austin

Austin

chicago

Chicago

denver

Denver

lasvegas

Las Vegas

madison

Madison

nashville

Nashville

philly

Philly

pittsburgh

Pittsburgh

portland

Portland

saltlake

Salt Lake

seattle

Seattle

twincities

Twin Cities

We make podcasts and newsletters that connect people with the cities they love.

City Cast DC

Kaela Cote-Stemmermann

Margaret Kingsbury

Gas prices around the nation are soaring because of the U.S. and Israel’s joint attacks on Iran. According to AAA, 

 are $4.2 a gallon on average, up from $3.125 just one month ago. Here are some tips for saving on gas in D.C.

 gives you points for every dollar you spend on groceries to be spent at BP and Amoco stations. They also frequently offer 4x bonus fuel points days. If you’re a frequent Harris Teeter shopper, buy some gift cards on those days to rack up more fuel points. 

 also have fuel savings programs for members, although there aren’t any in D.C. proper. If you tend to go to the same gas station, check whether it has 

 keeping tires properly inflated, and making sure to drive the speed limit. As speeds exceed 50 mph on the highway, aerodynamic drag reduces fuel economy. While limiting air conditioner use helps save on gas, that’s often impossible in D.C. summer. Use a windshield shade to lessen heat buildup inside the car, and remove bulky items — it takes more fuel to accelerate in a heavier car.

🚌 Take Advantage of DC’s First Class Public Transit

If you’re willing to walk a few blocks, 

WMATA will get you most places in the DMV

. Take advantage of your local bus and train stops. Oftentimes, using a bikeshare can be faster than driving especially when you consider trying to find parking (Plus, you’ll get jacked 💪). It’s not always possible, but even just replacing a few car trips can make a big difference.

 is free and tracks gas prices in your area. Enter your address or route, and it will show you the current gas prices at stations along the way. It’s crowdsourced, and you can enter your receipts to earn points toward rewards, including discounts on gas. You can also play games to earn points.

Gas prices around the nation are soaring. Here how to save on gas in D.C.

Hacks To Save Money on Gas in DC

Tips and tricks for living your best DC life, by locals, for locals.

DC Life Hacks

Let’s face it, January is not D.C.’s (or my) best month. The holidays are behind us, my New Year's resolutions are already crumbling. I bulk up on planners I’ll never use because surely THAT’S why 2025 flopped.

But luckily, D.C. has a myriad of ways to get outside, get cozy, and get creative so you can avoid the January slump. Here are a few of our favorites.

 capital of weird, niche hobbies, and you should take advantage of it (even if you do drop it in just a few months 😬). Our podcast co-host Bridget is on a beekeeping kick after taking an intro course with 

. I’ve done metalsmithing, ceramics, DnD, knitting, and a plethora of others to get me through the short days.

Every group trip, I’m that one friend that 

on getting an Airbnb with a hot tub (even if it does mean bunkbeds). Because there’s nothing better than sitting in a hot tub in winter looking at the stars. But, if you don’t want to make a whole trip out of it, get out to 

 on the Potomac for some quality tub time.

We’ve been walking a mile in different D.C. neighborhoods as a way to explore the city (and find new sweet treats, of course 😈). So far we’ve done 

The Capitals, Go-Go, and Wizards are all in season during this time. This is your excuse to get yourself out of your blanket burrito and head downtown to the Capital One Arena or the Sports and Entertainment Center across the river. Maybe it’ll even inspire you to head to one of 

 And if you know nothing about D.C. sports? Start with our 

Studies show looking at art can lift your mood, ease anxiety, and even activates the same part of our brain as when we’re in love. There are a few installations that’ll be gone after January, so go now! At the National Gallery, the stunning 

 closes out its run at the Hirshhorn January 19.

Jump On DC’s Non-Alcoholic Cocktail Scene

Dry January doesn’t mean you can’t go out. Everyone knows mocktails are hip now, and as a certified lightweight, they’ve saved me on many occasions. I love the plethora of non-alcoholic cocktails at 

, they might be better than the normal cocktails. Mixtures of osmanthus, vegan foam, tamarind, and other creative touches that render booze irrelevant — plus, you'll wake up feeling ready to tackle the month.

More Things To Do In DC This Month

Your Guide to DC in January 2026

What Washingtonians have been wondering. We break down why things in DC are the way they are and how they work.

