini Sampath, 31, is entering the growing field as a political outsider, telling Axios she will focus on government efficiency.

DOGE'd federal worker runs for mayor

Hope Solomon says she wants to shake up the race.

A laid off federal worker is running for D.C. mayor.Why it matters: Hope Solomon is one of the many feds whose lives were upended by DOGE — the Elon Musk operation that derailed the city&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="economy" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/02/10/dc-unemployment-rate-high-2025-doge-economy" data-vars-content-id="29cdd53e-afa9-4252-b087-cd92b33e8ef8" data-vars-headline="DOGE&#x27;d federal worker runs for mayor" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/02/10/dc-unemployment-rate-high-2025-doge-economy" target="_self">economy</a>.

Doni Crawford running for D.C. Council after being appointed to office

"The word of the year is affordability," the former budget analyst says.

It&#x27;s been three weeks since Doni Crawford was <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="appointed" data-vars-click-url="https://dccouncil.gov/doni-crawford-appointed-as-councilmember-council-committees-reorganized/" data-vars-content-id="89148d28-f596-4a00-9799-963c98ed9fe2" data-vars-headline="Doni Crawford running for D.C. Council after being appointed to office" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://dccouncil.gov/doni-crawford-appointed-as-councilmember-council-committees-reorganized/" target="_blank">appointed</a> as D.C.&#x27;s newest council member, and now she&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="asking" data-vars-click-url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dbcu_an1Mmk" data-vars-content-id="89148d28-f596-4a00-9799-963c98ed9fe2" data-vars-headline="Doni Crawford running for D.C. Council after being appointed to office" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dbcu_an1Mmk" target="_blank">asking</a> for your vote.Why it matters: Crawford&#x27;s path to power was unusual — and now she&#x27;ll be running against a familiar name, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Elissa Silverman" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2022/11/10/dc-council-elisa-silverman-leader-progressive-vaccum" data-vars-content-id="89148d28-f596-4a00-9799-963c98ed9fe2" data-vars-headline="Doni Crawford running for D.C. Council after being appointed to office" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2022/11/10/dc-council-elisa-silverman-leader-progressive-vaccum" target="_self">Elissa Silverman</a>, the progressive who formerly held the seat.

Virginia Democrats use NoVa to their advantage in redistricting

The Dems' proposed map would deliver them all but one of the state's 11 House districts in this year's midterms.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Virginia Democrats" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/richmond/2025/10/29/virginia-redistricting-judge-whats-going-on" data-vars-content-id="f7b0f0d4-768e-4c28-ae70-71c6bbbbed9b" data-vars-headline="Virginia Democrats use NoVa to their advantage in redistricting" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/richmond/2025/10/29/virginia-redistricting-judge-whats-going-on" target="_self">Virginia Democrats</a> have released a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="congressional map proposal" data-vars-click-url="https://www.vpap.org/redistricting/2026/" data-vars-content-id="f7b0f0d4-768e-4c28-ae70-71c6bbbbed9b" data-vars-headline="Virginia Democrats use NoVa to their advantage in redistricting" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.vpap.org/redistricting/2026/" target="_blank">congressional map proposal</a> that could deliver them all but one of the state&#x27;s 11 House districts in this year&#x27;s midterms.Why it matters: They want to use Northern Virginia and metropolitan Richmond to do it.

"Melania" premieres at the Kennedy Center amid backlash

Amazon's $75M "Melania" documentary makes its Kennedy Center debut.

Melania Trump&#x27;s big-budget <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="documentary" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/01/05/melania-trump-amazon-prime-documentary" data-vars-content-id="8b2d07d5-e774-408a-ac9f-704d9ff5c942" data-vars-headline="&quot;Melania&quot; premieres at the Kennedy Center amid backlash" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/01/05/melania-trump-amazon-prime-documentary" target="_self">documentary</a> premieres at the Kennedy Center on Thursday. But the $75 million film&#x27;s rollout is drawing more attention than the movie itself.Why it matters: The buzz around &quot;Melania&quot; has all the trappings of a Washington drama — elite circles, culture-war backlash and high-stakes questions about money and optics.

