DC BLACK PRIDE 2026 SPONSORS
WASHINGTON, DC
MURIEL BOWSER, MAYOR
Proclamation
DC BLACK PRIDE WEEKEND
MAY 22 – 25, 2026
WHEREAS, DC Black Pride was established in 1991 as a continuation of the annual Children’s Hour celebration at DC’s Club House nightclub and to raise awareness of the growing HIV/AIDS epidemic impacting the Black gay community; and
WHEREAS, DC Black Pride has grown into one of the most influential gatherings of the Black LGBTQIA+ African diaspora, each year welcoming thousands of participants from across the country and around the world to the nation’s capital for celebration, education, fellowship and advocacy; and
WHEREAS, DC Black Pride Weekend will include signature events such as the pageant, the Unity Ball, cultural gatherings, wellness-centered activations, educational opportunities, entertainment, nightlife, and spaces that affirm the full diversity, talent, and resilience of the Black LGBTQIA+ community; and
WHEREAS, the 2026 theme, “New Black Renaissance,” reflects a bold celebration of Black LGBTQIA+ creativity, leadership, liberation, and collective possibility, while honoring the legacy of those who built this movement and inspiring those who will carry it forward; and
WHEREAS, DC Black Pride continues to strengthen Washington, DC, through partnerships with nonprofit organizations, public agencies, businesses, artists, advocates, and community members working together to create a more just, inclusive, healthy, and vibrant future for all; and
WHEREAS, DC Black Pride stands as a testament to the enduring power of Black LGBTQIA+ people to build community, drive culture, and advance equity in Washington, DC and beyond:
NOW, THEREFORE, I, THE MAYOR OF WASHINGTON, DC do hereby proclaim May 22 - 25, 2026 as “DC BLACK PRIDE WEEKEND” and do commend this observance to all Washingtonians.
For more than three decades, DC Black Pride has been a gathering place for Black LGBTQ+ people from across the country and around the world. What began in 1991 as a bold act of visibility, love and resistance has grown into a global movement rooted in culture, advocacy, health and joy.
This year’s theme, New Black Renaissance, speaks to who we are and what we are building. It is a reminder that Black LGBTQ+ people continue to create, lead, heal and imagine what comes next, even in challenging times.
DC Black Pride is more than a weekend of events. It is part of a larger legacy shaped by generations who dared to gather, organize and make space for our community. Every program, celebration and connection this weekend continues that work.
On behalf of the Center for Black Equity, I thank every sponsor, partner, volunteer, artist, presenter, vendor, community leader and attendee who helped make this year possible. Your support allows us to produce one of the oldest and most iconic Black Pride celebrations in the world while strengthening our work with Black Prides across the globe.
As you move through this guide, take in the full experience of DC Black Pride. Celebrate with intention. Make real connections. Remember that your presence here is part of the story, and that story is still being written.
Welcome to DC Black Pride 2026. Welcome to the New Black Renaissance.
Kenya Garçon Hutton, MPH President and CEO Center for Black Equity
MUST-KNOW INFO
Guide Note
Events, times, locations and listings may change after printing. For the most current schedule and updates, visit dcblackpride.org/2026 and use the Queerie app.
Guest Services
Guest Services is located on the Ballroom Level at The Westin Washington, DC Downtown.
Friday, May 22: 2–10 p.m.
Saturday, May 23: 9 a.m.–9:30 p.m.
Stop by for directions, questions or support navigating the weekend.
Queerie App
Download the Queerie app before you arrive. Use code DCBLKPRIDE during onboarding to receive 12 months of complimentary membership. Use the app to explore the DC Black Pride schedule and connect with others throughout the weekend.
Be Social
Share your DC Black Pride experience using:
Photographers and videographers may be present at DC Black Pride events. By entering an event space or attending a DC Black Pride event, you consent to being photographed, filmed or recorded by the Center for Black Equity and its authorized representatives.
Photos, video, audio and other recordings may be used in future communications, promotional materials, advertising, archival records, news coverage and other media related to the Center for Black Equity’s mission and programs. Attendance constitutes consent for this use without compensation, review or approval.
Anyone who does not wish to be photographed or recorded should avoid entering event spaces where photography or filming is taking place.
General Disclaimer
The appearance of names, photographs or pictorial representations of individuals in DC Black Pride materials, including this website, the DC Black Pride Guide, event signage, social media, advertising and promotional materials, does not necessarily indicate or imply the sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression of any individual. Participation by attendees, presenters, entertainers, advertisers, sponsors, vendors or partners in DC Black Pride does not imply or confirm any person’s sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression.
DC Black Pride is supported by many sponsors, advertisers, vendors and promotional partners. The Center for Black Equity is not responsible for claims, representations, offers, products, services, promotions or statements made by sponsors, advertisers, vendors, promotional partners or other third parties. Inclusion in DC Black Pride materials does not constitute an endorsement unless expressly stated.
