June 5, 2026
Dear Washingtonians,
Happy 51 years of Pride in the future 51st state – two movements that are rooted in the same belief: that every person deserves to be seen, heard, and fully represented.
Earlier this week, for the fourth year in a row, we raised the Pride flag outside of City Hall. We do so because it tells a story, a story of pride, perseverance, and progress. And we fly it in front of the John A. Wilson Building, a building that tells its own story: of a city that takes care of itself and of each other, a city that is diverse and welcoming. And we need to make sure we’re still telling that story, and that people are hearing it.
 Last year, we welcomed the world to DC for World Pride 2025 and we showed them exactly who we are. This year, we’re also celebrating 20 years of the Mayor’s Office of LGBTQ Affairs, an office that has helped shape Washington, DC into a place where LGBTQIA+ residents are seen, heard, included, and invested in. Our LGBTQ Office has helped us make big investments in housing, health care, public safety, employment opportunities, and so much more.
There are a lot of ways that people show up for each other in DC – some through activism, some through government, some through arts and culture, some through local business – and it takes everyone to make sure people feel safe, loved, and welcomed.
So, keep showing up. Keep sharing your story. And keep sharing the story of the real DC – a beautiful, welcoming, and inclusive city.
Happy Pride and see you at the Capital Pride Parade!
Sincerely,
Know a young person interested in boxing? This month, the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) is bringing pop-up boxing clinics to all eight wards. Whether you're looking to learn the fundamentals, build confidence, improve your fitness, or just try something new, this is a chance to train with experienced coaches in a fun and supportive environment.
- Open to boys and girls ages 10-16
- Learn boxing basics and technique
- Build discipline, focus, and confidence
- FREE, no experience and no RSVP needed — just show up!
Tuesday, June 9, 6:00-8:00 p.m.
- Banneker Recreation Center
- Trinidad Recreation Center
Wednesday, June 10, 6:00-8:00 p.m.
- Deanwood Community Center
Thursday, June 11, 6:00-8:00 p.m.
- Palisades Community Center
Monday, June 15, 6:00-8:00 p.m.
- Sherwood Recreation Center
Tuesday, June 16, 6:00-8:00 p.m.
- Kennedy Recreation Center
- Anacostia Recreation Center at Ketcham
Thursday, June 18, 6:00-8:00 p.m.
- Raymond Recreation Center
Learn more: dprpopupboxing.splashthat.com
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 One of the best things a dad can do? Show up for his health! And on Saturday, June 6, DC Health's Help Me Grow DC is giving him a reason to: a full day of fun at the Kenilworth Recreation Center (4321 Ord St. NE) from 11:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.
The day will include a basketball skills tournament, free health screenings, workout demos and fitness challenges, community resources, kids activities, prizes and food.
Built for fathers, open to the whole family. And free to attend!
Register here.
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This week, the DowntownDC BID kicked off their 2026 Summer Event Series. The Summer Event Series will bring energy, wellness, and entertainment to Downtown DC with free events and activations throughout June and July.
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Lunchtime in the Park launched this week and will continue every Wednesday in June from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. Designed as an opportunity for Downtown employees and visitors to disconnect from their desks, the weekly series will feature live jazz music, games, giveaways, and a relaxed outdoor atmosphere.
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DowntownDC Live! at Anthem Row will bring live entertainment and summer energy to Downtown every Thursday evening through July 30 from 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
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Fitness at Franklin, a five-week outdoor fitness experience hosted at Franklin Park, will begin on Saturday, June 20 and run through Saturday, July 25. Held on select Saturdays from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., the program will feature a variety of classes, including trap yoga, hip-hop pilates, dance workshops, boxing, and additional group fitness experiences designed for all skill levels.
Find additional event details and registration information here.
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This week, the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) announced that the 2026 NWSL Championship will be played in Washington, DC at Audi Field on Saturday, November 21.
Washington, DC is excited to welcome the championship back to the Sports Capital!
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