Free and Easy Events

During Columbia Heights Day, you can try your hand at Guitar Hero, sample treats from local restaurants and visit a petting zoo. (Sergio Herrera)

Every week, the Going Out Gurus suggest ways to enjoy Washington's cultural scene without spending any money. Have an idea for us? Send it to events@washingtonpost.com.

Sunday
Alexandria Cambodian Community Day Festival at Ben Brenman Park
A celebration of Cambodian culture with folk and classical dance performances, live music, traditional food and children's entertainment. Don't miss the scale model of Angkor Wat.

Monday
Game Night at Pharmacy Bar
Board games from Battleship to Bingo are handed around from 7 to 10, and the bingo caller begins at 10:30. It's free to play, and Miller High Life is $2 all night at this quirky Adams Morgan bar.

Tuesday
'Six in the Mix: Selections by Renee Stout' at Hillyer Art Space
Time is running out for this exhibit of six "underexposed" D.C. and Baltimore artists, whose works were curated by local painter/sculptor/photographer Renee Stout. It's worth a visit -- especially because Hillyer stays open until 7 between Tuesday and Friday, allowing office drones to grab some culture after work.

Wednesday
'Meet the Parents' at Stead Park
The Friends of Stead Park wrap up the outdoor summer movie series with the 2000 Robert DeNiro/Ben Stiller film. Bring a blanket and a picnic.

Thursday
'Taming of the Shrew' at Sidney Harman Hall
This year, the Shakespeare Theatre Company's annual summer "Free for All" series moves from the Carter Barron Amphitheatre to the (indoor) Sidney Harman Hall. The good news: It's been extended to 21 performances, which run through Sept. 12. Tickets for "Shrew" -- a revival of the lauded 2007 production -- are available two hours before the curtain.

Friday
'Death Note 2' at the Embassy of Japan's Japan Information and Culture Center
The D.C. Anime Club sponsors this screening of "Death Note 2," the second live-action film based on the wildly popular manga series. Costumes -- a.k.a. "cosplay" -- are encouraged, as long as you're not carrying anything metal. RSVP to jiccrsvpsummer09@embjapan.org.

Saturday
Columbia Heights Day Festival at Harriet Tubman Elementary School
The funky neighborhood puts its best foot forward with a full day of live music, vendors, free yoga sessions, a Best Pet show, Guitar Hero games, a petting zoo and other attractions for children. After 7 p.m., the action moves to various neighborhood bars with entertainment and specials.

-- Fritz