Tips & Rules

We’ve been doing Buffalo Nite for many years, learning a few things along the way. Follow our tips to make your evening more enjoyable.

  1. Plan transportation early. The District’s traffic is notorious and parking is scarce.
    • We suggest taking the metro. The closest stations are Union Station (red line) and Capitol South (blue, orange, and silver lines), both within half a mile.
    • If driving, give yourself extra time to get to the event and park at Union Station for $21. Union Station is 0.3 miles north of Dirksen’s entrance.
    • Taxi cabs are harder to come by these days but are still available.
    • On-demand transportation companies are popular; download an app to your mobile phone. For security purposes, Capitol Police have blocked off the streets nearest our entrance; expect to walk a block.
  1. Best entrance. The entrance nearest the event is located at the intersection of First and C Streets, NE.
  2. Security. Dirksen requires you to pass through a metal detector and to run your bags through an x-ray machine; travel light. Dirksen security staff may be alerted to unattended items; we regret that neither Buffalo Nite volunteers nor Dirksen staff will watch your bags or other valuables.
  3. Wear comfortable shoes. Our event is a three-hour social event meant to be wandered through. There is no seating nor are there tables.

Dirksen Senate Office Building Rules

  • Food and beverages are restricted to the event space, i.e., Room SDG-50.
  • No sales are permitted within the halls of Congress. All transactions, including ticket purchases, must be completed by September 20.
  • Currently, masks are not required in Dirksen Senate Office Building. But be respectful of both those who choose to or to not wear a mask.
  • Attendees are forbidden on or beyond the raised dais.