WASHINGTON — It’s time to dust off those dancing shoes, bring out your inner food critic, and get ready to explore 12 whole blocks of pure, unadulterated festival fun. The H Street Festival is rolling into town on Saturday, and this year, it’s set to be an extravaganza like no other.
What started as a humble bloc party with just 500 attendees 19 years ago has exploded into a colossal celebration of arts and culture, drawing a whopping 150,000 festival-goers. This spectacular transformation is a testament to the power of the arts in boosting community spirit and economic growth. With commercial building vacancy rates plummeting from a staggering 75% to under 5% in the H Street Corridor, it’s clear that this festival is not just about having a good time, it’s a key player in revitalizing the neighborhood.
Prepare yourself for an eclectic mix of 15 diverse staging areas that cater to every possible interest. Whether you’re a music aficionado, a dance enthusiast, a fashionista, or someone who just wants to see some cool interactive children’s programs, there’s something here for you.
Here’s a taste of what’s in store:
AMERIGROUP STAGE @3RD: Groove to the smooth tunes of The Love Station at noon or catch the vibrant rhythms of Alisha Glover at 5:00 p.m. Keep the night going with Horu Music Experience and DJs Scuba, Slyfoux, and Soul spinning beats late into the evening.
6TH STREET DEEJAY STAGE: Dance your way through the day with a stellar lineup including DJ Sly Foux, Soul, and DJ To-No, culminating in a high-energy set by AmpianoDMV at 6:00 p.m.
7TH STREET DANCE STAGE: Witness a dance extravaganza featuring everything from Corepower Yoga to the high-octane moves of Culture Shock DC Freestyle and Malcolm X Drummers & Dancers.
EVENTS DC STAGE @8th: Enjoy a mix of bands throughout the day, including Shawn Allen Choice Band and The Natalie Phillips Project, with performances starting at noon and rocking into the evening.
10TH STREET KARAOKE OPEN MIC STAGE: Unleash your inner star at the largest outdoor karaoke party in D.C. Whether you’re a seasoned performer or a shower-singer extraordinaire, this is your moment to shine.
RUNWAY STAGE @12th: Marvel at the fashion shows and performances, with highlights including Washington DC Warriors Drumline and a salute to divas.
THE ZONE @12 1/2: Get your groove on with bands like Projex Santana and Malik Dope as they bring the energy and beats.
DC LOTTERY STAGE @13 1/2: From the Jefferson Street Strutters to Mama Moon and the Rump Shakers, this stage promises a musical journey you won’t forget.
VERIZON STAGE @14TH: Rock out with The Milestones and Go ModGo!, and enjoy a diverse range of performances throughout the day.
Traffic Alerts:
Emergency No Parking (4:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m.):
- H Street from 3rd Street to Florida Avenue, NE
Street Closures (4:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m.):
- H Street from 3rd Street to Florida Avenue, NE
- Florida Avenue from Staples to H Street, NE (No eastbound traffic on H Street, NE)
Important Notes:
- No traffic will cross H Street between 3rd Street and Florida Avenue.
- Residents/visitors must plan routes to avoid crossing H Street.
Parking and Traffic:
- Expect parking restrictions and increased pedestrian traffic.
- Vehicles in violation of no parking signs will be ticketed and towed.
- Anticipate delays and consider alternative routes.
For updates, visit: DC Police Traffic
Beyond the lineups, the H Street Festival offers a mile-long shopping experience, various food choices, and countless patio parties hosted by local businesses. It’s the perfect chance to explore the best that the H Street Corridor has to offer while soaking up the festival vibes.
So, mark your calendars, gather your friends, and come experience the magic of the H Street Festival.
For more information, click here.
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