Fraylife+

So, the federal workforce is shrinking, offices are emptier than ever, and your co-workers’ dogs now know more about your daily life than your neighbors do. It’s weird out there.

But one DC-based company is betting on something radically simple to bring people together: fun.

DC Fray (you know them—they run all those kickball games you see at the Mall) is rolling out a massive lineup of summer sports leagues across the city, and yes, they’re doing it with one goal in mind: making fun possible.

And the best part? You don’t need a team. Or even a clue how to play. And if money is tight your first league as a new Fraylife+ member is free… Ok… they’ve got our attention.

Seriously. You can just sign up solo, get tossed onto a team of other free agents, and suddenly you’ve got 10 new group chat friends. If you’re rolling with a couple friends, Fray keeps you together. And if your office softball team actually is ready to leave the group chat—great, full teams are welcome too.

First League Free? Yes, Really.

If you’re new to their membership program they’ll even hook you up with your first league free if you sign up for their Fraylife+ even if you’ve already played a league with them before. (The program comes with a bunch of year-round perks and discounts too, FYI)

Lets think of DC Fray and Fraylife+ as your social life’s best cheat code only with sneakers and water bottles.

What’s Playing Around DC

With the full summer line up including over 100+ leagues Here’s a sample of some of their most popular leagues popping off this summer across the District:

https://dcfray.com/leagues/?state=49&activity=99

Softball week days and weekends on Capitol Hill, National Mall, and Navy Yard

Flag Football on the National Mall

Soccer on various days across Shaw, Navy Yard, Capitol Hill and The National Mall

Volleyball on various days in Dupont, National Mall, and Capitol Hill

https://dcfray.com/league/bocce-noma-su25-wed-3rd-st-art-garden/

And that’s just scratching the surface. They’ve got leagues in every quadrant, for nearly every sport, and they’re all designed for the “fun-first” crowd—not the “I played varsity in college” types (though they’re welcome, too… as long as they chill).

A Little Less Office, a Lot More Community

As the traditional 9-to-5 fades and “WFH” becomes the norm, it turns out people still crave good old-fashioned human interaction. Fray’s leagues are filling that gap for a lot of folks—helping Washingtonians trade Slack messages for sideline chats, and spreadsheet burnout for post-game happy hours.

Because let’s face it: friendships don’t always happen on Zoom. Sometimes, they happen after someone boots a kickball into traffic.

Sign-Ups Are Open (and Filling Up Fast)

Leagues start in late June and early July, and they always fill up. So if your social calendar is looking a little meh, here’s your shot at turning it around—with a team shirt and a whole lot of new names in your contacts.

Check out all the options at dcfray.com/leagues.


This article is sponsored by RLAH @properties.

As we enter May and the weather continues to warm, we are seeing quite the increase in DC Open Houses scheduled for the weekend, with another batch of 430+ scheduled across the District. Check out a few of our favorite DC Open House options below, and to see the full list, click here.

