Know your past. Live your present. Fight for your future
 

SCHEDULE

Friday, May 26 through Monday, May 29 are the official DCBP 2023 dates. There are some special pre- and post-DCBP events.

Events, times and locations are subject to change. Only official DC Black Pride events are listed on this page. If an event is not listed below, it is not an officially recognized DCBP event. All events being held in the Renaissance Washington DC Downtown (host hotel) are complimentary unless otherwise noted.

Please note that there may be event photographers or videographers present at all DCBP events. Any persons attending events consent to have their photo taken and their likeness used by the Center for Black Equity for promotional purposes.

Social Events and Parties

Social events and parties are a very important part of DCBP. CBE has partnered with several organizations to provide various social events and parties. The social events and parties are planned and managed by the organization listed. If an event, social event or party is not listed on this page, it is not an official DC Black Pride event. Partner organizations are:

 
 
DC BLACK PRIDE HEALTH & WELLNESS PAVILION

DC BLACK PRIDE HEALTH & WELLNESS PAVILION

Thursday, May 25 – Sunday, May 28
Renaissance Washington DC Downtown, Meeting Room Level

The health and wellness of the Black LGBTQ+ community is paramount to the CBE. Sponsored by DC Health, the DC Black Pride Health & Wellness Pavilion will be providing a wide range complimentary services. Services include

  • HIV Testing. On the spot and take home tests can be delivered to those in host hotel.
  • MPOX Vaccine
  • Immediate Dox PEP
  • Massages
  • Mini Facials
  • Vitals Signs Measurements (body temperature, pulse rate, respiration rate, blood pressure)
  • Full Panel STI Screening


  • Overdose Prevention Kits

    OVERDOSE PREVENTION KITS

    Thursday, May 25 – Sunday, May 28
    Renaissance Washington DC Downtown

    Overdose prevention kits, including Naloxone, Fentanyl strips and more, will be available all weekend at the host hotel. Kits are made available by the Capital Ballroom Council.

     

    jump to:  Thursday, May 25  ::  Friday, May 26  ::  Saturday, May 27  ::  Sunday, May 28  ::  Monday, May 29

     

    Thursday • May 25

     
    Welcome to DC Happy Hour

    5 – 10 p.m.
    Welcome to DC Happy Hour(Us Helping Us, People Into Living & Impulse Group DC)
    metrobar, 5640 Rhode Island Ave NE, WDC 20002
    »Complimentary • details

    To kick off Pride, Us Helping Us, People Into Living and Impulse Group DC are is hosting Welcome to DC Happy Hour and everyone is invited. All of the space at metrobar is reserved for this event and it will be an amazing party to start the long weekend; FREE for everyone. Sounds by DJ MoMoney. Sponsored by DC Lottery.

     
    Welcome to DC Black Pride Happy Hour (Unleashed DC Black Pride 2023)

    5 – 10 p.m.
    Welcome to DC Black Pride Happy Hour (Unleashed DC)
    Decades DC (rooftop), 1219 Connecticut Ave NW, WDC 20036
    »$10 - $465 • get tickets

     
    4th Annual DC Black Pride Unity Ball

    7 p.m. – 12 a.m.
    7th Annual DC Black Pride Unity Ball. . .PAST, PRESENT, FUTURE
    Renaissance Washington DC Downtown, Rock Creek Ballroom
    »Complimentary • details

    The Capitol Ballroom Council in collaboration with Icon Charles West, Legends Twiggy Garcon, Duante’ Balenciaga, and Domo Alpha Omega present the 7th Annual DC Black Pride Unity Free Ball. Categories information.

     
    Kick-off Party (SHE•SinCZRD)

    9 p.m. – 1 a.m.
    Sin City Kickoff (SHE•SinCZRD)
    metrobar, 640 Rhode Island Ave NE, WDC 20002
    »$10 • get tickets

     

    The Pride Kickoff Party & Pass Distribution (Supreme Fantasy) 9 p.m. – 2 a.m.
    The Pride Kickoff Party & Pass Distribution (Supreme Fantasy)
    Nellie's Sports Bar, 900 U St NW, WDC 20001

     

    The Jump Off (Wet Dreamz) 10 p.m. – 2 a.m.
    The Jump Off (Wet Dreamz)
    The Ugly Mug, 723 8th St SE, WDC 20003

