In partnership with RASA and DC Dosa, Union Market District invites you to the vibrant celebration of Holi, the Festival of Colors. Following the overwhelming success of last year’s event, we are bringing back the festivities with even more excitement. Get ready for an evening filled with authentic Indian flavors, great music, dancing, cocktails and festivities. Please scroll down to view Holi FAQs.
SCHEDULE:
- 5:45 pm: Suggested arrival. Guests will receive a satchel of colored powder and a t-shirt upon arrival (while supplies last).
- 6:00 pm: Time to throw the colors!
- 6:15 pm-8pm:
- Enjoy music by Elite Entertainment, dancing
- DC Dosa, RASA, Malai, and Buffalo & Bergen will have food and drinks available for purchase. Proceeds from the participating vendors will be donated to Akshaya Patra.
- Union Market will remain open for guests to purchase from the rest of our vendors.
PARTICIPATING VENDORS: DC Dosa, RASA, Buffalo & Bergen, Malai, Elite Entertainment, DC Bhangra Crew, Desi Moves and Vibes
SPONSORED BY UBER EATS, RUPEE BEER, TOPO CHICO, AND KULTURE KHAZANA
+++++++++ FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS +++++++++
🎟 Do I need a ticket?
This is a free event; no tickets are needed to enjoy the festivities. However, advanced registration is recommended via Eventbrite. While registration is appreciated, it helps us understand how many guests to expect. If registration is “sold out,” please feel free to attend without having to register. This event will be a 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.
- Free parking is available in the surface lot in front of Union Market, entrance is on 6th St between Morse St and Neal Pl.
There are three parking garages located within Union Market District. For each garage, the first 3 hours are free, no validation required. $15 daily thereafter.
- The Batley/La Cosecha: Turn at Morse St and 4th St. The Mo: at the top of the hill on Penn St. (Enter at 4th and Penn St.)
- Gables Union Market: Beneath building, enter on 6th St side of building, between Penn St and Morse St and opposite Brentwood Hamilton Park and Gallaudet University.
- Please note: All parking gates are locked at 1 AM.
☔ 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 very large crowds and highly recommend that you leave 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.