Real shoppers relish the Dog Days

Dog days? This is nothing. Get serious. Next month is August and that's when the real thing hits: MidCity's Dog Days of August Sidewalk Sale on August 6 and 7. You need to venture out of MoCo and check out these fabulous stores and restaurants in the heart of our nation's capital. The MidCity (14th and U streets) was home to jazz in the '40s as well as to historical landmarks such as the Lincoln Theatre and Ben's Chili Bowl and made a stupendous recovery from its demise after the 1968 riots.

There will be over 100 stores, boutiques, restaurants and art galleries participating in this 12th annual event. And even more fantastic is the Studio Theatre costume and prop sale. That's gotta be worth the trip alone. Shops like Junction, Urban Essentials and Rue 14 will feature 60 percent off clothing and accessories.  Restaurants including Busboys and Poets, CakeLove and Policy will offer specials on food and drinks. Dog Days will also feature art, literature, exhibits and performances from Twins Jazz Club and The DC Center for the LGBT Community.  For more info about the area, please visit www.midcitylife.com