Thursday, March 22

Artini Feature Night

What: Preview Smith Commons’ Artini entry before the March 31 event
Where: Smith Commons (1245 H St. NE)
When: 6:30–8:30 PM, Thursday, March 22
Price: PAYG

Though it might be hard to top the Guava McGuavington for the title of Smith’s Most Delicious Cocktail, tonight Phil Peters will debut the H Street bar’s official Artini entry. In this Corcoran-sponsored cocktail fundraiser, 12 area mixologists compete with libations inspired by famous works housed in the gallery. Bet you never thought your happy hour habit would make you a patron of the arts, but there’s a first for everything; 20% of proceeds benefit ArtReach.


Friday, March 23

Gin Cherry Blossom Cocktail at J&G Steakhouse

What: A libation inspired by D.C.’s famous flower
Where: J&G Steakhouse (515 15th St. NW)
When: Friday, March 22 (through April 27)
Price: PAYG

A stroll down the national mall is a nice way to admire this year’s cherry blossoms--but a drink in their honor is even better. Make a pit stop at the W Hotel, where the Gin Cherry Blossom Cocktail at J&G Steakhouse will give you a much-needed break from the tourist-laden streets. Made with Hendrick's gin, cherry yuzu, soda and Thai basil leaves, this drink may just inspire a new appreciation for the district’s favorite festival. Also check out our roundup of cherry blossom-inspired drinks around town.


Saturday, March 24

Pop-Up Stand Up and Craft Beer Happy Hour

What: Comedians and local beer
Where: Synetic Theater (1800 S Bell St., Arlington)
When: 6 PM or 9 PM, Saturday, March 24
Price: $12 in advance, $15 at the door

The Washington Wine Academy hosts this event, in which you’ll start the evening with happy hour in the lobby featuring local craft brews (Port City, Magic Hat and Flying Dog, just to name a few) and a performance from Synetic Theater, followed by an hour and half of stand-up by local comedians Randolph Terrance, Andy Kline, Tim Miller and Danny Rouhier.


Sunday, March 25

Mad Men Viewing Party

What: Hors d’oeuvres, classic cocktails and a three-course dinner
Where: Bourbon Steak (2800 Pennsylvania Ave. NW)
When: 7:30 PM, Sunday, March 25
Price: $75 (includes tax and gratuity)

If ever there was an excuse to get martini drunk on a Sunday night, this is it. You’ll down Don Draper-worthy cocktails in your finest 60s fare at this swanky restaurant inside the Georgetown Four Seasons, where cocktails and a three-course dinner with wine pairings precedes a viewing of the AMC show’s fifth season premiere.