1419 Downing Street Ne
  • 1419 Downing St NE — $525,000 — Brentwood
    Open Sun. 12-2PM — Hillary Nash & Steph Cooper
    “Opportunity meets charm in Brentwood! This home is a spacious 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom rowhome nestled on a quiet street in the desirable Brentwood/Woodridge neighborhoods. With three bedrooms and one full bath on the upper level, and a fully updated lower level featuring a fourth bedroom and second full bath, this home offers flexibility for modern living. The lower level is ideal for a short-term rental, guest suite, or private home office. Upstairs, you’ll find generously sized rooms brimming with character and natural light, just waiting for a few personalized touches to truly make the space shine. A rare find in DC, the property includes a driveway that can accommodate up to 2 vehicles. There is also space for outdoor entertaining, perfect to enjoy from early Spring through the end of the Fall season. Suitable for both a homeowner ready to add a personal touch, or an investor looking for great short and long term value, 1419 Downing Street NE offers the perfect canvas to create something special.”
  • 2611 Adams Mill Rd NW #T5 — $425,000 — Adams Morgan
    Open Sat. 2-4PM — Jason Lallis
    “Tucked away on a quiet, tree-lined street between the vibrant pulse of Adams Morgan and the calm of Rock Creek Park, this expansive 700 sq.ft. one-bedroom condo delivers a rare mix of stylish updates, smart layout, and easy city living.”
  • 803 C St NE — $1,170,000 — Capitol Hill
    Open Sun. 2-4PM — Kristen Schifano
    “This Victorian townhouse blends timeless character with thoughtful updates, offering a seamless mix of charm and functionality, including brand new kitchen appliances. Elegant custom built-ins and freshly painted interiors and exteriors make you feel at home in one of DC’s best neighborhoods.”
  • 2550 17th NW #205 — $299,999 — Adams Morgan
    Open Sun. 12-2PM — Kevin Wood
    BACK ON THE MARKET: “This well-appointed [2BR/1BA] home offers tons of storage, a large modern kitchen, and two private balconies — perfect for enjoying morning coffee, reading, or unwinding after a long day. The Ontario 17 features a concierge, elevator, and welcoming common spaces.”
  • 3067 Clinton St NE — $495,000 — Woodridge
    Open Sun. 12-2PM — David Bediz
    “This beautifully updated two-bedroom bungalow blends classic charm with modern updates. Head inside to find an open layout featuring refinished hardwood floors, built-in shelving, and neutral paint throughout.”
  • 602 Sheridan St NW — $749,990 — Brightwood
    Open Sun. 1-3PM — Mandy & Tim Hursen Jr.
    “This beautifully renovated semi-detached townhome offers nearly 1,900 sq ft of stylish, sun-filled living space — and qualifies for a 3% down loan at a 5.875% fixed rate with no mortgage insurance, plus a $1,500 closing grant and no income limits!”
  • 932 4th St SE — $1,125,000 — Navy Yard
    Open Sat. 11AM-1PM — Molly Branson & Jocelyn Vas
    “Welcome to this semi-detached row home located in the heart of Navy Yard! This LEED-certified property offers 3 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, solar panels, and a perfect blend of modern living with environmental consciousness.”
  • 1943 Biltmore St NW — $1,829,000 — Adams Morgan
    Open Sun. 1-3:30PM — Laura K. Biederman
    $170k PRICE REDUCTION: “Tucked into the tree-lined streets of Kalorama, this gracious Victorian townhome blends historic charm with thoughtful modern updates. From its classic brick façade to the soaring ceilings and intricate original woodwork inside, every detail speaks to the home’s rich architectural heritage.”
  • 1111 Orren St NE #300 — $525,000 — H Street Corridor
    Open Sun. 11AM-1PM — Debi Fox
    $20k PRICE REDUCTION: “Unbeatable price for this Premier one of a kind unit in the Corey. Over 1000 sq ft, loft style condo with 12′ plus ceilings, open floor plan, Parking can be purchased with the unit for 25k.”
  • 3604 11th St NW — $1,099,900 — Columbia Heights
    Open Sun. 1-3PM — Fernando Garcia
    $50k PRICE REDUCTION: “It’s the stunning finishes, eye-popping upgrades, and quality renovation. Combine all these vaunted variables and put them in one of the District’s most inviting neighborhoods, and 3604 11th St. NW hits ALL the high notes!”

Framebridge

Give Mom the gift literally no one else can this Mother’s Day thanks to Framebridge, the DC-based company that revolutionized custom framing, both online and in person at your nearest store.

Customize any of their frames with special photos, art, or objects Mom loves or choose from the Perfect Gifts (their most popular frame sizes in our most popular styles, ready to customize).

What’s more: Opt for a tabletop style, AKA the fastest way to the most personal gift. Simply walk into any store with a photo (or just your phone!) and they’ll print, frame, and gift wrap it in minutes. Pro-tip: You can also order online for same-day pickup!

Visit your neighborhood Framebridge store at 14th Street, Union Market, Georgetown, Bethesda, Old Town, Clarendon, McLean or Mosaic District now through Mother’s Day on May 11 (we see you, last minute gifters!).


This article is sponsored by RLAH @properties.

Featured Property of the Week: 611 Gallatin St NW

611 Gallatin Street Nw

“Welcome to 611 Gallatin St NW, Where Sophistication Meets Functionality! Fully redeveloped with no detail overlooked, this 5-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom residence in Northwest DC combines high-end finishes with thoughtful design for elevated city living. The main level features wide-plank hardwood floors, custom lighting, and an open floor plan that flows seamlessly from the spacious living area into a stunning gourmet kitchen. Designed to impress, the kitchen includes a quartz waterfall island, a push-button built-in microwave, pot filler, premium stainless steel appliances, and two-toned cabinetry with warm wood base cabinets and crisp white uppers. Oversized accordion glass doors lead to a large backyard with off-street parking—perfect for entertaining. Upstairs, three generously sized bedrooms include a luxurious owner’s suite with a walk-in closet and a spa-inspired bath featuring a push-button rainfall shower, dual vanity, and elegant designer tile. Every bathroom in the home is outfitted with upscale finishes and timeless fixtures. The fully finished English basement offers two additional bedrooms, a full bathroom, wet bar, separate laundry, and a private entrance—ideal for guests, in-laws, or income-producing potential. Located on a tree-lined block just moments from restaurants, shops, and parks, this home delivers style, comfort, and convenience in one.”

