June 20 - June 21
Take your Pride straight to the source. Capital Pride is Washington, D.C.’s annual LGBTQ+ celebration, filling the nation’s capital with color, community, and visibility every June. Founded in 1975 as a small street block party, Capital Pride has grown into one of the largest Pride celebrations in the country.
Today, the weekend brings together locals and visitors alike for events that honor queer culture, resilience, and joy. The energy is unmistakable. So is the visibility. Few Pride celebrations carry the same sense of scale and symbolism as one that unfolds in the shadow of the U.S. Capitol.
Planning ahead matters this year. For 2026, Capital Pride has shifted its traditional early-June dates to June 20–21. The change was made to accommodate Washington, D.C.’s preparations for the United States’ 250th anniversary. The parade now takes place on Saturday, June 20, followed by the main festival and concert on Sunday, June 21.
The weekend officially kicks off with the Pride Parade. It’s a glitter-filled march through downtown D.C. Rainbow flags wave. Costumes turn heads. Thousands of participants take over America’s Main Street. After the parade, the Capital Pride festival and concert transform Pennsylvania Avenue into a massive celebration zone. Expect live music, drag performances, food vendors, exhibitors, and plenty of opportunities to see and be seen.
Beyond the parade and festival, the weekend includes block parties, community gatherings, and events centered on advocacy, wellness, and culture. Rooftop pool parties share the calendar with family-friendly activities and community programming.
Because it takes place in the nation’s capital, Pride carries a political edge. It’s a reminder that Pride is both a celebration and a statement. Equality, representation, and visibility still matter. Each June, Capital Pride makes that message impossible to ignore.