WASHINGTON — A D.C. tradition is helping us get uplifted — the annual High Heel Race! Each year at this time, three things merge on 17th Street Northwest near Dupont Circle: Fun, fashion and free spirits.
The winner of the High Heel Race is the person who can navigate down 17th Street the fastest while wearing stiletto heels and the most elaborate costumes. It's also one of the most welcoming and festive ways D.C. celebrates its diversity, the LGBTQ+ community and more.
"The energy is wild," said one attendee. "It's always fun seeing everybody in costumes and looking their best," said another.
One racer said the event, now in its 36th year, is one that sets the District apart.
"It's one of the most fun events in D.C., it's a very uniquely D.C. event," they said.
The race started back in the '80s, with wagers on who could race the fastest in high heels along a strip of bars in the area. It grew so popular that, in 2018, Mayor Muriel Bowser proclaimed the race an official mayoral event.
Here's a look at last night's festivities:
It's such a fun time every year and it always gets us uplifted.
We want to share things that uplift you! If you have something you'd like to share, email us at GetUplifted@wusa9.com or contact Allison Seymour on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.