Event Dates
From: Friday, May 23, 2025
To: Sunday, June 8, 2025
Capital Pride Washington 2025
Washington’s Gay Pride Parade and festival, attracting over 200,000 visitors to the nation’s capital, the parade which is held on the Saturday.
A Capital Pride in a Capital City – Washington Pride 2025
Enjoy 10 days of parties, events and activities in the lead up to a weekend of marches and festivals, both festive and political in nature during Washington’s annual pride event.
- Stay in Dupont Circle in the heart of the gay district. The area fills up fast. Our top choice for Pride is The Ven Hotel with great décor and superb amenities.
Capital Pride
- Friday 23rd May – Sunday 8th June, 2025 – Amidst the historic monuments and tree-lined avenues of Washington D.C., Capital Pride emerges every year as a brilliant spectacle of love, acceptance, and unity.
- This vibrant celebration of the LGBTQ+ community paints the U.S. capital in rainbows, with a week-long roster of events from dance parties to thought-provoking panel discussions.
- Whether you’re donning a feathered boa or just soaking in the ambiance, Capital Pride promises an unforgettable fusion of activism, celebration, and community spirit in the heart of America’s political landscape. Prepare for a dazzling display of D.C. at its most colorful and inclusive.
- The theme for DC Pride 2024 is ‘Totally radical’ a nod to 80s and 90s, “celebrating the courageous spirit and unwavering strength and resilience that defined the LGBTQ+ community during the transformative decades of the 1980s and ‘90s,”.
Key Events
- Washington, DC Gay Pride hosts two impressive events including the Capital Pride Parade on Saturday, and the Annual Capital Pride Street Festival the following day.
- Note – Washington DC hosts World Pride in 2025.
RIOT – Official Opening Party
- Friday, 6th June, 2025 – RIOT, The Capital Pride official Opening Party from 9 pm at Echo stage featuring a line-up of both local, national, and world-famous queer performance artists to represent those who truly make up DC’s crazy-talented inclusive LGBTQ+ community. Kick off your Pride weekend at DC’s largest Pride party and main event.
- The event runs until 3.30 am. Over 18s only.
Washington Pride Parade
- Sunday June 8th – Note this is Worldpride Edition
- Stay close to the Hotel Madera just a short walk from the parade. The 4 star hotel is rated “Fabulous” by guests with spacious rooms and modern decor.
- Staging: On 15th Street NW, between 11:00 am and 2:30 pm | Step off: 14th Street at T Street NW, at 3:00 pm |Finish: Pennsylvania Avenue at 9th Street NW
Pride Block Party
- Awaiting dates – 12:00pm – 10:00pm .The Block Party returns for Capital Pride 2024. Enjoy entertainment, food, and your favorite beverage before, during, and after the Parade.
- The block party takes place on 17th Street NW, between P and R Streets, in what was once the historic Dupont Circle “gayborhood.
- Enjoy two beverage gardens with an exclusive view of the Capital Pride parade from 3 pm to 8 pm.
Capital Pride Street Festival
- Sunday, June 8th, 2025 – In the shadows of the U.S. Capitol Building, more than 200,000 people will attend the Capital Pride Street Festival, which takes place at Pennsylvania Ave. NW between 3rd and 7th streets, just northwest of the Capitol grounds.
- Enjoy a full day of entertainment on three stages, food, drink, and advocacy with over 300 exhibitors. The Festival is the largest annual event in the national capital region. It runs from 12:00 noon – 10:00 pm.
- Food trucks will operate from noon until 7 pm at the Monument food court and noon until 9 pm at the Senate food court
- (on Constitution Avenue, north of Pennsylvania Avenue and near the Capitol Stage).
- Stay close to the city’s pride events and top attractions at The Citizen M DC Capitol, rated “Fabulous” by guests with stylish suites offering big picture windows overlooking the Capitol.
Capital Pride Concert
- Sunday, June 8th, 2025 – 12pm – 10pm – Experience entertainment on three stages, from international headliners to our best local and regional LGBTQ+ talent.
- Capitol Stage, 1pm – 8pm Concert, followed by Sunset Dance Party – from 8 pm to 10 pm.
