Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›
The refreshed lineup for Liberation Weekend II celebrates the festival’s resilience in supporting the transgender community during challenging times.Tallahassee Today
The organizers of Liberation Weekend II, a fundraiser music festival for the transgender community, have announced a refreshed lineup after some acts dropped out. The festival, running April 24-26 in Washington, D.C., will now feature headliners like Devi McCallion, Pom Pom Squad, and Pool Kids, as well as after-parties with East Coast pop, electronic, and hip-hop acts.
Why it matters
The new lineup arrives as new state laws across the country threaten trans people’s legal recognition and safety. The festival aims to raise funds and awareness for trans activist groups like Gender Liberation Movement and No More Dysphoria during a challenging time for the LGBTQIA+ community.
The details
Earlier this month, D.C. punk band Ekko Astral dropped off the Liberation Weekend II lineup following several weeks of upheaval, including a peace order filed by the singer and bassist. The organizers have now announced new headliners and after-party acts to replace the departures. The festival will take place across two venues – the Black Cat for main stage events and the newly opened Transmission for afternoon showcases and after-parties.
Liberation Weekend II will run from April 24-26, 2026.The lineup announcement was made on March 30, 2026.
The players
Devi McCallion
A Toronto-based alternative pop artist who will replace Ekko Astral as the Saturday headliner.
Pom Pom Squad
An indie rock band performing at the festival.
Pool Kids
An emo band from Tallahassee, Florida that will close out the festival.
Gender Liberation Movement
A trans activist group that will receive proceeds from the festival.
No More Dysphoria
A mutual aid nonprofit that supports trans people in the process of transitioning, and will also receive festival proceeds.
Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›
What they’re saying
“To be a recipient this year feels like a special honor. What the Liberation Weekend team and the DC community are doing here is really powerful, and I hope inspires more mobilization in other cities and communities.”
— Nicolle Maroulis, Founder, No More Dysphoria
What’s next
Liberation Weekend II will take place April 24-26, 2026 across two venues in Washington, D.C.
The takeaway
The refreshed lineup for Liberation Weekend II demonstrates the festival’s resilience and commitment to supporting the transgender community during a challenging time, with proceeds going to key activist organizations.