PLANNED PARENTHOOD BELIEVES HEALTH CARE IS A HUMAN RIGHT.
In the face of policy attacks on Black LGBTQ+ communities, Planned Parenthood will always fight for your freedom to control your own body. We are committed to care. No matter what.
RAINBOW ROW PARTICIPANTS
The following organizations and vendors will participate in Rainbow Row: Organization & Vendor Expo.
AIDS Healthcare Foundation: AHF
Akobi
Amazd Body LLC
American Foundation for Suicide
Prevention - National Capital Area
Chapter
Arena Stage
Better Living Kingdom Ministries, Inc.
Black Men’s Xchange
Brown Sugar Studio
Capital Pride Alliance
Capital Stonewall Democrats
Catyondiacreativecreationscreations
Cheer DC
DC Strokes Rowing Club
Delkis Collections
Department of Health of the District of Columbia
Designs by Devante
Destination Tomorrow
District of Columbia Office of Human Rights
E’s Tees & More
Eaton DC
Family Equality
Fields Originals
FLUX
Fund for Queer Causes
Gifts From Nature LLC
Gilead
Heidi Pix
HIPS
Human Rights Campaign
Impulse DC
Jeweled By Jolly
KfiT Whole Body Wellness
L.M. Bennett Books
Let’s T.A.L.K. University
Mayor’s Office of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Questioning Affairs
Melting The Snow A Novel
Metropolitan Community Church of Washington DC
NMAC
ONYX Mid-Atlantic
Planned Parenthood Federation of America
Platinum Media Concepts
PrismPop Creations
ResolveMD
Rose of Sharon Gift Collection
Signature Theatre
Sincerely Fearless
Smoke n Colors
SMYAL
T A Riddle Writes
Tania L Haddock CPA PC
The 52 Week Experience
The DC LGBTQ+ Community Center
Tooth Glitzz & Glam, LLC
URBANE SOCIETY
Us Helping Us, People Into Living Inc.
Vascano Tequila
VIDA Fitness
ViiV Healthcare
Volare
You Know You Ashy
Zack’s Custom Creations
ENRICHMENT WORKSHOPS AND PROGRAMMING - SATURDAY
indicates ASL interpreters will be available during session
11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Doesn’t God Love Me Too? My Worship Is For Real
The Westin DC Downtown, Potomac Salon 2 (Ballroom Level)
Presenter: Janeé Lee, Founding Executive Director, Queer Ministry
An intimate conversation between Black trans and queer people who are surviving religious trauma and navigating their relationship to the church. This workshop is an opportunity to share stories about our calls from God and reflect on our successes, struggles, and strategies in our spiritual lives. This space is hosted by Janeé Lee, the founder of Queer Ministry, an organization dedicated to inclusive Christian theology and the spiritual liberation of LGBTQ+ people across faiths. Participants will leave with a spiritual healing guide complete with affirming scriptures, Biblical insights and inclusive theology to continue their journeys.
Doesn’t God Love Me Too? My Worship Is For Real is open to all people who desire to strengthen their connection to the Creator and heal the harm of White Supremacist Christian Nationalism.
11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Flamingo Cafe: Love,
Lust & Labels
The Westin DC Downtown, Potomac Ballroom Salon 1 (Ballroom Level)
Presenter: Letoi Williams, Deputy Director Volunteer Leadership, Human Rights Campaign
Love, Lust & Labels is an engaging and reflective workshop designed for lesbian, bisexual and queer women to explore the complexity of attraction, identity and relationships. In queer communities, labels can provide affirmation and belonging, but they can also evolve over time. This workshop creates a welcoming space to unpack how identity, desire and connection intersect, while honoring each person’s unique journey.
11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Humility vs. Visibility: Playing Small Is Expensive
The Westin DC Downtown, Potomac Ballroom Salon 3 (Ballroom Level)
Presenter: Asa Leveaux, Founder, House of Icons
Black queer people are often taught that humility is the safest way to move through the world. But what if playing small is actually costing us opportunity, income and influence?
This workshop explores the tension between humility and visibility and how being unseen impacts careers, leadership and financial freedom. We’ll examine why talent alone isn’t enough, how visibility shapes access and what it means to advocate for yourself without compromising your values.
Designed for Black queer professionals, creatives and founders navigating systems that weren’t built for them, this conversation is honest, affirming and practical. Participants will leave with a clearer understanding of how to position themselves, communicate their value and move forward in spaces where they’ve been taught to shrink.
This is about choosing presence over permission and understanding the real cost of staying quiet.
11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Who Am I Now in This New Body?
Johnny Pistolas, 2333 18th St NW, Washington, DC 20009
Presenter: Jerome Pearce
Major weight loss is often celebrated through physical transformation. People see the before and after photos, the smaller clothing sizes and the visible change. What is rarely discussed is the deeper mental and emotional journey that comes with it.
