Nerds, unite! runs from Friday through Sunday with a widespread focus on everything from video gaming, to tabletop gaming, to anime and manga, to cosplay, as well as music 鈥� while celebrating Blerd (a portmanteau of Black and nerd) culture.
This year, there will be over 100 panels and workshops, often on subjects that have social or niche impact in the community. Also, expect comedy shows, concerts, after-parties and “the largest attached food truck rally of any convention in the country,” according to Hilton George, founder and CEO of Blerdcon.
A few of the many notable guests and speakers include Phil LaMarr, whose acting has been seen in shows and movies such as “Futurama,” “Samurai Jack,” “Static Shock” and “Pulp Fiction,” among others. Also speaking is Walter Jones, who was cast as the first Black superhero on live-action television as Zack, the original Black Ranger from “The Mighty Morphin’ Power Rangers.”
“The community is very, very welcoming. And this is not just a nerd space, it’s also a Black space, and everything that comes along with the Black space that people talk about 鈥� that feeling of a family reunion, that feeling of recognition and appreciation that we get,” George said. “It’s also an inclusive space. So even if you’re not Black, you are welcome to come to Blerdcon.”
Over 12,000 guests are expected to attend this year. depending on the time frame and additional perks, such as autographs and photo ops. The event is located at Hyatt Regency Crystal City in Arlington, Virginia.
There鈥檚 so much to do in the D.C. area in the coming days, and 草莓传媒 has you covered with our weekly roundup of area events worth anticipating.
Check back every Thursday for a roundup of聽Things to do in the D.C. area.
Here鈥檚 what else is happening in the D.C. area:
DC
Bastille Day
There are several ways to celebrate French culture this Bastille Day around the region. In D.C.’s Tenleytown neighborhood, on Saturday with French-themed activities, plus food and live music. Tickets cost $20.
Elsewhere, there is also a on Sunday that begins at Lafayette Square and continues throughout the surrounding neighborhood to explore French-influenced architecture. This tour costs $30.
(D)rafts and (C)rafts
The D.C. Brewers’ Guild is hosting this second annual festival on Saturday with . With tickets that start at $20, this event is hosted at Dock 5 in the Union Market District.
Doubles’ July Market
Shop at this on Sunday at Doubles on Georgia Avenue in Northwest and stay for coffee, natural wine and pizza from Sonny’s Pizza. No tickets are necessary.
Maryland
Bastille Day
For those who would prefer to dance the night away, Maryland’s Glen Echo Park is hosting a on Sunday with music by Djangolaya. Tickets cost $20 at the door with no partner necessary.
Babies & Books
Designed for children ages 3 and under in mind, People’s Book in Takoma Park is hosting a on Friday mornings. Free coffee is included for caregivers.
Smash Bros Tournament Series
Every Sunday this summer, gamers can congregate at AxGard in Old Ellicott City, Maryland, for a on a 30-foot projector screen. The tournament is kid and teen-friendly.
Senior Fitness Class
On Wednesday, Onelife Fitness is hosting a . The free class is at National Harbor for all fitness levels, with chairs available to help aid with balance.
Virginia
Date Night at the Innovation Studio
The Museum of Contemporary Art Arlington is hosting a on Friday with resident artist Roxana Geffen. The D.C.-based artist will assist guests in creating textile collages.
Griefcat
Creative Cauldron in Falls Church, Virginia, is hosting a as part of its summer concert series. Tickets for the event on Friday vary, though those who would prefer to watch the livestream only have to pay approximately $15.
Tour the oldest house in Arlington, Virginia
, which is owned and operated by the Arlington Historical Society, is hosting free open houses every Saturday, now through October. The structure dates back to 1750, so there is no electricity or air conditioning inside. Because of that, the structure is not open during “really hot or really cold weather,” so inquire ahead of time.
Have an event you鈥檇 like featured in 草莓传媒鈥檚聽Things to do in the D.C. area聽weekly guide?聽Fill out this contact form聽to have your event considered.
Get breaking news and daily headlines delivered to your email inbox by signing up here.
漏 2024 草莓传媒. All Rights Reserved. This website is not intended for users located within the European Economic Area.
