Home Sweet Home

December 11, 2024


Updates from Adams Morgan

Click Here to see previous updates in our newsletter archive

Check ObviouslyDC.com for the latest in DC government funding and grant opportunities for businesses.


Be prepared. Visit to Ready.DC.gov for preparedness information for a

variety of hazards including manmade and natural disasters.

Final "Snowy Thursday" with Carolers Tomorrow December 12 from 6pm - 7pm

Throughout the holiday season, visitors can enjoy the activities and festive decorations presented by the more than 240 local businesses. Please come to Adams Morgan to shop for holiday gifts, and enjoy seasonal drinks and dishes from restaurants for every palate.

It will snow with some winter wonderland magic from Foamboree on Thursday 12th at the plaza in front of Truist Bank at the corner of Columbia and Adams Mill Roads . It's a great event for families looking to make some special memories and enjoy some time together. Family Friendly. Free. Open to the public. More info is available on our website .

Holiday Gift Guide

Click here to browse our 2024 Adams Morgan Holiday Gift Guide.


AdMo Businesses: Let us know what your NYE plans are

New Years Eve may be a mid-week occurrence this year but we know that won't keep Adams Morgan restaurants and bars from ringing in the New Year in style.

Please let us know what you've got planned so we can help promote it by sending your specials and/or events to Brian Barrie . Also, please tag us in your social media posts so we can help spread the word!

🍾🥂🎉

The Adams Morgan Farmers Market at Unity Park

Every Saturday through December 21

8:30am - 1:00pm

at Unity Park (Corner of Euclid St and Columbia Rd)


Celebrating more than 52 years serving the Adams Morgan community.

Fall crops are coming in (trying to beat the nightly frost!)

We're ending TOMATOES, so get them while you can!

We'll have plenty of APPLES, PEARS, and fall goodies including

VARIOUS GREENS, WINTER SQUASH VARIETIES, PEPPERS, WINTER GREENS, AMISH JAMS, JELLIES and pickled VEGGIES

and other fall goodies.

REMEMBER TO BRING YOUR OWN BAGS and CONTAINERS for fragile produce.

PESTICIDE-FREE and natural color 🎄CHRISTMAS TREES🎄 available from the Licking Creek Bend Farm. A 6ft tree grown without pesticides can take over 10 years to grow. We grow our trees on what is called "marginal land", land that is too hilly to grow vegetables. For every tree we cut, we plant 6-10 new trees. Watch this short video (done by GW film students) about our Christmas Trees.


This season:

1. We will not be taking individual orders (except for trees 8ft and taller)

2. It will be first come first serve at the Adams Morgan Farmers Market, see details below

3 Trees larger than 8ft need to be special ordered with a pre-purchase deposit please help us gauge the number of trees to bring down each week. let us know if you want a tree and which week you want to pick up. larger trees over 8 feet require special orders. Email for more info.


Donate a Tree

If you'd like to get a tree for a family that cannot afford a tree, or for a shelter, etc., let us know and we will donate a tree. Let's talk!

"Sign of the Times" exhibit through December 15

Sign of the Times describes this point in human history as pivotal. In a world of competing values, how we organize ourselves going forward is up for grabs. In this context of radical climate change, both meteorological and societal, the artists of DCAC’s Sparkplug operate. Affirming that such instability demands that the inner self seek some sort of solace, many of these artists recount the importance of companionship, spiritual warmth, and expression. This exhibition does not provide any easy answers, because there aren’t any. While maintaining that things may work out for the better, it acknowledges that the obstacles are real, and how we negotiate them is likely to have repercussions going forward.

DC Arts Center - 2438 18th St NW

Holidays at The Potter's House

Holiday Bazaar: Saturday, December 14 from 10am to 2pm

Join Potter's House for their third annual Holiday Bazaar with local makers, taking place all day in their festively decked-out event room.

If you're interested in participating as a vendor, email The Potter's House at bookstore@pottershousedc.org.

Holiday Gift Guide : Peruse top books of the year, gaze upon our wondrous selection of games, marvel at a handpicked selection of doodads and baubles! Whether you’re looking to treat yourself or find a token for someone else, the gift guide has got you covered.