Other Notable Fresh Listings:

  • The Most Expensive Home of the Week is a 6BR/6.5BA semi-detached Dupont Victorian rowhome with 5,800+ total sq. ft. across 4 levels and features 2 fireplaces, elevator to all floors, 13’ ceilings, 3 different covered deck/terraces, nearly full-floor primary suite, 2-car garage, game room, fitness room, and a lower-level in-law suite with it’s own private entrance—all for $4.75M.
  • COMING SOON: “Life’s Better Near the Trails (and the Cocktails). Tucked away on a quiet, tree-lined street between the vibrant pulse of Adams Morgan and the calm of Rock Creek Park, this expansive 700 sq.ft. one-bedroom condo delivers a rare mix of stylish updates, smart layout, and easy city living.”
  • “Welcome to this gorgeous two-level rowhouse condo in the heart of Petworth, offering modern living at its finest! Featuring garage parking, a private rooftop deck, and three spacious primary bedrooms plus a den and three full bathrooms, this home is ideal for today’s lifestyle.”
  • Your REO/Bank-Owned Property of the Week is an “exceptional investment opportunity in 16th Street Heights” with “a rare chance for investors, contractors, or visionary homeowners to transform a property with endless possibilities,” being sold AS-IS, “presents the perfect opportunity for a full renovation or redevelopment project.”

Forget the matching pajama set, coffee mug or body scrub this Mother’s Day. (She already has plenty.)

Instead, surprise the special woman in your life with a creative, fresh flower bouquet from D.C. florist Volanni!

These aren’t generic, big-box bouquets. Michael Lanni, the artist behind these arrangements , puts creative care into each of his designs. As Lanni likes to say, “This is our art, and flowers are the medium.”

Pick out the perfect Mother’s Day arrangement and place your order online. Volanni makes deliveries throughout the DMV. All deliveries will go out Friday, Saturday and Sunday (May 9th-11th).

Mother’s Day is approaching fast on May 11th and flower availability is limited, so you won’t want to wait!


Hey parents: Summer will be here faster than you think. (And yes, camps fill up fast!)

Instead of another summer of endless YouTube scrolling and Roblox marathons, why not turn screen time into something amazing?

Creator Camp—one of the most cutting-edge, 5-star rated summer programs in Texas—is officially launching in Washington D.C. this summer at the Templeton Academy! Featured on Shark Tank and backed by Barbara Corcoran, Creator Camp helps kids ages 6–13 turn their love of screens into real creative skills like filmmaking, animation, game design, YouTube production, and even entrepreneurship. (Think: kids making short films, coding their own games, and starting their own mini-businesses—all in one week.)

The camp was founded by a group of high school friends who got tired of seeing “iPad kids” everywhere and wanted to show the next generation how to create, not just consume. Fast-forward to today, and their camps now serve thousands of kids every summer—while expanding to major cities across the country.

Spots are limited, and D.C. locations are already filling up! If you want your kiddo to have the most creative summer ever, check out the upcoming sessions and enroll today.

D.C. camps will be held at Templeton Academy DC  (406 7th St NW, Washington, DC 20004), right in the heart of downtown!


This article is sponsored by RLAH @properties.

DC Open House List for This Weekend: April 25th, 2025

The post-Easter real estate bounce back is insane with 600+ total DC Open Houses scheduled just this weekend alone across the District. This means you have no excuse if you can’t find a home you like with this much variety. Take a look at some of our favorite DC Open House options below, and to see the full list, click here.

Open Sat. 1-3 & Sun. 2-4PM — Kristen Schifano

“Welcome to 803 C Street NE, a beautiful Capitol Hill end-unit rowhome in the middle of everything. This Victorian townhouse blends timeless character with thoughtful updates, offering a seamless mix of charm and functionality, including brand new kitchen appliances. Elegant custom built-ins and freshly painted interiors and exteriors make you feel at home in one of DC’s best neighborhoods. The private rear patio and garden are perfect for entertaining or unwinding, and the dedicated off-street parking pad adds everyday convenience—a rare and valuable feature in the city. The attic offers generous extra storage or future potential. Located less than a mile from Eastern Market, Union Station, and their metros, the home is close to Barracks Row, H Street restaurants and bars, and the U.S. Capitol. Enjoy easy access to coffee shops, grocery stores, parks, libraries, and some of DC’s most iconic landmarks—all just steps away.”

