June in the Neighborhood: West African dance workshop, Create by the Creek, outdoor movie nights

The National Capital Astronomers host a free monthly program near the Rock Creek Nature Center.

A sampling of activities around the neighborhood in June:

Learn about West African dance. Assane Konte, the Senegal-born co-founder of KanKouran West African Dance Company, will be at Peirce Mill on June 3rd from 2 to 3 p.m. to lead a workshop on the traditional dance and music of the region. The Friends of Peirce Mill say to come prepared to listen, learn and move.

Plan ahead: In July, Hillwood Museum is hosting Coyaba Dance Theater for three pay-what-you-wish performances of traditional and contemporary West African dance and music.

Explore your creative side. The following Saturday, June 10th, return to Peirce Mill for “Create by the Creek.” Register for a free artist-led workshop, or do your own creating creekside with art supplies on hand. (Did you know? Peirce Mill has inspired local artists for nearly 200 years!)

Explore the night sky. On Saturday, June 17th at 9 p.m., head over to the field at Glover and Military Roads. You’ll find the National Capital Astronomers pointing their telescopes at Venus, Mars, and the M13 cluster in the Hercules constellation. Arrive at the nearby Rock Creek Nature Center by 8 p.m. for a free planetarium show.

Watch movies under the stars. Thanks to Van Ness Main Street and UDC, we now know that the UDC amphitheater next to the Theater of the Arts makes an excellent outdoor movie theater. This month’s free movies are Back to the Future on Wednesday, June 21st and Sister Act on June 28th. You’ll be able to reserve your spot and find more information about the venue and showtimes at those links.

On Wednesday, June 22nd is Hillwood Museum’s annual outdoor movie night/picnic contest, Divas Outdoors. This year’s film is Moonstruck. So plan a fabulous 1980s- or movie-inspired costume, pack an award-winning picnic, and purchase tickets here.

There’s always more on our community events calendar, and if you see something missing, send your tips and events to [email protected].