Kings Dominion's Roller Coaster Rebel Yell.

It’s hot outside. Summer vacations are wrapping up and summer is winding down. Even a hard-charging city like Washington, DC can’t escape the hypnotic lull of summer’s slower pace. At this time of year ties get loosened, legs are bared and shoes kicked off. So why not give up the fight and just relax? These are the days ready-made for sunshine and simple, unhurried pleasures. It’s time to make the most of the season and we want to help you find just the right way to ride out the lazy, hazy remaining days of summer – because even when it’s hot, DC’s a pretty cool city!

Outdoor Concerts

It’s never hard to find good music in Washington, DC, but in the summer it’s even easier, with many free outdoor concerts.

Fridays and Saturdays Through August 27

• • Sounds of Summer Concert Series: Cajun, steel drums, blues, and country – there’s something for everyone at National Harbor’s summer concerts. Bring your lawn chair and relax, looking out over the Potomac River to Virginia as the sun sets, or stroll around the harbor shops and restaurants while music plays. Outside food and beverages are not permitted, but are available for purchase. FREE! 6-8pm on the Plaza at the National Harbor, 150 National Plaza, National Harbor, MD.

Mondays and Tuesdays Through August 30

• • Navy Band Summer Concert Series: Enjoy free summer concerts by the United States Navy Concert Band every Monday at the US Capitol and Tuesday at the Navy Memorial. FREE! 8pm. Monday: West Lawn, US Capitol; Tuesday: US Navy Memorial and Naval Heritage Center, 701 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, Washington, DC. 202-737-2300

Fridays Through September 9

• • Jazz in the Garden: Now in its 11th year, The National Gallery of Art’s concert series features an array of jazz artists performing a range of styles – from swing to progressive to Latin – every Friday evening in the Sculpture Garden throughout the summer. Wine, FREE! 5-8:30pm. The National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden, 7th and Constitution NW, Washington, DC. 202-289-3360

  Weekdays Through September 23

• Live! On Woodrow Wilson Plaza: From salsa to strings, and blues to swing, enjoy hot entertainment in a cool café atmosphere.World-renowned entertainers perform daily at noon, with the concert series concluding withaspecial 5pm performance by the Godfather of  Go-Go, Chuck Brown, on September 23rd. Right on the Metro, and with nearby restaurants, it’s a great place to enjoy a leisurely lunch and a slow summer groove. FREE! Noon (5pm on Sept. 23). Ronald Reagan Building & International Trade Center, 1300 Pennsylvania Ave. NW Washington, DC. 202-312-1300

Outdoor Movies

What could be more “summery” than spreading your blanket, opening your picnic basket and watching a film classic under the stars? For complete film selections, schedules and additional information, consult individual web sites.

Mondays Through August 15

• Screen on the Green:

Movie Theme: American Classics

Time: Movie begins at dusk (approximately 8:30pm)
Location: The National Mall between 8th and 14th Streets NW, Washington, DC
FREE!

Tuesday, August 23 and September 20

• U Street Movies Series:

Movie Theme: “Celebrating DC”
Time: Gates open at 7pm and movie begins at sundown
Location: The field at Harrison Recreation
Center, 1330 V Street, NW (between 13th and 14th Streets), Washington, DC
FREE!

Fridays Through August 26

• Rosslyn Outdoor Film Festival:

Movie Theme: “SNL at the Movies”
Time: Movie begins at dusk
Location: Gateway Park at Lee Highway near Key Bridge, Rosslyn, VA
FREE!

Mondays Through August 29

• Crystal Screen Outdoor Film Fest:

Movie Theme: “By The Numbers”
Time: Movie begins at sundown
Location: Courtyard diagonal to the Crystal City METRO, Crystal City, VA
FREE!

Fridays and Sundays Through September 30

• Movies on the Potomac:

Theme: Fridays – “Date Night”/ Sundays – “Family Fun”
Time: Movie begins at just after sunset
Location: Waterfront Street at the National Harbor, National Harbor, MD
FREE! *no coolers with food/alcoholic beverages allowed

Pool Parties

For those who are too old for the paddling pool, these parties will not only cool you off but might just give your social life a super-summer charge!

