Night of Expression
Wednesday, June 10, 2026 | 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
📍 Busboys and Poets – 14th & V
2021 14th Street NW, Washington, DC 20009
Step into a night of bold voices, radical joy, and unapologetic self-expression at
Night of Expression, presented by Capital Pride and Busboys and Poets.
This annual Pride celebration transforms the entire restaurant into a vibrant space for poetry, music, storytelling, and community connection. Guests are invited to enjoy a full evening of performances while dining in one of DC’s most beloved creative spaces. Come early, grab dinner and drinks, and settle in for an unforgettable night celebrating queer artistry and expression.
The evening brings together powerful spoken word artists, musicians, drag performers, DJs, and open mic voices for a program rooted in creativity, liberation, and collective joy. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or stepping up to the mic for the very first time, this space is for YOU.
Throughout the night, we proudly uplift LGBTQIA+ voices and intentionally center the stories, experiences, and artistry of our Trans and Cis women communities. Expect vulnerability, laughter, truth-telling, music, movement, and the kind of energy that reminds us why queer art and gathering spaces matter now more than ever.
Come celebrate Pride through poetry, performance, food, music, and collective expression in the heart of DC.
Featured Performers
- Charity Blackwell
- Be Steadwell
- INK
- Beyond Your Definition
- Ricky Rosé
- DJ Diyanna Monet
🎤 Open Mic Opportunities Available
✨ ASL Interpretation Provided
🍽️ Full Restaurant Service Available Throughout the Event
⚠️ Content may contain strong language and mature themes.
Pull up, bring your people, and prepare for a night of affirmation, artistry, and queer joy.
Tickets
🎟️ Purchase Tickets Here:
https://tickets.capitalpride.org/e/night-of-expression-26/tickets
Purchase your tickets early and join us for an unforgettable night of poetry, music, performance, and queer joy.
Please also consider making an additional donation to support the Capital Pride Alliance and the Pride365 Fund. Your generosity helps sustain year-round programming, advocacy, community events, and creative spaces that uplift and celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community across the DMV and beyond.
Please note: Donations to the Pride365 Fund are separate from ticket purchases and do not serve as admission to the event.
All proceeds directly support the Capital Pride Alliance and the Pride365 Fund as they continue building affirming, inclusive, and impactful programming throughout the year.