Thousands flocked to Northeast Washington on Saturday for the H Street Festival. The festival spanned 10 blocks and featured more than 200 businesses, restaurants, community organizations and churches. Vendors were selling jewelry, clothing, household items and other wares. Businesses such as Zipcar, Isagenix and DC Brau were also represented. With performances by various dance troupes, musical acts, and food and drinks of all kinds, there was something for everyone to enjoy.
Street Performer
The festival started in 1985 and was attended by only about 500 residents then. Today with over 125,000 people in attendance, the festival attracts everyone from Capitol Hill staffers and young professionals in the DC area to DC natives of all ages. Recently, H Street has experienced a revival since being deserted after the 1968 riots. It’s now home to many bars and restaurants and has become a popular area among DC residents and tourists alike.
After strolling the length of the festival, I spent the remainder of my time at the H Street Country Club and one of my favorite bars, Avery’s Bar and Lounge. I was able to enjoy H Street Country Club’s $7 margaritas and $3 tacos (the pork belly tacos are delicious), and then headed across the street to enjoy Avery’s rooftop party and $20 fishbowls (yes, you read that right…they offer drinks in fishbowls!). The festival felt like a big day party that spanned blocks. Count me in for next year!
