From Capital Pride to Drag Bingo, make sure you're in the nation's capital for exciting LGBTQ+ events all year long.
Capital Pride may build the biggest buzz, but DC’s LGBTQ+ scene is thriving year-round. From team sports to all-night dance parties, check out our ultimate list of events that cater to the community in-person or virtually.
You can also check out tons of on-demand virtual museum tours, neighborhood tours, TV and movies streaming ideas with a DC bent, DC-inspired music playlists and Washington, DC Zoom meeting backgrounds. Be sure to read our things to do during the week and weekend and check up on what’s open around the city as well.
October
Colorful Fest – Oct. 17
Party on 5th street near Union Market with the Capital Pride Alliance during this first annual block party and street fair celebrating the LGBTQ+ community. The vibrant event will feature artisan and food vendors, community groups, entertainment and dancing, of course!
12 p.m.
Dock 5 @ Union Market, 1309 5th Street NE, Washington, DC
Reel Affirmations Film Festival – Oct. 21-24
Now in its 28th year, DC’s International LGBTQ+ Film Festival returns in hybrid fashion. Attendees will have the chance to discover international, documentary, short and feature films across a variety of genres through virtual and in-person screenings, virtual director talkbacks and watch parties.
Tickets
GALA Hispanic Theatre, 3333 14th Street NW, Washington, DC 20010
17th Street High Heel Race – Oct. 26
Don the stillettos or spectate in style for this unique DC tradition with the Mayor’s Office of LGBTQ Affairs and Mayor Muriel Bowser herself. Watch hundreds of participants decked out in drag strut down 17th street to see who reigns on top. A parade with entertainment starts at 6:30 p.m., while the race begins at 9 p.m.
17th Street, between P and S Streets NW near Dupont Circle
November
24th Annual SMYAL Fall Brunch Fundraiser – Nov. 6
Brunch for a cause at SMYAL’s (Supporting and Mentoring Youth Advocates and Leaders) annual Fall Brunch fundraiser. Enjoy a cocktail reception, silent auction, three-course brunch and the opportunity to hear from community leaders among LGBTQ+ members and allies.
10:30 a.m. | Tickets
Marriott Marquis Washington, DC 901 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20001
Ongoing
Sunday KiKi at Wunder Garten - Every Sunday
Wunder Garten celebrates the LGBTQIA+ community every Sunday to raise money for Capital Pride. "Kiki" combines drag bingo, games and a dance party featuring Crystal Edge and Katrina Colby with resident DJ Tezrah providing tunes and dance vibes.
4-7 p.m. | More details
Wunder Garten, 1101 First St NE, Washington, DC 20002
Drag Queen Storytime - Oct. 10, Nov. 14
Join Adams Morgan Partnership BID, The LINE and DC Public Library at Unity Park for storytime with a drag queen. The goal is to inspire a love of reading while teaching deeper lessons on diversity, self-love and an appreciation of others. This event is free and open to children of all ages.
11 a.m. | More details
Unity Park, Intersection of Columbia Rd., Champlain St. & Euclid St., NW, Washington, DC 20009
As You Are Bar – Virtual Happy Hour
Jo McDaniel (formerly of A League of Her Own) and Rach (Coach) Pike have created a virtual safe space for LGBTQIA+ with As You Are Bar, which has plans to open physically in the future. However, for now, every Monday, you can “Click In with Coach” to chat about your favorite shows or movies, your latest crush or your latest libation creations. Develop true connections through this unique online event.
7 p.m. | Free registration
Celebrate Washington, DC's LGBTQ Community - Events, Things to Do and More
