Here at Bhlen, we are all about elevating underrepresented voices and bringing our users together for unique experiences. That’s why we’re showing our support for the LGBTQ+ community with a Bhlen Link for World Pride, a renowned international event happening right here in DC this year. 2025 also marks the 50th annual Pride celebration in DC, and this monumental occasion will represent the community’s ongoing fight for justice, visibility, and equal rights. International superstar Shakira will be bringing the Latin beats (you can trust her–her hips don’t lie!), Troye Sivan will be turning things up, and there will even be an appearance from OG drag legend RuPaul. Cancel your plans–Pride is the plan. Whether you’re part of this fabulous community or an ally, here are a few events where you can pull up to the party and fly your rainbow flag.
Perreo Vieja Escuela at Public Bar Live (Northwest)
Kick things off on May 17th, the very first day of World Pride, in the most absolutely DC fashion: drinking at a rooftop bar. It’ll be history in the making with a view of iconic buildings as far as the eye can see. Meanwhile, you’ll sip cocktails, make new friends, and come together as a community. DJ Bambino and DJ Melina will be spinning old-school tunes for their theme of “Perreo Vieja Escuela.” The party starts at 10 PM and doesn’t stop until 3 in the morning. No FOMO, just YOLO.
Pre-Pride Tiki Boat Ride with Whitlows on Water (Wharf)
If you want to ring in Pride with a tropical twist, check out the Whitlows on Water Tiki Cruise on Saturday, May 24, from 6:30 – 8:30. You’ll set sail from the Wharf for an evening of celebrating love, justice, and diversity. Drinks are unlimited on board, so what are you waiting for? Snag a ticket before you miss the boat.
Havana Nights (Pride Edition) at STFU (Navy Yard)
Navy Yard’s favorite speakeasy, STFU, will be transforming into Cuba for the evening of June 6th. Celebrate Pride old-school Havana-style as you sip on hand-crafted cocktails and dance the rumba. Bring that vieja escuela energy by dressing in vibrant colors, fedoras, or whatever floats your boat–you do you, honey! Don’t ghost, come toast!
Arlington Pride (Crystal City)
Come out for the 4th Annual Arlington Pride at Hyatt Regency Crystal City on May 30 and 31st for an array of activities just as diverse as you are! In addition to everything happening in DC, Arlington is offering its own exciting lineup for those who are hoping to find community and allies in the Northern Virginia area. There will be Drag Brunch (because duh) and LGBTQ+ Speed Dating for anyone who is single and ready to mingle. Get ready to slay with a Drag Pageant hosted by Shi-Queeta Lee, and don’t miss Arlington’s very own Pride Festival on May 31. Time to show up and show out!
Post-Parade/Post-Protest Party at Ultrabar (Penn Quarter)
Celebrate the love, unity, and the LGBTQ+ trailblazers at Ultrabar, DC’s favorite multi-level nightclub. Join icons like Jackie Cox and DJ Alex Cohen, who will be bumping jams all evening. There will be a post-parade/post-protest on June 7th from 3-6 PM and a worldwide pregame on June 8 from 7-9 pm. Tickets are still available, but they won’t last long. March, dance, slay–repeat!
BLK Queer Film Festival at Howard University
If you’re looking for a quieter, more intellectual way to celebrate Pride, then the Center for Black Equity’s BLK Queer Film Festival at Howard University might be the perfect event for you. This free event takes place from 6-9 PM on May 27-29 at the Blackbird Digital Auditorium at Howard. On May 28th, they will be showing the award-winning film “All The Broken Pieces”, chronicling the trailblazing life of transgender activist Marissa Miller. On Thursday, May 29th, be sure to check out “Rafiki”, a Nigerian coming-of-age tale of two teenage girls whose friendship turns romantic as they try to navigate social and familial pressures. Grab your chosen family and grab your tissues, because some of these films are a downright profound experience.
