Get ready for an adrenaline-fueled weekend at Union Market District! In partnership with Events DC, we’re bringing a unique go-kart racing experience, powered by K1 Speed, the world’s premier go-kart racing operator.
GET TICKETS NOW!
The weekend will be packed with go-karting excitement for all ages (a minimum height of 58” is required), from seasoned racers to complete beginners. Each 15-minute race will accommodate six drivers, perfect for creating fun memories with family and friends. Join us for the races and stay for live music, awesome entertainment and a variety of delicious eats from Union Market District’s favorite restaurants and bars.
Union Market District will come alive throughout the weekend with a variety of entertainment and activities:
- Live performances presented by Songbyrd daily from 7-9 PM, featuring The Experience Band & Show (Thursday), The Young Birds (Friday), Dale and the ZDubs (Saturday), and more.
- Community races, in custom-designed and wrapped go-karts by DC Motorsport Community, Songbyrd, Suburbia and Events DC.
- Suburbia Bar will be serving drink specials on Neal Place in partnership with Red Bull, the perfect way to recharge between races.
- Paddock Club at Hi-Lawn, hosted by DC Motorsport Community, offers a great spot to relax and soak in the racing action.
- Events DC’s VR activation will let you virtually experience the go-kart track using VR Apocalypse, bringing the thrill of the race to life in a whole new way. (Saturday)
- Red Bull F1 car RB19 on display (Friday and Saturday), representing the cutting edge of motorsport technology.
- Singapore Grand Prix Watch Party (Sunday) Lights out at 8am! DCMC will be showing the Singapore Grand Prix at Dock 5 with the amazing backdrop of an Aston Martin Fleet!
- NASA’s Rockets to Racecars (Saturday): Learn how NASA has partnered with the racing world to provide technology that helps the racing world and improves conditions for all drivers while helping to protect the environment.
- Le Petit Pastis (Friday, Saturday + Sunday) Starting this Friday, Pastis is taking French fare on the road (or down the street shall we say) to Race the District. Le Petit Pastis will be serving délicieux sandwiches and nostalgic sweet treats available exclusively at the pop-up. Fuel the race day fun with roasted chicken salad baguette with French breakfast radish and bibb lettuce and finish with a sweet treat: orange creamsicles with fresh orange juice and vanilla cream.
To secure your spot for the go-kart races, click here to purchase tickets. All other events and activities are free and open to the public.
PERFORMING ON THE UNION MARKET STAGE
Thursday, September 19 | The Experience Band & Show | 7pm
Friday, September 20 | The Young Birds | 7pm
Saturday, September 21 | Dale and the ZDubs | 7pm
Interested in sponsorship opportunities? Reach out to umdistrictmarketing@edens.com
FAQs
Please note: We expect Race The District to be an extremely popular event, with tickets selling out. Tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis. We will not be able to accommodate walk-up ticket sales. Tickets are not transferable or refundable.
How do I get there?
Take the Metro to NoMa-Gallaudet U and walk or bike with Capital Bikeshare. We expect large crowds, so please use public transit or rideshare services.
Where can I park?
The 1275 5th Street NE parking lot in front of Union Market will be closed. Please click here for additional parking information.
Where will the event take place?
Race the District will take place in front of Union Market on Neal Place NE, in the parking lot, and on the Plaza.
Do I need to purchase tickets?
General admittance to the event is free! Attendees who wish to race a go-kart will need to purchase tickets.
How can I purchase a ticket to race a go-kart?
Tickets will be available for purchase later this summer! Be the first to know and sign up for notifications when tickets become available.
Are group sales available?
Yes! Your group will have the ability to purchase group tickets and race together.
Is this event rain or shine?
Inclement weather conditions, including but not limited to heavy rain, thunderstorms, and high winds, create unsafe conditions for go-kart drivers. Races may be suspended or canceled. If races are canceled, tickets will be refunded. Additional activities will take place. Updates regarding any weather related changes will be found here before and during the event.
What are the requirements for drivers?
There is no age limit. All participants must sign a waiver before operating the karts. Anyone under the age of 18 must have a parent or guardian complete their waiver form. The height minimum is 58″, height maximum is 79″; and weight maximum is 300 lbs.
Do I need a license to drive a kart?
No license is required to race.
What are the safety measures to drive a go-kart?
In addition to the waiver form, helmets and other safety gear will be provided by K1 Speed. Please review additional details on safety measures.
Can I bring my own helmet?
Please do not bring your own helmet, K1 will provide all the equipment needed to race.
Can I bring the kids to Race the District?
Yes, the event is family-friendly! Please see the requirements for racing go-karts.
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.
Will food and beverages be available?
Please visit The Market or make a reservation at our other Union Market District restaurants! For more info: unionmarketdc.com/eat-drink/
Can I drink alcohol outdoors?
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 can you not bring to Race the District?
- Fireworks
- Poles or sticks (including selfie sticks)
- Projectiles
- Outside alcoholic beverages
- Weapons of any kind