The Washington, D.C. area is set to host a variety of engaging events and gatherings dedicated to the LGBTQ+ community in the upcoming weeks. From social coffee klatches to vibrant drag brunches, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Below is a comprehensive schedule of events taking place at the DC Center for the LGBT Community and other local venues.
Starting on Friday, July 11, the ‘Center Aging Friday Tea Time’ will take place at 2 p.m. in person at the DC Center’s new location at 1827 Wiltberger St., N.W. This casual gathering is designed for older LGBTQ+ adults to connect and socialize. Attendees are encouraged to bring a beverage of their choice. For more information, interested parties can reach out via email.
Later that evening, ‘Women in Their Twenties and Thirties’ will meet at 8 p.m. on Zoom. This discussion group creates a friendly space for queer women in the D.C. area to foster friendships and community engagements. Further details can be found on the DC Center’s website.
Go Gay DC will also be hosting an ‘LGBTQ+ Happy Hour’ at 7 p.m. at Firefly, offering a welcoming environment for networking, establishing connections, and sharing ideas. This gathering is free of charge, with additional information available on Eventbrite.
The following day, Saturday, July 12, Go Gay DC will present ‘Family Fun Story Time’ at noon at Freddie’s Beach Bar & Restaurant. The event will feature award-winning drag queen Tara Hoot, who will entertain families with songs, stories, bubbles, puppets, and dancing. This free event is perfect for kids and families alike.
At the same time, Miss Capital Pride’s ‘DC Drag Brunch on Rooftop – Penthouse’ will begin at noon at MXDC Cocina Mexicana. Attendees can indulge in a delicious Mexican brunch that includes Baby Shank’s signature dishes and a creative array of margaritas and mimosas, all framed by the spectacular performances of talented drag queens and celebrity impersonators. Tickets for this event are priced at $30.65 and are available on Eventbrite.
On Sunday, July 13, the National Portrait Gallery will host ‘Stormé at Stonewall’ at 1:30 p.m. This event features a gallery talk with LJ Roberts and Charlotte Ickes discussing an exhibition that highlights activist Stormé DeLarverie, recognized as a pivotal figure in the Stonewall uprising. Attendance is free, and the event promises to shine a light on significant but often overlooked narratives in LGBTQ+ history.
The upcoming Monday, July 14, will see the return of the ‘Center Aging Monday Coffee Klatch’ at 10 a.m. on Zoom. This weekly coffee hour invites older LGBTQ+ adults to share a space of connection, with guests welcome to bring their favorite beverages. For additional information, individuals can contact via email.
Later that evening, Genderqueer DC will convene at 7 p.m. at the DC Center. This support group extends its welcome to those who identify outside the gender binary, offering a safe space for sharing and support. More details can be found on Genderqueer DC’s website or their Facebook page.
On Tuesday, July 15, the Center Bi+ Roundtable will be held at 7 p.m. via Zoom. This roundtable discussion provides a space for individuals to engage in conversations about bisexuality in an intimate environment. Interested individuals can get more information through Facebook or Meetup.
On Wednesday, July 16, Job Club will occur at 6 p.m. on Zoom. This program is dedicated to assisting job seekers, especially those who are long-term unemployed, to build skills and confidence in their job searches. Participants can learn more about the program through an email or the DC Center’s website.
The next day, Thursday, July 17, marks the continuation of the DC Center’s Fresh Produce Program, available all day at the DC Center for the LGBT Community. Participants interested in receiving a produce box will be notified by 5 p.m. the previous Wednesday. This program does not require proof of residency or income. For inquiries, email or call the center for more information.
Virtual Yoga with Charles M. will also take place at 7 p.m. on Zoom. This free weekly class will engage participants in yoga, breathwork, and meditation. For details, the public is encouraged to check the DC Center’s website.
At 2 p.m., Lit Lovers: Book Club for Seniors will meet on Zoom, focusing on ‘Rubyfruit Jungle’ by Rita Mae Brown for the month of July. Interested readers can find more about this literary gathering through the DC Center’s online resources.
Finally, the day will conclude with a Poly Discussion Group at 7 p.m. on Zoom, providing an inclusive atmosphere for discussions centered around polyamory. Those seeking additional information can reach out via email.
Looking back at events from the previous week, on Friday, June 26, ‘Center Aging Monthly Luncheon and Bingo’ was held at 2 p.m. at the DC Center. This lively affair aimed to foster community among older LGBTQ+ adults and build social connections. Similar gatherings take place throughout the month, showcasing various themes and activities.
Go Gay DC hosted the ‘LGBTQ+ Community Pride Month Happy Hour’ on the same day at 7 p.m. at Dupont Italian Kitchen, supporting community building and engagement through informal networking.
Saturday, June 27, featured Go Gay DC’s ‘LGBTQ+ Community Pride Month Brunch’ at 11 a.m. at Freddie’s Beach Bar & Restaurant, followed by an art panel discussion on the intersection of blackness and queerness at 200 I St., S.E. This event demonstrated the creation of community through shared experiences.
Baby Shank Rooftop Bar also held the ‘DC Drag brunch on Rooftop – Penthouse’ at noon, allowing guests to enjoy a culinary experience while being entertained. Tickets for brunches like this one often garner interest, reflecting the community’s support for local events.
Sunday, June 28, Jonathan Van Ness led a masterclass at 10 a.m. at Dupont Circle Hotel, which offered a chance for attendees to learn hairstyling techniques and support the local nonprofit SMYAL.
The following Monday, June 29, ‘Center Aging Monday Coffee Klatch’ encouraged older LGBTQ+ adults to join in on Zoom for another social hour, while the Universal Pride Meeting provided a platform for discussing issues relating to disabilities in the LGBTQ+ community.
On Tuesday, June 30, the Center Aging Women’s Social and Discussion Group was hosted, creating a safe environment for older LGBTQ+ women to enjoy camaraderie and discourse.
Wednesday, July 1, welcomed Job Club at 6 p.m. via Zoom, continuing its mission to empower job seekers. Participants were reminded that support programs remain active during these uncertain times.
On Thursday, July 2, the DC Center continued its Fresh Produce Program, along with offering Virtual Yoga at 7 p.m., both being integral parts of the center’s community outreach.
The week concluded with ‘Center Aging Friday Tea Time’ and ‘Trans and Genderqueer Game Night’ at 6 p.m., highlighting the diverse interests of the community.
These events represent just a portion of the vibrant activities organized by the DC Center and partnered organizations supporting the LGBTQ+ community. Across these various events, community members are encouraged to participate, connect, and foster friendships, helping to create a supportive environment for all.
For those interested in attending any of these events, detailed information can be found on the DC Center’s website, as well as Eventbrite for ticketed events. The D.C. LGBTQ+ community continues to thrive with these initiatives, promoting inclusivity, acceptance, and unity among individuals from all walks of life.
image source from：washingtonblade
