Happy Thursday, and Happy Almost Three Day Weekend, dear readers! This weekend, of course, is Memorial Day weekend, the unofficial start of summer. That means BBQ’s, warmer weather and we can wear white again (just until Labor Day, of course). Many District resident will be heading out of town this weekend, traveling to the beach or visiting family. Many of us, however, are heading to the backyard, rooftop or park to enjoy our holiday.

If you get to the point where the idea of another serving of potato or pasta salad has you gagging, we suggest you consider checking out the following events. Know of an event that TNG readers would enjoy? Leave the details in the comments below or send them along to events@thenewgay.net.

Tonight

• Support TNG reader Katie Wagner and her project to teach sign language to teachers in Uganda while enjoying the work of some quality DC-based musicians tonight at her Benefit Fundraiser. Details: Phase 1, 525 8th St. SE, Doors Open 8PM (Performances start early), $3 Dos XX’s, $5 minimum donation, 21+.
• Kick off the long weekend TNG-style at our “Marion Barry” Party at Solly’s. Details: Solly’s U Street Tavern, 1942 11th St., NW, 8:00 p.m. – 12:00 a.m., 21+, No Cover.

Saturday

• Enjoy the nicer weather in the great outdoors with other awesome queer folks at this month’s TNG Day in the Park.  Details: Kalorama Park, 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
• Catch the premiere of Baltimore-native Kirk Shannon-Butts’ film, Blueprint, at DC Black Pride’s Pure Throwback Film Festival. Details: Renaissance M Street Hotel, 1143 New Hampshire Avenue NW, 12:45 p.m., Tickets: $15.00 for the Entire Film Festival, Happy Hour After Party – Free – Location TBA.
• Get your dance on this weekend with the folks at SHIFT DC at their Memorial Saturday Bash dance party. Details: Cobalt, 1639 R Street, NW (corner of 17th + R), 10:00 p.m. – 3:00 a.m., Free Before 11:00 p.m., $5 cover after, 21+.

Sunday

• Celebrate Black Pride with Lambda Rising as it hosts a free Black Pride Authors Panel Discussion. Details: Lambda Rising, 1625 Connecticut Ave NW, 6:30 p.m., Free.
• Ddidn’t get enough dancing in this weekend? Well head over to DC9 for the Memorial Sunday TAINT Dance Party. Details: DC9, 1940 9th Street, NW, 9:00 p.m. – 12:00 a.m., 21+, $5.