1. Smithsonian Folklife Festival 2012

When/Where: The National Mall between 14th and 9th Streets. June 29 - July 1 and July 4 - 8 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. daily.

Why Go: The annual festival features art, music, food and a cultural experience flanked by the Smithsonian's many museums. This year's themes are "Citified," "Creativity and Crisis," and "Campus and Community."

Pricing: Free to attend.

2. Steel Drum Sundays

When/Where: Washington Harbour (3050 K St., NW) noon until 3 p.m. Sundays through October.

Why Go: Steel drummer Roger Greenidge performs free, live music on the plaza every Sunday. Enjoy some Carribean-inspired beats and imagine you're on a sandy beach instead of in swampy DC!

Pricing: FREE!

3. Coffee Cupping at Northside Social

When/Where: 2 p.m. Sunday. Northside Social, 3211 Wilson Blvd., Arlington.

Why Go: It's like wine tasting - but with coffee.

Pricing: Free to attend.

4. "Memphis" at The Kennedy Center

When/Where: Shows are scheduled for 7:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Matinee performances will be held at 1:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday at the Kennedy Center, 2700 F Street, NW Washington

Why Go: According to the Kennedy Center's website, this show, a "four-time Tony Award winner, including Best Musical, begs you to turn up the dial. Inspired by actual events, Memphis introduces a white radio DJ who wants to change the world and a black club singer who is ready for her big break."

Pricing: Tickets range in price from $39 to $115.

5. Animal Welfare League of Arlington Yard Sale

When/Where: 11 a.m., Saturday. 2650 S Arlington Mill Dr., Arlington.

Why Go: Skip the malls this weekend and peruse this yard sale at your own pace. You never know what treasures you'll uncover.

Pricing: Free to attend.

What are your weekend plans? If you care to share, please do. Maybe we'll see you there.