Things to Do

Barbie Land in DC: Barbie-Themed Parties, Screenings, and Events

Break out your best pink look for the "Barbie" movie.

Photograph by Jaap Buitendijk/Warner Bros.

It’s the summer of Barbie, thanks to the Barbie movie coming to theaters on July 21. Looking for a one-way ticket to Barbie Land? Spots around DC are channeling life in plastic with themed events and flourishes of pink. Here’s where to experience the Barbiecore fantasy.

Barbie’s World! Drag Show

209 M St., NE

If you’re already in the Barbie spirit, Red Bear Beer Brewing Co. is celebrating the movie’s upcoming release with a drag show on July 14 at 9 PM. Hosted by drag queen Evry Pleasure, the show will also feature performers Dax Exclamation Point, Rosie Beret, Crystal Edge and Theo Bromine.

 

The Barbie Parties

1101 First St., NE

Feeling inspired by the lyrics “come on, Barbie, let’s go party?” There’s an opportunity to party like Barbie for an entire week at Wunder Garten with free festivities from July 15 to July 22. Events include a “Barbie-Q” and “Ken-con,” where fans are invited to dress like Barbie’s beau. (Just don’t leave your “Ken-ergy” at home.) 

 

Barbie Drag Brunch

1250 Connecticut Ave., NW

City Tap House in Dupont Circle is hosting a Barbie-themed drag brunch ($38 per person) hosted by performer Crystal Edge starting on July 22. Dine at the buffet and sip mimosas while watching Barbie come to life. 

 

Barbie Special Screenings

630 Rhode Island Ave., NE; 1660 Crystal Dr., Arlington

Upscale movie theater Alamo Drafthouse has some Barbie screenings scheduled on July 22, and each showing has a different twist: Don your finest pink outfit for a costume session, or join Barbie for brunch during a matinée with a special menu. 

 

Barbie Dream Bar

2031 Florida Ave., NW

McClellan’s Retreat in Dupont Circle is offering six cocktails throughout the month inspired by Barbie and her crew. There’s the “Obligatory Ken Cocktail” made with mezcal and pineapple amaro, and even sidekick Skippers gets an watermelon-flavored “Everybody Forgets Skipper” drink. To live out your Barbie tea party dreams, order a hot pink cocktail that comes in a kettle with matching tea cups.

 

Barbie Yappy Hour

640 Rhode Island Ave., NE

Dogs can get into Barbie mania, too. District Dogs is hosting a Yappy Hour at Metro Bar in Brentwood on July 21 with pet-friendly drinks and games from 5 PM to 9 PM. There’s even a Barbie-themed costume contest for pink-loving pooches.

 

Pretty in Pink Summer Bash

1330 5th St., NE

Celebrate the iconic doll at this free Barbie-themed party in Union Market distillery Cotton and Reed on July 21 from 8 PM to 11 PM.Don a Barbie-inspired outfit for the photo booth, and enjoy an evening of cocktails and live music

 

Barbie World Experience

950 New York Ave., NW

Hotel Conrad DC is getting Barbie-fied for the premiere. Head to Estuary, the hotel’s restaurant, and rooftop bar Summit for Barbie-themed beverages such as a “Pretty in Pink Paloma” and “Barbie Dreamhouse,” a passionfruit non-alcoholic drink.

 

Pretty In Pink: Barbie Party

500 8th St. SE

Capitol Hill coffeehouse and bar As You Are is throwing a pink party to celebrate the movie on July 22. Dance to the DJ’s music and wear your best Barbie look to win a prize. The event runs from 9 PM to 2 AM, and you can purchase a $20 wristband for free-flowing drinks.

 

Essence Wiley
Editorial Fellow