After the summer gay migration, the LGBTQ community returns to Washington, D.C., only to find themselves confronted by unwanted federal troops in the city. But the gay nightlife community remains optimistic, hopeful, and excited despite the political climate.
When the federal military presence began in mid-August, bars reported a significant drop in revenue and customers. The patrols also coincided with the usual seasonal downturn, as many patrons travel during this major holiday period. WUSA reports that restaurants and bars have seen a drop in the number of diners and reservations, and RAMW has extended Summer Restaurant Week for an additional seven days to encourage eating out. “Generally speaking, the community seems to be on edge,” says Trade and Number Nine owner Ed Bailey.
Dave Pelusa, who owns Pitchers, said sales are down thousands of dollars and foot traffic is down significantly. The bar association attempted to remedy the problem by holding special events, but attendance remained low.
Still, “fall is traditionally the busiest time of year for nightlife in Washington, D.C.,” Bailey says. So, “after an unusual summer, we are preparing for a busy fall.” [at the bar]” Trades is set to offer new programming for the expansion after announcing a major expansion that includes a larger outdoor patio, a pulsating dance floor and a subterranean retreat. Look out for Flower Factory’s new monthly event held on the first Saturday of every month. There will also be a big party celebrating Trade’s 10th anniversary later this year. Number Nine, the bar just around the corner, is opening a pop-up bar this fall that will fill you with all the pumpkin spice vibes from October to November.
“D.C. has been through a lot, and it’s great to be able to look forward to a rich, fulfilling nightlife,” he says.
Clash’s Mark Rutstein agrees.
“We’re ready for D.C. to get the love it deserves and return to the vibrant city it once was. Any reduction in crime is always welcome, but this is excessive and scares people who don’t live here. I’ve lived here for over 25 years. This is my home,” Rutstein said.
“No matter what happens outside, our community is always welcome here,” said Keaton Fedak, owner of Kiki on U Street.
“After an incredible World Pride where we witnessed the beauty of the LGBTQ+ community united, we must continue to use our collective voice to continue fighting for our rights, spaces, and protections,” said Melvin Thomas, Kiki’s Outreach, Events and Marketing Manager. “Every time I walk into Kiki and see our guests laughing, talking, hugging, kissing, and dancing, I am reminded of how important it is for local LGBTQ+-owned and operated businesses to keep their doors open and continue to build programs that resonate with people and bring joy and safety.”
Kiki, like many bars, sponsors a variety of sports at Stonewall. As kickball, bocce, dodgeball and more kick off for the fall season, Kiki will be hosting a number of happy hours, Sunday Fundays and parties for thirsty athletes.
Beyond Trade’s high-profile expansion over the past few months, DC has also welcomed new additions to the LGBTQ bar scene. District Eagle and adjacent chicken coop Lucky Polo opened earlier this year, and dance party signature Revolt also debuted between Bunker and Eagle in August. Additionally, a space called Diosa Lounge located downstairs at MXDC will transform into a new concept called “Ricky’s” on Sundays. It’s an inclusive Sunday Funday of rotating parties and events hosted by Tara Foote and other drag performers, as well as a rotating roster of queer DJs.
As for LGBTQ-focused events, RuPaul will be DJing at the Echo Stage later this month. The 9:30 Club and its affiliates (Atlantic, Merriweather, The Anthem, Lincoln) are also not slowing down their lineup of acts with LGBTQ members and LGBTQ fan bases. Some examples: Wet Leg, Addison Rae, Renee Rapp, Doechii, Indigo De Souza, King Princess, and Halsey have all performed. Additionally, there will be a Hocus Pocus live show and a “Rocky Horror Picture Show” event at the Lincoln Theater. October also includes the 17th Street High Heel Race and the “Studio 54 Ever” themed Miss Adams Morgan Pageant XXXVII on October 4th. and Chefs for Equality at HRC.
“As we continue to navigate the District’s unknown and ever-changing climate, the queer community is preparing to close out the year by celebrating who we are, hosting inclusive parties and events, and embodying the long-held sentiment that we are here and we are queer,” says Brant Ricca, who runs Nora Lee, an agency representing several LGBTQ organizations.
Source: Washington Blade: LGBTQ News, Politics, LGBTQ Rights, Gay News – www.washingtonblade.com
