D.C.’s annual Hip-Hop Theater Fest returns this week to rattle your brain. Now in its 12th year, the celebration brings together art, dance, and discussions to fete funk in all its forms. Events take place all week, but clear your schedule for Saturday: Early in the day, prominent educators explain how hip-hop can create social change at the District Architecture Center, and later, beat-laced b-boys from around the nation compete for supremacy at St. Stephen’s Church. Dancers take the festival’s primetime spot: Events wrap up with the Jack Ya Body showcase at Dance Place, featuring the movements of Philadelphia’s Raphael Xavier and Brooklyn’s Storyboard P. Performance artist Holly Bass also performs, giving the production a bit of local flair. Come for the flashy performances but stick around for the discussions; you might leave inspired to contribute to hip-hop culture on your own.

The Hip-Hop Theater Festival runs from July 7 to July 14 at venues around the city. Prices vary. (202) 269-1600. See a complete schedule at hhtf.org.