Open Sun. 1-3PM — Kara & Wayne Johnson

“Welcome to award-winning Morton Street Mews, a boutique 24-unit condominium community in a secure gated enclave at the intersection of Columbia Heights and Park View. You’ll love this thoughtfully-designed and professionally-decorated, 2-bedroom, 2.5-bath premier residence in the historic property known as Pittman’s Chapel.”

Open Sun. 2-4PM — Monique Van Blaricom

“This spacious studio has updated floors in the main living space, upgraded bathroom vanity with a quartz countertop, large walk-in closet, and a private balcony perfect for enjoying a morning cup of coffee!”

Open Sun. 1-3PM — David Bediz

“This corner unit is bathed in natural light from two exposures and a wall of oversized windows that offer sweeping views of the city. With gleaming hardwood floors, soaring ceilings, and an open, functional layout, this home offers both style and comfort.”

Open Sun. 1-3PM — Russell Brazil

“Gorgeously updated H Street Corridor gem. Traditional but modernized, this home has a welcoming living room, separate dining area, and an updated kitchen with subway tile, granite counters and SS appliances. Bonus addition could be a cozy reading area, a home office, a playroom, whatever flex space you need to round out a full life.”

Open Sat. 11AM-12:30PM — Tohmai Smith

“Welcome to 611 Gallatin St NW, Where Sophistication Meets Functionality! Fully redeveloped with no detail overlooked, this 5-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom residence in Northwest DC combines high-end finishes with thoughtful design for elevated city living.”

Open Sat. 2-4PM — Liz Ho

“Finally: a stunning, move-in ready TOP 2-floor condo that doesn’t blow the budget. This isn’t one you scroll past—it’s the one you drop everything to see.”

Open Sat. 1:30-3:30PM — Leslie Suarez
“This 1Bed/Den/2Bath condo checks every box for the urban dweller: An open floor plan designed for those who live to entertain, bedrooms that house queen/king beds and home offices, luxurious finishes (such as the bedroom double doors that allow light to stream throughout), more closet space than you know what to do with, and an entry mudroom with designer flair.”

Open Sat. 11AM-1PM & Sun. 12-2PM — Molly Branson & Jocelyn Vas

“Welcome to this semi-detached row home located in the heart of Navy Yard! This LEED-certified property offers 3 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, solar panels, and a perfect blend of modern living with environmental consciousness.”

Open Sat. & Sun. 2-4PM — Jean Ropp & Eli Tucker

“Breathtaking, 850 square-foot, 1 bedroom with soaring 11’ ceilings, and all utilities & taxes included in the total monthly fee. A property of this square footage and stature is rarely available in this unbeatable location.”


Washington Improv Theater

“Laughter is the shortest distance between two people,” said comedian Victor Borge. What’s more? Connecting and laughing with others can strengthen your resilience in the face of uncertainty and help you tackle tough challenges.

Improv classes, in particular, are great for people dealing with uncertainty and anxiety because they train you to be present in-the-moment and focus on the person and situation in front of you, instead of worrying about what the future holds. Plus, they’re incredibly fun and entertaining, offering a much-needed respite from reality.

Writing about her own improv education, Axios DC Reporter Mimi Montgomery recently wrote, “As grown-ups, we often repress the imaginative playfulness and openness we had as kids, writing off these urges as embarrassing or dumb. But that means we cut ourselves off from opportunities to grow and create — dream jobs and passion projects and wild adventures.”

Experts in Spreading Joy

Washington Improv Theater (WIT) has been the DMV’s premier destination for hilarious improv comedy shows and informative, accessible classes for more than 25 years. Each year, more than 1,000 adults take one of WIT’s “Foundations of Improv” courses.

“Everybody needs an escape from time to time, and I’d say that’s especially true right now,” says Mark Chalfant, WIT’s Artistic/Executive Director.

For the past two years in-a-row, Washington City Paper readers have named WIT’s classes as being the “Best Art Class” in the District, according to the platform’s annual “Best of DC” poll.

Start Your New Adventure!

WIT’s Level 1 classes, which teach techniques for honing your communication and collaboration skills, are currently enrolling for weekly classes that start as soon as this Sunday, April 27. There are eight classes in total plus a showcase at the end.

The theater’s talented and dedicated teaching artists are trained in providing a positive learning environment that is safe, inclusive, and welcoming to all.

“WIT students come from a variety of backgrounds and different stages in life, from 22-year-old college grads and 35-year-old mid-career professionals, to 55-year-old senior executives and individuals who are well into retirement,” says Chalfant. “Our classes serve as a laboratory for self-discovery and a catalyst for creativity regardless of how old you are or what you do.”

