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Is DC About to Get a New Queer Hotspot? A Look at the Changing Landscape of LGBTQ+ Nightlife

The District of Columbia has a rich history when it comes to LGBTQ+ culture and nightlife. But like many cities, DC has seen its queer spaces evolve, disappear, and sometimes, thankfully, reappear.

With the recent closure of some iconic establishments, the community has been eager for fresh blood in the scene. Could a new bar called "As You Are" be the answer? And what does it say about the broader trends impacting LGBTQ+ bars across the country?

"As You Are": A New Hope on Pennsylvania Avenue?

Plans are underway for "As You Are" to open on Pennsylvania Avenue SE, taking over the former location of Stanton Greene.

This isn't just another bar; it's envisioned as a multifaceted space designed to cater to a variety of needs and interests within the queer community.

What to Expect: A Three-Story Haven

The proposed layout sounds incredibly promising:

  • Main Floor: Think Tryst on 18th St.

    NW - a relaxed cafe vibe, perfect for daytime coffee or a late-night bite. A comfortable meeting spot for friends and community members.

  • Upstairs: Get ready to dance! This floor will house a dedicated dance floor, complete with noise-reducing features to respect the neighbors.
  • Downstairs: A chill lounge area with games and interactive activities.

    This space is intended for more intimate gatherings and could even host daytime programming for groups like SMYAL, or brunches focused on uniting marginalized communities.

The venue boasts a capacity of 300 people across its three floors, suggesting ample room for diverse events and gatherings.

The owners, Pike and McDaniel, are considering closing around midnight on weekdays and later on weekends (2 or 3 AM). They're also being mindful of the neighborhood, planning staggered closing times across the floors to avoid a mass exodus onto the sidewalk.

Safety teams will be on hand to assist patrons with Ubers or directions to the Metro.

The Bigger Picture: Challenges Facing LGBTQ+ Bars

The potential arrival of "As You Are" is exciting, but it also highlights the challenges faced by queer bars nationwide.

The pandemic, of course, dealt a heavy blow. Many establishments were forced to close temporarily, or even permanently, struggling with the same issues as other businesses, but with added layers of complexity.

The Decline of Lesbian Bars: A Concerning Trend

Perhaps the most alarming trend is the dramatic decline in the number of lesbian bars.

Once numbering around 200 in the late 1980s, only about 21 remain open today. What's behind this decline? Several factors contribute:

  • Financial Challenges: Queer women-owned businesses often face systemic financial hurdles.
  • The Rise of Dating Apps: Technology has changed how people connect, with online spaces sometimes replacing physical communities.
  • The Pandemic: As mentioned earlier, the pandemic exacerbated existing vulnerabilities.

The remaining lesbian bars, like Herz in Alabama and The Backdoor in Indiana, serve as vital community hubs, offering a safe and affirming space for queer women.

They represent a crucial piece of LGBTQ+ history and culture that needs to be preserved.

The Evolution of Gay Nightlife: Adapting to Changing Needs

Even beyond lesbian bars, the gay nightlife scene is constantly evolving.

gay bar 300 capacity dc

The closure of iconic venues like Ziegfeld's/Secrets in DC is a reminder that these spaces are not immune to change. So, how are new establishments adapting? Some are focusing on niche interests, like Dave Perruzza's new gay sports bar in Adams Morgan. Others, like "As You Are," are attempting to create multifaceted spaces that cater to a wider range of needs, from daytime coffee to late-night dancing.

Is this the future of LGBTQ+ nightlife?

A blend of community spaces, entertainment venues, and safe havens, all under one roof?

What Can We Learn?

The story of LGBTQ+ bars in DC and across the country is one of resilience, adaptation, and community. While challenges remain, the potential opening of "As You Are" offers a glimmer of hope.

It underscores the importance of:

  • Supporting Queer Businesses: Consciously choosing to spend money at LGBTQ+-owned establishments.
  • Creating Inclusive Spaces: Fostering environments where everyone feels welcome and safe.
  • Preserving LGBTQ+ History: Remembering the legacy of the bars and community spaces that came before.

The future of LGBTQ+ nightlife is in our hands.

By supporting these spaces, we can ensure that they continue to thrive and serve as vital hubs for connection, celebration, and community.