Art-Filled Weekends

Want to get into the collecting field? Three weekends over the next two months offer chances to immerse yourself in art and pick up some collecting tips.

Collectors for a Cause Art Weekend, April 25-27. At the Pyramid Atlantic Art Center, meet new and seasoned art collectors, sample fine wines and buy original prints and artist books to benefit Pyramid Atlantic's arts education programs for young people in Montgomery County and the District. On April 26, art consultant Allison Marvin will speak at 1 p.m., and collector Philip Barlow will speak at 4 p.m.8230 Georgia Ave., Silver Spring. Free. 301-608-9101. http://www.pyramidatlanticartcenter.org.

Bethesda Fine Arts Festival, May 10-11. Now in its fifth year, this event, as well as Reston's (see below), is one of the most reputable outdoor art shows in the area. Both are juried, which means the participating artists were first vetted by judges. Woodmont Triangle, along Norfolk, Del Ray and Auburn avenues in Bethesda. Free. http://www.bethesda.org/arts/artsfestival.htm.

Northern Virginia Fine Arts Festival, May 17-18. More than 185 artists and 50,000 patrons are expected at the 17th annual event. Reston Town Center, 11900 Market St., Reston. Free; suggested donation $5. 703-471-9242. http://www.restonarts.org/festival.