Houston, we’re coming for the networking, receptions, complimentary cocktails, open bars, and rooms worth being in.

From Google and McDonald’s to founder receptions and executive networking, here are eight AFROTECH Week events worth having on your calendar.

Some are complimentary, some require approval, and availability is limited. Get those RSVPs in early.

AFROTECH™ Conference tickets

The Houston Social Circuit.

1. 100 Society | Emerging 100 Houston

Friday, November 6 | 3:00 PM CST

Location: Houston — disclosed on event day.

An exclusive afternoon bringing together tech founders, corporate partners, nonprofit leaders, and professionals.

The perks: Grey Goose-sponsored open bar, as advertised on the event flyer.

Admission: Approval required. Complimentary admission has not been confirmed.

RSVP:

2. The Breakroom Lounge | AFROTECH × Out of Office

Wednesday–Thursday, November 4–5

Location: The Grove, 1611 Lamar Street, Houston.

A two-day lounge presented by Out of Office alongside Blavity, Jordan Brand, and Fidelity Investments.

The perks: Complimentary food and drinks while supplies last, DJ sets, games, photo opportunities, and merchandise customization.

Admission: Separate RSVP required. Complimentary admission is not guaranteed by the listing.

RSVP — The Breakroom Lounge

3. Black Founder Social | Tribaja × Braze

Wednesday, November 4 | 5:00–8:00 PM

Location: Rosalie Italian Soul, C. Baldwin Hotel, 400 Dallas Street, Houston.

A cocktail reception connecting founders, entrepreneurs, and professionals building what’s next.

The perks: Complimentary frozen margaritas from 5:00–6:00 PM.

Admission: Register through Luma. Check admission terms when registering.

RSVP — Black Founder Social

CORPORATE RECEPTIONS & NETWORKING

4. Google Presents: Food for Thought — McDonald’s Chef’s Remix

Wednesday, November 4 | 7:00–10:00 PM

Location: Houston — disclosed after approval.

Google and McDonald’s are bringing together food, technology, and networking for an AI-powered culinary experience.

The perks: Culinary experience and networking. Complimentary food, alcoholic drinks, and an open bar have not been independently confirmed.

Admission: Approval required.

RSVP:

5. Africa Leaders & Builders Reception

Doors: 2:30 PM | Program: 3:00 PM

Location: Downtown Houston, near the George R. Brown Convention Center. Exact address shared after approval.

An intimate afternoon for executives, investors, founders, and venture capital professionals interested in building connections across African and diaspora markets.

The perks: Drinks and light bites provided by Adaptive Foundation, curated introductions, and founder spotlights.

Admission: Approval required. No AFROTECH badge needed.

Request an Invitation — Africa Leaders & Builders

6. Build in Tulsa Happy Hour

Tuesday, November 3 | Starts at 4:00 PM

Location: Houston — exact address shared with approved registrants.

Connect with the Build in Tulsa team, entrepreneurs, and founders while learning about their accelerator opportunities.

The perks: Hors d’oeuvres, alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks available.

Admission: Host approval required. End time and complimentary admission terms should be checked on the RSVP page.

RSVP — Build in Tulsa Happy Hour

7. The Connect: C-Suite Edition

Date and time: Confirm on registration page.

Location: 1301 Fannin Street, 13th Floor, Houston.

Executive networking with five CIOs and CISOs, a moderated panel, and conversations with technology and cybersecurity leaders.

The perks: Free food, drinks, and music advertised.

Admission: Registration required; ticket price must be checked before registering. Bring a government-issued photo ID for building security.

RSVP — The Connect: C-Suite Edition

8. 6PM in Houston | C-Suite & Tech Networking

Friday, November 6 | 6:00–9:00 PM

Location: The Podium at Porsche River Oaks, 4007B Greenbriar Drive, Houston.

An upscale networking evening for founders, engineers, executives, creators, and tech professionals.

