Angie M. Gates
President & CEO |Events DC
As the official convention and sports authority for the District of Columbia, Angie M. Gates has led Events DC since November 2022 on its mission to generate economic benefits and build community for DC residents and businesses by creating, attracting and hosting premier events.
This, Events DC has accomplished in spades.
“Collectively, our conventions, meetings, entertainment and cultural events resulted in a net economic impact of over $450 million that helps fuel Washington, DC’s hotels, restaurants, businesses and the city as a whole,” Gates said. “This economic accomplishment is the result of an impactful world-class team.”
Of course, you have to spend money to make money to see that kind of return. In 2023 Events DC had an approved budget of $172.2 million, which helped facilitate a wide range of events.
And you have to have buildings, which Events DC does with a venue portfolio that includes: the 41,400-capacity Nationals Park stadium, home of MLB’s Nationals; 2.3 million square foot Walter E. Washington Convention Center, the 10,000-capacity D.C. Armory; the 4,200-capacity Entertainment & Sports Arena, home of the WNBA’s Mystics; the 27-acre Fields at RFK Campus and more.
Some of Events DC’s many initiatives this year included expanding their partnership with D.C. United of Major League Soccer and renaming Audi Field’s premium space the Events DC Club. In July, EDC helped bring USA Cycling’s criterium race to The Fields at RFK Campus. And the Coastal Athletic Association held both their men’s and women’s tournaments at the Entertainment & Sports Arena.
Gates says upcoming, Events DC will host the 125th Army-Navy football game in December, which will include “a week of unforgettable activities.” January brings the Big East Conference women’s game with Georgetown Hoyas and UConn Huskies. Just last week (Oct. 2), Events DC announced that Capital One Arena will host the 2027’s Division 1 hockey championship (“the frozen four”) and 2028 Division I Women’s Basketball Regional (a.k.a. “Sweet 16” and “Elite 8”).
“In May, we will welcome millions of people to the District of Columbia for WorldPride 2025,” Gates adds. “It also will mark the 50th anniversary of Pride festivities in the nation’s capital.”
Gates’ impressive bio includes becoming the first African American general manager of Washington D.C.’s Historic 1,847-capacity Warner Theatre (built in 1922).
Other previous roles include as associate general manager of the historic Saenger Theatre in New Orleans and the director of engagement relations and marketing for Clear Channel Entertainment’s theatrical division.
“Over the last year, we’ve had many impactful business successes,” Gates said. “The demand for live events is strong in Washington, D.C.”— Andy Gensler
