Julianne Brienza is the co-founder of Capital Fringe a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization founded in the summer of 2005 with the purpose of infusing energy into performing arts in the Washington, DC region through their yearly Fringe Festival and year-round Fringe Training Factory. She is a native Montanan who has lived in the District for the past eight years. She currently lives in Columbia Heights and works in Downtown DC. 

Cultural Tourism DC asked some prominent Washingtonians to share with us their favorite places or events that are special and unique to DC. 

Julianne shares her top 5.

1. YMCA at 17th and Rhode Island Ave NW: The YMCA has become a little swimming, exercise haven for me. 

2. PANAM Market on 14th Street NW: It may look just like a little local supermarket – but inside they have fresh seafood. This past weekend I was able to get fresh blue soft shell crab. Not only were they delicious but it was also fun to pick them out with the help of the neighborhood children.

3. Meridian Pint on 11th Street NW: Bars in DC can be pretty much crowded all the time. I have found Meridian Pint to be the perfect bar to always get a place to sit. Great beer selection too! There brunch on the weekends is pretty fantastic too!

4. ERITREAN CULTURAL CIVIC CENTER 6th & L Street NW: This is located right next door to Fort Fringe. I love getting breakfast there. It is a great place to eat and meet some of DC’s best cab drivers.

5. Goethe-Institut 7th & I Street NW: The Goethe has been a Fringe venue for all five fringe festivals and will once again do it this year. They have great programming throughout the year. The staff is some of the most wonderful people I have met since being in DC. 

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