May 1, 2026
Dear Washingtonians,
No matter where I go in the world, I find that people know three things about Washington, DC: Mayor Marion Barry, Howard University, and Ben’s Chili Bowl. For years, Ben’s Chili Bowl has represented the best of Washington, DC — an iconic institution that has been here for us through the good times, the bad times, the amazing times, and all the times in between. And today, joining the legendary Virginia Ali — along with a full lineup of DC legends — to welcome Ben’s back to their landmark location on U Street was the perfect way to head into DC Small Business Week.
We know how important businesses like Ben’s Chili Bowl are for DC. Businesses help us deliver good food, good jobs, and they make corridors like U Street into what they have been and what they will be. Together, the District’s more than 75,000 small businesses employ over 230,000 people — almost half of our private sector workforce.
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DC Small Business Week helps keep that momentum going, and this year, we’re bringing five free events to entrepreneurs and residents across the District:
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On Monday, kick things off at the Small Business Solution Expo, a hands-on resource fair where you can handle licensing, taxes, certifications, and more on the spot.
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On Thursday, the Made in DC Market showcases locally made products alongside food trucks and live entertainment.
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On Saturday, May 9, come celebrate local makers — and get a head start on Mother’s Day — at the Made in DC Mother’s Day Pop-Up, featuring vendors, wellness activities, and a live DJ.
And beyond the week’s events, DSLBD offers year-round support through programs like Small Biz Assist, Made in DC, Dream Accelerator, We Aspire, and more. Businesses looking for opportunities with District government can also check out the FY26 Green Book at greenbookdc.com.
Remember: when you support a small business, you’re investing in a neighbor, a dream, and driving growth in the best city in the world.
 Find photos from events throughout April on Facebook.
Get ready for one of DC’s most popular family-friendly events of the year! Tomorrow, the Department of Public Works will host the District’s annual Truck Touch.
Approximately 30 vehicles from DC government agencies will be available for kids and adults alike to hop in and learn more about, including the dump trucks, police cruisers, fire engines, and medical units that keep our city moving.
Attendees can also watch local students take the wheel as they navigate electric vehicles they’ve engineered themselves — showcasing innovation and energy-conscious design in action.
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When: Saturday, May 2 at 8:00 a.m.
- Get a front-row seat for the EV time trials from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m., followed by wheel-to-wheel racing kicking off at 12:30 p.m.
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Where: RFK Stadium Lot 8, 2400 E Capitol Street SE
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Learn more at dpw.dc.gov/trucktouch
Is your son ready to take the next step? The Department of Parks and Recreation's Young Men Future Leaders Program is a free, school-year initiative meeting for one hour, one to two days per week — offering boys ages 6-17 the mentorship, guidance, and knowledge they need to navigate the journey from boyhood to manhood with confidence and purpose. Spots are available at locations across DC, including at the brand new Fort Dupont Ice Arena. Enroll your future leader today!
For more information and to register, visit ymfl.splashthat.com
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DC seniors, get ready for the event of the year: the Senior Fest Block Party! On Wednesday, May 20, come out to the Gateway Pavilion for a great day of free food and live entertainment, line dancing, free health resources, community, and much more.
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This Sunday, gather your (plant) friends and family and head Downtown for the MLK Library plant swap. Bring a houseplant, a cutting, or even just your curiosity — and leave with something green to take home.
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