Celebrate Pride with Us at Gays & Graves: A Big Gay Festival!
Sunday, June 14th at Historic Congressional Cemetery 11 am – 4 pm.

Gays & Graves: A Big Gay Festival returns for a 2nd time to Historic Congressional Cemetery for a Pride celebration rooted in history, remembrance, and community.

As a National Historic Landmark and the final resting place of numerous LGBTQ+ activists and pioneers, Congressional Cemetery offers a one-of-a-kind meaningful setting to reflect on the struggles and achievements that have shaped LGBTQ+ life in Washington and across the nation. Today, it is not only a place of memory, but an active civic landscape where people gather to learn, connect, and celebrate.

Throughout the day, visitors can explore an outdoor market featuring LGBTQ+ and allied artists, makers, and small businesses, as well as programming in the historic chapel and the grounds focused on LGBTQ+ history and lived experience. This year’s festival will include a special commemorative wreath-laying with activist Randy Wicker at the grave of Leonard Matlovich, alongside the unveiling of new interpretive signage for the Cemetery’s LGBTQ+ section.

Whether you’re here to shop, learn or reflect, Gays & Graves is a celebration you don’t want to miss.

Mark your calendars and be part of this unforgettable day of Pride where LGBTQ+ history and legacy lives.

Dogs Allowed on Leash!

Event Schedule

11:00 am – Festival Opens

11:30 am – Opening Remarks from Miriam Julianna, the artist behind Eon’s Cranes Project

Noon – Panel discussion with Miriam and Rainbow History Project in the HCC Chapel

2:00 pm – Gay Corner Rededication Ceremony with Activist Randy Wicker

3:00 pm – Drag Story Hour with Charlemagne Chateau in HCC Chapel

4:00 pm  – Festival Closes

All Day Activities (11 am – 4 pm)

Make your own buttons and tree twirlers with HCC and Merry Pin

Zine workshop led by Lily Jay Harris

Make your own charm bracelet with Merry Pin (fee charged)

Community Wishing Tree project with Diane D’Costa