It is officially late July, and if you aren't currently melted into a puddle on the Metro platform, you’re doing better than most of us. Monday in DC usually implies a slow crawl toward the weekend, but tonight offers a refreshing pivot from the usual happy hour grind. We are leaning heavily into the "great indoors" vibe—specifically spaces with high-end ventilation and enough entertainment to make you forget about your 9-to-5 while the humidity rages outside.
Over in Ivy City, the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema is basically hosting a mini-festival of its own. For those who spent the day wrestling with childcare, their Kids Camp series continues with screenings of Arco and Flow. It’s the perfect way to tire out the small humans in a dark room before bed. If your tastes lean more toward supernatural energy and psychic middle-schoolers, they are also hosting a special Anniversary Celebration for Mob Psycho 100. Rounding out their eclectic night is a screening of The Invite, proving that Ivy City is the undisputed champion of Monday night cinema.
If you’d rather swap the popcorn for a stiff drink and some bass, head over to U Street. The legendary DC9 is playing host to Frances Forever. Known for that viral, dreamy indie-pop sound that feels like a warm hug, they are exactly the kind of artist you want to see in a room as intimate as the DC9 upstairs stage. It’s a chance to see a rising star before they’re headlining the Anthem, all while enjoying one of the best rooftop-adjacent spots in the city.
Where to Go If You Want To...
...lean into the nostalgia or treat the kids without breaking the bank, get yourself to Ivy City. The Kids Camp screenings at Alamo Drafthouse Cinema are a lifesaver for parents, but honestly, the Mob Psycho 100 anniversary is where the real energy is at. It’s a rare chance to catch high-octane anime on the big screen with a crowd that actually appreciates the animation flexes. Plus, you can order a full meal and a boozy milkshake delivered directly to your seat, which is the only way to survive a Monday.
...feel something and maybe dance a little, make the pilgrimage to U Street. Frances Forever brings a quirky, relatable energy to DC9 that makes even a humid Monday feel like a highlight. It’s the ideal spot for anyone who wants to claim they "knew them when" while sipping a rail drink in a venue that smells like rock and roll history. It’s the perfect antidote to the Monday blues.
Late Night / Looking Ahead
As the sets wrap up and the credits roll, don't forget that we’re just getting started with a busy mid-summer week. Keep an eye on the U Street calendar as more mid-week residencies start to pop up to help you bridge the gap to Friday. If you're sticking around Ivy City after the film, grab a quick nightcap at one of the neighboring spots if they’re still pouring; otherwise, get some sleep—Tuesday isn't going to tackle itself.
Stay cool, stay hydrated, and we'll see you at the bar.