The Weekend Edition

Has anyone noticed that good events seem to clump up around DC? This weekend is definately a clumper (well that just sounds bad), here are my picks:

National Book Festival - On the National Mall between 3rd and 7th St from 10a-5:30 pm, Saturday only, rain or shine.

This yearly event is a must-go for the reading fans in the group. Huge tents are set up with all sorts of authors to meet, books to buy, and then have them signed by said authors. Laura Bush co-hosts the event with the Librarian of Congress, and special guests this year include Bob Scheiffer, Tiki Barber, Brad Meltzer, and lots more. Chinua Achebe was in town earlier this week but isn't listed on the official schedule, so you may or may not be able to see him.

Barrack's Row Oktoberfest - At the Marine Barracks at 8th and I st SE (Eastern Market metro) with vendors set up on 8th St. 11a-5p, Saturday Only.

This is Oktoberfest, Marine style (I'm guessing Hawk and Dove isn't a vendor this year). Tour the Marine Barracks and the Commandant's House, with an Iron Chef competition featuring chefs from the Army, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard and Navy. And don't worry kids, just because its at the Barracks doesn't mean its alcohol free (or it probably wouldn't be on this blog).

Virginia Wine Festival - Prince William County Fairgrounds in Mannassas, 20$ in advance or 25$ at the door. 11a-5p, Saturday and Sunday

Wines, art, and live music are hopping at one of the best Wine Festivals in NoVa. More than 50 wineries will be offering samples, so please people, take the bus (Organized by Washington Wine Academy) or a designated driver (they get free NA drinks and discounted $15 tickets). VA Police are notorious for stalking the exits to these events.

Crafty Bastards Art Fair - Corner of Kalorama and 18th St in Adams Morgan, 10a-5p Sunday only.

You normally wouldn't find me putting a craft fair up, but this yearly show is a bit... eclectic (as we'd expect in Adams Morgan). Plus afterwards you can troll 18th St for a bar to watch the skins game.

And finally, Eric's Pick of the Weekend...

Redskins vs. Dallas Cowboys - 4:15pm Sunday, broadcast network, sure to be shown at every bar in the DC Metro area.

Shiiiiiit, I'm ALWAYS ready for some football, but this Sunday its the vehement rivals Redskins versus the undefeated (for now) Cowboys. Without Jason Taylor, facing a staunch Dallas Defensive line, and a Tony Romo that seems to be able to do no wrong this year, the Redskins face a challenge. Head out to your favorite game watching place to catch the action. My favorite places to catch the game are today's top 5 list on the right nav bar. We'll just hope Jessica Simpson shows up in the stands...