Fatback Dance Party This long-running DJ night keeps luring in party people month after month with a high-energy funk and soul theme. This is not the night to stand around posing in your best "going out" dress — expect it to get hot and sweaty on the dance floor (in all the best ways, of course).
Where: LIV at Bohemian Caverns, 2001 11th Street NW; 202-299-0800
When: Third Saturday of the month, 10 p.m. to 3 a.m.

Fort Reno
How could anybody not love Fort Reno? This long-running summer concert series is the stuff of D.C. punk-scene lore. These days, the crowd includes parents who grew up with the shows bringing their kids and dogs, teenagers seeing shows for the first time, and anybody who likes their local indie music in a picnic setting with a community vibe.
Where: Fort Reno Park, across from Woodrow Wilson High School in Tenleytown; 202-355-6356.
When: Mondays and Thursdays at 7 p.m., through July 26.

Lubber Run Amphitheater
This outdoor concert venue tucked into a wooded park is perfect when you want that summer-camp feeling — but just for one evening. Music focuses on local acts like '90s-inspired rockers Juniper Lane, and there are nights dedicated to Shakespeare, Hexagon political satire performances, and more.
Where: Lubber Run Park, North Columbus and 2nd Street North, Arlington; 703-228-1850.
When: Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 6 p.m., through August 4.

Strathmore Outdoor Concert Series
The elegant concert hall at Strathmore opens up to the outside world all summer long for a classy lawn-concert experience. Musicians range from the local — like notable jazz ensemble the Elijah Balbed Quintet — to the international. Besides, who can say no to a gazebo?
Where: Gudelsky Concert Gazebo, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, Bethesda; 301-581-5100.
When: Wednesdays at 7 p.m., through August 15.

Red Fridays at U Street Music Hall
Are outdoor concerts on hot nights just not your thing? Head to one of D.C.'s coolest clubs on a Friday night before 11, and you can catch super-cool DJs without a cover charge. These are bold-faced names in the dance music world, like Matthew Dear, Outputmessage, and Juan MacLean, spinning on just about the best sound system around. Translation: Wear some comfortable shoes, because you will be dancing.
Where: 1115 U Street NW; 202-588-1880.
When: Fridays, doors at 10 p.m., free entry until 11 p.m.


Photo: Courtesy of Fatback