What's Happening In Washington, DC: March 30, 2015

We have three words to describe the March weather swings in Washington, D.C.: roller coaster ride. Cabin fever has the population in its grip as Washingtonians anxiously await the permanent arrival of warmer weather. Folks are ready to throw off heavy winter wear, dine al fresco, and take day trips out to wine country, and we've got plenty of things for them to eat, drink, see, and do.

ACORN Wine Dinner
Like the feuding Capulets and Montagues, the most vocal factions of California wine-lovers often fall into two camps: those who think Napa Valley wines are the best and those who prefer those from Sonoma Valley. If you fall into the second group, Republic is hosting an exclusive wine dinner on April 8 that will include beautiful wines rarely available in our market. Chef Danny Wells' five-course menu is a harmonious blend of fresh Gulf shrimp and oysters, earthy cheeses, late winter vegetables, and hearty duck dishes complimented by four wines from ACORN's estate in Russian River Valley. The evening begins at 7 p.m., is $85 per person, and will be graciously hosted by none other than ACORN's owners, Bill and Betsy Nachbaur. Seating is limited so be sure to call the restaurant to reserve a seat.

Airlie Signature Dinner with Early Mountain Vineyards
If you haven't made plans for a weekend trek into Virginia's wine and horse country yet, treat yourself to a memorable dining experience at a luxury resort just an hour's drive from the District. On April 11, Airlie will host a spectacular five-course dinner (cost is $125 per person) prepared by executive chef Jeremy Anderson paired with wines from Early Mountain Vineyard. Airlie is nestled in the picturesque foothills of the Shenandoah Mountains and this special event will begin at 6 p.m. with a meet-and-greet reception with winemaker Steve Monson and vineyard manager Jonathan Hollerith, with dinner at 7 p.m. Guests who prefer to forgo the long trip home can take advantage of Airlie's special Overnight Getaway Package that includes the reception, dinner, overnight accommodations, and Sunday morning breakfast buffet for only $390 per couple. Book your dinner reservations or getaway package online.

Catoctin Creek Whiskey Dinner
If dark spirits are your deepest desire, then surely whiskey cocktails can't be far behind. If so, then the Catoctin Creek Whiskey Dinner hosted by Boss Shepherd's should make for a tastefully fulfilling evening. The fun happens on Tuesday, March 31 at 6:30 p.m., with Catoctin Creek owners and distillers, Becky and Scott Harris, on hand to pour cocktails that complement executive chef Jeremy Waybright's Southern-inspired approach to fresh, straightforward ingredients. This dynamite menu includes scallops prepared with blood orange, Maryland crab salad and fried collard greens paired with Mosby's Rye Saratoga Blanc cocktail, smoked trout, potato puree and grilled mokum carrots with "Boss" Barrel Select, and bone-in pork loin with grilled romaine, lobster bisque and dried cherry served with a Boss Manhattan. The crescendo comes with Jeremy's honey cake and rice pudding ice cream paired with Pear Brandy Short Hill. You get all of this for $89 per person and should reserve now by emailing Daniel.

What the Cluck?
Did you know the National Museum of American History has a Food Program that includes exciting food and drink-focused exhibitions and events? Their After Hours programs are expertly researched and edutaining, and their latest, entitled, "What the Cluck?" will be held Wednesday, April 8 from 6:00 to 8:30 p.m. at the Warner Bros. Theater on Constitution Avenue NW and tickets are $40 per person. The program's panel will delve into the question, "How did chicken become America's go-to white meat?" and will include a conversation by farmers and historians about the past, present, and future of chickens in America. No food event would be complete without something good to drink and live music, and this party includes farmhouse-style beers from Right Proper Brewing Company, live bluegrass from By & By, and delicious food. Join other Chanteclerc fans, meet fowl friends, and view a few stylish coops from Rent a Coop.

Summer Whitford is the D.C. City Guide Editor at The Daily Meal and the DC Wine Examiner. You can follow her on Twitter @FoodandWineDiva.