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
TINDERBOX 90s Dance Party 💃
Friday, May 15th90s, Naughties, and Modern Alternative Dance Party w/ DJ lil'e. Located in the Red Room. Doors at 9:00.
💃 TINDERBOX 90s, Naughties, and Modern Alternative Dance Party
Friday, May 15thDance party with DJ lil'e in the Red Room. Doors at 9:00.
💃 TINDERBOX: 90s, Naughties, & Modern Alternative
Friday, May 15thAlternative Dance Party with DJ lil'e in the Red Room. Doors at 9:00.
💃 TINDERBOX: 90s & Alternative Dance Party
Friday, May 15thDance party with DJ lil'e in the Red Room.
🎧 TINDERBOX Alternative Dance Party
Friday, May 15th90s, Naughties, and Modern Alternative Dance Party with DJ lil'e in the Red Room. Doors at 9:00.
🔄 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
Preview: The Chameleons @ Black Cat — 4/17/26
Black Cat hosted the influential Manchester post-punk band The Chameleons on April 17, 2026, as part of their North American tour supporting the album Arctic Moon. The all-ages performance featured support from The Veldt and marked the band's return to Washington, D.C., with original members Mark Burgess and Reg Smithies.
The Black Cat Is Closing Its Downstairs Space
Black Cat consolidated its operations by closing its downstairs Red Room bar and Backstage music space to focus on its upstairs venue. The shift was designed to adapt to rising labor costs and changing neighborhood dynamics on 14th Street NW while preserving the iconic club's independent spirit.
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...
