Nycci's Big Ol' Gay Guide To Pride

Buzz

June is Pride Month and we (meaning me and the DMV) do not celebrate quietly.

One of the things I love most about the DMV is that Pride shows up in every corner of our community. You'll find it in restaurants raising money for LGBTQIA+ organizations, in neighborhood block parties, at museums and theaters, on dance floors, at family-friendly festivals, and in the countless businesses owned and operated by members of the LGBTQIA+ community.

So grab your sequins and your rainbow flags. Here are just some of the many ways to celebrate Pride this month around the DMV.

Pride Events Not To Miss

Throughout June

Jane Jane | Logan Circle — One of DC's favorite cocktail bars is celebrating Pride and America's 250th anniversary with "No Kings, Yas Queens!" Throughout June, expect Pride-themed décor, limited-edition merch, guest bartenders, Queer Industry Nights, and plenty of community spirit. On June 20, they'll even be serving to-go cocktails along the Pride Parade route. As they say at Jane Jane: No kings. Yas queens.

Love, Makoto | Capitol Crossing — Throughout June, the Japanese food hall is offering a Pride Picnic for Two filled with a Rainbow Roll, Kale Soba Salad, Rainbow Vanilla Donuts, and Yuzu Lemonades—perfect for taking to the Capital Pride festivities. The Pride Party Pack swaps the lemonades for Makoto Margaritas or adorable Chika Sake Cups. Plus, throughout the month, Love on the Run's heart-shaped Rainbow Vanilla Donuts will be available individually, with a portion of proceeds benefiting Whitman-Walker. Pride, picnic-style.

Unconventional Diner | Shaw — Pride Month is extra sweet at Unconventional Diner. Throughout June, a portion of proceeds from every Rainbow Layer Cake and Cantina Mule sold benefits Whitman-Walker, supporting healthcare, advocacy, education, and services for the LGBTQIA+ community.

June 13

Pride on the Pier | The Wharf — The Washington Blade's annual Pride on the Pier returns to District Pier with DJs, drag performances, dancing, waterfront views, and plenty of Pride energy.

DC Pride Bar Crawl | Dupont Circle — Thousands of revelers hit bars and clubs throughout Dupont Circle for one of the city's biggest Pride celebrations.

Pride Family Day | Glen Echo Park — Pride isn't just for the grownups. Families can enjoy arts and crafts, puppet shows, playground fun, rainbow treats, carousel rides, and complimentary aquarium tickets.

June 14

Gays & Graves | Congressional Cemetery — One of DC's most unique Pride events returns with tours highlighting LGBTQIA+ activists and pioneers, local LGBTQ-owned vendors, community programming, and a wreath-laying ceremony honoring those who came before us.

June 17

District of Pride Showcase | Lincoln Theatre — Hosted by the Mayor's Office of LGBTQ Affairs, this celebration marks two decades of LGBTQIA+ leadership in DC with live music, drag performances, spoken word, and community storytelling.

June 18

Rooftop Pride Pool Party | Penthouse Pool & Lounge, Navy Yard — Kick off Capital Pride Weekend poolside with cocktails, music, dancing, and skyline views while supporting the Capital Pride Alliance.

June 20

17th Street Pride Block Party | Dupont Circle — One of the city's most beloved Pride traditions. Expect live entertainment, drag performances, food and drink specials, family-friendly activities, and a neighborhood-wide celebration.

Capital Pride Parade | Downtown DC — The main event. Floats, performers, community groups, allies, activists, and thousands of spectators celebrating LGBTQIA+ pride and visibility throughout the heart of Washington.

GlamFest | Metrobar — Glitter. Drag. DJs. Queer artists. Live performances.

Venus | Berhta — This high-energy Pride dance party brings together multiple stages, food trucks, live performances, and an impressive DJ lineup.

Pride Drag Bingo Dinner | Unconventional Diner — A special Pride-themed edition of Unconventional Diner's popular Drag Bingo featuring performances, buffet dinner, cocktails, and plenty of laughs.

June 20 & 21

Pride Brunch at dLeña | Mount Vernon Triangle — Celebrate Capital Pride Weekend while giving back. A portion of brunch proceeds benefits the Latinx History Project, supporting education and advocacy around the Latinx LGBTQIA+ community. Plus, endless plates and free-flowing cocktails never hurt.

June 21

Capital Pride Concert | Pennsylvania Avenue — Free outdoor performances with multiple stages, nationally recognized artists, and one of the city's biggest Pride crowds.

Pride All Year Long: LGBTQIA+ Owned, Led & Community-Focused Businesses

And, while Pride Month is a wonderful time to support these businesses, they're worth visiting all year long.

A League of Her Own

Annie's Paramount Steakhouse (Restaurant)

As You Are (Bar)

Aveda Salon Spa, Logan Circle

Boogy and Peel (Restaurant)