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City Cast DC

Kaela Cote-Stemmermann

Do you feel that feral energy in the air? That’s the 

The Capital Pride Alliance may have pushed this year’s Pride celebrations back because of the UFC fight, but the city shows no signs of slowing down. If anything, D.C. institutions are taking the opportunity to party even harder.

, will kick off official Pride celebrations on June 20 and preside over the weekend's biggest events, including the 

But if you’re looking for something off the beaten path, we rounded up a list of the best 

 Pride events for every type of Washingtonian — from carabiner-clutching sapphics to Speedo-clad ravers.

Bring a water bottle. There are designated water stations along 14th St. and at the 17th St. Block Party where you can top up.

Stand on the west side of 14th St. for more shade. Get there early if you want a good spot.

Plan on picking up food. Nearby restaurants and bars will have hours-long waits. Slice & Pie, South Block and Shake Shack on 14th St. NW are great grab and go options.

Sunblock, sunblock, sunblock! I see you in those mesh tanks and nip covers. Trust me, those 

With all that drinking (water, obviously 👀) it’s essential to plan out some pit stops before you get desperate. Here are a few spots on or close to the route you can go. The pros know to bring your own tissues, as bathroom situations can be … less than ideal.

Cafés on route: Starbucks, Compass Coffee, Aslin, Coffee Bar, Bluestone Coffee

Celebrate Pride with music spanning EDM, French jazz and everything in between.

This three-stage outdoor music festival at Berhta boasts names like D.C.-born Rico Nasty, Yaeji, The Dare, and DOSS. The festival bills itself as a place to "come be loved, come be hot, come be weird."

Fête de la Musique at the Embassy of France

The French embassy is opening its doors for this special Pride Month edition of the Fête de la Musique — a music festival with professional and emerging artists, students from the Duke Ellington School of the Arts, DJs, jazz musicians, pop performers and more.

Close out Pride at D.C.’s favorite DIY venue with queer NYC art-and-music collective Papi Juice. The party runs until 3 a.m. “Go ahead and request Monday off,” says the invite.

The New Orleans-based rapper, singer and bounce icon is bringing her “Big Freedom” show to D.C. for one of the month's biggest queer music events.

Block parties, balls and hangouts that have something for everyone.

Now in its second year, this afternoon block party is co-hosted by NoMa BID, Red Bear Brewing Co., and REI. Expect family-friendly activities, local vendors, community organizations and lowkey outdoor activities.

Old Town North Pride Party at St. Elmo’s Coffee Pub

This 21+ dance party features DJ Thunderbunny on the decks alongside a chill-out lounge offering glitter roots, temporary tattoos and coloring from the Queer Crayon Club. Tickets include two drinks and benefit Safe Space NOVA.

A staple of D.C.'s queer dance scene since 2008, MIXTAPE returns with DJs Shea van Horn and Matt Bailer. Expect a high-energy blend of pop, electronic and dance.

The night opens with featured artists AYA Collective and Justyce Pyer Moss before transitioning to the ball, where stars of the D.C. kiki scene take the floor. Competitors will vie for titles and cash prizes across categories such as Runway, Best Dressed and Shake That A**.

Catch some of D.C.’s most iconic drag kings and queens at these performances.

GLAMfest Drag Show and Pop Party at metrobar

Join this glitter-soaked Pride night at metrobar with drag performances from Brooke N Hymen, Hennessey, Venus Valhalla, and Ruth Allen Ginsburg, alongside pop sets from Shelby Morgan and Bryce Bowyn.

Pride Between the Pages: A Literary Drag King Show at Solid State Books

This 8-act show will feature drag kings from Pretty Boi Drag bringing their literary alter egos off the page and onto the stage.

Part of Kiki's full slate of Pride-themed programming, this drag show pays tribute to the beloved D.C.-born “RuPaul's Drag Race” alum Tatianna.

Pride doesn’t have to be a sausage fest. These are for the girly-pops.

A no-phone, no-photo, no-video lesbian Pride party featuring Mooncrumb, Lauren Jay, Kristy la rAt, and DJ Dee Clark. What happens on H Street stays on H Street.

