Halloween is Friday, bringing trick-or-treaters, free Lyft rides and lots of thematic events to Arlington.
Here’s a look at what county newcomers can expect and where to go locally on the spookiest night of the year.
When do trick-or-treaters show up?
Unlike some localities, there’s no designated time or place for trick-or-treating in Arlington.
Costumed kiddos usually begin their annual quest for candy shortly before sunset, around 6 p.m., though some parents with younger children begin before that. It’s usually over by 8 p.m., but some stragglers may stay out later.
Some areas will get few, if any, trick-or-treaters. Others — such as N. Jackson Street in Ashton Heights and 38th Street N. in Old Glebe — are popular destinations. As usual, those on the roads during trick-or-treating times, particularly in the popular areas, should be extra cautious.
The forecast calls for a crisp fall evening on Friday, mostly clear with lows in the mid-40s.
How to get a free ride
An annual initiative to curb drunk driving in the D.C. area offers free rides home on Halloween.
The SoberRide program provides each customer with one free Lyft ride worth up to $15 between 4 p.m. on Friday and 4 a.m. the following morning. Arlington Transit buses are also free beginning at 6 p.m. on Halloween.
The Arlington County Police Department will host an anti-drunk driving event in Clarendon beginning at 8 p.m., closing N. Hudson Street between Wilson Blvd and 13th Street N.
“Remember that it is never okay to drink and drive,” ACPD said in a press release. “Even after just one alcoholic drink, make the smart choice — designate a sober driver, or plan ahead to use public transportation or a ride service to get home safely.”
Where to go out locally
Finally, there’s no shortage of Halloween revelry to check out in and around Arlington. Below are some of the events planned for Friday night.
- Ghosts & Boo Halloween Party: 8 p.m.-1 a.m. at Boe, 2854 Wilson Blvd
- Halloween Bash: 9 p.m.-12:30 a.m. at Punch Bowl Social, 4238 Wilson Blvd
- The Haunted Ballroom: 7 p.m.-2 a.m. at Clarendon Ballroom, 3185 Wilson Blvd
- Stranger Things Halloween Party: 8-11:30 p.m. at Astro Beer Hall, 4001 Campbell Avenue
- Scream Scene Halloween Block Party: 8 p.m.-1 a.m. at Hyde Social, 3100 Clarendon Blvd
- Taylor Swift Halloween Party: 8-11 p.m. at The State Theatre, 220 N. Washington Street (Falls Church)
