The skies were clear and the champagne was flowing on Saturday night as VIDA Fitness celebrated its 10 Year Diamond Anniversary at the U Street Penthouse Pool & Lounge.
Ten years ago in June, the very first VIDA Fitness opened its doors in Gallery Place. Now, fitness lovers can choose from six VIDA locations all around the district. Urban Adventures Companies literally rolled out the red carpet to welcome guests to the Saturday night ceremony, positioning a sequined stilt walker at the doorway to greet excited patrons and pose for pictures. On the rooftop deck, acrobats stepped into floating bubbles and drifted through the pool performing their acts.
Towards the end of the evening, a candlelight vigil was held to honor the lives that were lost in Orlando just one week prior. Candles were passed around and strangers shared lighters to help keep the wicks lit in the breeze. For those few minutes, the chatter ceased and glasses were set aside as dozens of guests sat in reverence.
The party swelled in size, but even at full capacity there was a distinct feeling of community. Every few seconds someone was waving wildly across the pool to a friend they knew. Unlike some DC events where people are there “to be seen,” the guests at VIDA just seemed happy to be together.
I felt very fortunate and humbled to be a part of the evening. Happy anniversary, VIDA! Here’s to 10 more years.
