This column is sponsored by Arlington Arts/Arlington Cultural Affairs, a division of Arlington Economic Development.
The sun, contemporary art and local history will converge to cast a long shadow on Arlington’s 41st annual Dark Star Park Day on Friday, August 1.
This special event, beginning at 9:00 a.m., invites the community to experience the remarkable shadow alignment of Nancy Holt’s iconic sculpture, Dark Star Park. Last year’s gathering served as the grand finale of a year-long 40th anniversary celebration of Arlington’s renowned public art collection. The public is encouraged to join us once again as this unique tradition continues.
At approximately 9:32 a.m., the spheres and poles of Holt’s Dark Star Park will cast shadows that align perfectly with permanent shapes on the ground. This moment marks the founding of Rosslyn and transforms the park into a striking space of cosmic connection. Rosslyn, known for its distinctive skyline and engaging public art, remains one of Arlington’s most dynamic urban neighborhoods. Light refreshments will be provided by the Rosslyn Business Improvement District to add to the festive atmosphere.
The annual shadow alignment commemorates the day in 1860 when William Henry Ross acquired the land that would become Rosslyn. Holt’s Dark Star Park examines ideas of land ownership and our relationship with the cosmos, with the spheres symbolizing stars fallen to Earth.
Dark Star Park stands as a pioneering example of integrated public art in the United States and was Arlington’s first major public art commission. It remains one of Holt’s most significant urban works, offering an accessible and thought-provoking experience for all. Holt (1938–2014) was a trailblazing artist whose practice spanned poetry, film, video and large-scale public sculpture. Her work consistently challenged audiences to consider how we see the world and our place within it.
Join us at 9:00 a.m. for brief remarks, followed by the shadow alignment at 9:32 a.m. Dark Star Park is located at 1655 N. Fort Myer Drive, where N. Fort Myer Drive and N. Lynn Street meet, just off Route 50/Arlington Boulevard in Rosslyn.
There are no tickets required to come and experience the shadow alignment, but we invite you to register on our Eventbrite page to receive updates and to place it on your calendar! Click on the links below for more information about Dark Star Park Day on August 1 and to learn more about Arlington Public Art.