     
     

    Friday • May 26

     

    2 – 9 p.m.
    Pride Help Desk Open
    Renaissance Washington DC Downtown, Ballroom Level

     
    Welcome Reception (Wet Dreamz)

    3 – 9 p.m.
    Wet Dreamz Welcome Reception (Wet Dreamz)
    Renaissance Washington DC Downtown

     

    The Pride Kickoff Party & Pass Distribution (Supreme Fantasy) 5 – 8 p.m.
    Pass Distribution (Supreme Fantasy)
    Renaissance Washington DC Downtown

     
    Rainbow Row: Organization & Vendor Expo

    5 – 9 p.m.
    Rainbow Row: Organization & Vendor Expo
    Renaissance Washington DC Downtown, Ballroom Level
    »Complimentary

     

    6 – 9 p.m.
    DC Black Pride Opening Reception Talent Showcase
    Renaissance Washington DC Downtown, Potomac Ballroom
    »Complimentary. Registration Required for Entry • get tickets
      ASL interpreters will be provided

    Join us for the DC Black Pride Opening Reception Talent Showcase celebrating LGBTQ+ people of color and their artistic talents. Enjoy an evening of comedy, music and performances from talented members of our community. This is a fantastic opportunity to connect with other LGBTQ+ people of color, celebrate diversity and support local artists.

     
    All Black Party (Unleashed DC Black Pride 2023)

    5 – 10 p.m.
    All Black Party(Unleashed DC)
    KOI, 1413 K St NW WDC 20005
    »$15 - $465 • get ticket

     

    UNDR GRND x DC Black Pride Vol.3 10 p.m. – 3 a.m.
    UNDR GRND x DC Black Pride Vol. 3
    Public Bar Live, 1214 18th St NW, WDC 20036
    »$20 - $30 • get tickets

     
    Kickoff Party (DITD DC Black Pride 2023)

    10 p.m. – 3 a.m.
    Kickoff Party (DITD DC Black Pride 2023)
    Living Room DC, 1008 Vermont Ave NW, WDC 20005
    »$30 - $50 • get tickets

     

    Play DC (SHE•SinCZRD) 10 p.m. – 4 a.m.
    Play DC (SHE•SinCZRD)
    Play DC Lounge, 1541 7th St NW, WDC 20001
    »$25 -$100 • get tickets

     
    (Wet Dreamz & Supreme Fantasy)

    10 p.m. – 4 a.m.
    3,000 Men Block Party (Wet Dreamz & Supreme Fantasy)
    Karma DC, 2221 Adams Pl NE, WDC 20018

     
     

    Saturday •  May 27

     

    9 a.m. – 9:30 p.m.
    Pride Help Desk Open
    Renaissance Washington DC Downtown, Ballroom Level

     

    Hip Hop Dance with Gabriel for Black Pride10 a.m.
    PRIDEFIT: Hip Hop Dance with Gabriel for Black Pride
    Howard Theatre, 620 T St NW, WDC 20001
    »Complimentary • RSVP

    Join Gabriel Sanchez @freestyledf for a warmup event to Black Pride Weekend at hthe istorical Howard Theatre. Gabriel will lead you in a dance class with live musical performances from @marckangel and @rueprattmusic. RSVP requested.

     
    Rainbow Row: Organization & Vendor Expo

    10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
    Rainbow Row: Organization & Vendor Expo
    Renaissance Washington DC Downtown, Ballroom Level
    »Complimentary

    Immerse yourself in Rainbow Row, which will feature organizations and vendors, by us for us, that support and sell products for the LGBTQA+ community.

     

    Lez Talk About It11 a.m. – 12:20 p.m.
    Workshop: Lez Talk About It
    Renaissance Washington DC Downtown, Anacostia Ballroom B
    »Complimentary
      ASL interpreters will be provided

    Join us for an insightful and engaging session exploring hot topics like relationships, respectability politics, dating, sex, and more — all from the perspective of lesbian womxn.

    We'll be featuring a panel, facilitated discussion, and fun activities to help us navigate the good, bad, ugly, and exciting aspects of being lesbian womxn in 2023.

    This is a space designed specifically for Lesbian people but open to all.

