Event Dates
From: Tuesday, October 29, 2024
To: Tuesday, October 29, 2024
The DC High Heel Drag Queen Race is an annual event that is held each year on the Tuesday before Halloween.
The DC High Heel Drag Queen Race is an annual event that is held each year on the Tuesday before Halloween.
- Visiting D.C? Stay steps from the event on DuPont Circle. Stay at the Lyle DC, rated Superb with delicious breakfast options and spacious rooms.
The Race
Thousands of spectators flock to Dupont Circle to watch costumed drag queens show off their elaborate outfits and race down 17th Street.
- Event Opens 5 p.m. Race Time: Begins at 9:00 p.m.
- This race began over 30 years ago, The origins of the high heel race can be traced back to when two men decided to race each other, in drag, from one bar to another.
- At the DC Drag Queen Race dozens of local residents dress in drag and show off their elaborate outfits.
- The event is a favorite of the Washington LGBT community but also brings a large crowd from around the region to enjoy an evening of Halloween fun.
The Schedule
- 5:00 pm | 17th Street NW opens to pedestrians, costumed racers and spectators (S Street – P Street Along 17th Street)
- 7:00 pm | High Heel Racer Registration opens (R Street NW)
- 7:45 pm | Parade line-up (Church Street NW)
- 8:00 pm | Join Mayor Bowser in Parade
- 8:55 pm | High Heel Race Lineup (R Street NW)
- 9:00 pm | Mayor Muriel Bowser starts the Annual 17th Street High Heel Race
- 9:15 pm | Award designation and After Show @JR’s (Church Street NW)
17th Street D.C.
- 17th Street is the gay epicentre of D.C. in the Dupont Circle neighbourhood of Washington, D.C., just a few minutes walk from Dupont Circle Metro stop. The neighbourhood also has several gay long time favourites, including:
- Annie’s Paramount Steakhouse – a local favourite for over 60 years, famous gay Upstairs Lounge and busy weekend brunch.
- DIK Bar – Simple but delicious Italian dishes are served in this eatery with a patio & bar hosting regular karaoke nights.
- Floriana Restaurant – Intimate white-tablecloth bistro and home to cosy gay-popular Dito’s basement bar.
- J.R.’s Bar and Grill – Gay watering hole with a patio popular for happy hours, show tunes and videos. A must visit when in D.C.
Recommended Hotels in Washington D.C.
The following D.C. Hotels are close to the bars and clubs along Dupont Circle and a short ride/walk to the High Heel Race:
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For further information and advice on
High Heel Drag Queen Race Facebook
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 .
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We have chosen hotels in Washington DC that keep you close to all the shops,restaurants & bars
Highlights from the 17th Street High Heel Race Washington D.C.
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.
Adjacent to Dupont Circle, Logan Circle has also become a popular LGBTQ+ neighborhood. It offers a mix of bars, restaurants, & cultural attractions.
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.