Mayor’s Arts Awards Reaches Four Decades of Distinction

September 22, 2025

The 40th annual Mayor's Arts Awards, scheduled for September 25 at the National Theatre in D.C., celebrates local artistic achievements while highlighting the District's commitment to supporting its creative culture. Originally established by former Mayor Marion Barry and continued by current Mayor Muriel Bowser, the awards coincide with 202Creates Month, which recognizes D.C.'s $15 billion creative economy. This free, black-tie event will feature performances by notable artists including Grammy-nominated Eric Roberson and go-go band Black Alley, with special appearances by broadcaster Donnie Simpson and other surprise guests.

Who is affected

D.C. residents, particularly local artists and creators
Nominees across multiple arts categories
Attendees of the free awards ceremony
D.C.'s creative economy workers and businesses
Visitors to Washington during the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation's Annual Legislative Conference

What action is being taken

The Mayor's Arts Awards ceremony is being held at the National Theatre on September 25
The Bowser administration is recognizing 202Creates Month to showcase the District as "the Capital of Creativity"
Residents are voting across multiple categories to select winners
City officials are offering free tickets to make the event accessible to everyone
The event is being moved downtown to a new venue (National Theatre) for the milestone celebration

Why it matters

The creative economy generates $15 billion for the city as of 2024
The arts sector fuels jobs, innovation, and tourism in D.C.
The awards continue a 40-year tradition started by former Mayor Marion Barry
The ceremony showcases D.C.'s artistic talent beyond tourist attractions
The event stimulates the local economy while highlighting the District's creative culture

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: The Washington Informer