The Capitol Stage sits at the east end of the festival on Pennsylvania Ave. at 3rd St. with the United States Capitol as the backdrop. It will include headlining international entertainers and showcase some of the best LGBTQ+ talent. This stage includes a VIP Zone, Pit Zone, Accessibility Zone, and is located near the Capitol Beverage Garden and Capitol Food Court. Open to all ages.- Dupont Stage, 12pm – 8pm
The Dupont Dance Stage will highlight some of the best local DJ’s and offer the best escape from the hot sun. This stage is located within the Dupont Beverage Garden. * Must be 21 to enter.- Monument Stage, 12pm – 7pm
The Monument Festival Stage sits on Constitution Avenue and 6th St. with the Washington Monument as the backdrop. It will include a diverse array of musical talent offerings. This stage is located within the Monument Beverage Garden and Food Court. Open to all ages.- Stay close to the concert at the Capitol Hill Hotel, a 4 star hotel with spacious rooms a fitness centre and friendly staff.
“Capitol” Sunset Dance Party
- Sunday, June 8th, 2025 – 8pm – 10pm – The Concert might be ending but the dancing continues at the “Capitol” Sunset Dance Party.
- Enjoy the electronica sounds of an international DJ sensation while you dance in the middle of America’s Main Street on Pennsylvania Ave., with the sun setting on the U.S. Capitol.
Pride on The Pier
- Awaiting dates – Don’t miss the annual Pride on the Pier Fireworks Show presented by the Leonard-Litz Foundation during Capital Pride.
Circuit Parties
- Awaiting dates – Washington DC – Kinetic Pride , a weekend of circuit events in the city’s top clubs. Events include the Splash Party, Uncut XL, a main event and ends with discoVERS.
DC Pride Pool Party
- Awaiting dates – DC Pride Pool Party – Enjoy an evening under the stars, in the rooftop pool of the Penthouse Pool Club & Lounge; the classic kick off evening of DC pride
Gay Washington DC
All the gay bars and clubs in Washington host different party nights and themed events during the pride festivities. Most are located within walking distance or a short taxi ride from Pennsylvania Avenue.
- Dupont Circle: One of the most traditional gay neighborhoods in the area, Dupont Circle is full of interesting shops, cafes, bookstores, bars, and restaurants all geared toward the LGBTQ community.
- Capitol Hill: Capitol Hill is elegant and informed. Here you can find restaurants, markets, crafts, antiques, and all types of unique entertainment.
- Columbia Heights: Columbia Heights is a predominantly Latino area that welcomes the LGBTQ community with open arms. In the past five years, the area has been revitalized. It is home to as a weekly farmer’s market, some great delis and bakeries, the GALA Hispanic Theater, and Mexican Cultural Institute.
Where to stay for Capital Pride
Here are the hotels we recommend that have good reviews and keep you close to all the action:
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Where we stay!
Hotel Washington is our choice offering
stunning views of the white house
Official Website
For further information and advice on
Capital Pride, visit The Website
Gay Map of Washington DC
The gay bars in Washington are a little spread out most are within walking distance from Dupont Circle and U Street Metro stations, so we have chosen Hotels close Dupont Circle Metro gay bars as they have high reviews on booking.com our hotel partner .
1430 Rhode Island Ave NW, Washington, DC 20005
Viceroy Washington DC offers pet-friendly accommodation in Washington, 4 minutes' walk from Logan Circle. Guests can enjoy the on-site restaurant. Private parking is available on site.
Each room includes a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom where you will find bath robes, free toiletries and a hair dryer. Select rooms offer a seating area. In-room spa services and a yoga mat are also available for guests.
2121 P St NW, Washington, DC 20037
This Washington, D.C. hotel is located less than 5 minutes’ walk from and boasts an on-site restaurant and bar. The White House is 1.6 km away.
Each modern room at the Royal Sonesta Washington DC features a flat-screen TV and plush bedding. Select rooms offer a deep soaking spa bath or a piece of fitness equipment. In-room massage and spa services are available.
1500 New Hampshire Ave NW, Washington, DC 20036
This hotel is located at the top of just minutes from the historical landmarks of , D.C. The is 120 m away
The rooms at The Dupont Circle Hotel are furnished with large windows and marble bathrooms. Modern amenities include an iPod docking station, flat-screen TV and free WiFi. Designer bathrobes are also offered.
