What is a "Night Mayor"?
The legislation creating the Mayor’s Office of Nightlife and Culture was first introduced by Ward 4 Councilmember Brandon Todd, and later signed into law by Mayor Muriel Bowser on October 18, 2018. Though this is the District's first year with a nightlife office, the “Night Mayor” or “Nightlife Director” concept is now more popular than ever as more cities recognize the significant impact that the nighttime economy can have on a region. The concept was created in Europe. To learn more about the rise of the “Night Mayor” in America click here.
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Apply NOW For A Chance For Your Business To Be Awarded $10,000 In Grant Funding!
 The Department of Small and Local Business Development (DSLBD) is excited to announce that they will be accepting applications for the 2020 Robust Retail Citywide Grant beginning January 15, 2020 and closing March 15, 2020.
A robust retail sector is critical to maintaining the vibrancy of DC neighborhoods, but market realities are changing for retail businesses. Thus the Robust Retail grant(s) support existing DC-based retail businesses adapting their business model to meet changing customer demand. Bars, restaurants, and nightclubs are encouraged to apply!
Nightlife Spotlight
Looking For Salsa Lessons, Live Music, And Happy Hour Specials? Casta’s Rum Bar Has You Covered!
 After a trip to Cuba, Vinoda Basnayake, owner of Casta’s Rum Bar & Cerveza Garden, envisioned bridging Cuba and its nightlife and bringing it to Washington, D.C. Check out their Salsa Night on Wednesdays, featuring live music and dance lessons. As you sweat your night away and need a “drink break”, you can take advantage of the weekday happy hour specials.
For more information visit: castasrumbar.com
Culture Spotlight
DC Culture House
A premiere destination for events and a collective of creatives, Culture House is dedicated to shining a spotlight on — and creating space for — arts and culture. They exhibit an array of artistic mediums, curate community-based programming, and host the area’s coolest weddings and special occasions elevating Southwest DC as a vibrant destination and District of Culture. They are Culture House.
Built in 1886, Friendship Baptist Church was among the few buildings left untouched after mid-century urban renewal efforts reshaped Southwest DC. One of the District’s oldest African-American congregations, the building and its mix of eclectic architectural styles serve as a visual reminder of the neighborhood’s roots.
Following a colorful makeover by artist HENSE, the space was reimagined as Culture House (formerly Blind Whino), a bold beacon for creativity and community. Now in their 7th year, they’re eager to meet the city’s desire for locally grown culture and one-of-a-kind visual, musical, culinary, and performance art experiences.
For more information:
ian@culturehousedc.org
culturehousedc.org
@culturehousedc on all social media platforms.
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2020 Responsible Hospitality Institute (RHI) Sociable Summit - Seattle, Washington
In February, the Mayor’s Office of Nightlife and Culture will lead a delegation of District agencies that interact with nightlife to attend the 2020 RHI Sociable City Summit in Seattle, Washington. The 2021 RHI Sociable Summit will be held in Washington D.C.
Meet DC Health's Food Safety And Hygiene Inspection Services Division
 DC Health's Food Safety Division promotes health, wellness and equity across the District, and protects the safety of residents, visitors and those doing business in our nation’s capital. Food establishments include delicatessens, bakeries, grocery stores, taverns, bars, retail marine markets, ice cream manufacturers, restaurants, wholesale markets, mobile food vendors, hotels and cottage food businesses. DC Health's website is a great resource for food establishments wishing to learn more about how to ensure that the food they serve is safe.
Upcoming Events
 Please join Mayor Muriel Bowser and members of the Bowser Administration for the 2020 Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday Peace Walk & Parade!
Winter Restaurant Week Is HERE!
DMV Black Restaurant Week Hosts Its 1st Annual Awards Dinner & Scholarship Gala!
 Join DMV Black Restaurant Week as they host their 1st Annual Awards Dinner and Scholarships Gala! This event celebrates the legacy and influence of D.C. area chefs and hospitality professionals.
Free Bartending Class Hosted By Diageo!
 Diageo's next bartending class will be held from March 9, 2020 to March 27, 2020 at the Malcolm X Opportunity Center, located at 1351 Alabama Avenue S.E. Classes are held Monday-Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. To apply, please contact 202-924-2211.
Join Mayor Muriel Bowser At The 2020 Budget Engagement Forums
 The budget engagement forums are a great opportunity for nightlife businesses, stakeholders, and advocates to share your values, priorities, and ideas to help shape the upcoming budget.
Mayor's Office Of Nightlife And Culture Performance Oversight Hearing
 On Wednesday, January 22, 2020, at 10:00 a.m., the Committee on Government Operations will hold a Performance Oversight Hearing for the Mayor's Office of Nightlife and Culture. Director Shawn Townsend will share the Mayor's Office of Nightlife and Culture's FY19 accomplishments, and priorities for FY20. You may view the hearing here.
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