How to get rid of your Christmas tree in the DMV

Culture

There are several ways to dispose of your Christmas trees in D.C., all of which speak to your essence as a human being.Why it matters: Goodbye, holiday season. Hello, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="judgey January" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2024/01/24/snow-storm-shovel-shaming-rules" data-vars-content-id="9d7e146e-b4fc-4f55-b60c-64a6c8d7f5f6" data-vars-headline="How to get rid of your Christmas tree in the DMV" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2024/01/24/snow-storm-shovel-shaming-rules" target="_self">judgey January</a>.

How Metro became D.C.'s favorite brand

Collabs with streetwear designers, flash pop-ups and smooth service have sales climbing.

<figure><img alt="Six diverse people modeling retro-style Metro merchandise including sweaters, t-shirts, a tote bag, and a pennant, with brown and white color themes against a tan background." height="1200" id="69af8101-7899-4ac4-92d5-0d52401bf583" src="https://images.axios.com/pFCfxD7e4DEoSdFUqSrU9QHqoTw=/2026/01/09/1767977407512.png" width="1455"/><figcaption>Metro&#x27;s throwback collegiate gear. Photo: Courtesy of WMATA</figcaption></figure>Out: Repping D.C. with sports swag. In: Repping D.C. with Metro swag.While the Commanders flounder and Nats rebuild, our transit system is winning — <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="breaking record" data-vars-click-url="https://www.wusa9.com/article/traffic/mission-metro/metro-wmata-washington-transit/65-44a07d75-28c0-4461-b2a3-d6d061bcc1ff" data-vars-content-id="1e80a864-6ee4-4f4a-9f37-b5031ba26f8e" data-vars-headline="How Metro became D.C.&#x27;s favorite brand" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.wusa9.com/article/traffic/mission-metro/metro-wmata-washington-transit/65-44a07d75-28c0-4461-b2a3-d6d061bcc1ff" target="_blank">breaking record</a> ridership numbers and releasing merch that&#x27;s hotter than a Red Line rail at rush hour.Why it matters: Metro turns 50 this year, and it&#x27;s suddenly D.C.&#x27;s underdog du jour — rebounding from its pandemic slump, cleaner and more reliable, with a surprisingly sassy <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="online personality" data-vars-click-url="https://www.instagram.com/metroforward/" data-vars-content-id="1e80a864-6ee4-4f4a-9f37-b5031ba26f8e" data-vars-headline="How Metro became D.C.&#x27;s favorite brand" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.instagram.com/metroforward/" target="_blank">online personality</a> and undeniably cool swag.

What's in and out for 2026 in D.C.

Time for one of our fave Axios D.C. traditions: The new year&#x27;s in-and-out list. Why it matters: It&#x27;s official: 2025 is so last year.

Everything that happened in D.C. in 2025

It was a whopper of an annum packed with non-stop headlines affecting local living.

If you live in <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Washington" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc" data-vars-content-id="7fb84399-ec61-405c-a08f-dd499242d672" data-vars-headline="Everything that happened in D.C. in 2025" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc" target="_self">Washington</a>, 2025 lasted precisely ... a million years.The big picture: It was a whopper of an annum packed with non-stop headlines affecting local living.

Washingtonians go full glow-up to stand out in crowded job market

"They don't want to be thought of as someone's uncle or someone's grandpa."

Some Washingtonians are finding it&#x27;s not enough just to update their resumes and grab networking coffees amid the area&#x27;s hyper-competitive white-collar <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="job market" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2025/05/15/washington-job-market-flooded-by-federal-layoffs" data-vars-content-id="6125b1e1-45d0-49dc-ba5c-4aefdb539137" data-vars-headline="Washingtonians go full glow-up to stand out in crowded job market" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2025/05/15/washington-job-market-flooded-by-federal-layoffs" target="_self">job market</a> — they need full-on glow ups.Why it matters: If job candidates are looking refreshed on Zoom, it might not be an online filter.

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