Admission: The initial free early-bird allocation is sold out. General admission is listed at $25, with other ticket tiers available.

The perks: Networking, a short panel, and music. Complimentary drinks are not confirmed.

RSVP — 6PM in Houston

A NOTE ABOUT ACCESS

Complimentary food and drinks are listed where advertised. Free RSVP availability does not guarantee admission or an open bar.

Some events require host approval, have limited capacity, or disclose locations only after confirmation. Always review the registration page for the latest details.

Before the RSVP. After the RSVP. And everything in between.

The Access Edit
Curated by London Nico

October isn’t finished with us just yet!

From rooftop networking and international receptions to fashion shows, technology summits, and Halloween festivities, the DMV calendar is still giving us plenty of reasons to get out.

Find your event, check the details, and make your RSVP.

The Free Edit

October 20 | Shape Your Research Career in Denmark

3–5 PM | National Union Building, Washington, DC

An international networking reception featuring Denmark’s ambassador and research representatives. Complimentary tapas and soft drinks included.

RSVP Here →

October 20 | Google Public Sector Summit

Washington, DC

A day of AI, innovation, and conversations bringing together government and technology leaders.

Event Information →

October 29 | USBC 360° Founder Showcase & Pitch Competition

Washington, DC

Time: 5–9 PM
Location: Bertha Studios, 1900 W Place NE, Washington, D.C.
Admission: Free RSVP

Now THIS is the kind of event I love sharing!

We’re talking an open bar, complimentary hors d’oeuvres, free parking, Metro access, networking, and live founder pitches.

Plus, $100,000 in entrepreneur awards!

Registration deadline: October 28.

Register Here →

October 30 | Alter EGO: 4th Annual Halloween Experience

F1 Arcade | Washington, DC

Costumes, music, games, and a Halloween night out. Ticketed admission.

Get Tickets →

October 25 | AI & Restaurants

2–4 PM | The LINE DC

What happens when artificial intelligence meets the restaurant industry? Join chefs, journalists, and technology experts for an afternoon exploring the future of dining, complete with live demonstrations and food tastings.

From Michelin-level gastronomy to AI-powered kitchens, this is a different kind of Sunday afternoon experience.

Food: Tastings included in the event description.

Access: Registration required; limited space.

RSVP Here

October Reception | Missouri State Society × Scale AI

Tuesday, October 27, 2026 | 5:00–7:00 PM

Location: Sonoma Restaurant & Wine Bar, 223 Pennsylvania Avenue SE, Washington, D.C.

An evening of networking, cocktails, and conversation! Join the Missouri State Society and Scale AI for a reception featuring bites, beer, wine, and cocktails. A great opportunity to meet new people, expand your professional circle, and enjoy an evening on Capitol Hill.

Admission: RSVP required. Open to members and non-members.

RSVP: Register Here

Tuesday, October 27 | Civics Trivia at the National Archives

Time: Doors open at 6:15 PM | Trivia starts at 7 PM
Location: National Archives, Washington, D.C.
Admission: Free

A little history, friendly competition, prizes, and complimentary pizza and refreshments. Grab your friends and test your knowledge!

Event details:
https://washington.org/event/civics-trivia-national-archives

Tuesday, October 27 | Impressions of Japan Exhibition

Time: 6–8:30 PM
Location: Japan Information & Culture Center
Admission: Free

An evening of Japanese art and contemporary printmaking. Perfect for anyone who enjoys culture, art, and discovering something new.

Event information:
https://www.us.emb-japan.go.jp/jicc/

Wednesday, October 28 | Whittemore House Mansion Tour

Time: 7–8 PM
Location: Whittemore House, Dupont Circle
Admission: Free

Step inside one of D.C.’s beautiful historic mansions for a complimentary LGBTQ+ history tour. A little architecture, history, and D.C. charm!

