George R.R. Martin takes it easy. Four years after the most recent book in Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire series came out, his publisher says the notoriously slow-paced author will have no new book in 2015. At least the HBO portion of Martin’s sword-and-zombies empire keeps busy. Before a reception featuring Game of Thrones-themed beers from New York’s Brewery Ommegang, series production designer Deborah Riley will discuss how she creates the television show’s Middle Ages mash-up look with University of Virginia English professor Lisa Woolfork, who recently taught a class based on the books. The program begins at 6:45 p.m. at the Baird Auditorium, 10th Street and Constitution Avenue NW. $25–$30. (202) 633-3030. smithsonianassociates.org. (Will Sommer)

EAT THIS

You know what will keep you warm today? Vodka. Lucky for you, Washington City Paper is hosting a Vodka! Vodka! party tonight at the Blind Whino from 6 to 9 p.m. The event will feature vodkas from all over the world, cocktails from some of D.C.’s top mixologists, and vodka-infused bites from local restaurants. Dance to Euro mashups of ‘80s music, too. Tickets are $45 online and can be purchased here. Blind Whino, 700 Delaware Ave. SW. washingtoncitypaper.com/events/vodkavodka (Jessica Sidman)

OH AND ALSO

Political comedian Hari Kondabalu performs a free show at the Kennedy Center’s Terrace Theater as part of its regular “Comedy at the Kennedy Center” series. 6 p.m. at 2700 F St. NW. Free.

Reston-based folk act Turtle Recall plays the Black Cat Backstage with local outfits Bencoolen and Black Checker. 8 p.m. at 1811 14th St. NW. $10.

Somber Scottish rock trio the Twilight Sad takes the stage at Rock & Roll Hotel with Portland-based vocalist Port St. Willow. Read more in our Spring Arts Guide. 8 p.m. at 1353 H St. NE. $14.

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