June is an exciting time in Washington D.C. as the city prepares for Capital Pride Month, a time filled with vibrant celebrations, colorful parades, and a sense of community among the LGBTQ+ population.
This year is particularly special with the occurrence of World Pride, which promises an even grander parade and street festival throughout the District.
Local gay bars and restaurants are gearing up for a month of festivities, hosting extravagant events, wild parties, and offering themed menus to celebrate Pride Month.
Barrel House Cafe & Bar, located at 1341 14th Street NW, is boasting a fairy garden-themed pop-up this June, with numerous cabaret nights, live music, and late-night dance parties.
Notably, on Saturday, June 7th, patrons can enjoy a prime viewing spot for the World Pride parade from the newly established patio.
The venue is also hosting the second ElixHER World Pride Cabaret on Sunday, June 8, and promises a special Pride menu throughout the month in collaboration with Absolut Vodka.
Over at Aslin Beer, found at 1740 14th Street NW, visitors will have a fantastic view of the World Pride parade from a spacious beer garden.
The brewery is again teaming up with Rainbow Families to offer a special double IPA called Now More Than Ever, a fruity beer with flavors of stone fruit, citrus, and a hint of coconut.
A percentage of the sales will be donated to support LGBTQ+ families and prospective parents, highlighting the venue’s commitment to community assistance.
For those looking for an upscale parade viewing experience, Via Sophia at 1001 14th Street NW is hosting a special World Pride Parade Viewing Party.
Featuring performances from renowned drag queens, including RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 13 winner Symone and All-Stars veterans Derrick Barry and Miz Cracker, the festivities include themed cocktails and brunch bites accompanied by DJ sets.
In addition, fashion icon Nigel Barker will be showcasing his signature Barker Martinis at the hotel’s micro-bar, Society, during the parade.
Café Riggs at 900 F Street NW has embraced the Pride spirit with a thoughtful cocktail menu themed around Pride Icons, featuring drinks inspired by LGBTQ+ legends.
Among them, the Harvey Milk cocktail incorporates bourbon and maderia, and a zero-proof Elton John spritz celebrates the musician’s milestone sobriety.
Each cocktail comes with playful illustrations created by LGBTQ artist Diego Blanco, making for not just a delightful drink but also a work of art.
The Atlas Ivy City, located at 2052 West Virginia Avenue NE, will be hosting an LGBTQ Benefit Show featuring multiple musical acts on Saturday, June 14, aimed at raising funds for The Trevor Project, SMYAL, and HIPS.
Ticket sales at $15 are available on Eventbrite, with all proceeds going directly to support these essential organizations.
For those preferring a festive picnic to enjoy the parade from the park, Love, Makoto at 200 Massachusetts Avenue NW is offering special picnic packs.
The Rainbow Pack includes a Rainbow Roll, kale soba salad, rainbow vanilla doughnuts, and yuzu lemonades for $45.
Notably, all proceeds from heart-shaped rainbow vanilla doughnuts sold during June will benefit The Trevor Project, demonstrating the venue’s strong commitment to support LGBTQ+ initiatives.
At Lulu’s Winegarden, located at 1940 11th Street NW, a unique Love is Love cocktail menu is being offered, featuring creative drinks like the Taste the Rainbow gin and a strawberry-coconut daiquiri.
For every Pride cocktail and rainbow bottle of True Colours Cava sold, a dollar is donated to the Human Rights Campaign, showcasing their dedication to supporting LGBTQ+ rights.
El Tamarindo at 1785 Florida Avenue NW is introducing a fresh lineup of summer cocktails just in time for Pride, with every dollar from each cocktail sold contributing to Ayuda, an organization that supports immigrant and LGBTQ+ communities in the DMV.
Additionally, El Tamarindo’s revamped Taco Tuesdays features a deal of 10 tacos and three sauces for $40, with taco-and-margarita combos available at $35.
Meanwhile, MXDC, situated along the Capital Pride Parade route at 1610 14th Street NW, is hosting a one-day burrito stand on Saturday, June 7, with tasty offerings like chicken, steak, or mushroom burritos.
During parade hours, patrons can grab a burrito for $15, margaritas for $12, or Coronas for $8, making it a perfect pit stop along the parade route.
As Pride Month unfolds, there are plenty of fabulous year-round drag brunches in D.C. to consider for those looking to enjoy drag performances with their meals.
Notably, a few restaurants are hosting one-off drag brunches this weekend to commemorate the celebrations.
D.C. is buzzing with energy, fun, and a strong sense of togetherness this June as the community comes together to celebrate love, acceptance, and diversity.
image source from:https://dc.eater.com/2025/6/6/24444342/best-eating-drinking-pride-dc-guide