The Potter's House - 1658 Columbia Rd NW

Adams Morgan in the News

DPW Has Moved to a New Headquarters

The Department of Public Works (DPW) has officially relocated! As of December 6, 2024, they are operating from a modern, state-of-the-art headquarters designed to enhance efficiency and improve service delivery.


The new address is: 899 North Capitol Street, NE, 5th Floor


This move signifies more than just a new location—it reflects DPW's commitment to providing exceptional services and meeting the evolving needs of the community.

New Streatery Guidelines Adopted

The DDOT Public Space Committee (PSC) adopted new guidelines to support a permanent Streatery Program at the Special Hearing on December 5, 2024. The adopted guidelines are posted to DDOT’s Streatery website . Businesses should review the guidelines to understand the new design requirements and permit processes required to continue operating a streatery in public space.

Existing Permittees

If you currently have a Parklet or Other Special Event permit issued via the temporary Streatery Program, you may continue to operate your temporary streatery under your existing design until July 31, 2025 . After this date, you will need to have obtained a Streatery Design permit from DDOT to continue operating a streatery. This permit process will require that you bring your existing structure(s) into compliance with the new design requirements.

Beginning January 1, 2025, businesses may apply for the required streatery permits in TOPS . To assist with this transition, Kim Vacca will be hosting a series of virtual office hours beginning on December 16 th . You may register to attend a session by mailing streateries@dc.gov with your name, business, address and requested date/time. Slots will be filled in a first-come, first-served basis. You can view the available dates/times here: Streatery Office Hours.xlsx or on the Streatery website.

All businesses that currently operate a streatery will need to apply for a new permit before July 31, 2025. Note that businesses in the Adams Morgan streatery pilot project area (18th Street between Kalorama and Columbia Rds.) will not will not need signed/stamped plans for a licensed engineer/architect and will only need to show the overall footprint of the design, tables, seats, and any other elements they want to add.


Updates from RAMW

Final Vote for Cash Exemptions Tuesday

Following last week’s First Reading and Vote, DC Councilmembers on Tuesday will make their final and Second Vote to exempt businesses that serve alcohol and restaurants open until 3 am from being required to accept cash.

  • Recap: Following safety concerns raised by RAMW, enforcement of the Cashless Retailers Prohibition Act was paused until January . Councilmember Christina Henderson’s Entertainment Establishment Employee Safety Act extends the delay for some businesses until mid-2025.
  • Great, BUT: The Council rejected a proposal from Councilmember Kenyan McDuffie to exempt all businesses from accepting cash. A number of businesses are left behind in the currently proposed legislation, and RAW continues to advocate for full inclusion.
  • Sound Off: Contact Che today for more information about how you can make your voice heard.

Restaurant Week Early Bird Discount Ends Next Week

One of the DMV's most popular dining events returns Jan. 27 to Feb. 2!

  • The Options: Offer brunch and lunch at $25 or $35 per person and dinner at $40, $55, or $65.
  • Register Today: New Website = New Faster and Easier Sign Up! Save $50 when you register before Dec. 18. Log in to your RAMW member account and follow these steps to sign up today.

Friday: State of Latino Entrepreneurship

Don’t miss the 2nd Annual State of Latino Entrepreneurship workshop presented by RAMW partner JP Morgan Chase.

  • Learn More: Hear directly from local entrepreneurs sharing their successes, challenges, and their takes on the opportunities ahead.
  • Be There! Discover resources and networks to grow your business 2 pm Friday at the Bowen Building, 875 15th St. NW. Register now .
  • Questions? Contact JPMorgan Chase Vice President of Community Managers Maritza Gonzalez .

Metro Considers Extended Hours

Late-night commutes – in particular for hospitality workers – could get easier next year. Metro's eyeing a plan to keep the trains running until 2 am on weekends plus earlier morning starts.