Sundays Through September 4

• Adult Swim at the Capital Skyline Hotel Making waves since it reopened in 2009, the pool at the Capital Skyline may be “the” place for summer parties, with an atmosphere that will make you think “South Beach” rather than “Southwest DC.” Its huge pool and 20,000 square foot deck serve as the proper backdrop to
  a day of sunning and funning with a BBQ brunch, drink specials (even al fresco bottle-service!) and music provided by DJ Moh Ducis. Sundays 11am-8pm. Free entry until 1pm with RSVP (Email: rsvp@dcpoolparty.com). Capitol Skyline Hotel, 10 “I” Street, SW, Washington, DC. 202-488-
  7500. Table Reservations and Large Groups 202-487-6874.

Daily Through September 5

Happy Hour at Donovan House: Delicious drinks, beautiful views, fabulous people, what more can you ask for? Situated discreetly on the rooftop of Donovan House, the ADC (Above DC) pool deck provides visitors with a resort-like retreat and specialty cocktails, perched high above the bustling city streets of our nation’s capitol.
Open most evenings from 6-8pm. Donovan House, 1155 14th Street, NW, Washington, DC. For more information: 202-737-1200.

County Fairs

For a lot of us, fair season not only provides a last hurrah before the end of summer but is also a great opportunity to meet our daily requirements of cotton candy and funnel cake. And as there are few things more American than a county fair, isn’t this a great time to get out and proudly exercise your rights?

August 6-7

Fairfax 4-H Fair and Frying Pan Park Farm Show: Activities include hayrides, cow milking, blacksmith
and farrier demos, animal washing and grooming, sheep shearing, and lots more! This year special features will include a tractor pull, the Great Zucchinni, Jim Moyer’s Circus Club, and more! Free! Saturday: 9am-9pm; Sunday: 9am-
5pm. Frying Pan Park, 2709 West Ox Rd., Herndon, VA. 703-324-5353.

August 10-14

Arlington County Fair: Now in it’s 35th year, enjoy a classic county fair with carnival rides, competitive exhibits, arts and crafts, great international cuisine, live entertainment, pony rides, pig and goat races, a petting zoo and much more! FREE! Wed/Thur: 5-10pm; Fri/Sat: 10am-10pm; Sun: 11am-10pm. Thomas Jefferson Community Center, 3501 South Second St., Arlington, VA.

August 12-20

The Montgomery County Agricultural Fair is the largest county fair in the State of Maryland. Since 1949, the Fair has been a showcase of farm life and is a family event with lots of carnival rides, great entertainment, wonderful foods, and fun activities for all ages. Adult: $10 (12yrs+); Child: FREE (11yrs and younger). Ticket packages and
discounts available online. 10am-midnight. Montgomery County Fairgrounds, 500 Perry Pkywy, Gaithersburg, MD. 301-926-3100.

August 12-21

The Prince William County Fair started in 1949 by a group of WWII veterans, and is the largest in the state of Virginia. The annual event in Manassas includes livestock exhibits, home arts exhibits, tractor pulls, a rodeo, demolition derbies, baby contests, live music and a variety of midway shows. Adult: $5 in advance ($8 after 8/11);
Child/Senior (5-13yrs and 60+yrs): $4 ($5 after 8/11). Prince William County Fairgrounds, 10624 Dumfries Road, at Route 234, Manassas, VA. 703-368-0713.

August 27

The DC State Fair, where politics meet pies! Following its inaugural year in 2010 as part of Columbia Heights Day,
the DC “State” Fair returns again this year to celebrate the homegrown talents of DC’s residents. And even though the District of Columbia is not one of the “50”, visitors can expect some traditional state fair favorites, including a petting zoo, live bands, and tastings of all the best DC has to offer. FREE. 10am-6pm Columbia Heights Day, at Tubman Elementary Field, 11th and Kenyon Streets NW, Washington, DC.

September 8-11

The Prince George’s County Fair is Maryland’s oldest, dating back to 1842. The annual family friendly event
includes carnival rides, live animals displays, family circus, fireworks, live entertainment, food, arts and crafts, beautiful baby contests, and much more. With much of the fair indoors at the Show Place Arena, you don’t even have to worry about bad weather! Adults: $6; Child (6-17yrs): $5; 5yrs and under: Free. Thur: 4-11pm, Fri: 5-11pm; Sat: 11am-11pm; Sun: 11am-6pm. Show Place Arena, 14900 Pennsylvania Avenue, Upper Marlboro, Maryland. 301-952-0270.

Tyler Clippard in action.

In 2003, Tyler Clippard was drafted in the ninth round of the First-Year Player Draft by the New York Yankees out of high school. In 2006, he threw the first no-hitter in the history of the Trenton Thunder, the Yankees Double-A affiliate. On May 20, 2007, he made his Major League debut in front of a national TV audience and struck out his first batter, Jose Reyes, on three pitches. Following the 2007 campaign, he was traded to Washington for Jonathan Albaldejo and would make his Nationals debut on June 9, 2008. He was converted to a relief pitcher in 2009 and excelled in that role. And in July of 2011, Clippard was named to his first All-Star Game.

“ I was a little bit surprised, but very excited,” Clippard said. “A lot of hard work went into getting to this point in my career, so it’s a nice accolade to have.”

Since coming to the Nation’s Capital during the 2007 offseason, Clippard  has made his mark amongst the members of the pitching staff. He’s kept his ERA well under the 3.00 mark, racked up about 250 strikeouts and maintained an average of almost 11 strikeouts per nine innings pitched. His hold total leads the Majors, and is what likely gave him the extra edge he needed to go to the All-Star Game, according to Nationals Manager Davey Johnson.

“Last year he had a great year, and this year he’s been phenomenal,” Johnson said. “He’s been worked a lot, and his numbers are off the charts. I don’t think there’s anybody else out there who has the numbers that he’s posted this year.” Johnson also described how, while having a solid set-up man like Clippard is a luxury, there is also a strategy to using him in the games themselves.

“The danger that you have, when you have a guy like Clippard out there, is going to him too much. You’ve got to keep him fresh, and don’t ask too much of him. You like to push the envelope with him out there, but I know he’s thrown a lot, and I’ve tried to stay off him as much as I could,” Johnson said. “We have a long way to go, a whole second half, and I want him fresh and sharp.”

The journey to this point in his career was a long one, according to Clippard—though his transition to the bullpen came easy.

“When I first got moved to the bullpen, I had some success right away, and it was a snowball effect. Once it was something I felt like I could do and maximize my stuff for those one or two innings at a time, it became something I really enjoyed doing,” he said. “I’ve taken the reins with it and really run with it and try to make the best out of it. At first, obviously, it wasn’t something I wanted to have happen, but it’s worked out.”

Drew Storen, the Nationals’ closer and another man who was high on the list of potential All-Star selections, is Clippard’s roommate. He said that, despite any tiff the two may develop while playing “Call of Duty” or “NHL ’11” video games, he was thrilled when he heard the news.

“It was awesome. I was excited for him. It’s really well-deserved and he’s thrown well for the last two years. He’s been a huge piece of our bullpen for the last two years. With the trade over from the Yankees, he’s had his share of struggles,” Storen said. “It’s been up and down, so for him to find his role as the set-up guy and get the great honor of being an All-Star, I’m really happy for him.”

The bullpen as a whole has taken pride in the fact that, for two years running, the Nationals have sent relief pitchers to represent them in the All-Star Game. Last year, Matt Capps had the honor and ended up getting the win, as he was the pitcher of record when Atlanta Braves catcher Brian McCann hit the go-ahead RBI. Clippard established that as a trend for Nats pitchers— this year in Arizona, he pitched a third of an inning, and was the pitcher of record when Prince Fielder hit a three-run shot to give the NL the lead. Clippard got credit for the win, highlighting his first All-Star Game appearance.

Todd Coffey is particularly proud of his ‘pen-mate’s All-Star nod. “Clip has done outstanding. The great thing that Clip does is that he goes out there and does exactly what he’s supposed to do—get outs,” Coffey said. While Clippard has seen exponential growth since coming to Washington, so have the Nationals. The All-Star said he’s looking forward to seeing what the franchise is going to do in the future and the successes that the team is bound to have. “It’s come a long way. When I first got here, I came over from the New York Yankees and this organization didn’t have a direction. There were a lot of things going on in upper management, and the Lerners took over this Club and really have made great strides in hiring the right people. Now we have a direction, and it’s the right direction to go in,” Clippard said. “I’m really happy to be a part of seeing what it was like back then and looking at where we’ve come and where we’re going. It’s exciting.”