Event details:
https://whattododmv.com/?event=eb_5fc5fc96

Wednesday, October 28 | Austrian Embassy Violin Concert

Time: 7–9 PM
Location: Embassy of Austria

Enjoy an evening of beautiful classical music featuring Austrian violinist Judith Fliedl, followed by Austrian wine.

Check the organizer’s event listing for admission and registration details.

Event information:
https://www.acfdc.org/events

Read more

Thursday, October 15, 2026 | New York City

New York, this one’s for you.

The Snowflake World Tour is coming to Manhattan, bringing together professionals in artificial intelligence, technology, business, and data.

But you already know The Access Edit isn’t stopping at the main event.

I’ve been doing some digging, and I’ve found several surrounding receptions, happy hours, and networking opportunities happening across the city. We’re talking complimentary cocktails, appetizers, beautiful venues, and opportunities to connect with professionals from across the industry.

And here’s the exciting part: I’ve already secured confirmations for the main conference and two of the surrounding receptions.

Whether you’re attending the summit or simply looking to expand your network, here are a few events worth having on your calendar.

What to expect:

• Keynotes and educational sessions

• Networking with business and technology professionals

• Breakfast and complimentary lunch

• Exhibitors and demonstrations

• An afternoon networking happy hour beginning at 4:45 p.m., featuring appetizers and drinks

1. Snowflake World Tour NYC

Thursday, October 15 | 8:00 a.m.–5:30 p.m.

Location: North Javits , 445 11th Avenue, New York, NY 10001

The main event brings together technology leaders, innovators, and business professionals for a day of conversations about AI and how companies are putting it to work.

What caught my attention? The networking opportunities and hospitality.

Register: Snowflake World Tour NYC

2. Cortex & Cocktails — Coastal

Thursday, October 15 | Begins at 5:00 p.m.

Location: CHI Restaurant & Bar, New York City

Now this is where things get interesting.

Coastal is bringing together Snowflake World Tour attendees and professionals from the data and AI community for an after-conference happy hour.

Think drinks, food, and conversations in a more relaxed setting.

My registration is confirmed for this reception.

Coastal is also offering a separate private Data Leaders Dinner beginning at 7:00 p.m. Attendance for that dinner requires its own invitation or approval.

RSVP: Cortex & Cocktails

3. Unwind & Reconnect — Atrium

Thursday, October 15 | 5:30–7:30 p.m.

Location: BondSt., 20 Hudson Yards, Fifth Floor, New York, NY 10001

Another one worth looking into.

Atrium is hosting a networking happy hour at BondSt. in Hudson Yards, bringing together professionals for conversations and connections after the conference.

And if you’ve been looking for a reason to spend an evening in Hudson Yards, here’s one to consider.

I’ve received my invitation and marked my attendance as Yes.

Space is limited, so I recommend registering ahead of time.

RSVP: Atrium Happy Hour

4. Data After Hours — Archetype & Domo

Thursday, October 15 | 5:00–7:00 p.m.

Location: The Yards Pub, 472 Ninth Avenue, New York, NY 10018

No panels. No presentations. Just networking.

Archetype and Domo are hosting an informal gathering for conference attendees and New York’s data community.

What to expect: Complimentary drinks, appetizers, light food, and an opportunity to connect with people across the industry.

RSVP: Data After Hours

5. Marketing AI Forum & Happy Hour — Hightouch

Thursday, October 15 | 5:00–6:30 p.m.

Location: Spygold at Greywind, 451 Tenth Avenue, New York, NY 10018

For my marketing, business, and technology professionals, this one deserves a look.

Hightouch is hosting an evening featuring a short executive discussion about AI in marketing, followed by networking.

What to expect: Complimentary food and drinks, industry conversations, and opportunities to meet other professionals.

You don’t need a Snowflake World Tour ticket to request a spot.

RSVP: Data After Hours

6. Bonus: Breakfast with Atrium & Exemplar Luxury Group

Thursday, October 15 | 8:00–9:00 a.m.

Location: Greywind, 451 Tenth Avenue, New York, NY 10018

Before the conference gets underway, Atrium is also hosting a morning gathering focused on data and the luxury industry.