     

    Workshop: Moves Tank | Exploring What the Body Holds and How to Use them in Black and Brown Spaces11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
    Workshop: Moves Tank | Exploring What the Body Holds and How to Use them in Black and Brown Spaces
    Renaissance Washington DC Downtown, Rock Creek Salon A
    »Complimentary
      ASL interpreters will be provided

    An opportunity for young people who identifies as Black or Brownto come together and discuss important issues surrounding theur bodies and how they can use them to create change. Hosted by Athen White from SMYAL.

     

    Pots, Pans and Pronouns11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
    Workshop: Pots, Pans and Pronouns
    Renaissance Washington DC Downtown, Anacostia Ballroom A
    »Complimentary
      ASL interpreters will be provided

    A discussion on the importance of pronouns and how understanding them can create a more inclusive and welcoming environment for everyone.

     

    ONYX University11 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
    Workshop: ONYX University
    Renaissance Washington DC Downtown, Anacostia Ballroom C
    »Complimentary
      ASL interpreters will be provided

    Join us for a discussion exploring all things kink and BDSM, and witness live demonstrations that will leave you wanting more. Whether you're new to the scene or a seasoned pro, there's something for everyone at Onyx University. Don't miss out on this unique and educational experience. Hosted by ONYX Mid-Atlantic President Kudjo Onyx.

     

    Writers Forum12 – 2 p.m.
    Writers Forum
    Renaissance Washington DC Downtown, Potomac Salon III
    »Complimentary
      ASL interpreters will be provided

    Hosted by Anthony Green, executive direcor of Cagedbirds Productions. There will be a diverse panel of black, LGBTQ+ writers; selling books and discussing there craft. Special guests will be best selling author, JL King and the legendary MT Pope.

     
    Faith in Blackness Panel Discussion

    1 p.m.
    Workshop: Faith in Blackness Panel Discussion
    Renaissance Washington DC Downtown, Potomac Salon II
    »Complimentary
      ASL interpreters will be provided

    How do we explore the uniqueness of Afro & Latinx Spirituality? How can we center the experiences of Black and Latinx and allow those experiences to help us understand Spirituality and Theology? What can we learn from the lived experiences of Afro & Latinx communities and that relationship to their spiritual practices?

    "Faith in Blackness: An Exploration of Afro & Latinx Spirituality" is a short-form documentary which will highlight the lived experiences of Afro & Latinx’s of different faith traditions by sharing their stories and how their Blackness plays a role in their spirituality and vice-versa. This documentary will showcase the individual lived experiences of Afro & Latinx’s and their engagement to their faith and spiritual traditions.

    Followed by a panel discussion with the producers of the film and other Black and Latinx Faith Leaders.

     

    Workshop: Resources for LGBTQIA+ Veterans1 – 2:30 p.m.
    Workshop: PrEP for Pride
    Renaissance Washington DC Downtown, Anacostia Ballroom A
    »Complimentary
      ASL interpreters will be provided

    A transformative discussion on Descovy for PrEP. Explore the future of HIV prevention and how Descovy can empower our community. Presented by Gilead Sciences, Inc.

     

    Workshop: Resources for LGBTQIA+ Veterans1 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
    Workshop: Resources for LGBTQIA+ Veterans
    Renaissance Washington DC Downtown, Anacostia Ballroom B
    »Complimentary
      ASL interpreters will be provided

    Learn about resources available to LGBTQIA+ veterans.

     

    Workshop: Trans Town Hall1 – 2:30 p.m.
    Workshop: Trans Town Hall
    Renaissance Washington DC Downtown, Potomac Salon I
    »Complimentary
      ASL interpreters will be provided

    Hosted by Savanna Wanzer with Keynote speaker Miss Black America Syria St. Clair.

     
    For the Culture Brunch Cruise

    1 – 4 p.m. (boarding 12:15 p.m.)
    For the Culture Brunch Cruise (Presented by Us Helping Us, People Into Living)
    580 Water Street SW, WDC 20024
    »$125 - $175 • get tickets

    Ticket includes bottomless mimosas, bottomless bloody marys, a brunch buffet, sounds by DJ Obie and a live performance by Le'Andria Johnson. You don't wanna miss out.

    VIP tickets and sections and regular tickets are available.