For many Black queer men and male-identifying individuals, body transformation can bring unexpected shifts in identity, confidence, dating experiences, community interactions and mental health.
This panel creates space for an honest conversation about those changes.
Panelists will share personal stories and reflections on how weight loss impacts how we see ourselves and how we are seen by others.
At the center of this discussion is a question many people quietly ask themselves after transformation.
This panel aims to create a safe and affirming space for Black queer men to explore the emotional and psychological aspects of body change while encouraging self-acceptance, reflection and community support.
12 – 4 p.m. ONYX University
The Westin DC Downtown, Anacostia Ballroom Salon F (Ballroom Level)
Presenter: ONYX Mid-Atlantic
School is in session, and the curriculum is Kink! The Men of ONYX MidAtlantic present ONYX University, an unfiltered afternoon of Kink/BDSM and Leather exploration. We’re tearing down the walls between curiosity and expertise with high-octane demos, interactive games and the kind of frank, no-limits discussions you won’t find anywhere else.
Whether you’re still hunting for your first piece of gear or you’re a seasoned pro, bring your questions and an open mind. Class is about to begin.
1 – 2:30 p.m.
How DC is Building D.C.’s Blaq Future by Honoring Its Past: Preserving Local Black LGBTQIA+ History
The Westin DC Downtown, Potomac Ballroom Salon 3 (Ballroom Level)
Presenter: Sonya Joseph, Associate Director of Engagement, Mayor’s Office of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Questioning Affairs
Local Washington, D.C. leaders gather for a panel discussion highlighting how the District stewarded political leadership, a pro-LGBTQIA+ law and resources to support preserving and expanding the local Black LGBTQIA+ historical record. Attendees will hear how the project engaged Black LGBTQIA+ community leaders, organizations, historians and World Pride participants to build the historical record.
The session will also explore major milestones in Black LGBTQIA+ Washingtonian history, culture and advocacy, including the roots of the Black Pride movement, local trans leadership and the community’s response to the early AIDS crisis.
1 – 2:30 p.m.
The Lesbian Liberation Lab
The Westin DC Downtown, Potomac Ballroom Salon 1 (Ballroom Level)
Presenter: Tiera Craig
The Lesbian Liberation Lab is a dynamic, joy-centered space designed to uplift, connect and strengthen Black Lesbian communities. Rooted in Black feminist thought, the Lab explores the full spectrum of Black Lesbian life including leadership, relationships, health, economic empowerment, civic engagement, culture and collective healing. Rather than focusing on one issue, the Lab creates space for honest dialogue, skill building and community strategy while celebrating the joy, creativity and resilience that define Black Lesbian experiences.
Through a mix of interactive conversations, leadership development and cultural exchange, participants engage in meaningful discussions reflecting the intersections shaping their lives. The Lab is designed to be both grounding and energizing, offering practical tools, shared wisdom and opportunities to build lasting connections. Whether experienced through virtual gatherings or in-person activations, the Lesbian Liberation Lab is a space where Black Lesbians can learn, lead, laugh and imagine new possibilities for themselves and their communities.
1
– 2:30 p.m.
The New Black Renaissance: Aging, Identity and Our Becoming
The Westin DC Downtown, Anacostia Ballroom Salon D (Ballroom Level)
Presenter: June Crenshaw
An affirming and intergenerational workshop centering Black Queer women, trans women and nonbinary people as we explore the evolving journey of aging. Together, we’ll unpack how mental health shifts across the lifespan, reflect on midlife reinvention and address the realities of isolation and connection in later years. Grounded in community wisdom and lived
Written and Directed by Kwame
Kwei-Armah
Based
Music Supervision, Arrangements, and Orchestrations by David Holcenberg
Music Direction and Associate
Music Supervision by Jaret Landon
Vocal Arrangements by David Holcenberg & Jaret Landon
experience, this session challenges limiting narratives about aging and instead reclaims it as a space of power, growth and possibility.
Through guided reflection, storytelling and interactive activities, participants will leave with tools to support emotional well-being, deepen connection and embrace the fullness of who they are at every stage of life. Whether you’re navigating transition, seeking community or redefining your path, this workshop honors that we are all still becoming.
1 – 6 p.m.
Black Trans Pride 2026: Centering Black Trans Leadership, Community Power and Ballroom Culture
The Westin DC Downtown, Rock Creek Ballroom (Ballroom Level)
Presenter: Destination Tomorrow BX, ATL, DC LGBTQ Centers
Get ready for a powerful day of joy, community, visibility and celebration.
Pull up, bring your people and celebrate Black trans excellence in a space filled with love, energy and community. Before you arrive, take a quick moment to register. It helps us get a headcount and create the best possible experience for everyone. The registration form is fast and includes a few optional demographic questions so we can continue building for our community the right way.
