Event Dates
From: Friday, January 16, 2026
To: Monday, January 19, 2026
Mid Atlantic Leather Weekend 2026
The Mid-Atlantic Leather Weekend, attracts thousands of guys for a weekend of leather parties, fetish events and the Mr MAL contenst.
Historic Leather Event with Cocktail Receptions and Sleazy Afterparties!
Thousands of men descend on DC for a weekend of leather themed debauchery. Enjoy a unique mix of social events, circuit parties, leather meet-ups and the Mr. MAL Contest.
MAL Weekend Washington
- Next Edition: Friday 16th January 2026 – Monday 19th January, 2026.
- The Mid-Atlantic Leather Weekend (MAL) is a three-day long party and event with participants that now number in the thousands.
- Many of the daily events take place at the host hotel, which books up months in Advance. The host hotel for the event is the Hyatt Regency on Capitol Hill.
- If you can’t get a room at the host hotel, the following hotels are just a short walk from the host hotel:
Yotel Washington – 1 Minute Walk – High tech hotel with very comfortable rooms just steps from the event.
Hilton Washington DC Capitol Hill – 5 Minute Walk – Rated fabulous, and often preferred by those looking for a relaxed stay.
Kimpton George Hotel – 3 Minute Walk – Steps from union station, spacious rooms and warm gay friendly Kimpton welcome.
The Phoenix Park Hotel – 3 Minute Walk – Charming hotel with stylish rooms and great rates.The Event Schedule
- The heart of the weekend is the historic leather formal Saturday evening cocktail social, Leather Cocktails.
- Leather Cocktails is the weekend lynchpin gathering from which all other weekend events evolved.
- Other popular events include the Mr International Rubber Cocktail Party, The Onyx Show, The Parade of Colours and Parade of Titleholders from around the world.
- The Weekend also includes official events organised by weekend hosts, Centaur MC, that include a bustling Leather Exhibit Hall each day featuring more than 23 vendor selling customised leather goods and kinky sexy toys; Sunday brunch; Mr. MAL Contest (1pm to 4pm on the Sunday afternoon) and the official Sunday night closing party.
The Circuit Parties
- Enjoy a full weekend of nightly parties. KINETIC will feature world class DJs, tea dances and after parties at some of the city’s top events.
- Previous Parties have included Bootcamp, Uncut and Lust, as well as international circuit names such as Matinee’s Pervert.
- Parties from from 10 pm until late (3 am Thursday and Sunday, 4 am Friday & Saturday)
- Events take place at some of the city’s most famous clubs, as well as Wharehouse takeovers.
History of the Leather Weekend
- Started in 1976 as an impromptu cocktail party by a group of Leathermen staying at New York’s Waldorf Astoria, the Mid Atlantic Leather Weekend (MAL for short) grew rapidly and moved to a series of bars in various east coast cities.
- By the mid-eighties, the contest was introduced and the event became a weekend destination party thrown by the DC based group, the Centaurs. Since then, it has not only grown in reputation but also in size.
Where to stay in Gay Washington
With rainbow-colored crosswalks, it’s obvious that this Dupont Circle neighborhood street is the place to be. Here are the Hotels we recommend that keep you close to all the action:
Save on Hotels
Washington has some amazing hotels.
Book now and Pay on arrival.
Where we stay!
Hotel Washington is our choice offering
stunning views of the white house
Official Website
For further information and advice on
MAL, check out The Website
Gay Map of Washington DC
The gay bars in Washington are a little spread out most are within walking distance from Dupont Circle and U Street Metro stations, so we have chosen Hotels close Dupont Circle Metro gay bars as they have high reviews on booking.com our hotel partner .
1430 Rhode Island Ave NW, Washington, DC 20005
Viceroy Washington DC offers pet-friendly accommodation in Washington, 4 minutes' walk from Logan Circle. Guests can enjoy the on-site restaurant. Private parking is available on site.
Each room includes a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom where you will find bath robes, free toiletries and a hair dryer. Select rooms offer a seating area. In-room spa services and a yoga mat are also available for guests.
2121 P St NW, Washington, DC 20037
This Washington, D.C. hotel is located less than 5 minutes’ walk from and boasts an on-site restaurant and bar. The White House is 1.6 km away.
Each modern room at the Royal Sonesta Washington DC features a flat-screen TV and plush bedding. Select rooms offer a deep soaking spa bath or a piece of fitness equipment. In-room massage and spa services are available.
