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Washington, D.C., District of Columbia / Religious sites

Sixth & I Historic Synagogue

A revitalized historic synagogue in Chinatown, Sixth & I is a non-denominational Jewish congregation and cultural center for arts, entertainment, and ideas.

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Sixth & I Historic Synagogue
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What is the Sixth & I Historic Synagogue known for?

It is one of Washington, D.C.'s oldest synagogues and serves as a non-denominational, non-membership Jewish congregation. It is also a center for arts, entertainment, ideas, and Jewish life.

Where is it located?

The synagogue is located at 600 I Street NW, at the corner of Sixth Street and I Street, NW, in the Chinatown neighborhood of Washington, D.C.

What is the history of the building?

The building has undergone numerous incarnations over the last century, paralleling the evolution of the nation's capital. While some sources date the revitalized historic synagogue to 1908 or 1906, it is connected to Adas Israel Congregation’s original synagogue dedicated in 1876.

What are the venue's capacities?

The sanctuary seats 750 people across two levels, the social hall can accommodate up to 250 people, and there are two multi-purpose rooms that each seat up to 75 people.

Is the venue accessible?

Yes, accessible entrances, seating, and services are available by arrangement through Washington Performing Arts.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

Sixth & I Historic Synagogue is one of the oldest synagogues in Washington, D.C., situated at the corner of Sixth Street and I Street, NW in the Chinatown neighborhood. The building has undergone numerous incarnations over the last century, paralleling the evolution of the nation's capital, and is described as a story of renewal, revitalization, and reinvention. Constructed between 1906 and 1908, the venue serves as a non-denominational, non-membership, and non-traditional Jewish congregation. It has evolved into a modern center for arts, entertainment, and Jewish life, aiming to inspire more meaningful lives through an unexpected mix of experiences. The interior is designed for versatility. The sanctuary seats 750 people across two levels, while the social hall can accommodate up to 250 people. Additionally, two multi-purpose rooms each seat up to 75 people, making it a dynamic space for community gathering and cultural programming. Today, the building stands at the heart of the Lillian and Albert Small Capital Jewish Museum, further cementing its role as a cultural landmark in the heart of the Nation's Capital.

Visitor tips

  • Check the official website for current event listings and programming to plan your visit.
  • If you require accessible entrances or seating, contact Washington Performing Arts to make arrangements.
  • For events managed by Washington Performing Arts, arrive one hour before the curtain to access the doors and will call.
  • Allow extra time to explore the surrounding Chinatown neighborhood.

Nearby context

Located in the heart of Chinatown, Sixth & I Historic Synagogue provides a spiritual and cultural anchor upwind of the bustling commercial activity of the bustling Chinatown Gate area.

Sources

Evidence and links