Mexican Cultural Institute
Things to do the week of April 20-23, 2026
We've gathered up things to do across the nation's capital, including museum exhibits, concerts, only-in-DC events and much more. Don't miss our things to do this weekend and things to do this month as well.
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Monday
Dressing Absences: The Textile Journey of Pedro Páramo
The Mexican Cultural Institute's exhibit explores the creative process behind Netflix's adaptation of Juan Rulfo's iconic novel, Pedro Páramo. The display includes original garments worn during the filming of the adaptation and highlights the work of award-winning designer Anna Terrazas, whose pieces translate the essence of each character into textiles and color palettes that evoke identity.
Hours | Free Admission
Mexican Cultural Institute, 2829 16th Street NW, Washington, DC 20009
National Museum of Asian Art
Of the Hills: Pahari Paintings from India’s Himalayan Kingdoms
Discover the jaw-dropping beauty and fascinating history of paintings made for Hindu kings in the Pahari region of India between the 1620s and 1830s. The National Museum of Asian Art’s new exhibit examines the political, cultural and religious contexts of 48 pieces filled with exquisite detail. Some of these works have never been shown publicly before.
10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. | Free Admission
National Museum of Asian Art, 1050 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20004
1776
The story of the signing of the Declaration of Independence is transformed into a vibrant musical as the country’s beginnings are brought to blazing life inside the historic Ford's Theatre.
Tickets
Ford's Theatre, 511 10th Street NW, Washington, DC 20004
Tuesday
Dear America
Explore how artists have captured and questioned the American experience over the last 250 years. Through more than 100 works on paper spanning photography, prints and drawings, discover powerful depictions of the nation’s landscapes, people and ideals of freedom.
10 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Free Admission
National Gallery of Art, 6th Street & Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20560
National Museum of the American Latino
¡Puro Ritmo! The Musical Journey of Salsa
The Molina Family Latino Gallery, the first gallery space of the National Museum of the American Latino, is housed inside the National Museum of American History. The space hosts a new bilingual exhibition that explores how Afro-Cuban music became an essential part of U.S. culture. Artists like Tito Puente and Celia Cruz – as well as local legends – are covered.
10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. | Free Admission
National Museum of American History, 1300 Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20560
Arena Stage
A Good Day to Me Not to You
Arena Stage welcomes a new work from Drama Desk Award-winning actor Lameece Isaaq and two-time Obie-winning director Lee Sunday Evans. The play concerns a 40-something dental lab tech who loses her job and relocates to a woman’s boarding house run by nuns. She’s forced to confront her own personal demons as well as the house’s deranged inhabitants in this deeply psychological production.
Tickets
Arena Stage, 1101 6th Street SW, Washington, DC 20024
Wednesday
ARTECHOUSE
Peak Bloom: Dome Experience
Hi-Lawn, in collaboration with ARTECHOUSE Studio, transforms its rooftop dome into a breathtaking digital cherry blossom spectacle. The immersive visual show features 360 degrees of petals, light and motion projected overhead, surrounding guests with luminous blooms and flowing digital landscapes.
Tickets
Hi-Lawn, 1309 5th Street NE, Washington, DC 20002
Smithsonian Craft Show
The country's premier showcase for the finest in hand-crafted, American artisanal works returns to the National Building Museum. Marvel at the lineup of exhibitors that represents all facets of contemporary craft and design: basketry, ceramics, decorative fiber, furniture, glass, jewelry, leather, metal, mixed media, paper, wearable art and wood.
Tickets
National Building Museum, 401 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20001
44: The Musical
Head to Klein Theatre for a healthy dose of political satire with a musical ideal for a DC audience. 44: The Musical tackles the Obama Era with hilarious characters and songs. Expect appearances by (actors humorously playing) Sarah Palin, Barack Obama, Mitch McConnell, Ted Cruz and Joe Biden.
Tickets
Klein Theatre, 450 7th Street NW, Washington, DC 20004
Thursday
Filmfest DC
The largest and longest-running annual international film festival in Washington, DC, Filmfest DC returns each April with a new lineup featuring quite the genre exercise: comedies, dramas, thrillers, shorts, documentaries and more.
More Info
Photo by Cameron Whitman
The Minutes
The Keegan Theatre hosts a production from one of the great purveyors of the art form. Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Tracy Letts’ brilliant examination of small-town politics plays out over the course of one city council meeting.
Tickets
Keegan Theatre, 1742 Church Street NW, Washington, DC 20036
Lincoln Theatre
Lovett or Leave It
As co-host of Pod Save America, Jon Lovett became one of the leading voices in political podcasts. Lovett or Leave It is the former Obama speechwriter and current comedian’s solo venture. He’ll bring the show to Lincoln Theatre to cover the silliest stories in politics with conversations – and special guests – that you won’t find anywhere else.
8 p.m. | Tickets
Lincoln Theatre, 1215 U Street NW, Washington, DC 20009
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