Press Release: Royalty Begins MelaninCon Season 3 2026 With a Black Centered Happy Hour in Washington DC
[Washington, DC] — [January 20,2026] – Royalty, the official kickoff for MelaninCon Season 3, will take place on Friday, January 30, from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM EST at SOST. The event is set to bring together more than 600+ registered guests for a curated experience rooted in Black culture, connection, and presence.
Royalty is not positioned as a traditional happy hour. It is an intentional gathering designed for Black professionals, creatives, and community leaders to occupy a space built for visibility and shared energy. Following the massive success of last year’s event at Kitchen and Kocktails, this year’s gathering scales the experience to meet the growing demand of the MelaninCon community.
What separates Royalty from the standard Washington, D.C. regular happy hour is the atmosphere of unapologetic expression. Guests are invited to show up exactly as they want to be seen, with a dress code of “FLY Cocktail Attire.” From high-fashion cocktail looks to full gala attire, the event encourages attendees to dress without limits and take up space confidently.
“I really wanted to curate a space where my people can overdress, vibe and expand their networks,” says [Donovan the founder/curator/CEO]. “Royalty is a reminder that excellence should always be on display. Whatever space we enter or grace, the way we show up unapologetically is what truly makes our culture undeniable.”
The music for the night follows the natural energy of how our people come together:
7:00 PM – 8:00 PM: Low-volume 90s R&B to facilitate networking and meaningful conversation.
8:00 PM – 9:00 PM: A shift to a "Black family cookout" vibe, fostering warmth and familiarity.
9:00 PM – 10:00 PM: A high-energy "turn up" to close the night and celebrate the season ahead.
The event will feature signature cocktails available for purchase and unparalleled networking opportunities in one of the black owned and black operated venues. This is a 21+ event.
For more information or to request media credentials, please contact:
Media Attending
Linda Garcia Productions (Representing 953 Jamz & LindasLookingGlass)
Brands in Collaboration with:
Media Contact: [Info@CelebrationofUs.org] [CelebrationofUs.org]
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About MelaninCon: MelaninCON is the premier gathering for Black entrepreneurs, creatives, professionals, and changemakers. Since its debut in 2023, MelaninCON has brought together leaders from across the country for events filled with culture, connection, community, and growth. Through panels, workshops, curated socials, and networking opportunities, MelaninCON continues to expand its reach and amplify Black excellence.