     

    3 – 6 p.m.
    An Homage to The Clubhouse
    Renaissance Washington DC Downtown, Rock Creek Ballroom
    »Complimentary • get tickets

    Join us to pay homage to the iconic Clubhouse featuring the legendary DJ Suspense. This event will be a celebration of the rich history and culture of the Clubhouse and its impact on the LGBTQ+ community. Thanks to AARP DC, complimentary food, drink tickets, and raffles will be provided.

    This event is open to lovers of house music of any age, but registration is required for entry and drink tickets.

     
    Candyland (Unleashed DC Black Pride 2023)

    3 – 8:30 p.m.
    Candyland (Unleashed DC)
    Karma DC, 2221 Adams Pl NE, WDC 20018
    »$15 - $400 • get tickets

     
    Posh Day Party (Wet Dreamz)

    4 – 9 p.m.
    Posh Day Party (Wet Dreamz)
    REPUBLIQ (formerly BLISS), 2122 24th Pl NE, WDC 20018

     

    Pride Cookout Party (Supreme Fantasy)5 – 9 p.m.
    Pride Cookout Party (Supreme Fantasy)
    Aqua, 1818 New York Ave NE, WDC 20002

     

    Rated R Day Party (SHE•SinCZRD) 5 – 9:30 p.m.
    Rated R Day Party (SHE•SinCZRD)
    Focus Social Club, 1348 H St NE, WDC 20002
    »$15 - $100 • get tickets

     
    DC Black Pride Mary Bowman Poetry Slam

    6 – 9 p.m.
    DC Black Pride Mary Bowman Poetry Slam
    Renaissance Washington DC Downtown, Potomac Salon II
    »Complimentary
      ASL interpreters will be provided

    More than $1000 in prizes is up for graba to the most talented poets in the area at annual DC Black Pride Mary Bowman Poetry Slam. Come witness some incredible performances and show your support for the LGBTQ+ community.

    Hosted by four-time poetry slam winner Kenneth Something, this event promises to be a night to remember. 

    For more information contact pridenpoetry@gmail.com.

     
    Thee Ultimate Day Party (DITD DC Black Pride 2023)

    4 – 10 p.m.
    Thee Ultimate Day Party(DITD DC Black Pride 2023)
    THRōW Social DC, 1401 Okie St NE STE #102, WDC 20002
    »$25 - $300 • get tickets

     
    District Vice (Unleashed DC Black Pride 2023)

    9 p.m. – 3 a.m.
    District Vice (Unleashed DC)
    REPUBLIQ (formerly BLISS), 2122 24th Pl NE, WDC 20018
    »$25 - $1,075 • get tickets

     
    The White Diamond All White Party (Wet Dreamz)

    10 p.m. – 2 a.m.
    The White Diamond All White Party (Wet Dreamz)
    Echostage, 2135 Queens Chapel Rd NE, WDC 20018

     

    The Main Event (SHE•SinCZRD) 10 p.m. – 4 a.m.
    The Main Event (SHE•SinCZRD)
    Power Nightclub, 2335 Bladensburg Rd NE, WDC 20018
    »30 - $150 • get tickets

     

    5,000 Men Meatloaf After Dark Super Party (Supreme Fantasy) 10 p.m. – 4 a.m.
    5,000 Men Meatloaf After Dark Super Party (Supreme Fantasy)
    REPUBLIQ (formerly BLISS), 2122 24th Pl NE, WDC 20018

     
     

    Sunday •  May 28

     
    DC Black Pride Faith Service

    11:30 a.m.
    DC Black Pride Faith Service
    The Community Church of Washington, DC United Church of Christ, 5201 Ames St NE, WDC 20019
    »Complimentary

    Come together to celebrate our faith and our community. This is a welcoming and affirming space for all to come as you are.

     

    Brunch & Babes: 2nd Annual DC Black Pride Iconic Drag Brunch 12 – 4 p.m. (seating 11 a.m. show 12 - 3 p.m.)
    Brunch & Babes: 2nd Annual DC Black Pride Iconic Drag Brunch (Capital Ballroom Council)
    Hook Hall, 3400 Georgia Ave NW, WDC 20010
    »$20 - $60 • get tickets

    $20: Show only (bar seating and standing)
    $60: Show, brunch buffet, bottomless mimosas and more. Includes tax and gratuity.
    For table reservations of 6 or more email dragbrunch@capitolballroomcouncil.org.