For anyone interested in the intersection of technology, business, and luxury, this could be a great way to start the day.

Details: Atrium Events

A Little Advice From The Access Edit

Several of these receptions overlap, so you probably won’t make every single one. My suggestion? Secure your registration for the main conference, then choose one or two after-hours events that fit your interests.

Also, keep in mind that complimentary food and drinks vary by event, and registration does not always guarantee admission.

A Note About Access

The Access Edit provides editorial event discoveries and registration information. Invitations, confirmations, and admission requirements are determined by each event organizer. My personal registration confirmations do not guarantee admission for other attendees.

The Access Edit

From D.C. to New York, The Access Edit is bringing you the events, receptions, and experiences worth knowing about. Whether you're coming for the conversations, the connections, or the cocktails, consider this your invitation to stay in the know.

Before the RSVP. After the RSVP. And everything in between.

Subscribe to The Access Edit for more event discoveries, receptions, and lifestyle experiences.

D.C. has no shortage of summits, conferences and expos. But the main event is only part of the story.

Around them comes another calendar entirely — receptions, happy hours, networking events and opportunities to connect.

This guide brings both together: where to register for the main event and what’s happening around it.

I’m keeping this one simple. No chasing impossible invitations or ultra-private VIP events. Just solid events with straightforward registration and access you can actually use.

AUSA 2026

October 12–14, 2026
Walter E. Washington Convention Center
801 Allen Y. Lew Place NW, Washington, D.C.

The Association of the United States Army Annual Meeting & Exposition brings the defense community to Washington for three days of exhibits, programming, networking and events.

START HERE: GET YOUR AUSA BADGE

Before we get to the receptions, register for the actual AUSA Annual Meeting & Exposition.

Registration: $0

Your AUSA registration gives you your attendee badge, which you’ll need to access the expo and official programming. A printed badge is required to enter the exhibit halls.

REGISTER FOR AUSA 2026:
Official AUSA Registration & Ticket Sales YOUR AUSA BADGE

Once the badge is handled, now we can talk about what’s happening around AUSA.

A Little Something From Me

We hit 50 subscribers, so I wanted to say thank you with a little something from me to you.

This AUSA Mini Guide is open to everyone. No paywall this time—just a few good events, RSVP links and places to know about during AUSA week.

Thank you for reading, subscribing and supporting The Access Edit. We’re just getting started.

Now, let’s get into AUSA week.

AFTER THE EXPO

Sunday, October 11

Get Ready for AUSA: Welcome Reception
4:00–6:00 PM | Washington, D.C.

Start AUSA week before the expo even opens. Hosted by Ukraine House and Palisade Bergschrund, this welcome reception brings together U.S. and Ukrainian defense and defense-tech companies, government and military leaders, members of Congress, diplomats and other industry professionals.

It’s designed for introductions, networking and getting connected before AUSA officially begins.

Registration: Available in advance

REGISTER FOR THE WELCOME RECEPTION →]

MG Harry Greene AUSA National Reception
Monday, October 12 | 5:30–9:00 PM
The Capital Burger | 1005 7th St. NW

Kick off AUSA week with food, drinks, conversation and networking with members of the Army, government and defense-industry community.

Access: No advance RSVP is currently listed. Stop by during the reception.

Official AUSA event page

Grant Engine AUSA Reception

Tuesday, October 13 | 5:00–7:00 p.m.
The Anthem at the Marriott Marquis DC | 901 Massachusetts Avenue NW

Grant Engine and Victory Six Advisors are bringing together the defense and dual-use community for an evening of drinks, networking and introductions. No panels, no presentations—just a chance to connect with founders, government leaders, primes and investors.

