Hill Lesbian Bar Phase 1 Closes for Upgrades

The Barracks Row bar Phase 1 has shuttered for renovations, management announced.

“Phase 1 will be closed temporarily as we make some upgrades,” a message on the Facebook page of the 525 8th St. SE bar says.

Owner Allen Carroll, who did not immediately respond to inquiries, told Metro Weekly that the bar will reopen.

“In preparations for the upcoming 45th anniversary for Phase 1 of Capitol Hill, we will be closed for some sprucing up,” Carroll said. “We will reopen soon with a fresh look, and new lighting and sound.” He didn’t share an estimated reopening date.

Open since 1970, Phase 1 touts itself as the oldest continually operating lesbian bar in the country, with live music, karaoke and Jell-O wrestling.

The venue was scheduled to host the second annual Lez Sing Karaoke Contest tonight. The Human Rights Campaign-sponsored event will now be held at Nellie’s Sports Bar at 900 U S. NW.

D.C. gay bars that have permanently closed in recent years include Remington’s on Pennsylvania Avenue SE, Apex near Dupont Circle and Mova near Logan Circle.

Photo via Flickr/notionscapital