So you’ve heard about Hookie Weekend and you’re considering going. This year, it falls on between June 18 – 22, 2026 and I am here to tell you why it’s a good look. Hookie Life is a promotion group based in Washington, DC that decided to bring back some semblance of “carnival” to the DMV area since the carnival parade was moved to Baltimore.
First of all, there is SOCA. Who doesn’t want to wine and jam with rum? Secondly, it’s super affordable, especially if you are in the tri-state area.
GETTING THERE
If you are flying into Washington, DC, you have three airport options. BWI (Baltimore), DCA (Reagan National) and IAD (Dulles – This airport is far as hell FYI). It is a 4-hour drive from the NY/NJ border.
WHERE TO STAY
Washington, DC is extremely drive-able so you can just about stay anywhere but most of the events take place in Northeast, Washington DC, so staying in the NOMA/Capitol Hill/H Street Corridor area is best.
Hotel Recommendations:
- Hyatt Place [Traditional]
- The Morrow [Modern Luxury]
- citizenM NOMA [Modern Industrial]
WHERE TO FETE
The Hookie Carnival weekend kicks off with a free fete, Release Therapy on Thursday, June 18. On Carnival Friday, Hookie wows us with their annual “duck work” type event where party attendees play ‘hookie’ from work. The following morning, we kick off Saturday Morning with Lion’s Pride Jouvert. TRUST ME, it’s worth it!
Riddim and Glow is my favorite event for the weekend, since I love to chip along side a music truck, and you get to wear your sizzling mondaywear. Plan to stay until about 8pm on Sunday.
Thursday, June 18
9PM – Release Therapy
Friday, June 19
12PM – Hookie DC
Saturday, June 20
7AM – Lion’s Pride J’Ouvert
5PM – Shine DC
Sunday, June 21
2PM – Riddim and Glow
Monday, June 22
1PM – Oasis Weekend Cool Down
THINGS TO PACK
Based on the parties, you need carnival chic outfits for Release Therapy and Shine. A bathing suit/swim trunks is needed for Hookie DC and of course jouvert wear. Lastly, bring an old costume with you, Riddim and Glow should not be missed.
Yours in Mas
Hi are any of the events inclusive of liqour or food? Can you bring your own cooler?
All events have food/drinks on sale, no you cannot bring outside drinks or food.
do you get three t-shirts in the jouvert purchase price?
hi there, you only get one tshirt per purchase