Cost: Complimentary | Registration required: Yes | Space is limited

RSVP FOR THE RECEPTION

Grant Engine AUSA Reception

Norwich University AUSA Reception

Tuesday, October 13 | 5:30–7:30 PM
Walter E. Washington Convention Center | Room 203AB

Looking for an easy reception to add to your AUSA schedule? Norwich University is hosting a complimentary evening reception right inside the Convention Center.

Expect networking, conversation, beer, wine and hors d’oeuvres. There is no cost to attend, but advance registration is required. Since the reception is inside the Convention Center, attendees will also need an AUSA registration badge for access.

Cost: Complimentary
Registration: Advance registration required
AUSA badge: Required for Convention Center access

[REGISTER FOR THE NORWICH UNIVERSITY AUSA RECEPTION →] Norwich Reception

The Access Edit note: This is an easy one to add to your Tuesday schedule — especially if you’re already spending the day at the AUSA Expo.

⸻

GOOGLE PUBLIC SECTOR SUMMIT 2026

Tuesday, October 20, 2026

7:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

Washington, D.C.

Google Public Sector Summit brings together public-sector leaders and builders for a day focused on AI, technology and putting those tools to work across government.

Registration is complimentary for eligible federal, defense, national security, state and local government, and higher-education leaders. Registration and badge pickup begin at 7:00 a.m., with breakfast and networking before the program begins at 9:00 a.m.

Get your Summit registration handled first.

And keep that badge — you’re going to need it later.

REGISTER FOR GOOGLE PUBLIC SECTOR SUMMIT

Google Summit registration

AFTER THE SUMMIT

Carahsoft Reception at Google Public Sector Summit

Tuesday, October 20
5:15–8:00 p.m.
Dirty Habit
555 8th Street NW, Washington, D.C.

After the Summit wraps, Carahsoft is hosting a complimentary networking reception with hors d’oeuvres, drinks and networking.

This one is exactly why I told you to get the Summit badge first: your Google Public Sector Summit badge is required for entry.

Complimentary. Separate registration required.

RSVP FOR THE RECEPTION

Carahsoft reception registration⁠

That’s the Edit.

AUSA week is busy, and there’s always something else popping up. I did the digging, you pick the room. Register early, keep your badge close, and I’ll see you out there.

You know I’m always looking for the next invite.

The DMV is full of receptions, fashion, champagne, networking, food, culture and the kind of events that give you a reason to get dressed and leave the house.

Some are easy to find. Others require knowing where to look.

So I went back through the October calendar and pulled together a few more events worth knowing about.

I’m leaving five of these above the paywall because everyone who reads The Access Edit should have something good to put on their calendar.

And then we get into the rest.

THE FREE EDIT

1. United Farm Workers Annual DC Reception

Tuesday, October 6
5:30–7:30 PM
1640 Rhode Island Avenue NW
Washington, D.C.

Here’s an easy one to add to your Tuesday evening plans.

The United Farm Workers of America is hosting its annual D.C. reception. If you’re looking for an after-work reception and an opportunity to mix and mingle, this is a good one to have on your calendar.

The RSVP is currently open, and there is no ticket price listed.

RSVP early. These things can change quickly.

RSVP: Register here United Farm Workers Annual DC Reception

2. Center Forward Happy Hour with House & Senate Trade Staff

Tuesday, October 6
6:00–8:00 PM
DISCUS Bar
101 Constitution Avenue NW
Washington, D.C.

Another Tuesday option, especially for anyone working in policy, government affairs, advocacy or simply looking to expand their D.C. circle.

Center Forward is bringing together House and Senate trade staff for an evening happy hour at DISCUS Bar.

Maketto catering will be served, and the RSVP is currently open.

RSVP: Register here Center Forward Happy Hour with House & Senate Trade Staff

3. NeW 22nd Anniversary Celebration

Wednesday, October 7
5:30–7:30 PM
Sonoma Restaurant & Wine Bar
223 Pennsylvania Avenue SE
Washington, D.C.

The Network of enlightened Women is celebrating its 22nd anniversary with a cocktail reception on Capitol Hill.