1500 New Hampshire Ave NW, Washington, DC 20036
This hotel is located at the top of just minutes from the historical landmarks of , D.C. The is 120 m away
The rooms at The Dupont Circle Hotel are furnished with large windows and marble bathrooms. Modern amenities include an iPod docking station, flat-screen TV and free WiFi. Designer bathrobes are also offered.
1315 16th St NW, Washington, DC 20036
Located 12 minutes’ walk from the , this Washington, D.C. hotel boasts in-room spa services and an on-site restaurant. Dupont Circle is 8 minutes’ walk away.
Decorated with bright red accents, the modern rooms at Kimpton Banneker Hotel feature a flat-screen TV, Wi-Fi access, and a work desk. An en suite bathroom and a minibar are also included.
639 Florida Ave NW, Washington, DC 20001
Go-to gay bar for otter, bear, wolf etc.
● Insanely popular Beer Blast from 4-8pm on Sundays in spring and
summer.
● Friendly vibe with a diverse crowd.
Mon-Sun 5pm-2am
2014 9th St NW, Washington, DC 20001, United States
Friendly gay bar with regular drag shows
● Growing in popularity with high-energy weekend drag shows.
● Huge crowds for Sunday Funday
Fri-Sun 5pm-3am
1100 P St NW, Washington, DC 20005, United States
● Upscale venue with excellent cocktails like espresso martinis and
Hendricks Negronis.
● Offers Jennifer Coolidge’s "holiday pour" as a wine upgrade.
● Famous for its selfie-worthy bathroom.
● Huge, pet-friendly outdoor patio.
Mon-Fri 4pm-2am, Sat-Sun 12pm-2am
1435 P Street Northwest Washington, DC 20005
● Great for day drinking on their outdoor patio or during happy hour.
● Upscale video bar with two levels of seating.
● Entertainment includes drag performances and RuPaul's Drag Race
watch parties.
Mon-Fri 4pm-2am, Sat-Sun 12pm-2am
1410 14th St NW, Washington, DC 20005
● Popular bar, dance club, and performance venue.
● Huge outdoor patio in the back for socializing, including a small
smoking area.
● Unpretentious vibe; great spot to meet people.
Mon-Sun 5pm-2am
915 U St NW, Washington, DC 20001
● Features at least 4 bars spread across two levels with plenty of outdoor
space.
● Social and lively crowd ready to party.
● Upstairs dance floor with a cage that gets wild as the night progresses.
Mon-Sun 5pm-3am
913 U St NW, Washington, DC 20001
● Rooftop is a great place to relax and socialize with friends.
● Homage to pop princess Britney Spears in the back staircase.
Mon-Sun 5pm-2am
926-928 U St NW, Washington, DC 20001, United States
● Known for excellent cocktails and gay-friendly atmosphere.
● Recently won No. 33 on the list of 50 best bars in North America.
Mon-Sun 5pm-2am
Washington, DC 200011940 9th Street Northwest
● Hosts gay events that draw hundreds of sexy, sweaty, shirtless men.
● Popular for its wild dance parties and underground vibe.
● Hosts the well-loved Peach Pit ‘90s dance party monthly.
● Mostly indie bands, healthy mix of LGBTQ+ patrons.
Mon-Sun 5pm-3am
2001 14th St NW, Washington, DC 20009, United States
● Underground gay nightclub known for its wild parties.
● Famous for their underwear parties.
● Enter through a massive custom stonework steel door.
● Colorful murals, glittering chandeliers, and a kinky “fallout shelter”
pantry.
Fri-Sat 10pm-4am
2004 18th St NW, Washington, DC 20009, United States
● Popular with locals and the drag community.
● Features a specialty cocktail named after the current winner of the Miss
Adam's Morgan Pageant.
Mon-Fri 5pm-2am, Sat-Sun 10am-2am
2317 18th St NW, Washington, DC 20009
● Gay sports bar with a lively atmosphere.
● Beers, billiards, foosball.
Mon-Sun 12pm-3am / 4pm-2am
1520 U St NW, Washington, DC 20009
● A queer café and cocktail bar, perfect for a chill evening or date night.
● Above Big Planet Comics, closes at 11 PM.
Mon-Sun 4pm-11pm
1637 17th St NW, Washington, DC 20009, United States
● Premier spot for gay karaoke and bottomless mimosas.
● Drunken karaoke nights and Sunday brunch.
Mon-Sun 11am-2am
209 M St NE, Washington, DC 20002, USA
● DC’s only fully LGBTQ+ owned brewery hosting drag bingo.
