Resources

DC is home to many spaces that offer community-centered resources and events. While we focus on alternative and DIY events, we want to spotlight other great places to explore. Reach out to us at dmv.diy.fyi@gmail.com if you have recommendations to add!

Independent Bookstores:

Solid State Books
Sankofa Video, Books and Cafe
Loyalty Books and Culture
Mahogany Books
The Potter's House Books
Bol Co-Op DC's first worker-owned bookstore!
Lost City Books
The People’s Book
JF Books (specializes in Asian and Asian American works)
Middle East Books and More
Little District Books (specializes in LGBTQ+ works)
Fantom Comics
East City Bookshop
Second Story Books
My Dead Aunt's Books

Cinema + Performing Arts:

Avalon Theatre
Sun's Cinema - independent movie theater + bar)
AFI Silver
Miracle Theatre
Gala Hispanic Theatre
Wooly Mammoth

Local Small Press/Zines:

Demystification - Distro + counterculture magazine
Lilac Press A DC-based publisher + literary journal that centers local trans authors and poets
Shining Life Press - "Washington DC Fanzine"

Record Stores:

Joint Custody - locations in Takoma Park, U Street; best place to get zines!!
Som Records - 14th Street
Byrdland Records - Union Market
HR Records - Brightwood/Uptown, specializes in Jazz + R&B
Smash Records - Adams Morgan
Crooked Beat - Del Ray, physical location temporarily closed but open online
Joe's Record Paradise - Silver Spring
Mojomala - Silver Spring
Art, Sound, Language - Chevy Chase
CD Cellar - Falls Church
Mobius Records - Fairfax
Sonidos! Music & More - Beltsville
Shady Lane Records (formerly Red Onion) - Hyattsville
Dinosaur Pancake - Hyattsville
Obligatory RIP to Record Exchange, CDepot

Spaces that host queer-centered events:

As You Are – LGBTQ+ cafe and bar
The DC Center – LGBTQ+ community center
Trade – Gay bar and nightclub
Showtime Lounge – Dyke Nites (Wednesdays)
Shakers – hosts drag shows
Past Tense Yoga Studio – free monthly yoga for trans folks (registration required)