Tap in, show up and show out.
3 p.m. (During Black Trans Pride)
Black Trans Pride 2026: What We Carry, What We Release & How We Lead
The Westin DC Downtown, Rock Creek Ballroom (Ballroom Level)
Presenter: Destination Tomorrow BX, ATL, DC LGBTQ Centers
This gathering will hold space for real conversation, real reflection and real community, centered on pride, joy, balance and leadership.
Hosted by Dominique Jackson, model, actress, ballroom icon and author, with Tabytha Gonzalez, international advocate, cultural strategist, consultant and policy director of Destination Tomorrow, serving as moderator. Featured
panelists include Monroe Alise, actress, advocate, cultural strategist and writer; Lala Zannell, national advocate and community strategist with the ACLU; and A1 Scruggs, Black policy and media strategist and founder/ executive director of Visible Truth 365.
The program will also include performances by Stasha Sanchez, legendary entertainer, ballroom icon and Hall of Famer, and Jazell Harvey, performer, creative, cultural influencer and beauty queen. The event will feature the Savanna Wanzer Award Ceremony, honoring those who lead with impact and intention, including Koniva Walker, Emerging Leader Award, and Daijah Watters, Leadership Award.
3 – 4:30 p.m.
Fight or Flight: Navigating Parenthood During Trying Times
The Westin DC Downtown, Potomac Ballroom Salon 3 (Ballroom Level)
Presenters:
• PFLAG National
• Rainbow Families
• Rainbow in Black
What does it mean to be in a Queer Black Family in this moment? Join Rainbow Families, Rainbow in Black, and Ballroom parents for a panel and community dialogue on navigating parenthood in these trying times. Learn pathways to parenthood for same-sex and trans relationships, navigating your child coming out, and how to support the Black LGBTQ+ family community. From finding other parents in community to navigating faith and extended family; this workshop goes there with real lived experiences combined with community resources, guidance, and a good helping of joy. Whether you are an LGBTQ+ parent or a parent of an LGBTQ+ kid or both or considering becoming a parent, you won’t want to miss this important community discussion.
3 – 5 p.m.
Voices for Equality: Moving Hearts & Changing Minds Through Storytelling
The Westin DC Downtown, Potomac Ballroom Salon 1 (Ballroom Level)
Presenter: Nia Desiré Clark (she/her), Senior Specialist, Strategic Outreach & Training, Human Rights Campaign
This interactive workshop invites Black and Brown LGBTQIA+ community members and allies to explore the power of personal storytelling. Participants will learn how to share their lived experiences with confidence, intention and care, uplifting stories of joy, resilience, love and truth. Through guided discussion and group activities, the training shows how authentic storytelling can build connection, increase visibility and help shift narratives within our communities and beyond. This session centers community pride and empowerment, and affirms that our stories matter.
COMMUNITY
Helping LGBTQ+ people and allies turn their stories into power through training, community-building, and advocacy resources.
Strengthening communities and shifting harmful narratives.
Black Pride celebrations worldwide are facing higher costs and fewer resources. Without sustained support, these cultural homes and critical safe spaces are at risk.
Give at least $26 in honor of the 2026 Pride season. Every gi supports Black Pride organizers and strengthens community programs and safety support worldwide. centerforblackequity.org/saveblackprides
Black Pride Events Face Growing Financial Crisis
Organizers say shrinking sponsorships, DEI backlash, and political pressure are threatening Black Pride celebrations nationwide.
By Will O’Bryan
LGBTQ Black Pride events and Washington, D.C., share a compelling history that goes as far back as at least the late 19th century. That’s when William Dorsey Swann, a former slave, was hosting parties of Black men in fine ladies’ attire. It was enough to get him and some fellow celebrants thrown in jail. It’s also why city leaders more recently moved to commemorate the already existing Swann Street NW in his honor in this century.
But just as Swann navigated the fraught terrain between party and peril, so too do the Black Pride celebrations of today. As Kenya Hutton, president and CEO of the D.C.-based Center for Black Equity (CBE), prepares for this year’s D.C. Black Pride, May 22 to 25, he says there are warning signs flashing for his and similar events around the country, if not the world.
“They were already historically underfunded compared to the mainstream Prides,” Hutton says of the 57 Black Pride events affiliated with the CBE, from Los Angeles to Lexington, Ky., to Lagos, Nigeria. “What’s happening now is we’re seeing that the funding is drying up. I understand mainstream Prides are not seeing the money coming in — the sponsorships, the foundations, the support they were used to having.
“But if mainstream Prides are experiencing that, Black Prides were already getting a crumb. Now it’s even worse. When a major funder doesn’t come through, they’re scrambling to figure out how to make things work, they’re downsizing, collapsing events. Some aren’t making it. They’re already closing their doors and saying they’re not going to be able to do it this year. Some Prides have asked me not to mention it yet, because they haven’t made a public announcement that they’re going to go to a two-year schedule. Because right now, year-to-year is just not financially feasible.”
