The Arlington Public Library is giving away a free library wedding.
In July 2025, Central Library in Virginia Square will host a free ceremony and reception — including music by the Arlington Philharmonic, professional photography, decor, flowers, party favors and a wedding cake — for up to 50 guests.
All of this is sponsored through the nonprofit Friends of the Arlington Public Library. An online application, open to local residents, asks couples to answer the question: “Why would you love to get married at the library?”
The library promises to contact the lucky couple no later than Feb. 13 — just in time for Valentine’s Day.
This project is part of Arlington Public Library’s Arlington Reads program theme for 2025: romance. Throughout next year, the library will host romance-themed programs, including a guest speaker series with the authors of titles like “Bridgerton” — upon which the popular Netflix series is based — and “Red, White & Royal Blue.”
“I’m always looking for ways that the library can be a gathering place for our community, be a place where people can come learn new things, experience new things, and be a part of their community in a third place,” said Julia Berg, the library’s programming and partnerships manager, who came up with the wedding idea.
Couples hoping for a library wedding must be at least 18 or older, be cardholders at the Arlington Public Library, and be willing to have a public ceremony. They’ll also be asked to participate in any corresponding press or media interviews.
“We’re really hoping the community will be involved in this endeavor, and if people are interested in donating their time or talents to help make this wedding special for our couple, then we would love that,” Berg told ARLnow.
Wedding applications are due by Jan. 24, 2025.
“At Arlington Public Library, we believe in the power of love,” Library Director Diane Kresh said in a news release.
