Events DC Welcomes Starbucks to the Walter E. Washington Convention Center

The new location will serve as a convenient amenity for residents and visitors alike, expected to boost foot traffic and support Downtown economic vibrancy

Today, Events DC, the official convention and sports authority of Washington, DC, announced it will open a new Starbucks at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center on July 1, 2025. The premier coffee space will enhance the experience for residents and visitors. The new Starbucks will also support Events DC’s mission to showcase Washington, DC as a world-class, family-friendly destination, while contributing to the District’s economic vitality.  

“The Walter E. Washington Convention Center plays an important role in our city's civic and economic life, bringing together residents and visitors for local and global events,” said Mayor Muriel Bowser. “Having new businesses move in is good for visitors to the Convention Center, good for the residents who will work there, and good for our community, and so we are happy to help welcome this new Starbucks.”

“Events DC is thrilled to announce the addition of Starbucks at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center,” said Events DC President and CEO Angie M. Gates. “Starbucks provides our residents and visitors access to one of their favorite high-quality beverages, while creating a vital career pipeline for our local workforce. Our new addition will not only enhance the appeal of our world-class venue but also bolster the economic vitality of the Downtown corridor.”

The Starbucks opening will join a diverse mix of over 20 food and beverage concepts already operating at the award-winning Walter E. Washington Convention Center, offering everything from local staples to international flavors. Current vendors include Ben’s Chili Bowl, Firehouse Subs, South of the Border, Caribbean Cove, Taverna, and more. The offerings span fast-casual, grab-and-go, and specialty concepts, with Starbucks further expanding that variety.  

“We are grateful to Aramark for their continued partnership and shared commitment to excellence,” said Dr. Steven G. Johnson, Executive Vice President at Events DC. "Their collaboration plays a vital role in ensuring the Walter E. Washington Convention Center remains an award-winning world-class destination, celebrated not only for its premier location in the heart of the nation’s capital, but also for the outstanding amenities we provide to guests from around the globe.”

Starbucks will be managed by Events DC’s long-time food and beverage partner, Aramark Sports + Entertainment, which manages all food and catering services through the Convention Center. The addition underscores Events DC’s strategy to integrate globally renowned names with local flavor in a world-class destination for meetings, conferences and everyday community engagement.

"We are excited to expand our partnership with Events DC by bringing Starbucks to the Walter E. Washington Convention Center,” said Luis Sepulveda, General Manager of Aramark Sports + Entertainment. “Starbucks will not only enhance the variety of dining options available but also contribute to the vibrant atmosphere of the Convention Center. We look forward to delivering top-notch service and quality to the community with this latest offering."