(Washington, DC) – Today, Mayor Muriel Bowser and the award-winning DC Office of Cable Television, Film, Music, and Entertainment (OCTFME) officially kicked off 202Creates Month at Planet Word Museum with the inaugural 202Creates Con—a one-day experience focused on creative power, economic impact, and entertainment in the nation’s capital. Since the Bowser Administration first launched 202Creates in 2016, the celebration has grown into a citywide tradition, spotlighting the diverse talents and industries that fuel the District’s creative economy—from musicians, filmmakers, production companies, and visual artists to fashion designers, actors, theatre districts, tech innovators, and chefs. Events will take place throughout the month of September, and will culminate on Thursday, September 25 with the 40th Annual Mayor’s Arts Awards.
“The creative economy in Washington, DC employs residents, attracts investment, diversifies our economy, and strengthens the vibrancy of our city,” said Mayor Bowser. “And 202Creates Month is a celebration of the important role artists, entrepreneurs, and innovators play in telling the story of our beautiful and creative city.”
The inaugural 202Creates Con featured fireside chats, panels, immersive activations, live performances, and networking opportunities designed to connect and elevate DC’s creative community. Local and national entertainment leaders were also present, sharing insights and connecting directly with attendees. 202Creates Month celebrates the intersection of creativity, commerce, and culture, and how these industries generate jobs, build equity, and position Washington, DC as a global creative capital.
“202Creates is a strategic economic driver that powers our city’s identity as the creative capital and as an innovative economy,” said LaToya Foster, Director of OCTFME. “This year’s inaugural 202Creates Con will focus on growth, building a sustainable entertainment infrastructure, and attracting new business to our world class city.”
Throughout September, the city will host a variety of exciting events across all eight wards, including Art All Night, DC JazzFest, H Street Festival, Fashion Week, and more. New this year, Art All Night attendees can explore the festival through a free mobile app, available on the Apple App Store and Google Play. The app features an interactive citywide map, customizable schedules, and real-time updates, making it easier than ever to enjoy performances and activations across DC. To learn more about Art All Night, visit dcartallnight.org.
202Creates Month’s biggest night happens on Thursday, September 25, when Mayor Bowser will host the 40th Annual Mayor’s Arts Awards. This signature celebration honors the exceptional contributions made by members of Washington, DC’s arts and creative sectors, with winners chosen by residents. For more information, visit dcmayorsartsawards.com.
202Creates Month 2025 Highlights:
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August 27–31 |
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September 6 |
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September 6–13 |
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September 10 |
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September 12–13 |
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September 20 |
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September 20 |
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September 25 |
For a full listing of the creative events happening during 202Creates Month, please visit 202creates.com/event-calendar.
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