Nation was also recognized on a national and even international level for its three weekly DJ and theme driven nightclub parties. Nation became recognized locally for highly diverse concert events. DJ 'Mohawk' Adam brought industrial and dark electronic acts. On Saturdays, the party 'Industrial Revolution' hosted by D.C. It eventually became one of the country's largest weekly dance party/rave hybrid. The Capital Ballroom began holding 'Buzz' nights on Fridays, which hosted a number of national and international talent in dance music.
The club was located near the other seminal Navy Yard club called Tracks (1111 First St, S.E.), a large gay club at the time. The club first opened its doors as The Capital Ballroom in August 1995, with The Ramones, Björk and Lords of Acid being among the first acts to take the stage. The building later expanded as it changed hands, at one point serving as a warehouse for the military and finally as a factory for Hurley Boiler before it ceased operations. Built in 1924, the building initially comprised the front entrance of what became Nation, serving as a carriage factory.
