Sycamore & Oak, located on the historic former St. Elizabeth’s campus, celebrates its first anniversary with a weekend of festivities, showcasing a year of growth, community, and inclusivity. Built for and by Congress Heights, this vibrant space exemplifies inclusive development, participatory economics, community engagement, and transformation.

The Retail Village at Sycamore & Oak, a 20,000-square-foot year-round destination, offers shopping, arts, culture, entertainment, and wellness resources. Local small businesses thrive with support from innovative programs like “Incubate the Eight,” which hones the skills of emerging Black entrepreneurs, and the “Chefs-In-Residence” program, which provides mentorship from the renowned Jose Andres Group.

The future promises even more for Sycamore & Oak, with plans to transform the space into a new town square complete with local stores, affordable senior and workforce housing, an office building, and a hotel. This will underline a commitment to sustainable and inclusive growth in Congress Heights.

The anniversary celebration starts on Friday, June 14th, with “Taste of SOAK” from 4 PM to 8 PM. This event features food and wine tastings from local favorites @dionnesgoodfood, @triceys_dc, @glizzysdc, and @bunatalkcafe. Art enthusiasts can enjoy an exhibit hosted by @brianbaileyisart and a Sip & Paint session with artist @rikasso, all set to music by @farrahflosscett.

On Saturday, June 15th, the festivities continue with “Homecoming” from 12 PM to 8 PM. Attendees can explore a pop-up market showcasing vendors across the DMV, enjoy music by @dj_59, and partake in a playground dedication complete with a moon bounce, face painting, and a life-size coloring book. Highlights include a Greek Stroll, a DJ Battle featuring @_djboogie and @djsetfire, and live performances by @weareblackalley at 3:30 PM and @backyardband at 6:00 PM.

The celebration wraps up on Sunday, June 16th, with “Fit Fathers + Brunch” from 11 AM to 5 PM. Joe Houston of @wefitdc hosts the day, which includes cardio and strength training sessions, fitness challenges, live music, brunch, and a unique honey extraction and bottling experience.

Managed by the Congress Heights Training and Development Corporation, Sycamore & Oak continues to be a dynamic space for every generation. For more information and parking details, visit sycamoreandoak.com or contact events@sycamoreandoak.com.