Around Town

Arlington’s signature program celebrating the nation’s 250th birthday attracted large crowds to Kenmore Middle School this weekend.

A little rain at the end didn’t dampen the spirits of attendees or the success of Arlington HistoryFest, which earned an estimated 2,000 attendees on Saturday. Sponsored by the Arlington Historical Society, it represented the major local effort connected with the national birthday celebration.


Events

Cinco de Mayo is tomorrow (Tuesday), bringing an outdoor taco bar and dancing to Shirlington and specials at several Arlington restaurants.

Guapo’s Restaurant is hosting its yearly Cinco de Mayo party from 2-11 p.m. at 4028 Campbell Avenue, prompting a road closure on eastbound Campbell Avenue between S. Randolph Street and S. Quincy streets.


Events

Star Wars Day is next Monday, May 4, bringing themed bites, activities and giveaways to Arlington.

A Lego Star Wars building event, Grogu-inspired donuts and even an on-theme protest are just some of the ways local residents will be acknowledging the iconic sci-fi saga. Here’s a look at what is planned in the next few days.


News

Arlington’s signature project honoring the nation’s 250th birthday is expected to attract a crowd of thousands in just a couple weeks.

The Arlington History Fest is slated for Saturday, May 9 at Kenmore Middle School — a date scheduled to avoid other events taking place in D.C. on the actual anniversary. It will feature more than 40 exhibitors, representation from the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment (Old Guard), food trucks and dozens of historical reenactors.


News

Some public-safety heroes walk on two legs while others walk on four, Sheriff Jose Quiroz noted as Arlington County Crime Solvers saluted the 13 K9 teams serving with local agencies.

Each of the dogs and their handlers at the Arlington County Police Department and Arlington County Sheriff’s Office have received specialized training to meet a range of challenges in an urban environment. As such, they are collectively deserving of the “Officer of the Year” award, Crime Solvers president Andres Tobar said.


News

Members of the Falls Church250 Committee are getting down to the nuts and bolts of preparing for the nation’s 2026 birthday bash.

At a meeting last week, committee members wordsmithed their way to reach a final version of the body’s mission statement.


Around Town

Pentagon City’s second annual Juneteenth Community Day is returning next week.

The free celebration, hosted by the Arlington nonprofit Challenging Racism, is scheduled for 4 p.m. on Thursday, June 19, at Metropolitan Park (1330 S. Fair Street). The event will include live music, performances and food trucks.


News

The founder of a beloved LGBTQ+ bar in Crystal City is getting married to his longtime partner on a float at D.C.’s WorldPride Parade this Saturday.

Freddie’s Beach Bar owner Freddie Lutz and his partner of 28 years, Johnny Cervantes, plan to tie the knot in bride-and-groom-inspired tuxedos atop a special Freddie’s display featuring a chapel.


Events

A full schedule of Pride-themed events is kicking off in Arlington this weekend as WorldPride commences in D.C.

The festivities begin with a light art projection and Saturday block party at the Ellen M. Bozman Government Center, followed by theatrical performances, DIY arts and crafts and more through June. Here’s a look at some upcoming Pride events across the county.


Around Town

Now celebrating a decade in Ballston, an award-winning Spanish restaurant is opening an outdoor patio as its owners consider plans for a new Arlington eatery.

SER co-owners Javier Candon and Christiana Campos commemorated 10 years at 1110 N. Glebe Road over the weekend alongside about 300 supporters. Expressing gratitude for community support and regional recognition, they teased expansion plans.


News

The Little City is starting to think big for the nation’s 250th birthday in 2026.

Much remains up in the air, including the question of how much funding the City of Falls Church will set aside. At a March Falls Church250 committee meeting, however, officials floated ideas ranging from history talks to planting a remembrance tree.


Events

King cakes, parties and themed drinks and foods are coming to Arlington and Falls Church for Fat Tuesday next week.

From purple, green and gold-covered sweets to New Orleans cuisine and church pancake suppers, here’s where you’ll find community celebrations and Mardi Gras activities next Tuesday, March 4.


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