    Hosted by the iconic Sophia McIntosh. Starring the icons of Atlanta: Stasha Sanchez Garcon and Raquell Lord Balenciaga. Featuring Exotic Lord Mugler, Syria Synclaire, Paris Brooks-Bonet Ebony and Haven Garcon.

     

    Pride Brunch & Drag Show 12 – 4 p.m.
    Oh She Lit! Brunch (SHE•SinCZRD)
    Bulldogs DC, 713 H St NW, WDC 20001
    »$65 • get tickets

     
    Pride By the River Super Sunday at Anacostia Park

    12 – 8 p.m.
    Pride By the River Super Sunday at Anacostia Park
    Anacostia Park (near Roller Skating Pavillion), 1500 Anacostia Drive, WDC 20020
    »Complimentary

    For details visit eventbrite.com/e/pride-by-the-river-super-sunday-at-anacostia-park-tickets-532588766337.

     
    DMV Black Pride Gospel Explosion 23

    3:30 – 6 p.m.
    DMV Black Pride Gospel Explosion 23
    The Community Church of Washington, DC United Church of Christ, 5201 Ames St NE, WDC 20019
    »Complimentary

     
    The Finale Rooftop Day Party (Unleashed DC)

    4 – 10 p.m.
    The Finale Rooftop Day Party (Unleashed DC)
    Twelve After Twelve, 1212 18th St NW, WDC 20036
    »$15 - $470 • get tickets

     
    Wet Dreamz Mega Day Party (Wet Dreamz)

    4 – 11 p.m.
    Wet Dreamz Mega Day Party (Wet Dreamz)
    The Bullpen @ Nats Stadium, 1201 Half St SE, WDC 20003

     

    We On the Roof 5 – 11 p.m.
    We On the Roof (SHE•SinCZRD)
    Space DC Restaurant & Lounge, 1355 U St NW, WDC 20009
    »$20 - $100 • get tickets

     

    Sunday Funday Rooftop Party (Supreme Fantasy) 5 p.m. – 1 a.m.
    Sunday Funday Rooftop Party (Supreme Fantasy)
    Nellie's Sports Bar, 900 U St NW, WDC 20001

     
    Sunday Night @ Sax (DITD DC Black Pride 2023)

    10 p.m. – 3 a.m.
    Sunday Night @ Sax (DITD DC Black Pride 2023)
    Sax Theater & Lounge, 734 11th St NW, WDC 20001
    »$30 - $55 • get tickets

     
    Pride Super Party (Wet Dreamz)

    10 p.m. – 4 a.m.
    Pride Super Party (Wet Dreamz)
    The Park at 14th, 920 14th St NW, WDC 20005

     

    Pride Sunday Night Man Hunt Rooftop Party (Supreme Fantasy) 11 p.m. – 4 a.m.
    The Pride Sunday Night Man Hunt Rooftop Party (Supreme Fantasy)
    Space DC Restaurant & Lounge, 1355 U St NW, WDC 20009

     
     

    Monday • May 29

     
    Pride in the Park

    12 – 7 p.m.
    Pride In The Park
    Fort Dupont Park, Minnesota Ave SE, WDC 20019
    »Complimentary

    Join Us Helping US at Fort Dupont Park for Pride In The Park. There will be free food, games, axe throwing, henna tattoos, and more! The best part is we have an amazing lineup of performers you don't want to miss.

     
    Penthouse Day Party (DITD DC Black Pride 2023)

    4 – 10 p.m.
    Penthouse Day Party (DITD DC Black Pride 2023)
    12 Stories, 75 District Square SW #12th floor, WDC 20024
    »$30 - $200 • get tickets

     
    The Finale  (Wet Dreamz)

    8 p.m. – 2 a.m.
    The Finale (Wet Dreamz)
    The Ugly Mug, 723 8th St SE, WDC 20003

     

    Pride Close Out Rooftop Party (Supreme Fantasy) 10 p.m. – 2 a.m.
    Pride Close Out Rooftop Party (Supreme Fantasy)
    Public Bar Live, 1214 18th St NW, WDC 20036

     
     
     

    2023 SPONSORS & PARTNERS

     

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