1315 16th St NW, Washington, DC 20036
Located 12 minutes’ walk from the , this Washington, D.C. hotel boasts in-room spa services and an on-site restaurant. Dupont Circle is 8 minutes’ walk away.
Decorated with bright red accents, the modern rooms at Kimpton Banneker Hotel feature a flat-screen TV, Wi-Fi access, and a work desk. An en suite bathroom and a minibar are also included.
639 Florida Ave NW, Washington, DC 20001
Go-to gay bar for otter, bear, wolf etc.
● Insanely popular Beer Blast from 4-8pm on Sundays in spring and
summer.
● Friendly vibe with a diverse crowd.
Mon-Sun 5pm-2am
2014 9th St NW, Washington, DC 20001, United States
Friendly gay bar with regular drag shows
● Growing in popularity with high-energy weekend drag shows.
● Huge crowds for Sunday Funday
Fri-Sun 5pm-3am
1100 P St NW, Washington, DC 20005, United States
● Upscale venue with excellent cocktails like espresso martinis and
Hendricks Negronis.
● Offers Jennifer Coolidge’s "holiday pour" as a wine upgrade.
● Famous for its selfie-worthy bathroom.
● Huge, pet-friendly outdoor patio.
Mon-Fri 4pm-2am, Sat-Sun 12pm-2am
1435 P Street Northwest Washington, DC 20005
● Great for day drinking on their outdoor patio or during happy hour.
● Upscale video bar with two levels of seating.
● Entertainment includes drag performances and RuPaul's Drag Race
watch parties.
Mon-Fri 4pm-2am, Sat-Sun 12pm-2am
1410 14th St NW, Washington, DC 20005
● Popular bar, dance club, and performance venue.
● Huge outdoor patio in the back for socializing, including a small
smoking area.
● Unpretentious vibe; great spot to meet people.
Mon-Sun 5pm-2am
915 U St NW, Washington, DC 20001
● Features at least 4 bars spread across two levels with plenty of outdoor
space.
● Social and lively crowd ready to party.
● Upstairs dance floor with a cage that gets wild as the night progresses.
Mon-Sun 5pm-3am
913 U St NW, Washington, DC 20001
● Rooftop is a great place to relax and socialize with friends.
● Homage to pop princess Britney Spears in the back staircase.
Mon-Sun 5pm-2am
926-928 U St NW, Washington, DC 20001, United States
● Known for excellent cocktails and gay-friendly atmosphere.
● Recently won No. 33 on the list of 50 best bars in North America.
Mon-Sun 5pm-2am
Washington, DC 200011940 9th Street Northwest
● Hosts gay events that draw hundreds of sexy, sweaty, shirtless men.
● Popular for its wild dance parties and underground vibe.
● Hosts the well-loved Peach Pit ‘90s dance party monthly.
● Mostly indie bands, healthy mix of LGBTQ+ patrons.
Mon-Sun 5pm-3am
2001 14th St NW, Washington, DC 20009, United States
● Underground gay nightclub known for its wild parties.
● Famous for their underwear parties.
● Enter through a massive custom stonework steel door.
● Colorful murals, glittering chandeliers, and a kinky “fallout shelter”
pantry.
Fri-Sat 10pm-4am
2004 18th St NW, Washington, DC 20009, United States
● Popular with locals and the drag community.
● Features a specialty cocktail named after the current winner of the Miss
Adam's Morgan Pageant.
Mon-Fri 5pm-2am, Sat-Sun 10am-2am
2317 18th St NW, Washington, DC 20009
● Gay sports bar with a lively atmosphere.
● Beers, billiards, foosball.
Mon-Sun 12pm-3am / 4pm-2am
1520 U St NW, Washington, DC 20009
● A queer café and cocktail bar, perfect for a chill evening or date night.
● Above Big Planet Comics, closes at 11 PM.
Mon-Sun 4pm-11pm
1637 17th St NW, Washington, DC 20009, United States
● Premier spot for gay karaoke and bottomless mimosas.
● Drunken karaoke nights and Sunday brunch.
Mon-Sun 11am-2am
209 M St NE, Washington, DC 20002, USA
● DC’s only fully LGBTQ+ owned brewery hosting drag bingo.
● Drag queen Desiree Dik hosts and performs twice per night.
