Whether looking for a fun escape or something to get into after the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation 55th Annual Legislative Conference (Sept. 16-20), the Washington Informer Calendar has a slew of options — and a preview roundup below.
Check out a handful of the events taking over the DMV this weekend, from brunches and galas to the return of H Street Fest and Broccoli City Festival. And remember, there’s always something happening in the region to keep your spirit — and social life — lit.
Thursday, Sept. 17
The Future of Black America: Where Do We Go From Here?
10 a.m. | Free
899 North Capitol Street NE, Washington, D.C., 20002
Join the National Policy Alliance at the 2026 Annual Meeting & Conference amid the Congressional Black Caucus Week (Sept. 14-20).
This year’s conference will bring together elected officials, policymakers, business leaders, clergy, educators, community advocates, and emerging leaders to celebrate legacy, unveil the National Policy Alliance’s renewed vision and mission, and engage in meaningful dialogue on the future of Black America.
Explore innovative solutions, strengthen strategic partnerships, and chart a bold course for the next generation of leadership and community impact.
Friendship Place 35th Anniversary Gala
6 p.m. – 9 p.m. | $350
Conrad Washington, DC, 950 New York Avenue NW, Washington, D.C., 20001
Celebrate 35 years of ending homelessness and rebuilding lives at Friendship Place’s 35th Anniversary Gala at Conrad Washington DC.
Community leaders, supporters, and advocates will gather for an evening of dinner, drinks, and an inspiring program honoring four leaders whose work has strengthened the D.C. region: Jean-Michel Giraud, Friendship Place president and CEO, celebrating 20 years of transformative leadership; Ward 1 Councilmember Brianne Nadeae (D), a longtime advocate for affordable housing and homelessness services; Sue Marshall, founding executive director of The Community Partnership for the Prevention of Homelessness; and Carole Evans, National Symphony Orchestra violinist and founder of Friendship Place’s Music of Friends concert series.
Friday, Sept. 18
Public Policy Talks Live D.C. 2026
6 p.m. | Free
701 13th Street NW, Washington, D.C., 20005
This reception and award show will bring together professionals, policymakers, and enthusiasts to share insights, exchange ideas, and build valuable connections.
Don’t miss out on this exclusive, high-impact gathering of more than 300 leaders in public policy, government, journalism, and business. Topics of discussion will focus on:
- Building economic power within Black communities
- Real estate ownership and urban revitalization
- Accessing government contract funding
- Grant readiness for Black-owned businesses
- Creating infrastructure for generational wealth
- And closing the racial wealth gap through public policy.
Saturday, Sept. 19
Noon – 7 p.m. | Free
3rd Street NE to 15th Street NE
It’s the 21st year of H Street Festival, one of the largest outdoor festivals in the city!
Spanning 12 blocks of H Street Northeast, the annual affair is one of the most anticipated and highly attended single-day festivals in Washington, D.C.
Across multiple staging areas and more than 200 businesses, restaurants, community organizations and vendors, participants get a taste of the local culture while boosting economic impact.
Come down to enjoy great food, drinks, music, contests, kids’ activities and more.
Broccoli City Festival: Summer Walker, kwn, and more
4 p.m. | $28+
Jiffy Lube Live, 7800 Cellar Door Drive, Bristow, VA 20136
Broccoli City’s one-day R&B experience, presented by AT&T, is built around the artists shaping the sound right now — and the people you want next to you when they play.
This isn’t a concert; it’s a curated journey. A space to convene with friends, meet new ones, and let the music do what it does best — pull everyone closer.
Featuring this year’s headliners: Summer Walker, kwn, and more. Don’t miss out on good music and good vibes at Broccoli City.
Sunday, Sept. 20
11:30 a.m. | $108.55+
The Hamilton, 600 14th Street NW, Washington, D.C., 20005
The Dope Black Girls Brunch is a signature gathering of Congressional Black Caucus Weekend, bringing together Black women from across media, politics, business, entrepreneurship, advocacy, and culture for an afternoon of meaningful connection and celebration.
Hosted at The Hamilton in Washington, D.C., this annual experience creates space for authentic conversations, intentional networking, and building relationships with women shaping industries and driving change in their communities.
Whether looking to network, reconnect with familiar faces, or simply celebrate the brilliance of Black women during one of the most influential weekends of the year, this is where community, collaboration, and culture come together.
Tickets include a full brunch, curated cocktails, a fireside chat and more!
1 p.m. – 4 p.m. | Free
Prince George’s Sports & Learning Complex, 8001 Sheriff Road, Landover, MD 20785
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with arts and crafts, live entertainment, kids’ activities, community resources, businesses, food vendors, giveaways, and more!