  • Better Late Than … The proposed changes would help close critical transportation gaps: Service would run until 2 am Fridays and Saturdays (currently 1 am); Weekend service would begin at 6 am (currently 7:30 am); Weekday hours would remain 5 am to 1 am; If approved, changes could take effect as early as July.
  • Cost: Metro estimates the extended hours would cost about $6.1 million annually and would serve approximately 2,000 additional riders per weekend.
  • Be Heard: RAMW, along with fellow business groups, has long called for longer metro service hours. Tell Metro how these changes would affect your restaurant and team at speak@wmata.com .

Registration Open for Extended Inauguration Hours

Sign up now for extended operating hours during the 60th Presidential Inauguration Week Jan. 14 to 21.

  • How Late? Restaurants and bars who register may operate until 4 a.m., but must submit forms and payment by Jan.7.
  • Fine Print: Fees vary by license type. Entertainment extensions require separate applications. Learn more and register now .


Build a Resilient Business Ecosystem with Marisela Rodela on The Next Talk It Out Tuesday!

Join the Capitol Region Women’s Business Center on Tuesday, December 17 at 12:30 PM ET for Episode 5 of Talk It Out Tuesday: Creating and Cultivating Your Business Ecosystem where we focus on how to build a resilient ecosystem that supports the growth and sustainability of your business through strategic partnerships, access to capital, and community engagement.


Special guest, Marisela Rodela, is the Program Director for the Enterprising Women of Color DMV Business Center at Wacif . Marisela has over a decade of experience as a business owner and community specialist, with a strong background in public health, the food and beverage industry, and local small business development. Her leadership roles at DC Brau Brewing and the District of Columbia’s Brewers Guild have contributed significantly to the economic and community growth of Washington, D.C.


During this session, you'll learn:

  • How to build and sustain your business ecosystem
  • The power of strategic partnerships
  • The importance of cross-promotion

Click here to RSVP

CNHED Weekly Small Business Workshop Calendar

The DCSmallBizHelp workshop calendar is designed to connect entrepreneurs and small business owners in DC with local trainings, workshops, and other events that work to provide networking, education, and capacity building for small businesses. Click here to download the full calendar.

Featured Events:

ABC 101- Alcoholic Beverage and Cannabis License

Alcoholic Beverage and Cannabis Administration (ABCA)

December 17 | 10:00 am | Virtual

This is a foundation course designed to introduce prospective and new ABC license holders to ABCA and key ABC basics. While geared towards new entrepreneurs and industry staff, the training is also recommended for seasoned professionals looking to stay current on things like license types, regulatory inspections, available programs and opportunities, and more.

FREE | REGISTER HERE

Developing Financial Projections for Your New Small Business

SCORE Washington DC

December 20 | 12:00 pm | Virtual

In this webinar, you'll learn how to calculate your startup costs, project sales, and create a projected profit and loss statement and cash flow statement.

FREE | REGISTER HERE


Small Business Technical Assistance Working Group

Thursday, December 12 at 1:00 pm

Join CNHED on Thursday, December 12 at 1:00 pm, for their monthly Small Business Technical Assistance Working Group meeting. To end the year, they will prioritize the most pressing issues that the working group will be tackling in 2025 and address the upcoming Agency Performance and Budget Hearings.


Join Zoom Meeting

Meeting ID: 858 4286 8871

Passcode: 016260


Upcoming Webinars: Small Business Essentials

All webinars start at 12PM and last for 90 minutes.


THU, DEC 12

Creating a Quick Business Plan

In this webinar, we show you how to write your "Value Proposition" and use the "Lean Canvas" to capture key ideas, concepts and strategies about your business. REGISTER


FRI, DEC 13

Setting Up a New Business Entity

This webinar will help you build a roadmap you can use to identify your ideal clients and discover a value proposition that will set you above your competition. REGISTER


WED, DEC 18

Marketing Part 1: Developing Your Marketing Plan

This webinar will help you build a roadmap you can use to identify your ideal clients and discover a value proposition that will set you above your competition. REGISTER


THU, DEC 19

Marketing Part 2: Promoting Your Business

This webinar will cover the most common promotional methods, including networking, referrals, social media, content marketing, email marketing and SEO. REGISTER


2025 ABC Board, Office and Extended Hours Schedule

ABC Board Meeting and ABCA Office Schedule

The Alcoholic Beverage and Cannabis Board (ABC Board) will recess for their winter break following the hearing on Wednesday, December 11, 2024, and reconvene on Wednesday, January 8, 2025.