209 M St NE, Washington, DC 20002, USA
1836 18th Street Northwest Washington, DC 20009
● A cute neighborhood joint for lively conversation.
● Reliable cornerstone in DC’s gayborhood.
Mon-Sun 3pm-1am
1335 Green Court Northwest Washington, DC 20005
● A decades-old dive located in an alley off Thomas Circle.
● Fun happy hour specials and Thursday shirtless/underwear nights.
Mon-Sun 5pm-2am
2161 P St NW, Washington, DC 20037
● This gay bar tends to attract regulars who gather around the cozy downstairs bar. ● Yes, there is a real fireplace. Perhaps the most unassuming bar in D.C., and certainly among the most consistently fun
Mon to thur 1pm till 2am, fri to sun 1pm till 3am
U St Alley NW, Washington, DC 20001
● Games on TV, drag events (bingo & brunch), ● poker nights & karaoke draw patrons to this casual Gay Bar
Tue to Fri from 5pm, Sat & Sun from 12pm
2319 18th St NW, Washington, DC 20009
Lively, easygoing lesbian sports bar with a dance floor & event nights.
Open Thursday to Sunday
1519 17th Street Northwest Washington, DC 20036
● Originally opened in 1986, JR’s Bar has served DC’s LGBTQ+ community for more than 30 years right in the heart of Dupont.
Open seven days a week
Recommended Hotels in Washington DC
Book with confidence. Get the best Prices from our partner Booking.com
We have chosen hotels in Washington DC that keep you close to all the shops,restaurants & bars
Viceroy Washington
5 Star, Luxury
- 5 Star, Luxury, In-room Spa Services
- A short taxi ride to the gay bars
- Flat-screen TV, luxury amenities
- Boasts luxury rooms with spa services, yoga mats, a 24-hour front desk, and fitness center for a premium stay.
AKA White House
4 Star, Readers Choice
- 4 Star, Central Location
- A short walk to the gay bars
- Marble baths, luxury linens
- Centrally located with fully-equipped kitchens, marble baths, luxury linens, 24-hour front desk, and exceptional service.
The Dupont Circle Hotel
4 Star, Great Value
- 4 Star, Near Metro Station
- Close to the gay district
- Large windows, marble bathrooms
- Offers elegantly furnished rooms with large windows, marble bathrooms, modern amenities, and proximity to Dupont Circle Metro.
Kimpton Banneker
4 Star, Location
- 4 Star, Vibrant Atmosphere
- A short taxi ride to the gay bars
- Flat-screen TV, Wi-Fi, modern decor
- Modern rooms with vibrant decor, a sleek bar, breakfast and dinner options, plus morning coffee and tea service.
Video Of Washington’s Capital Pride
MARCHING IN WASHINGTON DC PRIDE!
Top Gay Neighbourhoods in Washington
Washington, D.C. has a thriving LGBTQ+ community that plays a significant role in the city’s cultural, social, and political life. D.C. hosts a variety of LGBTQ+ cultural events and festivals throughout the year. The Capital Pride Festival and Parade, typically held in June, is one of the city’s most significant gay celebrations, featuring a parade, concerts, and other festivities.
Dupont Circle | Close to the city centre
Photo: Dupont Circle is home to some of Washington’s most popular gay bars
- Dupont Circle has long been considered the heart of D.C.’s LGBTQ+ community.
- It is home to numerous LGBTQ+-friendly bars, restaurants, and businesses.
- The Dupont Circle Fountain, located in the center of the neighborhood, is a popular gathering spot for the LGBTQ+ community.
- Many of the bars and clubs host special events during the annual Capital Pride Festival in late May.
Logan Circle
Adjacent to Dupont Circle, Logan Circle has also become a popular LGBTQ+ neighborhood. It offers a mix of bars, restaurants, & cultural attractions.
Adams Morgan
Adams Morgan is known for its diverse & inclusive atmosphere. It has a mix of LGBTQ+ friendly bars, restaurants, & shops. it hosts LGBTQ+ events throughout the year.
U Street Corridor
The U Street Corridor is known for its historic ties to the LGBTQ+ community and its vibrant nightlife scene. With several LGBTQ+ bars and clubs.
Georgetown
Georgetown is one of the most popular and well-known shopping districts in D.C. The main shopping streets, M Street & Wisconsin Avenue, are lined with shops & boutiques.
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