Marc Barnes reflects on his history with Washington D.C.'s homecoming parties, recalling the first event he organized in 1991 which attracted a staggering 10,000 attendees. "We ended up with 10,000 people that would just not leave," he said, noting that both he and the venue were unprepared for such a large turnout. This initial success set the stage for years of prominent event planning, showcasing his ability to draw crowds at various venues across the city.
Barnes observes a shift in attendance at homecoming events over the years, stating, "the numbers now aren't what they used to be" compared to a decade ago. He attributes this decline to changes in the D.C. nightlife landscape as iconic clubs that once drew massive crowds have either closed or converted into residential buildings. He cites past venues like Dream or Love, which would bring in thousands for events featuring major artists, emphasizing that the scale of homecoming celebrations has altered significantly.
Despite the changing attendance dynamics, Barnes remains optimistic about the relevance of homecoming events, asserting that they continue to thrive, especially in formats like brunch parties at the Park at 14th, which have sold out completely. "I could have sold another 2,000 seats," he noted, highlighting a shift in focus from large concerts to more intimate gatherings that cater to a longing for nostalgia among alumni. This suggests that while the form may have changed, the spirit of celebration remains strong.
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