On 14th and U streets, a new LGBTQ+ nightclub has opened in the former Tropicalia’s basement location.
Driving the news: The nightclub Bunker, which is fashioned after a fallout shelter, is celebrating its inaugural weekend with no-cover happy hours and various DJs each evening.
Why it matters: Due to the closure of stalwarts like the DC Eagle and the introduction of new establishments like As You Are, the number of LGBTQ+ venues in Washington, D.C., has changed in recent years.
The majority of LGBTQ+ establishments in the District are bars or restaurants, however Bunker is one of the city’s few LGBTQ+ nightclubs (alongside Green Lantern and the upcoming Town 2.0, per ABRA licensing).What to anticipate Concrete walls are covered with radioactive warnings, and a huge countdown clock hangs over the DJ booth. Two gender-neutral bathrooms are nearby, and a cabinet of “supplies” is stuffed with gas masks and ornamental medication bottles.
Co-owner Zach Renovatres tells Axios that the music lineup at Bunker will change weekly, ranging from electro-pop on Thursdays to disco on Sundays, with both domestic and foreign DJs taking the helm. The club will also showcase drag performances with performers from various LGBTQ+ subgroups.
We truly want to make sure that attendees from all facets of our lovely rainbow may attend and enjoy our events, he says.
Notable: Once happy hour expires at 9 p.m., there will be a cash cover charge of $10 to $30. Just outside the door is an ATM.
