Black Cat
✨ Vibe
A legendary U Street staple that blends a storied rock-and-roll legacy with a welcoming, dark-hued alternative energy perfect for fans of all generations.🍸 Best For
Live independent music, surprise pop-up shows, punk and rock fans, all-ages concert experiences, dive bar enthusiasts.🔥 Highlights
- Rock Royalty Pedigree: Co-owned by Dave Grohl, this storied venue continues to make history, recently hosting an intimate, high-profile surprise pop-up show by the Foo Fighters.
- The Red Room Bar: A laid-back, no-cover hangout featuring pinball, darts, and a legendary jukebox paired with an excellent selection of craft brews, bourbon, and scotch.
- Professional & Welcoming: Renowned for its top-tier sound system and exceptionally friendly staff, the venue provides a safe and exciting atmosphere for both first-time concertgoers and seasoned "old rockers."
ℹ️ Need to Know
- Located just three blocks from the U Street/Cardozo Metro Station; always bring a valid government-issued ID if you plan to enjoy the bar, as the venue strictly enforces alcohol policies.
- The venue offers vegan-friendly food options and typically features a mix of high-energy standing room and side seating for a comfortable viewing experience.
📅 Upcoming Events & Specials
Fox Stevenson & Yue 🎧
Sunday, February 1stElectronic and bass music performance. Doors at 7:30.
Twice Night K-Pop Dance Party 🇰🇷🕺
Thursday, February 12thA dedicated K-Pop dance event. Doors at 8:00 PM.
Cryfest: The Cure vs. The Smiths Dance Party 😭🖤
Saturday, February 21stFYM Productions presents the largest Cure/Smiths dance party in the US. Doors at 9:00 PM.
🔄 Weekly Events
🎯 Red Room Bar After-Show Hangout
Open after every Mainstage event featuring a fully stocked bar, craft-brews, bourbon, scotch, darts, pinball, and a jukebox.
📰 In the News
D.C. Punk Music Festival LIBERATION WEEKEND II Reveals Full Lineup and Dates
Black Cat will host the main stage for Liberation Weekend II, a DIY trans-rights music festival scheduled for April 24–26, 2026. The venue is set to feature high-profile headliners including Laura Jane Grace, Ekko Astral, and Illuminati Hotties, with proceeds benefiting organizations like the Gender Liberation Movement and No More Dysphoria.
Archives Skate shop Opens in former Common Wealth space at Black Cat
Black Cat has welcomed Archives DC, a new skate shop occupying the former Commonwealth space at 1811 14th Street NW. The shop is now open daily, offering operating hours from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sundays.
Live Review: Lebanon Hanover @ Black Cat -- 10/22/25 | Parklife DC
Black Cat hosted the darkwave duo Lebanon Hanover for their debut Washington, D.C. performance in October 2025. The venue welcomed a large, captivated audience for a career-spanning setlist that featured hits like 'Gallowdance' and tracks from their latest album, 'Asylum Lullabies'.
Live Review: Destroyer @ Black Cat -- 10/14/25 | Parklife DC
Black Cat hosted a full-band performance by Destroyer on October 14, 2025, featuring a setlist that balanced new material from the album *Dan’s Boogie* with classic tracks like "Kaputt." The show highlighted the venue's capacity for intimate yet expansive sound, showcasing extended instrumental jams and atmospheric trumpet solos.
Photos: Laura Stevenson, Oceanator, and Katie Malco at Black Cat in Washington, D.C.
Black Cat hosted a live concert featuring performances by Laura Stevenson, Oceanator, and Katie Malco in October 2025. This photo gallery captures the atmosphere and highlights from the show at the storied Washington, D.C. music venue.
Recent Reviews from Google
Such a cool experience. As an old rocker from the west coast.... seeing a show at the famous Black Cat in DC was a bucket list. Also. DC people rock. I wish I could have seen every show that was...
Legendary venue hosting great live music. I had an excellent time watching one of my favorite bands Shudder to Think at their most recent DC gig. Excellent!
I took my 15 year old son here to see his first show. The staff were exceptionally professional and very good natured. Very chill without and of the too cool crap that one generally experiences and...
Always a great place to see a show. Large floor for standing and a long bar in one side with stools and some tables in a recessed area in the other side. There is a small room with another bar but...
Went to see a Wash DC local ska-punk band Kill Lincoln at the Black Cat a couple weeks ago and had the best time. My friend and I brought our high school sons with us and heaved them into the punk...