The evening will feature special guest and 2026 Empowered Woman of the Year Mary Margaret Olohan, along with heavy appetizers and drinks.

Cocktail attire is recommended, and space is limited.

One thing to know before registering: this reception is intended for members of the NeW community in the D.C. area.

RSVP: Register here NeW 22nd Anniversary Celebrate

4. MOLGBTQA 20th Birthday Celebration

Thursday, October 15
6:00–9:00 PM
Penn Social
801 E Street NW
Washington, D.C.

The Mayor’s Office of LGBTQ Affairs is celebrating 20 years of service in Washington with an evening highlighting community leaders, advocates, artists and organizations that have contributed to the city over the past two decades.

There will be live entertainment and free refreshments.

Admission is free, but a ticket is required and entry is first come, first served.

RSVP: Register here MOLGBTQA 20th Birthday Celebration

5. The Collection Couture Fall 2026: Fashion Takes Center Stage

A little Saturday afternoon fashion in Chevy Chase? Yes, please.

The Collection Couture Fall 2026 Fashion Show is bringing an afternoon of style and inspiration to The Collection at Chevy Chase, featuring designs from Sareh Nouri and Brooks Brothers.

Expect a showcase of fall fashion, timeless style, and a fashionable crowd.

The Details

* Date: Saturday, October 24, 2026

* Time: 4:00–6:30 PM

* Location: The Collection at Chevy Chase

* Address: 5471 Wisconsin Avenue, Level 2

* Admission: Complimentary with registration

A few tickets are still available, so don’t wait too long to secure your spot.

The Access Edit Tip: A perfect excuse to get dressed up, enjoy a little fashion, and make an afternoon of it.

RSVP: Reserve your complimentary ticket through The Collection Couture Fall 2026 event listing. The Collection Couture Fall 2026

Before the RSVP. After the RSVP. And everything in between.

WANT THE REST OF THE EDIT?

That was only the beginning.

The free list gives you five events to put on your calendar. The paid edit is where October really opens up.

One of D.C.’s most iconic hotels is celebrating 100 years, and there’s a complimentary champagne tradition happening every evening that you don’t have to be a hotel guest to enjoy. Consider this your excuse to stop in before dinner and make an ordinary night feel a little more special.

And then there’s everything else I found.

A fashion show. A champagne ritual. A polo match. Tastings. Really good networking opportunities. And some interesting rooms to walk into this month.

A couple of these I’ve already registered for myself, and a few made me stop and say, Oh, this is good.

I’m keeping the details for paid subscribers, because this is where the October list gets really good.

Let’s get into it.

Read more

October is here — and with it comes homecoming season, fall receptions, galas, networking nights, cultural events, fashion, food, policy rooms and a few events you probably wouldn’t know were happening unless somebody told you.

That’s where The Access Edit comes in.

I find it. I organize it. You decide where you want to be.

For our first Fall Edit, I’ve been watching the calendars, digging through event listings and pulling together what’s happening across D.C., Maryland and Virginia.

Some are open to the public. Some require registration. Some are ticketed. And some are the kind of events where you want to know about them before everybody else starts posting from the room.

So, let’s get into October.

THE FALL CALENDAR

HOMECOMING

MORGAN STATE HOMECOMING

October 4–11 | Baltimore, Maryland

Homecoming season gets moving in Baltimore with a full week of events at Morgan State.

And while the football game may get the attention, I’m looking beyond the obvious — alumni gatherings, receptions, brunches and the grown Homecoming moments worth putting on your calendar.

A FEW TO KNOW

October 8 — Live the Legacy: Homecoming Kickoff
An evening Homecoming kickoff at the Inn at Colonnade Baltimore.

October 10 — Back to the Den: Alumni Brunch
One for the alumni crowd looking for a more grown Homecoming moment.

THE ACCESS EDIT: There’s much more happening throughout the week. I’ve got the expanded Morgan calendar waiting inside.