What’s happening elsewhere may be felt more intensely in D.C. Not only is the city home to the CBE, but it is the site of the first Black Pride event in 1991. But DC Black Pride and all its Black Pride peers know resilience. Still, these are tough times. Hutton recently polled Black Pride leaders and uncovered a landscape of hope mixed with hesitancy, resolve weighed down by warnings.
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Flecia Harvey is past president and current CEO of Pittsburgh Black Pride. She responded to Hutton’s CBE survey with detailed thoughts on the state of Pittsburgh’s issues.
“Our organization is currently facing significant financial challenges,” she began. “We cannot operate without consistent grant funding and sponsorship support, and, over time, these resources have become increasingly limited. At this point, we are operating with minimal financial capacity, which puts our programs, outreach efforts, and community events at serious risk.
“The instability of funding — especially unexpected sponsorship withdrawals — has placed us in a vulnerable position. As a grassroots organization serving Black LGBTQ+ individuals, the need for our services continues to grow, yet our financial resources have declined.”
Black Pride leaders were also asked to identify root causes of funding declines. Some pointed to particular companies pulling back. Many highlighted resources being shifted to mainstream Pride events, despite Black Prides arguably addressing disproportionately outsized needs among the Black LGBTQ community.
In Jacksonville, Fla., Tayden Haile, president of Swamp Pride, reported a funding decrease of more than 50 percent in the past five years. Like others who responded, he partially blames corporate abandonment of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts for the shortfall.
“Broadly, there has been a contraction in corporate and philanthropic giving, with many funders shifting priorities or reducing diversity-focused investment,” he wrote, in part.
Carmen Neely, president and CEO of New York’s Harlem Pride, has been shepherding her organization through historic highs and lows. World Pride in New York in 2019 was great for funding, while Covid killed any sponsorship. Harlem Pride held on, but took another hit with the 2024 election.
“The new administration cut funding programs for organizations that service our constituents, put pressure on corporations, and removed resources,” she observed. “As a result, our 2025 sponsorships decreased by about 20 percent.”
Politics definitely plays a part in the funding woes. Thea Williams, president of Pride & Promote Los Angeles, was most succinct in pointing to a particular cause: “Trump.”
Unlike the other eight respondents, however, Neely alone reported that her organization has clawed back some of that funding. Everyone else rated their five-year funding trend as either a “moderate” or “significant” decrease.
Hutton, who can still name a number of business and nonprofit sponsors for Black Pride, says the effort nonetheless may need to depend more on community and less on corporations in the future.
“If we can figure out a way to crack the code to get us back to where the community feels compelled to put money back into these spaces, we would be fine,” he says, calculating that a $50 per-person admission to last year’s DC Black Pride would have covered everything and then some.
“That would’ve supported the entire Black Pride network for at least two years,” he says. “We’ve got to get back to that so we’re not dependent on corporate sponsors. All of the official events we put on, they’re free of charge. We don’t charge anybody a dollar. The poetry slam, film festivals, workshops — this year we have a Grammy Award winner performing for free!”
In the meantime, Hutton says he and his Black Pride peers are leaning into the community’s resilience, as well as collaborating at an unprecedented level. Hutton adds that he is hopeful that generations of accumulated wisdom will help guide the leaders together and see them through this downturn.
“I’m actively writing grants to create what I’m calling the Black Pride Griot Project,” he says, noting that a formalized repository of such knowledge may be key to growing Black Prides in the future, whatever the obstacles. “The founders, the people who started Prides around the country, we want to connect them with the people doing the organizing now so they’ll have people to fall back on. What did it look like under previous hostile administrations? How did you survive? It’s important for leaders who step into this role to have that.”
This article originally appeared in the Metro Weekly Magazine and on MetroWeekly.com. Reprinted with permission of the publisher.
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
All scheduled events and locations are subject to change. All events being held in The Westin Washington, DC Downtown (host hotel) are complimentary unless otherwise noted.
THURSDAY, MAY 21
5 – 10 p.m.
Welcome to DC Happy Hour
Presented by Us Helping Us, People Into Living, Inc
Metrobar, 640 Rhode Island Ave NE, WDC 20002
5 – 10 p.m.
BROWN SUGAR – Welcome to DC Black Pride Rooftop Happy Hour [Brown Sugar]
Presented by A 2 Zee Events and Party with Honey Decades DC Rooftop, 1219 Connecticut Avenue NW, WDC 20036
6 – 9 p.m. (Doors open at 5 p.m.)
Mr. and Miss DC Black Pride Pageant
The Westin DC Downtown, Potomac Ballroom
7 – 9 p.m.
All Gays Go to Prison Comedy Show
Presented by Seven Black Minutes
Thrive DC, 528 H St NE, WDC 20002
8:30 p.m. – 2 a.m.