DC, Explained

To some, D.C. winters are the worst of both worlds. No snow, but cold enough to demand a “real” winter jacket. But me? I love the early nights, neighborhood walks full of twinkling lights, hot toddies, and fire pits. This year, I'm embracing cozy season (like any good introvert) and romanticizing D.C. like I'm in a cringey holiday rom-com.

Year after year, the cold weather brings me back to my favorite speakeasies and cocktail bars. The small oak interior and ever-burning fireplace at 

 make the $19 cocktails go down easy. And the 

fireplaces) has become a recent favorite. But a bar doesn’t need a fireplace to feel cozy. 

 projects the same vibe with just red Christmas lights and extra oily tater tots. Meanwhile, “cozy” should be 

 middle name; the low ceilings and red leather screaming at you to write that novel while sipping a whiskey neat.

Meanwhile, I’m already planning my annual 

 (pro tip: Reese's in your s’more will 

 offer that fire-roasted flavor without the need to bring your own kindling.

When the tipsy warmth isn’t enough, it’s time to find a hearty bowl of soup. Not everyone loves a seafood soup, but to those, I say, have you tried the Gaeng Som Salmon soup at 

? It has tamarind, basil, coconut sticky rice, and everything nice. For those less seaworthy, the lemongrass pho at 

 and the aush soup with ground beef and yogurt at 

One of my favorite parts of D.C. winter is, despite not having much snow, we still insist on going all out on 

. This year, the Anacostia Arts Center is hosting a week-long 

 with dozens of workshops and local vendors. The 

 is happening this weekend at the Brookland Arts Walk with Persian inspired food and art vendors. And of course, there is always the 

But really, you don’t need to spend money to embrace the hygge. Appreciation is the reason for the season after all. Lately, I’ve taken to slapping on my headphones (S/O 

, our latest local music obsession) and going for an evening walk through my neighborhood while (respectively) peeping in windows to check out people’s lights. It makes returning to my own home feel that much cozier.

To some, D.C. winters are the worst of both worlds. No snow, but cold enough to demand a full winter getup. But me? I love the early nights, neighborhood walks full of twinkling lights, and hot toddies. Here's how to romanticize D.C. like a cringey holiday rom-com.

How To Fall in Love with Washington, DC Winters  

How To Fall in Love with DC Winters  

POV: You’re sipping (maybe boozy) hot cocoa, perusing local art, chatting with neighbors, and thinking about the brown butter cookies you have in the oven. C’mon! Doesn't get better than that. Here are the best D.C. holiday markets to find great gifts, and, more importantly, to set your perfect winter ~vibe~

This is my favorite of the two largest D.C. holiday markets — Downtown and Dupont — mostly because they have 

Del Ray Artisans’ Fine Art & Craft Holiday Market

seriously talented local artists and makers

. I got my favorite coffee mug here last year and plan on returning for a whole set. From print makers to ceramicists, there is something for every taste and price point here.

This one costs $5 to enter but it means significantly less crowds. Plus, you get to 

 including vintage clothing, home goods, crafts, art prints, permanent jewelry, and tarot, all while listening to a live DJ.

 with neighbors — the sun is coming back! Come hungry and grab some Yalda and Persian inspired treats from local chefs. Then get custom permanent jewelry welded on site, or opt for a less permanent accessory.

Wonderland has never hosted an event that wasn’t a banger. 

, winter decor, locally made gifts, festive art, and some good neighborly conversation. Plus, enter the raffle to support the D.C. Abortion Fund.

Gather around the warm around the fire pits 

, drink cocoa and cider, and soak in some holiday cheer. Listen to local tunes, browse gifts and partake in activities like ornament painting and holiday coloring.

 brings together dozens of local creatives and includes interactive workshops, meet & greets, spoken word fests, Santa portraits, a Kwanzaa demonstration, and more!

My favorite place to get handcrafted goodies and delicious treats, 

 annual holiday market is small but mighty. The vendors are primarily fine arts, including one of my favorite block print artists. (

 (the holidays really sneak up on you!). This year, it’s part of a larger monthlong community celebration — It’s a Wonderful Ward — with a holiday train, clothing swap, and giving tree.

There will be a parade, live music, a holiday themed fashion show for the dogs, a friendly competition between local area bakeries for best D.C. cookie, workshops, food trucks, and more at 

The 10 Best Holiday Markets In DC

Find the best of everything that DC has to offer.

