As we celebrate Black History Month 2024, we reflect on a poignant moment in the heart of DowntownDC that resonates with this year's theme: "African Americans and the Arts." On the dawn of Friday, June 5, 2020, the largest art installation in DowntownDC kicked-off in the midst of a powerful movement against police brutality that unfolded across the nation that summer. In 50-feet yellow letters, “Black Lives Matter” emblazoned a two-block stretch of 16th Street NW. It was a symbol of solidarity and a testament to the strength of voices demanding justice and change.

Commissioned by Mayor Muriel Bowser and completed by the DC Public Works Department, the mural on the 800 and 900 blocks of 16th Street NW was officially named "Black Lives Matter Plaza NW.” This monumental art piece stands as a testament to the powerful role of the arts in expressing the collective voice. This month we celebrate the rich heritage of African Americans in shaping and expressing their narratives through the arts. Today, Black Lives Matter Plaza remains a public gathering place open to foot traffic at any time of day, offering a moment of reflection.

Did You Know Franklin Park was the Location for the First Emancipation Day Parade in DC?

Franklin Park played a pivotal role in the early chapters of Black history in DowntownDC. On April 16, 1862, President Abraham Lincoln signed the DC Emancipation Act, marking the "first freed" for enslaved Washingtonians. The celebration of this historic event blossomed into the first Emancipation Day Parade in 1866, with more than 5,000 marchers stepping off Franklin Park and parading through DowntownDC. As we delve into this fascinating past, we honor the resilience, pride, and grandeur that define the rich legacy of DowntownDC during Black History Month.

Black-Owned Businesses in DowntownDC

This Black History Month we celebrate the vibrancy of the district by highlighting some incredible Black-owned businesses that contribute to its unique charm. From the recently opened vegan cafe pop-up 73 Farm, delectable delights at Kitchen & Kocktails, and sophisticated ambiance of The Park at 14th to The Gentlemen's Closet's tailored elegance and conscious fashion choices at Ida's Idea, there's something for every taste. Join us in supporting these establishments, creating a tapestry of economic empowerment that enriches the entire DowntownDC experience.

It's back! We're excited to celebrate the forthcoming Lunar New Year during the Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association's (CCBA) annual parade in Chinatown. Join the CCBA, Mayor Muriel Bowser, and the Mayor's Office on Asian and Pacific Islander Affairs in welcoming the Year of the Dragon during the vibrant parade complete with a ceremony of traditional performances, exciting firecracker finale, and more!

... which means, DowntownDC restaurants, this is your moment to shine!

DC area restaurants are invited to embrace the vibrant spirit of the season by joining the National Cherry Blossom Festival's Cherry Picks program to showcase their best springtime menu items that capture the essence of this enthralling season. Restaurant's custom spring-themed dishes will be featured on the Festival channels, enticing DC residents and visitors to savor the flavors of spring. 

Registration is now open. Don't miss out on this opportunity to be a part of the city's blossoming celebration with an unforgettable experience that mirrors the blooming beauty of our district.

Who said DowntownDC couldn't be fun for everyone? Last week we joined Mayor Muriel Bowser for the announcement of the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development's (DMPED) Family Fun Destination Grant awardees, including three Downtown, family-friendly attractions: National Children's Museum, National Building Museum, and the DC History Center.

The Family Fun Destinations Grant is currently accepting its second round of applicants in addition to several DMPED grant programs like the Downtown Recovery Grant. Join DMPED during their Retail Grant and Grow Expo to learn more about these opportunities and apply.