● Drag queen Desiree Dik hosts and performs twice per night.
209 M St NE, Washington, DC 20002, USA
1836 18th Street Northwest Washington, DC 20009
● A cute neighborhood joint for lively conversation.
● Reliable cornerstone in DC’s gayborhood.
Mon-Sun 3pm-1am
1335 Green Court Northwest Washington, DC 20005
● A decades-old dive located in an alley off Thomas Circle.
● Fun happy hour specials and Thursday shirtless/underwear nights.
Mon-Sun 5pm-2am
2161 P St NW, Washington, DC 20037
● This gay bar tends to attract regulars who gather around the cozy downstairs bar. ● Yes, there is a real fireplace. Perhaps the most unassuming bar in D.C., and certainly among the most consistently fun
Mon to thur 1pm till 2am, fri to sun 1pm till 3am
U St Alley NW, Washington, DC 20001
● Games on TV, drag events (bingo & brunch), ● poker nights & karaoke draw patrons to this casual Gay Bar
Tue to Fri from 5pm, Sat & Sun from 12pm
2319 18th St NW, Washington, DC 20009
Lively, easygoing lesbian sports bar with a dance floor & event nights.
Open Thursday to Sunday
1519 17th Street Northwest Washington, DC 20036
● Originally opened in 1986, JR’s Bar has served DC’s LGBTQ+ community for more than 30 years right in the heart of Dupont.
Open seven days a week
Recommended Hotels in Washington DC
Book with confidence. Get the best Prices from our partner Booking.com
We have chosen hotels in Washington DC that keep you close to all the shops,restaurants & bars
Viceroy Washington
5 Star, Luxury
- 5 Star, Luxury, In-room Spa Services
- A short taxi ride to the gay bars
- Flat-screen TV, luxury amenities
- Boasts luxury rooms with spa services, yoga mats, a 24-hour front desk, and fitness center for a premium stay.
AKA White House
4 Star, Readers Choice
- 4 Star, Central Location
- A short walk to the gay bars
- Marble baths, luxury linens
- Centrally located with fully-equipped kitchens, marble baths, luxury linens, 24-hour front desk, and exceptional service.
The Dupont Circle Hotel
4 Star, Great Value
- 4 Star, Near Metro Station
- Close to the gay district
- Large windows, marble bathrooms
- Offers elegantly furnished rooms with large windows, marble bathrooms, modern amenities, and proximity to Dupont Circle Metro.
Kimpton Banneker
4 Star, Location
- 4 Star, Vibrant Atmosphere
- A short taxi ride to the gay bars
- Flat-screen TV, Wi-Fi, modern decor
- Modern rooms with vibrant decor, a sleek bar, breakfast and dinner options, plus morning coffee and tea service.
Video Of Washington’s MAL
Mr. Mid-Atlantic Leather 2020 – David Spivey
Top Gay Neighbourhoods in Washington
Washington, D.C. has a thriving LGBTQ+ community that plays a significant role in the city’s cultural, social, and political life. D.C. hosts a variety of LGBTQ+ cultural events and festivals throughout the year. The Capital Pride Festival and Parade, typically held in June, is one of the city’s most significant gay celebrations, featuring a parade, concerts, and other festivities.
Dupont Circle | Close to the city centre
Photo: Dupont Circle is home to some of Washington’s most popular gay bars
- Dupont Circle has long been considered the heart of D.C.’s LGBTQ+ community.
- It is home to numerous LGBTQ+-friendly bars, restaurants, and businesses.
- The Dupont Circle Fountain, located in the center of the neighborhood, is a popular gathering spot for the LGBTQ+ community.
- Many of the bars and clubs host special events during the annual Capital Pride Festival in late May.
Logan Circle
Adjacent to Dupont Circle, Logan Circle has also become a popular LGBTQ+ neighborhood. It offers a mix of bars, restaurants, & cultural attractions.
Adams Morgan
Adams Morgan is known for its diverse & inclusive atmosphere. It has a mix of LGBTQ+ friendly bars, restaurants, & shops. it hosts LGBTQ+ events throughout the year.
U Street Corridor
The U Street Corridor is known for its historic ties to the LGBTQ+ community and its vibrant nightlife scene. With several LGBTQ+ bars and clubs.
Georgetown
Georgetown is one of the most popular and well-known shopping districts in D.C. The main shopping streets, M Street & Wisconsin Avenue, are lined with shops & boutiques.
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