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This weekend kicks off "The Art of Video Games" with GameFest, a three day festival. Image courtesy of Electronic Arts, 2010/SAAM

Friday, March 16 Evolution of Video Games

The much anticipated “Art of Video Games” exhibition kicks off on Friday with Gamefest, a three-day festival dedicated to all things pixelated. Curator Chris Melissinos will host two speaker panels on the evolution of video games. Some of the original game designers and most cutting edge innovators will discuss the past, present and future of the gaming world. Free. 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. American Art Museum.

Saturday, March 17 Saint Paddy Party

The whole family can celebrate the luck of the Irish with rollicking performances by Bog Band and champion Irish dancer Shannon Dunne. After the show, learn how to count sheep in Gaelic, make an acid and base rainbow, or plant a grasshead leprechaun. Don’t forget to wear green! $12 for general admission, $10 for members, $10 for children, $3 for children under 2. 12:00 p.m. Discovery Theater.

Sunday, March 18 Masterworks of Three Centuries

Celebrate the 35th season of the Smithsonian Chamber Music Society with the latest concert in the Masterworks of Three Centuries series. Baritone William Sharp, praised by the New York Times as a “sensitive and subtle singer,” performs two ambitious lyrical works by Robert Schumann. $28 for general admission, $22 for members, $20 for senior members. Pre-concert talk at 6:30 p.m. Concert 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. American History Museum.