One of the nation's most prominent Gay Pride events, Capital Pride takes place in Washington, DC, in mid-June (the weekend of June 13 and June 14, 2009) and draws legions of participants from all over the country.
Shop for the best hotel deals in Washington, DC during Gay Pride
Note that DC Capital Pride has an official host hotel and headquarters, The Madison, a Loews Hotel - ask for reference discount code CPP123 when booking, as special rates are offered. Additionally, a second host hotel, the Doubletree Washington DC - use discount code CPP to qualify for the Doubletree's special rate during Gay Pride.
Although the main components of Washington, DC Gay Pride are the Capital Pride Parade on Saturday, and the Annual Capital Pride Street Festival the following day, the city's Pride festivities actually include a number of parties, gatherings, and activities that take place during the 10 days or so leading up to the big weekend. Also, in mid-May, thousands of GLBT people of color turn out for Washington DC Black Pride.
Here's a look at some of the key events that make up Capital Pride in 2009:
From May 17 through May 25, DC Black Pride takes place at a variety of venues around the city, culminating with several big parties the weekend of May 23 and May 24.
Capital Pride week starts getting into gear on Friday, June 5, with a Mr. & Ms. Capital Pride Leather, held at the famous gay leather bar, the DC Eagle. For the following week, there are dozens of events of note, including Capital Trans Pride, performances by the Gay Men's Chorus of Washington, a comedy showcase, a women's concert, and a variety of parties and socials.
On Saturday evening, June 13, at 6:30 pm, the Capital Pride Parade commences in the Dupont Circle neighborhood around P and 23rd Sts. NW. From here it moves east along P Street, turns northwest at Dupont Circle along New Hampshire Avenue, cuts east on R Street, turns south down 17th Street, then rejoins P Street and moves east to 14th Street, where it makes a final turn south and ends at 14th and N Sts. NW, just north of Thomas Circle. Here's a detailed map of the parade route. Following the parade are a closing party and VoluPalooza II barbecue fundraiser.
On Sunday, June 14, in the shadows of the U.S. Capitol Building, you can attend the Capital Pride Street Festival, which takes place at Pennsylvania Ave. NW, just northwest of the Capitol grounds. The festival begins at 11 am and runs until 6 pm, typically drawing well over 250,000 participants.
Of course, additionally, numerous gay bars as well as gay-popular restaurants, hotels, and shops have special events and parties throughout Pride Week. Check local gay papers, such as Washington Blade and the Metro Weekly for details. Another helpful resource is Destination DC's official Gay and Lesbian Travel Site.