By Carrie Wood

Bond 45 at the National Harbor.

Summertime in the nation’s capital can be brutal. When the temperatures climb, you can still enjoy outdoor dining, spectacular views, and prime people-watching – when the sun goes down.  Locals and visitors alike who enjoy delicious food and refreshing libations outdoors in the warmth of the sun’s rays, at sunset, or under the dazzling night sky beat the heat by visiting many of the D.C. area waterfront restaurants and bars. The best al fresco dining in the area is along the waterfront with remarkable views of the Potomac River with the beautiful backdrop of the national monuments. Diners can enjoy a cool breeze and calming sound of the water, providing an escape from the city. Here are some of the city's top restaurants with waterfront views.

Some of the best views of DC landmarks and the Potomac River are from The Washington Harbour (3000 K St., NW) along the Georgetown waterfront.  While the waterfront sustained some damage from a severe flood in April, many of the restaurants have their patios open and are bustling once again. In the summertime, happy hour along the Georgetown waterfront is a place to see and be seen and where DC’s glitterati hang out on summer nights. Sequoia’s three-tier outdoor terrace offers stunning views of the waterfront and the flotilla of boats and kayaks passing by along with panoramic views of the Kennedy Center, the Watergate, Memorial and Key Bridges. If you prefer to stay out of the humidity, the rear facade of two-level restaurant is nearly all glass, allowing diners to enjoy the view of the river without suffering from the heat or the crowds. Enjoy modern American cuisine, a formidable wine list, and renowned River Bar. Don’t miss out on the fresh oysters! Be aware, all of Sequoia’s reservations are for inside only, while dining on the patio is seated on a first come first serve basis.

Next door, offering fresh seafood, Tony and Joe's is great for people watching, especially on warm summer evenings. Located right on the Potomac River, their 200-seat patio offers incredible views of the Kennedy Center, the Key Bridge and Roosevelt Island. Try one of their enormous sandwiches served with a mound of crispy golden fries, seasoned with Old Bay, and tangy coleslaw. Often slightly less crowded and offering a more comfy atmosphere, the spacious outdoor patio at Nick’s Riverside Grill (3050 K St., NW) spills onto Washington Harbour’s boardwalk and is a great place to people watch and enjoy a cool drink. Be sure to arrive early! A spot under one of their bright-blue umbrellas to watch the sun go down is a coveted seat.

Photo courtesy of RB Properties, Inc.

Also in Washington Harbour, although not technically waterfront, Sea Catch Restaurant (1054 31st St., NW) offers visitors a charming patio overlooking the beautiful C&O Canal. Take advantage of their complimentary valet parking and their fresh seafood simply prepared in a casual, relaxed atmosphere. If you’re looking for a something a little more exotic, check out Bangkok Joe’s, a “dumpling bar and café” serving up authentic “Thai street food”. They have great happy hour specials, offering half priced cocktails. Favorites include the Peking Duck Roll and the refreshing ginger iced tea, a pungent take on the Arnold Palmer. The patio is pet-friendly, so feel free to bring along your furry friend. The Washington Harbour is a great option for waterfront dining; there is a something for everyone.

On the opposite side of the city, the historic Southwest Waterfront, along Washington, DC’s largest waterfront expanse, is being revitalized. The Wharf located at 7^th and Water Street, SW is a work in progress; however, one thing that will never change is the fish wharf and market (1100 Maine Ave. SW), one of the few surviving open air seafood markets on the east coast. In operation since 1805, it is the oldest continuously operating fish market in the United States. This place is like the red-light district of raw seafood. You’ll find everything from rare fish to Maryland Blue Crabs. If you don’t want to cook it up yourself, also located on the Southwest Waterfront, Phillips Seafood Restaurant (900 Water St., SW) is the only all-you-can-eat seafood buffet in the District.  Enjoy their expansive buffet features over 30 fresh seafood selections daily, as well as regional specialties, made-to-order stations and non-seafood options. In addition, there is a traditional a la carte menu, available featuring their famous jumbo lump crab cakes.

The outdoor deck at Cantina Marina.