SUNSHINE: A Sapphic Pride Day Party at Spark Social

This daytime outdoor celebration will spotlight sapphic DJs from across D.C. in a lower-key post-Pride-weekend wind-down.

Round out Pride weekend with five hours of nonstop music from local sapphic DJs, food trucks, drink specials and Pride-themed surprises.

🧑‍🎨 For the Grown-Up Tumblr Art Hoes

Queer exhibits, film fests and fashion that will have you reliving your queer teen angst.

DIY Your Pride - Art Supply Swap at Brookland Arts Walk

Bring unwanted art supplies and artwork to swap and trade. Attendees can also make upcycled crafts and decor on the spot using their swap haul.

Washington D.C.’s best 2026 Pride events, from fashion shows and film fests to block parties and raves.

2026 D.C. Pride For Every Type of Washingtonian

D.C. Pride For Every Type of Washingtonian

Tips and tricks for living your best DC life, by locals, for locals.

DC Life Hacks

Ashe Durban

D.C. may have lost its bid to host FIFA World Cup matches this year but the city’s soccer culture and international communities aren’t letting it pass unobserved. Games kick off on June 11 with endless watch parties, pickup matches, deals, and parties around the DMV.

Here are the ones we’re most excited for.

The People’s Pitch: Black Arrow FC at Hi-Lawn

Soccer and Black culture group Black Arrow is transforming the Hi-Lawn at Union Market’s rooftop into a free 

four-day celebration of soccer, culture and ~ vibes ~.

 They will be showing live match screenings on the big screen, and the venue will include DJs, food and drinks, photo ops, and a rooftop turf field.

Official FIFA Fan Zone on the National Mall

The fan zone between 3rd and 4th Streets is 

 on a giant screen, plus every knockout round game from July 4 onward. There will also be food and drinks, interactive exhibits, youth programming, and cultural showcases — open as late as 1 a.m. for some games.

 on a 14-foot jumbotron screen with patio seating and direct screen views. There will also be special Team USA watch parties on June 12 and June 19 with sip-and-stroll zones, giveaways, games and fan activations.

Local soccer fashion brand and community group 

 is bringing pickup soccer, watch parties, and fashion across the Union Market neighborhood. Events kick off June 13 (1-4 p.m.) with rotating small-sided pickup games and DJs at The Yard, followed by a Brazil vs. Morocco watch party at La Cosecha (5 p.m.) for one of the tournament’s marquee opening weekend matches.

Volo Sports is transforming NoMa’s favorite outdoor beer garden into a 

 with watch parties, cultural celebrations, embassy collaborations, food pop-up, competitions, and international specialty brews.

 — the first from June 12-14 at Franklin Park and a second from June 19-21 at Tingey Plaza. They will include youth soccer activities, chats with the team, local food vendors, music, and family-friendly programming.

Speed Dating at Astro Beer Hall in Shirlington

For when you want to watch the game but are on that dating grind. Meet other singles and enjoy themed drinks 

 face down Paraguay in their first World Cup match on home soil in 32 years.

World Cup Watch Party and Beer Garden at National Harbor

 on the outdoor big screen at National Harbor including Canada vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina at 3 p.m., followed by USA vs. Paraguay at 9 p.m. There will be giveaways and prizes throughout the night as well as a beer garden and “most team spirit” competition.


If you’re looking to stan a specific country with other fans and expats, these spots are showing their home team games throughout the tournament. Grab some authentic food from that country, drink foreign beer, and cheer them on in their native language.

 with free pot of tea for the table (Falls Church)


Throughout June and July, D.C. restaurants are going all out on World Cup specials. From $1 wings to free shots of mezcal, 

Gordon Ramsay Street Burger and Street Pizza

Get $1 wings and $4 pints of beer when the game is on.

Guests wearing a soccer jersey get a free quarter chicken meal with chips and Saka Sauce — a collab with football star 

$6 for any local draft beers during all World Cup matches.

