They call themselves “DC’s most iconic Irish party bar,” but DCist named it the “douchiest bar” in the District.
My friend, Keith Hall and his wife are huge Carolina fans, and he invited me to McFadden’s to watch the Panthers battle the Ravens. Being a part of the DMV Flock (Ravens fans who live in the DC/Baltimore metro area), I was happy to oblige. I brought my trusty Nikon D500 DLSR, a desire to watch a spirited action packed game, and an open mind.
I’m familiar with McFadden’s from my illustrious GWU days. I’ve never been to a college frat party, but I’ve been told that an excursion into the utter dark abyss of this oppressed saloon is like stepping into the set of National Lampoon’s Animal House. It’s a rite of passage for underclassmen, a place to celebrate 21st birthdays, and a place to make-out with the bartender for a free drink.
On weekend nights, the bar is packed with students and sweaty 30-somethings, acting like buffoons, dancing on tables and blowing off steam. Tuesday night is college night and the pub serves dollar beers out of a tub after 9pm. For those who choose to stumble back to campus past closing, you can purchase a $20 bracelet for bottomless beer.
Despite the obnoxious atmosphere, the bar is quite handsome, with wood-paneled walls and stylish indirect lighting, There are two levels, 5 bars, a dance floor and plenty of TVs playing every game on the docket, but with all the prime spots showing Carolina Panthers and Florida Gators.
I ran into Keith and his gang who promptly bought us Kamikaze shots — vodka and Blue Curacao, the same tint as the Carolina blue.
“Good to see you. You’re welcome to take as many pics as you like, as long as you tag the Capital Riot Facebook page.”
“I’d be delighted to – there’s so much energy here. How long has McFadden’s been your den?”
“We’ve been coming here since we stumbled into this pub, five years ago and asked them if they were showing the Panthers game. Since then the Roaring Riots have grown to over a dozen local chapters and host a weekly Podcast show.”
Fortunately for me, the Ravens soundly beat the Panthers at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, but there was no lack of fandom for Carolina and #33 Cam Newton.
Diehard fans cheered and hollered every time the Cardiac Cats scored a first down which made for dramatic photo ops.
“Well we can’t win them all, and I think we have a good chance of winning the division. Can’t wait till the Panthers play the Falcons later next month.”
“Well since I’m a diehard Falcons fan, I’m looking forward to the Dirty Birds playing our arch-nemesis in the NFC South.”
Keith introduced me to Mark Williams, one of the managers who also DJs on college nights.
“Love your pictures, you should come back and cover more of our events,” Mark said.
“Well I see you’re a Gator bar and Florida is my alma mater.”
“Then I guess you’ll be here 2-3 nights out of the week. Come for College Nights, we’ve got your tab covered.”
