Celebrate the Colors of Holi at Union Market on Friday, March 13! In partnership with Chai Pani + RASA, Union Market District invites you to the fourth annual vibrant celebration of Holi, the Festival of Colors. Get ready for an evening filled with authentic Indian flavors, great music, dancing, cocktails and lively festivities—including the joyful tradition of color throwing and other fun surprises. Keep scrolling to view Holi FAQs.
Suggested attire: Not your nicest whites, but the colored powder is washable and non-toxic.
Location: The Plaza, 1325 5th St NE (Behind Union Market)
SCHEDULE:
5:45 PM: Suggested arrival. Guests will receive a satchel of colored powder and a T-shirt upon arrival (while supplies last).
6 PM: Time to throw the colors!
6:15-8 PM: Catch a live DJ set by Elite Entertainment + live dhol by Dholi Ram
Plus RASA, Chai Pani, Malai Ice Cream, Karravaan, Buffalo & Bergen, Doosra and Keya’s Snacks and will have food + drinks available for purchase. Union Market will be open for food, drinks and shopping!
Holi in the District is sponsored by Uber Eats, Kulture Khazana, Denim Rush, Open Water and Rupee Beer
Thanks to our entertainment partners Elite Entertainment and Dholi Ram
+++++++++ FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS +++++++++
📍Where exactly is the event?
Holi will be held in The Plaza behind Union Market at 1325 5th St NE. Enter from either side, 5th or 6th Street NE. Look for Holi at Union Market District signage and check-in stations.
🎟 Do I need a ticket?
This is a free event; no tickets are needed to enjoy the festivities. This event will be first-come, first-served. Colors and T-shirts are available while supplies last, so please arrive early.
🚲 What’s the best way to get to Union Market District?
Our first choice is to take Metro. Take the Red Line to the NoMA-Gallaudet U stop. Turn right on Florida Avenue NE. Turn Left on 4th Street NE or 5th Street NE to enter Union Market District.
Biking? No worries, there are three (3) Capital Bikeshare stations within Union Market District (on 6th Street NE across from The Market, on 5th Street NE & Florida Ave NE, on Florida Ave NE & 4th Street NE). There is an additional Capitol Bikeshare station near Gallaudet at 8th Street NE and Florida Ave NE.
If you choose to drive, there are many parking options in Union Market District: learn more here.
☔ What happens if it rains?
A few sprinkles can’t keep us down. Unless the weather presents a danger, the event will happen rain or shine.
🐶 Is this event pet-friendly?
We expect large crowds and highly recommend leaving your pets at home for their safety and comfort.
🍹 Can I drink at Holi?
Alcohol purchased at the event vendors is permitted within the designated event area. No outside alcohol is permitted. Please note: in the District of Columbia, it is against the law to consume alcohol in public, including in the streets. In Union Market District, you may only consume alcohol inside restaurants, within licensed patio areas, or within the licensed event areas. No outside alcohol is permitted.
💃 What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes you can dance and jump in that you don’t mind getting colorful! The color is non-toxic and washable but don’t wear your finest ‘fit! We will be giving out white Holi in the District T-shirts and color packets on a first-come, first-served basis. Please note that you will not be able to choose your color packets.
What else should I know for the event?
Arrive early! Vendors will have food and drinks available for purchase (while supplies last). Still hungry? Please visit The Market or make a reservation at our other Union Market District restaurants! For more info, see our Eat & Drink page.
We want to see your pics! Don’t forget to share with us by tagging @unionmarketdc in your posts and stories on IG.