D.C. weekend events: Mother Tongue Film Festival, Fashion Week and more
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A scene from "Frybread Face and Me." Photo: Courtesy of AARAY Releasing
This weekend in D.C., check out the Smithsonian's ninth annual Mother Tongue Film Festival, a D.C. Fashion Week runway show and more.
1. 🎞️ Must-watch cultural films
The Smithsonian's ninth annual Mother Tongue Film Festival is here.
What's happening: Now through Saturday, watch films that record the journeys of people from around the world and learn about cultural and linguistic diversity. View films here.
By the numbers: There will be 23 films in 27 languages from 12 regions to watch.
What they're saying: "Language is culture," said Amalia Córdova, festival co-director. "In our efforts to strengthen cultural knowledge, it's crucial that people have access to diverse stories through the lens of language diversity."
Where: The National Mall. View screening locations here.
Context: This festival is part of the Recovering Voices program and kicked off on the United Nations' International Mother Language Day.
When: There will be screenings Friday and Saturday. View full schedule here.
Cost: Free.
- Some screenings may encourage an RSVP.
Of note: All films will be fully subtitled or open captioned in English, and an American Sign Language interpreter will be present for all panel discussions.
2. 🪡 Emerging Designers Showcase
- See the work of D.C.'s newest fashion designers at the start of D.C. Fashion Week, 6–9pm Saturday at the National Housing Center. Tickets start at $60.
- Separately: There is a fashion industry networking party 6–9pm Friday at Saint Yves and a 40th International Couture Collections showcase 5pm Sunday at the National Housing Center. Get tickets here.
3. 📽️ Uncaged Second Annual Film Festival
- Watch short films of various genres that celebrate and affirm the Black queer experience, 6–10pm Saturday at the Anacostia Arts Center. Tickets start at $10.
- Each screening will be followed by a discussion panel of filmmakers and community leaders.
- Food and drinks will be available.
5. 💃 Travesuras
- Dance to reggaeton and Latin trap music, 4–10pm Saturday at Saint Yves in Dupont Circle. Tickets start at $25.
5. 🛍️ Annual Black Her-Story Market
- Shop women- and Black-owned brands selling handcrafted items, 1–6pm Sunday at Hotel Zena. Free.
- Appetizers and cocktails will be available for purchase at Figleaf Bar & Lounge.