DC’s Best

DC's Best

Halloween is fast approaching, and if you haven’t gotten your costume together yet don’t fear. D.C. has seen some ICONIC halloween costumes through the years, like this 

Here are eight options that will have your neighbors saying “Wow! Not only are you hilarious, but you 

 read local news!” and out-of-towners saying, “huhhh...?”

Well, let’s just get this one out of the way. I suspect there will be more than one Subway sandwich wielding, salmon shorts wearing Washingtonian stumbling through the bars this Halloweekend. The beauty in this costume is that if you get hungry while you’re out, you have a built-in snack.

Go as your favorite D.C. Safeway. My pick would be the “Sexy Safeway” (aka the one in Mt. Vernon), because who doesn’t want to be a sexy grocery store? But you could also do the “Stroller Safeway,” “Senior Safeway,” or any of the other 

iconically nicknamed D.C. Safeway locations.

Have a kink for being stepped on all night? Boy, have I got the costume for you. Dress up as the invasive spotted lanternfly that’s been terrorizing D.C. all year. Wear a brown jacket with black spots and a red t-shirt underneath which you can flash when appropriate.

I’m not talking literally, I’m talking vibes, a la this 

 on TikTok. L’Enfant better be wearing a red beret and Foggy Bottom best have swamp moss on their backside.

Are you dating someone in Arlington? Make sure you let everyone know how much you're suffering for love. You wear a I ♥️ Arlington t-shirt, your partner wears a I ♥️ D.C. one. Cute, easy, and a subtle flex.

Just don’t show up. But, if required, show up thirty minutes late wearing purple and homemade signs with several crossed-out opening dates. Bonus points if your costume nods to 

 by reviving it for the night. I’m picturing zombie makeup with paper cutouts for each stop. You could also do this for the D.C. streetcar being phased out, if you really want to go crazy.

Dig out the most boring, uninspired pieces in your wardrobe (ideally millennial green). Then, to really get into the character, appear at various parties or events within a few blocks and hand out 50+ flyers to everyone you meet. Carry a few limp lettuce leaves in your pocket.

Bring it back to your college toga party days and dress up as one of the famous 

Roman legionnaires overlooking Union Station

. But just like their aghast commissioners, please be sure to properly cover up all the goodie bits (ideally with more than just a shield).

9 Perfect DC-Inspired Halloween Costumes

These D.C. neighborhoods don’t mess around when it comes to Halloween. Every one has over-the-top decor, safe streets, and an ideal candy-to-walking ratio. Official D.C. trick-or-treating hours are Oct. 31 from 6 – 8 p.m. But note that some neighborhoods differ!

The Mt. Pleasant neighborhood takes Halloween 

shutting down blocks of Lamont Street NW for trick-or-treating festivities. Many local businesses and even the library join in to hand out candy and sweets. It’s also a great spot for costume watching.

This family-heavy neighborhood has back-to-back row houses which means an especially high candy-to-walking ratio (and really, what else matters?) The Hill Is Home also puts together an annual map of houses participating in trick-or-treat so you can plan your route. (

!) Also, don’t miss the “Hats on the Hill” display on Tennessee Ave., NE. OoooOOooo.

Something in the air at Old Town lends itself perfectly to Halloween, it just feels … spooky. Not to mention the whole area is filled with over-the-top decorations and trick-or-treaters dressed to the nines. Apparently, some families pass out more than 

: Old Town’s main trick-or-treat day and 

M Street NW in Georgetown is absolutely crazy during Halloween, almost too crazy if you ask me. But the side streets a little to the north are perfect for trick-or-treating, and houses go all out with elaborate decor, massive skeletons, projections, and pumpkin displays. Don’t miss the historic Bowie-Sevier House (3122 Q St., NW), a local halloween decor legend.

If Alexandria's Old Town is too much hassle, the Del Ray neighborhood is a great option. Some houses on Clifford Avenue have famous decor like the Creepy CarnEvil and another has a graveyard and pumpkin patch. They also have an iconic 

The yard decor here goes crazy, and I mean 

 (see pirate ship above) and the streets are quiet and perfect trick-or-treating with kids. Varnum, Upshur, and Taylor Streets NW are great places to start. They also have a yearly 

This one requires a bit more walking, so it's great for older kids (and maybe even adults 😉). Over 20 embassies around Dupont and Kalorama open their doors to trick-or-treaters, often offering unique country-specific candies (along with a tourism pamphlet or two). Sometimes you can also peep in to view the embassies if you ask nicely.

