If one feels so inclined to bust out their dancing shoes and perhaps cut rug (and by rug, I mean pavement on U Street), well then, one is in luck: the inaugural Funk Parade is this weekend.
The parade, which bills itself as a celebration of the history and culture of the city, U Street, and the spirit of funk, kicks of Saturday at noon. Similar to street fest like H Street Fest, Adams Morgan Day, Columbia Heights Day, and others, the Funk Parade will include an all day street festival on U Street between 9th Street and 16th Street, as well as a dedicated music festival at area venues at night and, of course, a parade. But that’s just the surface of what to expect on Saturday. Earlier this morning, organizers released the full slate of activities going on, which include multiple stages with live music during the day (Funk Ark, Brass Connection, Batala Percussion Band, Future Band, Yamomanem Jazz, the Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers, Head Roc, and more will be performing) street performers, dancers, a vinyl lounge, a dedicated family area, and much more.
At 5 p.m., the actual parade kicks off at U Street and Vermont Avenue, marching down to V Street, across to 13th Street, and back along U Street.
After that, the parade’s official music festival will commence at 7 p.m. at various venues across the city.
Check out the full slate of events below:
