Washington
Washington in Color
People always ask us at the Chamber how to have a uniquely Black experience when visiting the nation’s Capital. But honestly, D.C. is a city defined by Blackness.
Benjamin Banneker, the famed inventor, and mathematician helped draw the original borders of the District in 1791. Ever since this triumphant feat, the contours of this city and its skyline have been shaped by the labor of free and enslaved Black people who built everything from the White House to Howard University.
Although the percentage of African Americans has decreased to around 49%, the strong Black identity this city was founded upon still reigns supreme. It is true that this decadent district was once called Chocolate City in honor of its residents. Rest assured, the experiences and richness of The District are just as sweet when you check out our list of favorite local gems.
The District is undeniably known for the immersive, sensory experience newcomers and veterans alike enjoy when admiring the city. You can expect to hear and fall in love with the sonic thumps of D.C.’s Gogo Music Festival if you plan your trip at the right time of year.
The subgenre of funk is a uniquely District sound that has earned it the title of Washington’s official musical style. This alone should prove that there’s more to D.C. than just museums and alabaster monuments! But if you were going to visit the tourist attractions, here’s the scoop.
The National Museum of African American History and Culture is easily a hot ticket item for intrigued travelers hoping to engage in an amazingly historical experience. If you’re strapped for time, the Museum just launched a free interactive portal to see all the great items in their archives.
In the end, you can’t taste a delectable meal through the computer screen, so why not sink your teeth into the real culture of Washington D.C.? Soul food-inspired restaurants like “Oohh’s & Aahh’s” will have you saying just that! You won’t be able to catch your nose while it’s prancing down Georgia Avenue.
Places like the Frederick Douglass National Historic Site will bring history to life while you fight a food coma at a DC institution like Half Smoke. And if you’re looking for the perfect event, you can get a healthy serving of greens at the DC Broccoli City Music Festival; just don’t expect too many vegetables to be on hand at this party.
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