The sidewalks on Rittenhouse Rd. are bustling with ghosts and ghouls every halloween in Chevy Chase. This is a neighborhood where houses don’t skimp and you can take home some serious loot. Also, walk up Connecticut Ave. where shops hand out sweets from 4 - 6 p.m.

Rittenhouse Rd. between Broad Branch Rd. and Utah Ave.

These D.C. neighborhoods don’t mess around when it comes to Halloween. Every one has over-the-top decor, safe streets, and an ideal candy-to-walking ratio. 

8 Perfect Trick-or-Treating Spots In the DMV

Usually, the summer means things start slowing down, but not in D.C. If anything, the long-awaited dip in temperatures means more action than ever. From coffee raves to soup parties to art festivals, 

here’s what we’ll be doing this month

Take Your Caffeine Addiction To The Next Level

Technically, Sept. 29 is National Coffee Day, but I’ll be celebrating the entire month. 

 is happening at Union Market on Sept. 27 - 28 with roasters (and samples 👀) from around the country. It’s also the perfect excuse to check out D.C.’s newest party trend, coffee raves. One of our favorites, 

, is coming to the Kennedy Center on Sept. 20.

Show Off Your Skills At the DC State Fair

All I’m saying is winning best chili at the 

 is an automatic +10 aura points. There are dozens of categories to compete in from best photo to best pickles. If you’re not in the competition mood, you can always browse other people’s entries, visit vendors, eat fried pickles, and watch the performers.

 of the season is on Sept. 4. The headliner, The Goons, is a local punk band known for their high-octane, aggressive, "mohican-kid speed-rock." Bands Tosser and Keep Your Secrets will round out the evening.

One of my most anticipated events of the year. Hundreds of artists come out across over a dozen neighborhoods on the 

. There’s food, music, art for purchase, interactive exhibits, and lots of friendly faces. P.S. we will be tabling at the Mt. Pleasant Art All Night! Come by and say hi, we’d love to see you!

Exit park picnics, enter cozy diner parties. But why not change up the format? My personal fave is a soup party where everyone brings one ingredient and you all make it into something hopefully (somewhat) edible. Or host a daytime “cafe” at your apartment where friends and family can drop in for a cuppa.

View Photos Central To the Black Arts Movement

On Sept. 21, the National Gallery of Art 

 on photography’s impact on the civil rights and freedom movements of the 1960s and 1970s. With many museums around D.C. facing pressure from the Trump administration to do away with “woke ideology,” we can’t take exhibits like this for granted.

More Things To Do This Month

The long-awaited dip in temperatures means more action than ever in D.C. From coffee raves to soup parties to art festivals, here’s what we’ll be doing this month.

Your Guide To Washington, DC In September 2025

Your Guide To DC In September 2025

 add up, and as someone who has been on more dates then I’d like to admit, drink dates are … uninspired. We asked Jade Womack of 

 for local dates ideas under $15 that will leave your date thinking “wow, they’re kinda weird, but I want more!”

Sure, the club is fun and all but have you ever learned to awkwardly swing dance with someone you just met? Nightmare for me, but could be 

 all have free themed social dancing workshops weekly in the summer.

 to browse, but even better might be D.C.’s Friends of the Library book sales. Local libraries 

 at least once a month and you can find volumes for as little as $1. (So that performative Immanuel Kant book won’t break the bank.)

Maybe not for a first date (safety first and all that), but if looking into someone's eyes while talking to them scares you, this is the date for you! 

 in Rock Creek park all offer that perfect “scenic but I’m not sweating” combo.

What’s hotter than engaging each other's child-like curiosities? 

 is like a professional, nerdy version of a PowerPoint party. Or go mega nerd and head to 

No, literally. Anacostia Riverkeeper hosts a 

 every Friday evening in Navy Yard on the Anacostia. No gear needed. Even if the date is bad, at least you can snap some classic fish pics for your Hinge profile.

Every Thursday, Labyrinth in Eastern Market has 

 is a board game-centric bar in Dupont. Just remember, there is such a thing as 

 — and volunteer to help them keep our city green. Plus, it shows you’re not afraid to get your hands, ahem, dirty.

On the first Friday of each month Dupont has a 

 where you can check out the local art scene for free. Match that with a little gelato from Dolcezza and

More Cheap Date Ideas

Dating in D.C. can be hard on the wallet. We asked Jade Womack of Clockout DC for local dates ideas under $15 that go beyond just happy hour. 