DC Black Pride Kickoff Rooftop
Party & Pass Distribution [Supreme Fantasy Erotica]
Presented by Xavier Entertainment Nellie’s Sports Bar, 900 U St NW, WDC 20001
9 p.m. – 1 a.m. (LSS 9:45 p.m. Sharp)
10th Annual DC Black Pride Unity Ball
The Westin DC Downtown
10 p.m. – 2 a.m.
The Pre Game [Wet Dreamz]
Presented by Daryl Wilson Promotions, LLC
Icon DC, 2001 11th St NW, WDC 20001
FRIDAY, MAY 22
9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
House and Ballroom Leadership Summit
Presented by NMAC – The Center to End the HIV Epidemic, the Center for Black Equity, Capitol Ballroom Council, Inc., Destination Tomorrow – The Bronx LGBTQ Center, and Us Helping Us, People Into Living Inc
The Westin DC Downtown, Meeting Room Level
12:30 – 4 p.m.
Not Your Average Girl Screening + Intimate Talk Back
Eaton DC, 1201 K St NW, WDC 20005
2 – 10 p.m.
DCBP Guest Services Open
The Westin DC Downtown, Ballroom Level
3 – 9 p.m.
Welcome Reception [Wet Dreamz]
Presented by Daryl Wilson Promotions, LLC
The Westin DC Downtown, Ballroom Level
4 p.m. – 12 a.m.
The Game Lounge
The Westin DC Downtown, Foundry Branch (Ballroom Level)
Friday, May 22, 4 p.m. – Sunday, May 24, 9 a.m.
DC Black Pride Health & Wellness Pavilion
The Westin DC Downtown, Meeting Rooms 8-16 (Meeting Room Level)
5 – 8 p.m.
Welcome Reception & Pass
Distribution [Supreme Fantasy Erotica]
Presented by Xavier Entertainment
The Mayflower Hotel, 1127 Connecticut Ave NW, WDC 20036
5 – 9 p.m.
Rainbow Row: Organization & Vendor Expo
The Westin DC Downtown, Ballroom Level
5 p.m.
Bounce Friday! [QuenchFest]
Presented by Thurst Lounge Thurst Lounge, 2204 14th St NW, WDC 20009
6 p.m. (Doors open at 5 p.m.)
DC Black Pride Opening Reception
The Westin DC Downtown, Potomac Ballroom (Ballroom Level)
9:30 p.m. – 3:30 a.m.
3000 Men Block Party [Supreme Fantasy Erotica & Wet Dreamz]
Presented by Xavier Entertainment and Daryl Wilson Promotions, LLC
Karma DC, 2221 Adams Pl NE, WDC 20018
10 p.m. – 3 a.m.
DIPPED – The All “Nude” Party [Brown Sugar]
Presented by A 2 Zee Events and Party with Honey
Strand, 1400 I St NW, WDC 20005
10 p.m. – 3 a.m.
DC Black Pride Lit Friday
Presented by Lit Parties DC Flair Restaurant & Lounge, 2210 14th St NW, WDC 20009
EQUITY WEEK
Equity Week —June 10th to 12th in Washington, D.C.— brings together advocates, activists, ballroom houses, students, artists, entertainers and more to fight for justice and liberation.
LYRICALMAR
Opening Reception | June 10
Enjoy a special invite-only reception as we kick off our 3rd annual National Equity Week of Action in our nation’s capital.
OUT On The Hill | June 11
Connect directly with lawmakers and staff to advance critical legislation for our community.
The Equity Ball | June 12
An unforgettable celebration of Black queer excellence featuring legendary houses competing for prizes. Visit nbjc.org/equity-week to learn more and register!
SATURDAY, MAY 23
8 a.m. – 12 p.m.
DC Black Pride Fun Run
Presented by Momentum! Health
355 Water St SE, WDC 20003
Friday, May 22, 4 p.m. – Sunday, May 24, 9 a.m.
DC Black Pride Health & Wellness
Pavilion
The Westin DC Downtown, Meeting Rooms 8-16 (Meeting Room Level)
9 a.m. – 9:30 p.m.
DCBP Guest Services Open
The Westin DC Downtown, Ballroom Level
10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Rainbow Row: Organization & Vendor Expo
The Westin DC Downtown, Ballroom Level
11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Workshop | Doesn’t God Love Me Too? My Worship Is For Real
The Westin DC Downtown, Potomac Salon 2 (Ballroom Level)
11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Workshop | Flamingo Cafe: Love, Lust & Labels
The Westin DC Downtown, Potomac Ballroom Salon 1 (Ballroom Level)
11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Workshop | Who Am I Now in This New Body?
Johnny Pistolas, 2333 18th St NW, WDC 20009
12 – 4 p.m.
