Memorial Day Weekend is packed with family-friendly fun and moments of reflection for all audiences, from cartoon revivals and art tours to historical recounts of the struggle for educational justice in Black America.
Plus, wrap up Mental Health Awareness Month with practical strategies to support Black men facing trauma.
To keep up with all the buzz, don’t forget to check out the Washington Informer Calendar!
Thursday, May 22
Resilient Roots: Strategies for Healing Trauma in Black Men
10 a.m. – Noon | $45
Howard University, 2400 6th St NW, Washington, D.C., 20059
With a focus on empowerment, healing, and strength-based techniques, this Resilient Roots program offers actionable methods to build trust, deepen therapeutic connections, and enhance support in clinical practice.
Training provides social work professionals with practical tools to support Black men facing trauma through a culturally grounded approach, while participants will examine the effects of racial trauma, systemic barriers, and societal pressures on mental health and well-being.
Meanwhile, the workshop highlights strategies for fostering resilience, strengthening coping skills, and applying interventions that reflect the lived experiences of Black men.
7 p.m. | Free
Politics and Prose Bookstore, 5015 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, D.C., 20008
“The Battle for the Black Mind,” written by NAACP Image Award-winning author Karida L. Brown, is an explosive historical account of the struggle for educational justice in America.
Drawing on more than a decade of archival research, personal reflection, and keen sociological insight, this book traces a century of segregated schooling, examining how early efforts to control Black minds through education systems has laid the foundation for the systemic inequities we still live with today.
From the founding of early historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs), to the rise of the Black freedom struggle, “The Battle for the Black Mind” weaves together the stories of pioneering Black leaders and the institutions they built to educate future generations.
Brown will be in conversation with Dr. David J. Johns, the chief executive officer and executive director of the National Black Justice Collective (NBJC).
This event is first come, first served seating.
Friday, May 23
Noon – 1 p.m. | Free
National Museum of Asian Art, 1050 Independence Ave SW, Washington, D.C., 20004
Join the National Museum of Asian Art for a docent-led tour highlighting women’s untold stories in the art world, where their contributions have frequently been overshadowed. Discover the importance of women artists, subjects, patrons, and collectors who’ve shaped history.
Celebrate women’s creativity and resilience by exploring captivating narratives that include inspirational subjects, ruling monarchs, and revered figures of divinity.
Fleischer Cartoons: Greatest Hits Vol. II
12:30 p.m. | $8, Free for children 12 and under
AFI Silver Theatre and Cultural Center, 8633 Colesville Rd, Silver Spring, MD 20910
A pioneer in the field of animation, Max Fleischer pushed the boundaries of surreal, rubber-hose artistry and developed groundbreaking techniques such as the Rotoscope, the Stereoptical Process and early synchronized sound animation.
Now, thanks to the magic of digital restoration, participants can embark on an unforgettable journey through animation history from the legendary Fleischer Studios, featuring iconic characters like Betty Boop, Koko the Clown, Popeye, Superman and more — all brought back to life in stunning 4K restorations presented on the big screen!
Saturday, May 24
Heart of the City Championship Fight Nights
2 p.m. – 7 p.m. | $35+
The Old Autozone, 1207 H St NE, Washington, D.C., 20002
Heart of the City Candles is proud to partner with 2 Fly Boxing Club to present the Heart of the City Championship Fight Night, an electrifying amateur boxing match to raise funds for D.C. youth boxers on their journey to the 2025 Junior Olympics.
This event, sanctioned by USA Boxing, will provide local athletes with the opportunity to showcase their skills, engage with the community, and gain the financial support needed to compete at the national level.
Feel the Pulse: Field Day Experience
3 p.m. | Free before 6 p.m.
Arlington Beer Garden, 3217 10th St N, Arlington, VA 22201
Enjoy happy hour with $8 Mimosas and $10 Rum Punch, and transcend to the days of what summer used to feel like before the realities of today.
It’s a backyard jam with an eclectic music policy, food trucks, games, and more, featuring the sounds of afrobeats, soca, amapiano, hip-hop, R&B, reggae, and dancehall taking over the night.
Where music, sunlight, and good energy come together in one unforgettable outdoor space!
Sunday, May 25
10 a.m. | $25+
The Wharf, 600 Water St SW, Washington, D.C., 20024
From tee to shining tee…Putt Across America is an immersive mini golf experience for all ages.
Guests will putt their way through 18 larger-than-life holes, traveling from New York to Seattle, Hollywood to Hawaii, and more, including plummeting over Niagara Falls, partying down Bourbon Street, and winning the jackpot on the Las Vegas Strip.
Putt Across America blends a playful design with entertaining state-themed trivia and engaging fun facts as players drive through the course.
Carnival at the Odenton Volunteer Fire Company
5 p.m. | TBD
Odenton Volunteer Fire Company, 1425 Annapolis Rd, Odenton, MD 21113
Set your calendar and enjoy the last day of the Odenton Volunteer Fire Company‘s annual carnival, an annual tradition promising thrilling rides, tasty treats, games, and fun for the whole family!
This year’s event will also feature a Memorial Day ceremony by the Honor Guard. Don’t miss out on a day of unforgettable fun!