Almost next door to Phillips is Cantina Marina (600 Water St., SW), a place that you’d expect to find in Miami, a fun waterside bar with draft beers in plastic cups and Jimmy Buffett playing on the speakers. It’s a place to go and have a margarita and watch the sun move over the water. Enjoy authentic Cajun dishes, such as, the gumbo, catfish, and po’ boys or try the Baja-California-style tacos. Their Crab balls, which are a cross between croquettes and crab cakes are a must have.  Besides delicious seafood, you can enjoy mouth-watering barbecue at the Southwest Waterfront. King Ribs Bar-B-Q, a local institution of the community for over 40 years, Bufus Buchanan offers arguably the best BBQ ribs in the city. His amazing ribs, chicken and steaks have a loyal following among longtime residents, and his location along the waterfront also makes it a great spot to enjoy a summer evening. Stop by on Thursday evenings from 5-8 p.m. and enjoy live Jazz (see schedule), or on Friday evening from 6-8 p.m. where the 7^th Landing hosts a variety of live music.

Sunset at McCloones Pier House Deck. Photo by Dottie Cooper.

Just outside of DC, the National Harbor, rising from the banks of the Potomac River in Prince George’s County, MD, is a 350-acre mecca for shopping, dining, and more with five hotels (including the Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center), over 30 restaurants, shops, and fully functioning marina. There is no metro, but enjoy Water Taxi service to and from Old Town Alexandria, Mount Vernon, and Georgetown. What a fun way to travel! The National Harbor offers a wide array of restaurants ranging from elegant waterfront dining to family-friendly and casual eating establishments. At McLoone’s Pier House (141 National Plz), where counting down to sunset is cause for celebration. A very lively happy hour spot with live music daily starting at 7 p.m., you can watch the sun set over the flotilla of sails and masts, while sipping on your specialty cocktail and enjoying bowls of their peel-and-eat shrimp. Dine al fresco on their patio with a breathtaking sunset view while enjoying a fresh zesty salad or pasta, savory crab dip, fresh sushi, mouth-watering burger, or steak - you’ll have a hard time choosing!

Known for its fresh seafood, McCormick and Schmick’s (145 National Plz), offers stunning views of the river and features more than 30 varieties of fresh fish and seafood delivered daily from local and international waters. Cool off inside at Bond 45 (149 Waterfront St.), a New York-born Italian steakhouse with its dim lighting and dark, clubby interior while enjoying a Prohibition cocktail served in an antique teacup. Or if you’re lucky, snag a table on their outdoor patio overlooking the water and enjoy picturesque sunset over the river while enjoying a fresh crab cake or dry-aged steak. Don’t miss their antipasto bar with house-made cheeses or desserts buffet. Enjoy upscale, modern and authentic Mexican cuisine at Rosa Mexicano (153 Waterfront St.) while enjoying a pomegranate margarita and bowl of made-to-order guacamole on the outdoor patio overlooking the water.

Just outside of the District, the historic Old Town, Alexandria, Virginia offers striking views of the riverfront. Visitors can metro to the King Street Metro on the yellow line and ride the free King Street trolley down to the waterfront.  The free trolley operates along the one-and-a-half mile route seven days a week from 11:30 a.m. to 10:15 p.m Head down to The Chart House (1 Cameron St.), located on the historic Potomac River at the foot of King Street, the area’s only waterfront dining location boasts panoramic views of the river, as well as, other DC landmarks. With nightly entertainment, enjoy a relaxing evening with while watching the sunset on the water. Situated on Daingerfield Island, adjacent to the Washington Marina, enjoy watching the boats set sail on the Potomac at Indigo Landing, (1 Marina Dr.) Their 100-seat outdoor deck and location along the water is the perfect setting for a night out.  Find refuge from your long day of museum hopping in the bustling city and enjoy the tranquility of the naturalistic setting while viewing the monuments from your relaxing chair. Instead of waiting in line, you can enjoy the views of DC over your favorite cocktail, specialty drink, or a glass of fine wine from our international wine list.

Also in Virginia, visit Madigan’s Waterfront (201 Mill St. Occoquan, VA), located right on the Occoquan River. Their expansive partially covered deck and tiki bar is especially attractive on summer evenings, where you can enjoy live entertainment, drinks and fresh seafood, and watch for Ospreys flying down the Occoquan River.

By Lisa D. Shapiro, Dining Editor