Washington D.C.’s Cultural History

D.C. has a rich culture, from food, to music, to our large African American population. When coming to D.C., it’s only fair to indulge yourself in some of our favorite foods, clothing, and activities.

Mumbo Sauce

Chicken wings covered with mumbo sauce and fried rice. — Chicken wings with mumbo sauce and fried rice, The Washington Post.

Mumbo Sauce is a sauce often found at Chinese carry-out restaurants. Similar to barbecue sauce, it can be related more to sweet-and-sour sauce, often used for french fries and chicken wings.

Jumbo Slices (of Pizza)

A jumbo slice of pizza. — Jumbo Slice, Tasting Test.

Abnormally large slices of pizza? Yup, that’s D.C.! The jumbo slice became popular for clubbers in Adams Morgan looking to eat after an adventurous night.

Go-Go Music

Go-go music can be considered quintessentially D.C. Being our own genre, go-go can be defined as funk music, but also utilizes live instruments and audience responses. Check out this performance from Rare Essence to understand go-go better!

New Balance

An image of a pair of New Balance, specifically released to honor D.C. — D.C honored pair of New Balance, WTOP

New Balance shoes are often seen worn by locals, specifically the 990 shoe. Paying homage to the District’s love of the shoe, New Balance released a pair specifically to honor D.C!