In addition, ABCA’s office will be closed in observance of Christmas Day on Monday, December 25, 2024, and New Year’s Day on Monday, January 1, 2025, and will reopen at 8:30 a.m. the following morning.


The 2025 ABC Board and office closure schedule has also been confirmed and is now available on ABCA’s website .


2025 Extended Hours Schedule

The 2025 Extended Hours Schedule is now available on ABCA's website . Approved On-Premises Retailer, Manufacturer with an On-Site Sales and Consumption Permit and Temporary License holders can sell and serve alcohol until 4:00 a.m. and operate up to 24 hours a day in conjunction with District Government and federal holidays.


Eligible licensees must submit an Extended Holiday Hours Registration Form at least 30 days before the first holiday for which they would like to extend hours. Once approved, registration is valid for all following holidays throughout the calendar year.


There is no fee to participate. Board Orders and Settlement Agreements may restrict participation.


FY24 Business Funding Opportunities

New and ongoing funding opportunities from the DC Government:

  • Creative and Open Space Modernization Tax Rebate - Open for Applications
  • Special Event Relief Fund - FY 25 application is estimated to open on or before November 8, 2024
  • Vitality Fund - Open for Applications

Go to ObviouslyDC.com for more information on all of these programs.

Grant Opportunities

💸Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure and Equipment Grants

A new grant is now available for food businesses supporting infrastructure and equipment in the middle of the supply chain for the District of Columbia. Eligible projects support food aggregation, processing, manufacturing, storing, transporting, wholesaling, and distribution of regionally produced food products. This program does not support growing crops or direct food sales to consumers or retail outlets.


A total of $1.4 million of RFSI funds to projects that maintain and improve food and agricultural supply chain resiliency through Capital Impact Partners, in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the District of Columbia Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development (DMPED).

More info and apply online by January 12

💸Funding for Latino-Owned Businesses

Are you interested in starting or expanding your business? Our team of business coaches can provide you with one-on-one advice and training to help you manage and grow your business. Apply online

💸 Amazon Black Business Accelerator

The Amazon Black Business Accelerator is dedicated to helping build sustainable equity and growth for Black entrepreneurs by enabling their success as sellers. More information .

Small Business Resource Center

DC APEX Accelerators help businesses

DC APEX Accelerator offers personalized business counseling and competitive insights for navigating the government contracting process successfully.

If you already have experience working on government contracts and are looking for help to secure other contracts, we are available to help. At the DC APEX Accelerator, businesses get help with strategies to pursue state, local, and federal government contracts.

The full calendar of upcoming events can be found here .


SBRC One-On-One Call Session: Steps to Obtaining a Business License

Monday – Friday; By appointment between 10:00 am – 4:00 pm

Register: dlcpsbrc.ecenterdirect.com/events


SBRC One-on-One Call Session: "Talk Business After Hours"

Wednesdays by appointment between 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm

Register: dlcpsbrc.ecenterdirect.com/events

Business Diagnostic Check - In Person Wednesday’s

Wednesdays by appointment between 10:00 am - 3:00 pm

Register: dlcpsbrc.ecenterdirect.com/events



Submit your events and specials!

List your Adams Morgan events and business specials on our webpage for free! Click here to go to the event submission form, fill it out completely, and click on "submit event." Event submissions are reviewed to ensure the events either take place within the Adams Morgan business district or are being put on by an Adams Morgan business, and once approved should appear on the website within 48 hours.

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

Sponsor one of our community events! Partner with our community while reaching some of the city's most desirable demographics. For details, contact Kristen Barden at 202-997-0783.

BOARD MEETINGS

The Board of Directors of the Adams Morgan Partnership Business Improvement District meets on the second Tuesday of every month (except August, October, and December).

Meetings are currently being held online as well as in-person (hybrid) and begin at 5pm.

Our Annual Meeting is held in March. Contact Brian Barrie for information about attending board meetings.

Tag us on social media!

© Adams Morgan Partnership