⸻

HOWARD UNIVERSITY HOMECOMING

October 16–18 | Washington, D.C.

Howard Homecoming is practically its own season in Washington.

Yes, there’s YardFest and the game. But I’m looking beyond the obvious — alumni receptions, brunches, networking, day parties and everything happening around the official calendar.

A FEW TO KNOW

October 16 — Alumni & Friends Welcome Reception

October 17 — Graduate Alumni Networking Brunch

THE ACCESS EDIT: Howard is one we’re watching closely because the official calendar is only part of the Homecoming experience. The surrounding D.C. calendar is where things get especially interesting.

⸻

THE GROWN HOMECOMING EDIT

Because Homecoming at 30+ hits a little differently.

We still want the energy. We still want the outfits. We still want the music. We still want to see everybody.

But we might also want a seat, a cocktail, good food, a good room and the ability to actually hear the person sitting next to us.

That’s the Homecoming I’m looking for.

I’m doing the digging so you don’t have to.

⸻

ALSO ON THE CALENDAR

Homecoming is only one part of October.

GALAS

Black tie, cocktail hours, beautiful rooms and the occasions worth dressing for.

COSMO COUTURE 2026
October 8 | National Building Museum | Washington, D.C.

Part cocktail reception, part runway show and part design-industry room, Cosmo Couture brings fashion, architecture and interiors together for one of October’s more visually interesting evenings.

THE ACCESS EDIT: This is just one of the gala and dressed-up rooms on my October list.

EMBASSY & INTERNATIONAL

Cultural evenings, embassy programming, international receptions and experiences around Washington.

AN EVENING AT THE EMBASSY OF TANZANIA
October 15 | Embassy of Tanzania | Washington, D.C.

Step inside one of Washington’s diplomatic spaces for an evening centered on Tanzanian culture, conversation and international connection — the kind of experience that makes the DMV event calendar unlike anywhere else.

THE ACCESS EDIT: This is only a glimpse of the embassy and international events on my October list.

RECEPTIONS & NETWORKING

Professional rooms, industry gatherings and opportunities to actually meet people — not just collect another event flyer.

LEADERSHIP CONNECT’S POLICY COMMUNITY HAPPY HOUR

October 15 | Leadership Connect | Washington, D.C.

A relaxed evening bringing together professionals from government, public affairs, advocacy and industry for conversation and connection. This month’s gathering is in partnership with the Public Affairs Council.

THE ACCESS EDIT: I’ve been to a Leadership Connect event before — and this is exactly the kind of D.C. networking room I keep on my radar.

CULTURE, FASHION & DESIGN

Gallery nights, fashion, design, food and creative events happening throughout the DMV.

FALL NIGHTS & HALLOWEEN

Because October should have a little fun in it too.

THE CALENDAR GETS BETTER FROM HERE.

The preview stops here. The full October calendar doesn’t.

Inside The Inside Edit, I’m sharing the expanded list — more Homecoming, galas, receptions, embassy and international events, networking rooms, culture, fashion, fall nights and the less-obvious events I’ve been finding across the DMV.

I find it. I organize it. You decide where you want to be.

Let’s go inside

Read more

And the funny thing is, some of the best things happening around the city aren’t always the things everyone is talking about. They’re happening quietly, sometimes right around the corner. You just have to know where to look.

Over the years, I’ve become the person people come to when they want to know what’s going on. I’ll mention where I’m going, post something from the night, or send an event to a friend and someone always asks, “Wait, where did you find this?” or “How did you know about that?”

After a while, I realized I wasn’t just finding things to do. I was putting together my own version of D.C. the rooms worth walking into, the events worth putting on the calendar, and the chances to meet people you might not normally meet.

That’s where The Access Edit comes in.

This is where I’ll share the things worth knowing about the events, the calendars, the connections, and those little pieces of information that can completely change how you experience the city.

Because sometimes the only difference between hearing about it afterward and actually being there is knowing about it in the first place.

Welcome to the room.