How to Book Your Band in Washington, D.C.
insider knowledge on how to play the Capital
Hey, it’s Caroline from Washington, D.C. band Cinema Hearts! I’m happy you want to make a stop in my hometown city. I’ve seen D.C. DIY change a lot over the years. The house show scene has gotten smaller (who can afford a house anymore?). More venues are built each year. And there’s a lot of diverse bands and artists!
This list is from my perspective as a musician in a rock band. There’s even more to discover in the hardcore, punk, metal, rap, jazz, and world music scenes.
Also, some of these recommendations are not in D.C. proper, but in Northern Virginia or Southern Maryland. Welcome to the DMV! (the District, Maryland, and Virginia).
Venues
There are a lot of venues in D.C. and yet it can be so competitive to book! If you’re looking to play an established venue, I recommend reaching out 4-8 months in advance. Unfortunately, D.C. isn’t the type of city where you can get a last-minute gig as a touring artist.
Many D.C. venues are in converted row homes and have steep stairs, narrow hallways, and limited space. Not all venues have an elevator.
Below are venues I would recommend for a small touring band, so don’t tell me “you forgot the 9:30 Club”. If you’re playing the 9:30 Club you probably don’t need my advice.
Small Venues
The Pocket at 7DrumCity
75 capacity venue in NoMA, Washington, DC.
Located at 7DrumCity, a music school & rehearsal space.
Stairs. No elevator.
70 capacity venue on the 2nd floor of a pie shop. Located on H St., Washington, DC.
Stairs. No elevator
They serve pie to the bands!
60-75 capacity dive bar in Silver Spring, MD
Booked by Rediscover Fire Booking, who also book at Comet Ping Pong
Stairs. No elevator.
50+ capacity DIY art space in a converted house in Takoma Park, MD
They have indoor and outdoor events.
Rhizome favors experimental, jazz, and world music, but they book many genres and events.
Performance space is on the 1st floor. Restroom is on the 2nd floor (stairs).
Medium Venues
150 capacity venue in the back of a pizza restaurant near Tenleytown, Washington, D.C.
Late shows with doors at 9pm or 10pm. Headliners perform at 11pm or midnight.
Booked by Rediscover Fire Booking
They serve pizza to the bands!
100 capacity venue in Shaw, Washington, D.C.
Stairs. No elevator.
150 capacity venue in Union Market, Washington, D.C.
Venue takes $850 from ticket sales, then 70/30 split between bands/venue.
250 capacity venue in the Wharf, Washington, D.C.
Booked by Union Stage Presents
Jammin’ Java (Vienna, VA)