ONYX University
Presented by ONYX Mid-Atlantic
The Westin DC Downtown, Anacostia Ballroom Salon F (Ballroom Level)
1 – 2:30 p.m.
Workshop | How DC is Building
D.C.’s Blaq Future by Honoring Its Past: Preserving Local Black LGBTQIA+ History
The Westin DC Downtown, Potomac Ballroom Salon 3 (Ballroom Level)
1 – 2:30 p.m.
Workshop | The Lesbian Liberation Lab
The Westin DC Downtown, Potomac Ballroom Salon 1 (Ballroom Level)
1 – 2:30 p.m.
Workshop | The New Black Renaissance: Aging, Identity and Our Becoming
The Westin DC Downtown, Anacostia Ballroom Salon D (Ballroom Level)
1 – 4 p.m.
DC Black Pride Writers Forum
11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Workshop | Humility vs. Visibility: Playing Small Is Expensive
The Westin DC Downtown, Potomac Ballroom Salon 3 (Ballroom Level)
The Westin DC Downtown, Potomac Ballroom Salon 2 (Ballroom Level)
1 – 6 p.m.
Black Trans Pride 2026: Centering Black Trans Leadership, Community Power and Ballroom Culture
Presented by Destination Tomorrow BX, ATL, DC LGBTQ Centers
The Westin DC Downtown, Rock Creek Ballroom (Ballroom Level)
3 p.m. (During Black Trans Pride)
Black Trans Pride 2026: What We Carry, What We Release & How We Lead
Presented by Destination Tomorrow BX, ATL, DC LGBTQ Centers
The Westin DC Downtown, Rock Creek Ballroom (Ballroom Level)
3 – 4:30 p.m.
Workshop | Fight or Flight: Navigating Parenthood During Trying Times
The Westin DC Downtown, Potomac Ballroom Salon 3 (Ballroom Level)
3 – 5 p.m.
Workshop | Voices for Equality: Moving Hearts & Changing Minds Through Storytelling
The Westin DC Downtown, Potomac Ballroom Salon 1 (Ballroom Level)
3 – 6 p.m. (During Black Trans Pride)
NOH8 Photoshoot: Washington, DC
Presented by Destination Tomorrow BX, ATL, DC LGBTQ Centers
The Westin DC Downtown, River Burch Ballroom (Meeting Room Level)
4 – 6 p.m. (Immediately following Fight or Flight: Navigating Parenthood During Trying Times workshop)
Family Fun Networking Event
The Westin DC Downtown, Magnolia Room (Lobby Level)
4 – 9 p.m.
SUN-KISSED – R&B Day Party (Vinyls & Vibes) [Brown Suga r]
Presented by A 2 Zee Events and Party with Honey
Signature Lounge, 1727 Connecticut Ave NW, WDC 20009
4 p.m. – 12 a.m.
The Game Lounge
The Westin DC Downtown, Foundry Branch (Ballroom Level)
4:30 – 9 p.m. Meatloaf Cookout Day Party [Supreme Fantasy Erotica]
Presented by Xavier Entertainment Aqua Club & Lounge, 1818 New York Ave NE, WDC 20002
5 – 9 p.m.
Sip & Slide Day Party [QuenchFest]
Presented by Thurst Lounge Thurst Lounge, 2204 14th St NW, WDC 20009
5 – 10 p.m.
Hot Boyz Takeover Saturday Day Party [Wet Dreamz]
Presented by Daryl Wilson Promotions, LLC
Sandlot Uptown, 1900 7th St NW, WDC 20001
5 – 10 p.m.
Black Pride Memorial Wknd Day Party
Presented by District Parties
Strand, 1400 I Street NW, WDC 20005
5 – 10 p.m.
300 Men Elevated Day Party We Love Pride
Presented by Lit Parties DC
Tipsy Lounge, 1212 U St NW, WDC 20009
6 – 8 p.m.
DC Black Pride Mary Bowman Poetry Slam and Open Mic
The Westin DC Downtown, Anacostia Ballroom Salon E & D (Ballroom Level)
7 – 10 p.m.
Desire Without Definition
Presented by Beta Kappa Chapter and Beta Lambda Chapter of Beta Phi Omega Sorority, Inc
Spark Social, 2009 14th St NW, WDC 20009
9 p.m. – 3 a.m.
Baddies on Baddies [QuenchFest]
Presented by Thurst Lounge Thurst Lounge, 2204 14th St NW, WDC 20009
10 p.m. – 3 a.m.
PURE BLISS – The Main Event for Women [Brown Sugar]
Presented by A 2 Zee Events and Party with Honey
Next Level DC, 15 K St NE, WDC 20002
10 p.m. – 4 a.m.
The White Party [Supreme Fantasy Erotica & Wet Dreamz]
Presented by Xavier Entertainment and Daryl Wilson Promotions, LLC Echostage, 2135 Queens Chapel Rd NE, WDC 20018
SUNDAY, MAY 24
Friday, May 22, 4 p.m. through Sunday, May 24, 9 a.m.
DC Black Pride Health & Wellness
Pavilion
The Westin DC Downtown, Meeting Rooms 8-16 (Meeting Room Level)
10 a.m.
DC Black Pride Pentecost Unity Service: Pride in Red and White Remnant Christian Center, 120 West Hampton Ave, Capitol Heights, MD 20743
12 – 4 p.m. (Seating at 11 a.m.)
7th Annual Brunch & Babes
Presented by the Capitol Ballroom Council
Hook Hall, 3400 Georgia Ave NW, WDC 20010
12 – 6 p.m. Do You Want To Get Funky With Me?
Presented by Women in the Life Association and National LGBTQ Task Force
The Continent DC, 110 Vermont Ave NW, WDC 20005
1 – 7 p.m.
E. Lynn Harris’ Invisible Life: The Musical Open Casting Call and Community Experience
Presented by Proteus e2 Productions
The Howard Theatre, 620 T St NW, WDC 20001
1 – 5 p.m.
SWEET LIKE BROWN SUGAR
BRUNCH [Brown Sugar]
Presented by A 2 Zee Events and Party with Honey
Selva DC, 1223 Connecticut Ave NW, WDC 20036
3 – 9 p.m.
G-SPOT The Ultimate Day Party
Presented by Positive Effects
Bravo Bravo, 1001 Connecticut Ave NW, WDC 20036
4 – 9 p.m.
Sunday Funday Day Party
Presented by Lit Parties DC
Flair Restaurant & Lounge, 2210 14th St NW, WDC 20009
4 – 10 p.m.
SWEET ESCAPE – Rooftop Finale
Day Party [Brown Sugar]
Presented by A 2 Zee Events and Party with Honey
Twelve After Twelve, 1212 18th St NW, WDC 20036
4 p.m. – 4 a.m.
Sunday Funday Rooftop Party
[Supreme Fantasy Erotica]
Presented by Xavier Entertainment
Nellie’s Sports Bar, 900 U St NW, WDC 20001
5 – 8 p.m.
OUT/spoken
Presented by African-American Collective Theater (ACT)
Undercroft Theatre, Mt. Vernon Pl. United Methodist Church (lower level), 900 Massachusetts Ave NW, WDC 20001-4308
4:30 – 9:30 p.m.
Comedy & Cocktails Pride Edition
Presented by Canndo Entertainment and Tiffany Hunter Productions Pure Lounge, 1326 U St, WDC 20009
5 – 11 p.m.
The Block Is Hot Day Party [Wet Dreamz]
Presented by Daryl Wilson Promotions, LLC
The Bullpen @ Nats Stadium, 1201 Half St SE, WDC 20003
10 p.m. – 3 a.m.
R&B vs. House Party
Johnny Pistolas, 2333 18th St NW, WDC 20009
10 p.m. – 3 a.m.
Lit Karaoke Night!
Presented by Lit Parties DC
Flair Restaurant & Lounge, 2210 14th St NW, WDC 20009
10 p.m. – 4 a.m.
Daryl Wilson Sunday Night Super Party [Wet Dreamz]
Presented by Daryl Wilson Promotions, LLC
The Park at 14th, 14th St NW, WDC 20005
11 p.m. – 4 a.m.
X Rated Sunday
Presented by Davon Hamilton Events
Bravo Bravo, 1001 Connecticut Ave NW, WDC 20036
MONDAY, MAY 25
12 – 7 p.m.
Pride In The Park
Presented by Us Helping Us, People Into Living, Inc
Fort Dupont Park, Minnesota Ave SE, WDC 20019
12 – 7 p.m.
Supreme Fantasy Erotica @ Pride In The Park [Supreme Fantasy Erotica]
Presented by Xavier Entertainment
Fort Dupont Park, Minnesota Ave SE, WDC 20019
5 p.m. – 2 a.m.
Motion Monday [QuenchFest]
Presented by Thurst Lounge
Thurst Lounge, 2204 14th St NW, WDC 20009
6 – 11 p.m.
Pride In The Park Rooftop After Party [Supreme Fantasy Erotica]
Presented by Xavier Entertainment
Nellie’s Sports Bar, 900 U St NW, WDC 20001
10 p.m. – 2 a.m.
Meatloaf Man Hunt Rooftop Party [Supreme Fantasy Erotica]
Presented by Xavier Entertainment
Ivy City Smokehouse, 1356 Okie St NE, WDC 20002
10 p.m. – 4 a.m.
Thirst Trap [Wet Dreamz]
Presented by Daryl Wilson Promotions, LLC
Icon DC, 2001 11th St NW, WDC 20001
WESTIN BALLROOM LEVEL
WESTIN LOBBY LEVEL
WESTIN MEETING ROOM LEVEL
FOR ANYTHiNG
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