7 things to do in the capital region, from a go-go concert to a demolition derby

Go-go, one of the signature sounds of Washington, D.C., has an age problem, according to one observer.

“It’s a gap in the generations where it’s no go-go bands at all, they’re either 40 years old or 50 years old,” said Kani Shorter, a resident of Southeast D.C. “Go-go is the only genre of music where the young people aren’t running the music.”

Shorter, 49, has tried to instill his city’s musical heritage in young people. Last year, he got several students of D.C. Public Schools to formally start playing as the Next Generation Krank Band.

The ensemble, which fluctuates between nine and 10 performers who are 14 to 18 years old, has performed across the capital region and beyond to spread the sound pioneered by the likes of the late Chuck Brown.

Next Generation Krank Band will perform Thursday, Aug. 20, at Concord Historic Site in Capitol Heights at 5 p.m. DJ Baconbear and go-go mainstays, New Impressionz, will join them.

The genre, which was birthed in D.C. by Black musicians, is defined by its live shows carried by percussion-driven funk rhythms.

Shorter, who manages the band, said part of his inspiration for assembling these talented young musicians was also to combat the rise of the latest wave of DMV street music, popularly known as free car rap.

He’s thrilled about having the opportunity to bring go-go performances to Prince George’s County, where he knows many fans and residents who may have once lived in the District now reside.

Venues that host go-go concerts have dwindled over the years within city limits. Veterans like Backyard Band celebrated their 35th anniversary with a performance at MGM National Harbor.

“It’s everything,” Shorter said. “Not just the culture and the go-go, it’s the gentrification of everything.”

But he’s embracing the opportunity to expand go-go’s reach and the kids that are carrying on the legacy.

“I think we need to stop gatekeeping the music and just let the world hear it,” Shorter said. “We’ve been trying to push the narrative of the culture, push the narrative of the music and push the joy that the music brings.”

Here are other events happening around the capital region to check out.

Early Rockville

Friday, 10 a.m.

The nonprofit Peerless Rockville will celebrate the 250th anniversary of America and Montgomery County with a walking tour of the city’s downtown. Guests will set off from Rockville City Hall and catch glimpses of what once existed in the colonial era.

Tickets are $10-$17.85.

Park Shredders Skate Jam

Saturday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Have a child — or maybe you are one, young reader — who has been wanting to learn to skateboard? Walker Mill Regional Park in District Heights will welcome newcomers and seasoned skaters alike to show off their tricks and learn from professional skaters and instructors.

Admission is free, and lunch will be provided.

Cut your own sunflowers

Saturday through Sept. 6, 11 a.m.-7 p.m.

Clarksburg’s Whitetails Farm will open its doors one last time this season for you to take pictures and snip your own sunflowers. The farm has no limits on how much you can cut but asks you to consider what you can reasonably carry in one trip.

Tickets are $17 for guests 13 and older.

Great American Camp Out

Begins Saturday at noon and ends Sunday at 2 p.m.

It’s maybe not a question you consider until you’re confronted with it: How do you camp? Workers at Patuxent River Park in Upper Marlboro will welcome first-timers who want to know the ins and outs of camping so they can plan their next outdoor excursion.

Admission is free.

Demolition derby

Saturday, 7:30 p.m.

Maybe one day you’ll read something smart from me or a Banner colleague about the hidden poetry in the demolition derby at the Montgomery County Fair. Until then, let’s just stick with what we know. It’s cars getting all smashed up and people getting to hoot and holler at the wreckage. We could all use some simple fun.

Tickets are $18-$20.74 and do not include admission to the fair.

Washington Folk Festival

Sunday, noon-6 p.m.

Glen Echo Park will host the annual showcase of folk musicians performing styles of the tradition from around the world. Across six stages, you’ll hear bluegrass, Celtic and Middle Eastern folk songs. They’ll be accompanied by food trucks and a children’s play area.

Admission is free.