Orchids: Masters of Deception
Do you miss the curated collection of plants that your parents kept alive? Are you ready for some colorful blooms? Can you really wait until the April showers bring May flowers? If you answered “yes”, “yes” and “absolutely not,” it may be time to visit the United States Botanic Garden for its newest display — an orchid extravaganza! This collection will showcase a variety of orchid adaptations, scents, shapes and colors until April 27. The display focuses on the artistry of floral arrangement, featuring orchids wrapped around 9-foot tree sculptures, 20+ lamps, 8-foot curtains and more.
How to Be a Power Player: Tudor Edition
If you need some tips on how to improve your social climbing through a “complex range of skills, strategies and techniques,” visit the Folger Shakespeare Library for some suggestions. Although the exhibit is catered toward a playbook meant for Tudor England, that shouldn’t stop you from getting free, timed-entry passes from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. most days until July (check online for more details). The Folger Library is just east of the U.S. Capitol Building and about two blocks northeast of the Capitol South Metro station.
Mardi Gras at The Wharf
On Saturday, March 1 from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., the Wharf will boast what has come to be known as the center of Washington, D.C.’s Mardi Gras celebrations. Mardi Gras activities, located at Market Pier Bar with other family-friendly alternative locations, begin at 3 p.m. The parade starts at 3:30 p.m., live music will play from 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. and there will be a final fireworks salute at sunset (around 6:30 p.m.). The event is free, is expected to happen rain or shine and encourages you to wear “your most extravagant ensemble” in purple, green and gold.
Timeless Mucha: The Magic of Line
This exhibition at The Phillips Collection highlights the works of Czech painter and decorative artist Alphonse Mucha, known for his intricate linework, flowing forms and stylized designs. The exhibit is open until May 18, and you can buy tickets online for only $10 with the student ticket (don’t forget to bring your student ID). If you’re feeling curious or are looking for more information about the art’s history, the gallery also has “Spotlight Talks” about the exhibition daily at 1 p.m. from March 1 to May 18.