A free block party with food, discount beer and live music is taking over a portion of Clarendon this weekend.
Clarendon Ballroom is hosting a “Summer Jam Session” from 2-9:30 p.m. on Saturday — featuring pop, country and rock hits on an outdoor stage, plus yard games like cornhole and giant Jenga in a festive atmosphere.
“We’re incredibly excited to bring the Summer Jam Session to Clarendon,” said Mike Bramson, owner of Clarendon Ballroom operator B Social Hospitality. “What makes this event unique is its variety of live music and entertainment, creating an atmosphere where people with different musical tastes can all find something they enjoy.”
Food for purchase will include boardwalk fries, funnel cake, hot dogs and hamburgers, and the event will begin with a $2.50 “kick the keg” deal on beers from the first two kegs of the afternoon, Bramson told ARLnow.
The party area during the day is between Liberty Tavern and O’Sullivan’s Irish Pub on N. Irving Street. Entertainment will include sets from local country musician Jackson Perkins and cover band “Lights Out by 8,” as well as from DJ DConte.
After dark, Clarendon Ballroom will host a rooftop afterparty.
“As a free event for guests 21 and over, Summer Jam Session gives the community an opportunity to come together, enjoy great music, and experience the energy of Clarendon in a safe, outdoor setting,” Bramson said.
A VIP package, available for $11.44 via Eventbrite, offers a “fast-pass check-in,” a welcome alcohol shooter and access to a VIP viewing area.
Bramson is still awaiting a final walkthrough with Arlington County’s Special Events Committee, but he expects around 1,000 attendees. This is Clarendon Ballroom’s first summer-themed block party, but Bramson said it won’t be the last.
“We’re excited about the possibility of expanding the festival in future years by partnering with other bars and restaurants along the block,” Bramson said. “We think there’s tremendous potential to make the Summer Jam Session an even larger neighborhood celebration.”