For every goal Mexico scores, guests get a free shot of Amaras mezcal or a draft Monopolio lager. Plus, $4 Modelo, $8 margs, and $4 Carnitas Taco all game long.

Free paella during halftime of every Spain match. Plus, drink specials inspired by the countries on the pitch.

Get $10 liters of Bluejacket beer or $10 beer and shot combos whenever the game is on.

All U.S. or Belgium games. Starts June 12.

$6 De Halve Maan Brugse Zot Blonde Ale and half-price mussels during every U.S. and/or Belgium match.

June 15 at 12:00 p.m. and June 26 · 7:00 p.m.

$4 Estrella Galicia cans, $40 sangria pitchers and a free glass of cava after every Spanish victory.

An ultimate guide to World Cup viewing and partying in D.C., including the best bars by country. 

The Best World Cup 2026 Watch Parties and Deals in DC

The Best World Cup Parties and Deals in DC

Find the best of everything that DC has to offer.

DC’s Best

DC's Best

Margaret Kingsbury

Gas prices around the nation are soaring because of the U.S. and Israel’s joint attacks on Iran. According to AAA, 

 are $4.2 a gallon on average, up from $3.125 just one month ago. Here are some tips for saving on gas in D.C.

 gives you points for every dollar you spend on groceries to be spent at BP and Amoco stations. They also frequently offer 4x bonus fuel points days. If you’re a frequent Harris Teeter shopper, buy some gift cards on those days to rack up more fuel points. 

 also have fuel savings programs for members, although there aren’t any in D.C. proper. If you tend to go to the same gas station, check whether it has 

 keeping tires properly inflated, and making sure to drive the speed limit. As speeds exceed 50 mph on the highway, aerodynamic drag reduces fuel economy. While limiting air conditioner use helps save on gas, that’s often impossible in D.C. summer. Use a windshield shade to lessen heat buildup inside the car, and remove bulky items — it takes more fuel to accelerate in a heavier car.

🚌 Take Advantage of DC’s First Class Public Transit

If you’re willing to walk a few blocks, 

WMATA will get you most places in the DMV

. Take advantage of your local bus and train stops. Oftentimes, using a bikeshare can be faster than driving especially when you consider trying to find parking (Plus, you’ll get jacked 💪). It’s not always possible, but even just replacing a few car trips can make a big difference.

 is free and tracks gas prices in your area. Enter your address or route, and it will show you the current gas prices at stations along the way. It’s crowdsourced, and you can enter your receipts to earn points toward rewards, including discounts on gas. You can also play games to earn points.

Gas prices around the nation are soaring. Here how to save on gas in D.C.

Hacks To Save Money on Gas in DC

Let’s face it, January is not D.C.’s (or my) best month. The holidays are behind us, my New Year's resolutions are already crumbling. I bulk up on planners I’ll never use because surely THAT’S why 2025 flopped.

But luckily, D.C. has a myriad of ways to get outside, get cozy, and get creative so you can avoid the January slump. Here are a few of our favorites.

 capital of weird, niche hobbies, and you should take advantage of it (even if you do drop it in just a few months 😬). Our podcast co-host Bridget is on a beekeeping kick after taking an intro course with 

. I’ve done metalsmithing, ceramics, DnD, knitting, and a plethora of others to get me through the short days.

Every group trip, I’m that one friend that 

on getting an Airbnb with a hot tub (even if it does mean bunkbeds). Because there’s nothing better than sitting in a hot tub in winter looking at the stars. But, if you don’t want to make a whole trip out of it, get out to 

 on the Potomac for some quality tub time.

We’ve been walking a mile in different D.C. neighborhoods as a way to explore the city (and find new sweet treats, of course 😈). So far we’ve done 

The Capitals, Go-Go, and Wizards are all in season during this time. This is your excuse to get yourself out of your blanket burrito and head downtown to the Capital One Arena or the Sports and Entertainment Center across the river. Maybe it’ll even inspire you to head to one of 

 And if you know nothing about D.C. sports? Start with our 

Studies show looking at art can lift your mood, ease anxiety, and even activates the same part of our brain as when we’re in love. There are a few installations that’ll be gone after January, so go now! At the National Gallery, the stunning 

 closes out its run at the Hirshhorn January 19.

