Black Cat
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✨ 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
🎙️ Jenny Cavallero: Seated
Friday, August 7thA comedy special taping presented by Rhizome Comedy. Doors at 7:00 PM.
Burning Down The House: New Wave Drag Show 🏳️🌈
Saturday, August 8thNew wave themed drag performance. Doors at 8:00.
Girls Rock! DC August Showcase 🎸
Saturday, August 8thDaytime showcase event. Doors at 11:00 AM.
🎸 YARD ACT / THE ARMED
Friday, August 14thLive performance on the Mainstage. Doors at 8:00 PM.
ARGO & THE VIOLET QUEENS / MASSIE CUNI / PINKHOUSE 💿
Saturday, August 15thRecord Release benefit for Immigrant Solidarity Mutual Aid. Doors at 7:00.
🔄 Weekly Events
🎧 Monthly DJ Dance Nights
The Mainstage hosts monthly DJ dance events featuring the best underground and alternative acts.
🎯 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.
Monthly DJ Dance Events 🎧
The Mainstage hosts underground and alternative DJ dance events on a monthly basis.
📰 In the News
Stephen Sol & The 7 headlining at Black Cat in DC
Black Cat in Washington, D.C. is hosting Stephen Sol & The 7 as a headlining musical act. The venue continues to serve as a prominent destination for live music and performances within the District.
Yo! Flea was at Black Cat Last Night. And apparently plays the trumpet?!?!
Black Cat hosted a surprise appearance by Flea, who showcased his trumpet-playing skills during a recent visit to the venue. The iconic 14th Street music spot continues to be a destination for high-profile artists and unique, impromptu performances in Washington D.C.
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.
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.
Live Review: Destroyer @ Black Cat — 10/14/25
Black Cat hosted a performance by the band Destroyer on October 14, 2025. This live review highlights the musical atmosphere and energy of the show at the iconic Washington D.C. concert 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...
