Friday, October 3

If you watched last Friday’s presidential debate, you heard a lot about the gravity of the situation in Afghanistan, but it’s probably pretty difficult to imagine life in a nation halfway across the world. Thanks to Dutch photographer Hans Stakelbeek, though, you can get a mental image (or several) of daily life in Afghanistan.

The exhibition is open today from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and tomorrow from 12 to 5 p.m. The Touchstone Gallery is located at 406 Seventh St. NW. For more information, call 202-347-2787. Metro: Gallery Place/Chinatown (Red line).

Saturday, October 4

Say hello to fall at Germantown’s annual Oktoberfest celebration. In its 26th year, the Germantown Oktoberfest is known for its good food, music, games, crafts and spectacular fireworks show. Even if you’re not old enough to visit the Biergarten, there are tons of other activities like live bands and inflatable rides, so take advantage of the nice weather while you can!

Oktoberfest is a free event, and runs from 11 a.m. to sunset at the Ridge Road Recreational Park’s K-9 Commons, located at 21155 Ridge Rd. in Germantown, Md. For information, call 240-777-8000 or visit www.germantownoktoberfest.org.

Sunday, October 5

Start your Christmas shopping early at the Takoma Park Street Festival, where dozens of local artisans will be selling their artwork, jewelry, soap, candles and pottery. Fun fact: The artisans at the festival can only sell goods that they’ve made themselves, so you know you’re getting something authentic and local!

The festival takes place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is free to the public. The festival is located on Carroll St. in Takoma Park, Md. For more information, call 240-253-4229 or visit www.takomafestival.com. Metro: Takoma (Red line).

Monday, October 6

You can’t turn on the TV or open a newspaper without hearing some dry analysis of the political race. If you find yourself thinking that these candidates are taking themselves way too seriously, head to the Signature Theatre in Arlington, Va., for the political satire “Anyone Can Whistle.” This musical tells the story of a fraudulent mayor and the chaos she wreaks on her community, and it’s become a cult classic in the world of political satire.

“Anyone Can Whistle” is showing at 8 p.m. tonight. The Signature Theatre is located at 4200 Campbell Ave. in Arlington, Va. For more information, call 703-820-9771. Metro: Pentagon City (Blue and Yellow lines).

Tuesday, October 7

Head to the Sixth and I Historic Synagogue at 8 p.m. to see singer-songwriter Matt Nathanson perform. With six well-received albums under his belt (including 2007’s Some Mad Hope), Nathanson has gained a significant following on the folk-rock and alternative-rock circuits. Coming to D.C. as part of a two-month tour, he and his acoustic guitar are sure to deliver a great show — don’t miss it.

The concert begins at 8 p.m. The Sixth and I Historic Synagogue is located at 600 I St. NW. Tickets are $20 in advance or $22 at the door. For more information, call 202-397-7328. Metro: Metro Center (Blue and Orange lines).

Wednesday, October 8

There’s more to New Orleans than Mardi Gras and the French Quarter, and the Civilian Art Projects’ exhibit “Way Down in New Orleans” is a testament to the city’s rebirth and culture. The exhibit, which opened on the third anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, features the work of New Orleans-based artists. “Way Down in New Orleans” closes on Saturday, so if you want to catch a glimpse of the exhibit, today’s the day.

The gallery is open Wednesday though Saturday from 2 to 6 p.m. The exhibit is on display at the Civilian Art Projects, located at 406 Seventh St. NW. Admission is free. For more information, call 202-347-0022. Metro: Gallery Place/Chinatown (Red line).

Thursday, October 9

If you were under the impression that cartoons and Shakespeare don’t mix, think again. Head to the Woolly Mammoth Theatre on D Street to see “MacHOMER,” a version of “Macbeth” featuring characters from “The Simpsons.” The show uses 85 percent of Shakespeare’s original text, and the show has met sold-out crowds across the country, and now it comes to the District.

Shows are at 8 p.m. Wednesday through Friday, 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. on Saturday and 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. on Sunday. The Woolly Mammoth Theatre is located at 641 D St. NW. Tickets are $40. For more information, call 202-393-3939. Metro: Gallery Place/Chinatown (Red line).