Jump On DC’s Non-Alcoholic Cocktail Scene

Dry January doesn’t mean you can’t go out. Everyone knows mocktails are hip now, and as a certified lightweight, they’ve saved me on many occasions. I love the plethora of non-alcoholic cocktails at 

, they might be better than the normal cocktails. Mixtures of osmanthus, vegan foam, tamarind, and other creative touches that render booze irrelevant — plus, you'll wake up feeling ready to tackle the month.

More Things To Do In DC This Month

Your Guide to DC in January 2026

What Washingtonians have been wondering. We break down why things in DC are the way they are and how they work.

DC, Explained

To some, D.C. winters are the worst of both worlds. No snow, but cold enough to demand a “real” winter jacket. But me? I love the early nights, neighborhood walks full of twinkling lights, hot toddies, and fire pits. This year, I'm embracing cozy season (like any good introvert) and romanticizing D.C. like I'm in a cringey holiday rom-com.

Year after year, the cold weather brings me back to my favorite speakeasies and cocktail bars. The small oak interior and ever-burning fireplace at 

 make the $19 cocktails go down easy. And the 

fireplaces) has become a recent favorite. But a bar doesn’t need a fireplace to feel cozy. 

 projects the same vibe with just red Christmas lights and extra oily tater tots. Meanwhile, “cozy” should be 

 middle name; the low ceilings and red leather screaming at you to write that novel while sipping a whiskey neat.

Meanwhile, I’m already planning my annual 

 (pro tip: Reese's in your s’more will 

 offer that fire-roasted flavor without the need to bring your own kindling.

When the tipsy warmth isn’t enough, it’s time to find a hearty bowl of soup. Not everyone loves a seafood soup, but to those, I say, have you tried the Gaeng Som Salmon soup at 

? It has tamarind, basil, coconut sticky rice, and everything nice. For those less seaworthy, the lemongrass pho at 

 and the aush soup with ground beef and yogurt at 

One of my favorite parts of D.C. winter is, despite not having much snow, we still insist on going all out on 

. This year, the Anacostia Arts Center is hosting a week-long 

 with dozens of workshops and local vendors. The 

 is happening this weekend at the Brookland Arts Walk with Persian inspired food and art vendors. And of course, there is always the 

But really, you don’t need to spend money to embrace the hygge. Appreciation is the reason for the season after all. Lately, I’ve taken to slapping on my headphones (S/O 

, our latest local music obsession) and going for an evening walk through my neighborhood while (respectively) peeping in windows to check out people’s lights. It makes returning to my own home feel that much cozier.

To some, D.C. winters are the worst of both worlds. No snow, but cold enough to demand a full winter getup. But me? I love the early nights, neighborhood walks full of twinkling lights, and hot toddies. Here's how to romanticize D.C. like a cringey holiday rom-com.

How To Fall in Love with Washington, DC Winters  

How To Fall in Love with DC Winters  

POV: You’re sipping (maybe boozy) hot cocoa, perusing local art, chatting with neighbors, and thinking about the brown butter cookies you have in the oven. C’mon! Doesn't get better than that. Here are the best D.C. holiday markets to find great gifts, and, more importantly, to set your perfect winter ~vibe~

This is my favorite of the two largest D.C. holiday markets — Downtown and Dupont — mostly because they have 

Del Ray Artisans’ Fine Art & Craft Holiday Market

seriously talented local artists and makers

. I got my favorite coffee mug here last year and plan on returning for a whole set. From print makers to ceramicists, there is something for every taste and price point here.

This one costs $5 to enter but it means significantly less crowds. Plus, you get to 

 including vintage clothing, home goods, crafts, art prints, permanent jewelry, and tarot, all while listening to a live DJ.

 with neighbors — the sun is coming back! Come hungry and grab some Yalda and Persian inspired treats from local chefs. Then get custom permanent jewelry welded on site, or opt for a less permanent accessory.