In addition to WIT’s classes for individuals, its organizational training arm WIT@Work uses applied improv to teach professional skills, leadership development, and team building. It’s one of the top providers of its kind in the entire country.

What WIT’s students have to say:

“I love all the people I’ve met. Improv pushes you to get out of your comfort zone, which builds confidence. It’s all been wonderful!” — Kevin T.

“It’s the best professional training for creativity and working with people. I literally use improv everyday, including trying to approach most ideas with a spirit of ‘Yes, and’!” — Julia G.

“WIT constantly teaches me it’s okay to make mistakes (and move on), and how to trust my colleagues… Your classes have helped me take the poison out of toxic people and relationships, so that we can all take away something truly helpful and powerful.” — Helen D.

Discover all that Washington Improv Theater has to offer and follow along on Facebook, Instagram, BlueSky, and LinkedIn. You can also subscribe to WIT’s weekly newsletter to be the first to find out about upcoming classes, performances, and more!


Gangstagrass

It’s almost time to turn up the volume on one of DC’s most beloved neighborhood festivals—Adams Morgan PorchFest is back on Saturday, May 3, 2025, and this year’s lineup is bigger than ever.

The free, family-friendly event transforms stoops, patios, and public spaces into stages for live music across genres—from bluegrass and indie rock to soul, jazz, hip-hop, and more.

🎤 This year’s headliner? Gangstagrass. The Emmy-nominated band blends bluegrass instrumentation with hip-hop flow for a sound (and show) like no other. Catch their set on the Aetna Main Stage at 2424 18th Street NW.

🎶 The music kicks off all afternoon across three main stages and dozens of neighborhood porches. Stroll the 18th Street corridor, hear incredible performances, and soak in the sounds of spring.

🍽️ While you’re at it, take advantage of exclusive PorchFest discounts at participating businesses and restaurants. You can check out specials, wristband pick-up spots, and the full lineup of performers at admodc.org.

Whether you’re a longtime local or just looking for something new to do in DC, PorchFest is your invitation to celebrate community, creativity, and culture—Adams Morgan style.


This article is sponsored by RLAH @properties.

Featured Property of the Week: 932 4th St SE

932 4th Street SE

“Welcome to this semi-detached row home located in the heart of Navy Yard! This LEED-certified property offers 3 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, solar panels, and a perfect blend of modern living with environmental consciousness. First Floor: Entryway storage and attached 2 car garage, combining comfort and practicality. Second Floor: The open-concept design on this floor features beautiful hardwood floors, a half bath, and a gas fireplace for those stay-at-home cozy evenings. The kitchen is a chef’s dream, offering a large peninsula, new stainless steel Bosch appliances, gas range, granite countertops, a pantry and breakfast nook. The dining area is perfect for entertaining, designed for convenience and style. Third Floor: Primary Suite & Bedrooms: The primary suite provides a peaceful retreat with, complete with ample closet space and a spa-like ensuite bath with a double vanity. A second spacious bedroom, with its own full bath, provides plenty of room for family, guests or home office. The washer and dryer are also conveniently located on this floor. Top Floor & Rooftop Terrace: The fourth floor loft offers views of the morning sunrise set up for a second living room and bedroom with a full bath. Step outside and enjoy the expansive rooftop terrace. Located near grocery stores, gyms, top-rated restaurants, and all the conveniences of Navy Yard and Capitol Hill, this home combines style, space, and urban living.”

Other Notable Fresh Listings:

  • The Most Expensive Home of the Week is a 5BR/5.5BA Georgetown semi-detached Victorian with 4,300 total sq. ft. across 4 levels and features a “fully reimagined” design with 10’ ceilings, built-in Sonos surround sound, marble fireplace, fenced-in rear patio and garden as well as all new plumbing, electrical HVAC and water filtration system throughout the home—all for $5.7M.
  • “Fantastic 1-bedroom condo unit, fully upgraded in quiet, friendly building in Columbia Heights/Petworth, just 4 mins to Metro lines—WalkScore 94, BikeScore 85, & Transit Score 80!! Open kitchen with granite breakfast bar, recent stainless steel appliances, gas range & full-size real laundry washer & dryer.”
  • “Charming 2BR Row House in Ledroit Park – Updated Kitchen, High Ceilings, Private Patio Don’t miss this updated 2-bedroom row house in historic Ledroit Park! This home features high ceilings, separate living and dining rooms, and plenty of natural light throughout.”
  • Your REO/Bank-Owned Property of the Week is a 3BR/1BA end-unit Colonial rowhome in Brightwood that has no interior photos, so you’ll likely need to see the condition in person before making a bid.

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