A variety of Oktoberfest celebrations are coming to Arlington and the surrounding area this fall, including a party on the newly renovated deck of the Clarendon Ballroom.
Starting late next month, here’s where to go to celebrate the German festival that dates back to the early 19th century, featuring Bavarian food, beer and other merriment.
Oktoberfest at Clarendon Ballroom
The Deck at Clarendon Ballroom (3185 Wilson Blvd) is set to have a BierDeck Oktoberfest Celebration after Clarendon Day on Saturday, Sept. 27.
The real highlight, however, is a street festival planned for Saturday, Oct. 18 at the intersection of Wilson Blvd and N. Irving Street.
The Blocktoberfest Block Party is set to include the following:
- Live music
- Bavarian food
- Oktoberfest beers
- Souvenir steins
- Games and contests
- Drink specials
General admission to the festival is free but subject to capacity limits. A $12 VIP ticket will offer a “fast pass,” guaranteed admission and a tasting along with a complimentary pretzel.
“Enjoy live music, DJs, and roaming performers bringing nonstop energy to the street, while sipping Oktoberfest lagers, crisp ciders, and seasonal favorites,” the event listing says. “Feast on Bavarian classics from pretzels to bratwurst, collect a souvenir stein during Prost Happy Hour, and take part in yard games, contests, raffles, and giveaways.”
“Snap photos with festive performers, soak up the beer garden atmosphere, and experience Arlington’s ultimate Oktoberfest celebration,” it continues.
Other Oktoberfest celebrations
While some Arlington bars are still getting Oktoberfest plans together, more fun can be found nearby in Northern Virginia.
Shipgarten, located at 7581 Colshire Road in Tysons, is set to have an Oktoberfest German Kickoff on Saturday, Sept. 20, with a selection of over 50 thematic beers events like a pretzel toss and stein-to-stein pour.
A Kids Oktoberfest in McLean will come later on Sunday, Oct. 19, with live music, a moon bounce, a playground and more.
Also with a family-friendly focus, Holy Trinity Falls Church is hosting an Oktoberfest Fun Run at 3022 Woodlawn Avenue near Falls Church.
According to the event listing:
You’re invited to a FREE Oktoberfest Fun Run celebration in Falls Church! Friends, family, and neighbors are welcome to join us as we celebrate the fall with a fun run/walk around the neighborhood. At the end of the course, there will be donuts, pretzels, and beer (age-dependent), as well as activities for kids.
Neighboring Alexandria is also set to have a block-takeover for Oktoberfest, with a celebration at John Carlyle Square in the eponymous Carlyle neighborhood on Saturday, Sept. 17.
