The annual H Street Festival is back on September 16. Here's what to watch for ...
Next weekend marks the annual H Street Festival, an arts celebration and rockin' block party! It begins at noon on Saturday, September 16, and, frankly, doesn't end until Sunday. All 11 blocks of the H Street corridor will be packed with people, vendors, food, and drinks. It may seem a little overwhelming, but we've put together a list of vendors to look out for and some tips to keep you going!WHEN: Saturday, September 16 | 12 p.m.–7 p.m. WHERE: H Street, NE, from 4th to 14th, Washington, D.C.
[gallery size="large" ids="3785,3821,3816"] The best way to get to the festival, which begins at H Street and 4th Street NE, is by getting off at the Union Station Metro and walking down the backside of the station. The trolley will not be in use, as all of H Street will be filled with a marching band parade! You can also get off at NoMa-Gallaudet Metro and walk a couple blocks, or you could bike to the festival, as there are many BikeShares available. Stages will be set up all the way down the street, featuring fashion shows, dance performances, and karaoke, among others. Tiny houses, a kid-friendly area, a costume contest, art vendors -- there will be more than enough events and activities going on to delight everyone in the whole family! [gallery size="large" ids="3825,3817,3824,3819,3820"] If you came for the food, then you're in luck! In addition to all the vendor booths with crazy-delicious fair-type foods (award-winning ribs and funnel cakes, come to Mama!), more than 25 local restaurants and bars will be participating, so you won't have a hard time finding delectable eats to munch on.
Try out H Street's famous Chupacabra, a Latin kitchen with some of the best tacos and margaritas in the District. If you're looking to stay true to your D.C. roots, then head over to Ben's Chili Bowl (or Ben's Upstairs, as it's called around here) so you can spot your friends from above. Rock & Roll Hotel will also be featuring rooftop specials and a live DJ with dancing.
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Once you've had your fill of food, it's time to wash it all down with some drinks! Our recommendation is Smith Commons, which will be cranking out their famous cocktails and locally brewed beers. Sit on the rooftop so you can get a bird's eye view of the festival below.
Then, don't forget to stop by all the boutiques and local art shops, like Atlas Performing Arts Center, HunnyBunny, and Solid State Books, just to name a few. It's always important to support our local businesses!
The festival officially ends at 7 p.m. on Saturday, but bars and restaurants will keep their doors open throughout the night with specials and happy hours. So go to the H Street Festival, soak in the incredible atmosphere, and stay late into the morning hours -- We'll see you there!
For more information on the H Street Festival, visit its website or Facebook page.