Wonderland has never hosted an event that wasn’t a banger. 

, winter decor, locally made gifts, festive art, and some good neighborly conversation. Plus, enter the raffle to support the D.C. Abortion Fund.

Gather around the warm around the fire pits 

, drink cocoa and cider, and soak in some holiday cheer. Listen to local tunes, browse gifts and partake in activities like ornament painting and holiday coloring.

 brings together dozens of local creatives and includes interactive workshops, meet & greets, spoken word fests, Santa portraits, a Kwanzaa demonstration, and more!

My favorite place to get handcrafted goodies and delicious treats, 

 annual holiday market is small but mighty. The vendors are primarily fine arts, including one of my favorite block print artists. (

 (the holidays really sneak up on you!). This year, it’s part of a larger monthlong community celebration — It’s a Wonderful Ward — with a holiday train, clothing swap, and giving tree.

There will be a parade, live music, a holiday themed fashion show for the dogs, a friendly competition between local area bakeries for best D.C. cookie, workshops, food trucks, and more at 

The 10 Best Holiday Markets In DC

Halloween is fast approaching, and if you haven’t gotten your costume together yet don’t fear. D.C. has seen some ICONIC halloween costumes through the years, like this 

Here are eight options that will have your neighbors saying “Wow! Not only are you hilarious, but you 

 read local news!” and out-of-towners saying, “huhhh...?”

Well, let’s just get this one out of the way. I suspect there will be more than one Subway sandwich wielding, salmon shorts wearing Washingtonian stumbling through the bars this Halloweekend. The beauty in this costume is that if you get hungry while you’re out, you have a built-in snack.

Go as your favorite D.C. Safeway. My pick would be the “Sexy Safeway” (aka the one in Mt. Vernon), because who doesn’t want to be a sexy grocery store? But you could also do the “Stroller Safeway,” “Senior Safeway,” or any of the other 

iconically nicknamed D.C. Safeway locations.

Have a kink for being stepped on all night? Boy, have I got the costume for you. Dress up as the invasive spotted lanternfly that’s been terrorizing D.C. all year. Wear a brown jacket with black spots and a red t-shirt underneath which you can flash when appropriate.

I’m not talking literally, I’m talking vibes, a la this 

 on TikTok. L’Enfant better be wearing a red beret and Foggy Bottom best have swamp moss on their backside.

Are you dating someone in Arlington? Make sure you let everyone know how much you're suffering for love. You wear a I ♥️ Arlington t-shirt, your partner wears a I ♥️ D.C. one. Cute, easy, and a subtle flex.

Just don’t show up. But, if required, show up thirty minutes late wearing purple and homemade signs with several crossed-out opening dates. Bonus points if your costume nods to 

 by reviving it for the night. I’m picturing zombie makeup with paper cutouts for each stop. You could also do this for the D.C. streetcar being phased out, if you really want to go crazy.

Dig out the most boring, uninspired pieces in your wardrobe (ideally millennial green). Then, to really get into the character, appear at various parties or events within a few blocks and hand out 50+ flyers to everyone you meet. Carry a few limp lettuce leaves in your pocket.

Bring it back to your college toga party days and dress up as one of the famous 

Roman legionnaires overlooking Union Station

. But just like their aghast commissioners, please be sure to properly cover up all the goodie bits (ideally with more than just a shield).

9 Perfect DC-Inspired Halloween Costumes

These D.C. neighborhoods don’t mess around when it comes to Halloween. Every one has over-the-top decor, safe streets, and an ideal candy-to-walking ratio. Official D.C. trick-or-treating hours are Oct. 31 from 6 – 8 p.m. But note that some neighborhoods differ!

The Mt. Pleasant neighborhood takes Halloween 

These D.C. neighborhoods don’t mess around when it comes to Halloween. Every one has over-the-top decor, safe streets, and an ideal candy-to-walking ratio. 

local life hacks

D.C. Pride For Every Type of Washingtonian

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Latest articles

D.C. Pride For Every Type of Washingtonian

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