Best Cheap Dates In Washington, DC

Best DC Dates Under $15 

If you’ve looked at your closet recently and felt bored with your current wardrobe or stared at your blank walls and craved more color, estate sales might be your new favorite thing. We recently spoke with Vic Yepez, a vintage collector and reseller who’s gone viral for her estate sale shoutouts around the DMV. Here are her 

 and make the most of this “untapped market.”

An estate sale typically occurs when a property owner sells their belongings on their property. Yepez says it’s a common misconception that estate sales are only due to someone’s passing or the family members of someone recently deceased selling their goods. Many estate sales are also because someone is downsizing or relocating. Other common types of estate sales include online or in-person auctions. 

 is a great resource for finding estate sales in your area.

Yes, you have to be fast at these things. Yepez says to arrive within the first hour or two on the first day of an estate sale to maximize your finds. “The times that I’m there early pay off an insane amount,” she says. “I can’t tell you the coolest things I found being there early.”

And, do your research! The estate sales listing online or posters may preview a lot of items, so you can have an idea of what you’re interested in and make a bee line for your coveted item. But also, the estate sale life isn’t for you if you don’t love to browse a bit. Part of the fun of an estate sale is getting a window into someone’s life.

Yepez says one trick many people aren’t aware of is that prices usually go down as the sale goes on. For example, during a weekend sale items could go down by 25% on the first day or even half off on the last day. So if you’re a gambler, Yepez suggests showing up on the first day to see what items catch your eye, and come back before the sale is over to nab ‘em at a better price.

🤓 And, estate sale etiquette you should know

How to Make the Most of Estate Sales in the DMV

 to the D.C. region this summer, and they’re everywhere, much to the annoyance of every single one of us. If you’re feeling triggered wondering how they could be back after we all stomped on so many, well, same, friends. So, here’s what you need to know!

Spotted lanternflies, scientifically known as Lycorma delicatula, are native to Asia. They were first spotted in Pennsylvania in 2014, and likely arrived on an overseas shipment. They’re planthoppers because they feed on the sap of plants, such as stone fruits, hardwood trees, and grapes. They lay eggs in the fall, and hatch in late spring or early summer. Over four life cycles, their coloring varies from black with white spots, red with white spots, and black-spotted with pinkish-tan wings.

While it’s difficult to pinpoint their exact numbers, sightings have surged. Spotted lanternflies are likely thriving in the area because 

. Transportation by human activity is the most common reason lanternfly populations grow and spread, as adult flies easily enter open car windows or truck beds and lay their eggs on any outdoor surface.

Since they have no natural predators in the U.S., their population is spreading unchecked, and it’s 

. Spotted lanternflies feed on the sap of their hosts, which affects their energy source, and their waste produces a fungus that can prevent a tree from growing and slowly kills the plant. But they’re not dangerous to humans or pets.

Experts recommend stomping adult lanternflies whenever you see them. Harsh, but necessary.

If you find an egg mass in your backyard, smash it. Just be sure to scrape the mass into a plastic bag and douse with rubbing alcohol to ensure they’re 

Avoid spraying them with household products because that’s actually more harmful to your pets. Consult a professional if you have a — gulp — major undertaking.

If you have one of the host plants, it’s time to say goodbye. This includes a 

, and they’re known to also feed on lilacs, Virginia creepers, roses, and blueberries.

Before you hit the road, check your cars, trailers, and outdoor items for nests so you’re not contributing to the spread.

For the lanternfly warriors, check out this guide on 

😬 More on lanternfly apocalypse 2025

The invasive spotted lanternfly has returned to the Washington, D.C. region this summer. Here's what you need to know about why it spreads and how you can help stop it.

local life hacks

Hacks To Save Money on Gas in DC

Your Guide to DC in January 2026

How To Fall in Love with DC Winters

Latest articles

Hacks To Save Money on Gas in DC

Your Guide to DC in January 2026

How To Fall in Love with DC Winters

The 10 Best Holiday Markets In DC

9 Perfect DC-Inspired Halloween Costumes

8 Perfect Trick-or-Treating Spots In the DMV

Your Guide To DC In September 2025

Latest articles

The 10 Best Holiday Markets In DC

9 Perfect DC-Inspired Halloween Costumes

8 Perfect Trick-or-Treating Spots In the DMV

Your Guide To DC In September 2025

Best DC Dates Under $15

How to Make the Most of Estate Sales in the DMV

How to Manage and Stop the Spread of Invasive Lanternflies