DJ Pedro Night commands the stage with infectious energy, transforming the urban landscape into a vibrant festival of music and unity. (Courtesy of ShotbyBlanco)
DJ Pedro Night commands the stage with infectious energy, transforming the urban landscape into a vibrant festival of music and unity. (Courtesy of ShotbyBlanco)

The DMV’s own ADOBO has taken the region by storm, transforming local dance floors into vibrant stages celebrating Black and Afro-Latino culture. What started as a grassroots event in 2018 is now a powerful cultural movement, and its recent stops in Washington, D.C., and Baltimore have proven that ADOBO’s message of unity through music resonates like never before.

Co-founded by Pedro Night, Walter Alvarado and Marcus Dowling, ADOBO is more than just a dance party; it’s a celebration of identity and diversity, with a mission to empower and uplift Black and Afro-Latino communities across the nation. Through its dynamic events, ADOBO provides a space for cultural expression, connection, and exchange, drawing on the rich heritages of Central and South America, the Caribbean, and Africa.

The DMV Comes Alive: ADOBO’s Homecoming

The tour began with an unforgettable night at The Bullpen in Washington, D.C., where a 3,000-person crowd gathered to dance to the beats of DJs like Night, DJ Moma, and Four Color Zack. The energy was electric as people from all walks of life came together, celebrating their shared heritage and the unique blend of cultures that defines the DMV area.

Night, ADOBO’s Nicaraguan-born CEO and co-founder, set the tone for the evening with a set that fused Afrobeat, hip-hop, Latin grooves, and house music, embodying the event’s core philosophy: to celebrate Black and Afro-Latino cultures through dance. 

“We wanted to start this tour in D.C. to show the country what we have here — a diversity and energy that you can’t find anywhere else,” Night said.

A vibrant explosion of confetti electrifies the atmosphere, with a crowd erupting in cheers as performers light up the stage during an ADOBO celebration. (Courtesy of ShotbyBlanco)
A vibrant explosion of confetti electrifies the atmosphere, with a crowd erupting in cheers as performers light up the stage during an ADOBO celebration. (Courtesy of ShotbyBlanco)

The tour’s DMV leg continued with a stop in Baltimore, where ADOBO brought its high-energy celebration to Power Plant Live! on Sept. 14. The event, held in honor of Central American Heritage Month, featured local favorites like Craze and Gio Sandz. The Baltimore stop showcased ADOBO’s commitment to bridging communities and highlighting the rich, diverse voices that make up the Afro-Latino diaspora.

“Baltimore has a special energy, and we wanted to celebrate that by highlighting the city’s connection to Central American and Caribbean cultures,” said Alvarado. “It’s about more than just the music; it’s about creating a space where people feel they belong, where they can come together to celebrate their roots.”

Black and Afro-Latino Voices at the Forefront

ADOBO stands apart by putting Black and Afro-Latino voices at the center of its events, ensuring that each gathering is a reflection of the communities it seeks to empower. From its affordable, inclusive approach to its carefully curated lineups, ADOBO has carved out a unique space in the nightlife scene where everyone is welcome, and every culture is celebrated.

“The beauty of ADOBO is in its diversity,” explained  Dowling. “We’re bringing together people from different backgrounds to dance, connect, and learn from one another. It’s a celebration of what makes us unique, and that’s powerful.”

Onward to Chicago

While ADOBO’s roots remain firmly planted in the DMV, its mission extends far beyond. 

Next, the tour heads to Chicago on Saturday, Sept. 28, where ADOBO will bring its signature celebration of culture and community to the Cerise Rooftop at The Virgin Hotel.

Two friends blow bubbles amidst a bustling crowd at an ADOBO event in Washington, D.C. (Courtesy of ShotbyBlanco)
Two friends blow bubbles amidst a bustling crowd at an ADOBO event in Washington, D.C. (Courtesy of ShotbyBlanco)

Featuring performances by DJs Gio Sandz and DJ Mochi, the Chicago event promises to carry forward the spirit of the DMV stops while adding its unique Midwestern flavor to the mix.

“We’re excited to bring ADOBO to Chicago,” said Night. “Every city has its own story, its own energy. We’re looking forward to seeing how Chicago’s communities come together to celebrate with us.”

Looking Forward

As ADOBO prepares to light up Chicago, the movement shows no signs of slowing down. With its focus on Black and Afro-Latino empowerment, ADOBO continues to build bridges, celebrate diversity, and bring people together on dance floors across the country.

“We’re just getting started,” Night emphasized. “This tour is about sharing the essence of what makes our cultures vibrant and strong. We can’t wait to see what’s next.”Follow ADOBO’s journey on Instagram and TikTok @adobodmv and stay tuned for the latest updates. For more information, go to adobodmv.com.

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