Halloween falls on a Saturday this year, so trick-or-treaters won’t have to share the streets with rush-hour traffic.
Before the big night, Arlington and Falls Church have a full slate of costume contests, trunk-or-treats and spooky-themed events over the next two-and-a-half weeks.
Samuel Beckett’s is hosting its annual Celtic Festival on Saturday, bringing Irish music, drinks and vendors to Shirlington.
The annual event will take place from noon to 6 p.m., closing off Campbell Avenue from S. Randolph Street to 28th Street S.
The Falls Church Festival is coming back for its 50th year this weekend, with music, food and a scavenger hunt.
“We’re celebrating it very much like a big bash,” Falls Church spokesperson Mary Catherine Chase told ARLnow. “We want an anniversary or a birthday party. I think that’s going to play up a whole lot, is the celebratory mood of this.”
Rosslyn Jazz Fest is back for its 34th year this weekend, bringing food trucks, local vendors and live performances to Gateway Park.
With a lineup featuring Americana, Latin Jazz, funk and global sounds, Arlington’s largest free outdoor music festival is expected to bring big crowds from 1-7 p.m. on Saturday.
While Arlington is entering the later days of the summer, a full schedule of outdoor events continues through August.
Movie showings, live concerts and the Arlington County Fair are sure to draw crowds in the maybe-not-so-blistering heat of the late-ish season. Other outdoor attractions range from Rosslyn’s Dark Star Park Day to an outdoor bonsai class in Pentagon City.
A series of free outdoor concerts from D.C.-area artists is returning to Crystal City beginning this Friday.
“Fridays at the Fountain” will kick off at 6 p.m. with a performance from the indie rock band The Montaines at Water Park (1601 Crystal Drive). Shows will continue every Friday through Aug. 21.
The annual Columbia Pike Blues Festival returns Saturday, bringing a lineup of soulful tunes, artisan vendors and local bites amid the start of summer.
Preparing for its 29th year, the festival will take place from noon to 8 p.m. at a new location, Penrose Square (2597 Columbia Pike), hosting several regional and nationally recognized music acts.
Two days of vendors, activities and pet-themed fun are returning to Clarendon in an annual market happening this weekend.
Pet Palooza is coming to 2800 Clarendon Blvd from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. on May 30-31, bringing pet adoption opportunities, live music and giveaways. More than 50 vendors are expected to participate, offering items like handmade pet accessories, treats and toys.
A tasting extravaganza is coming to the food hall above the Rosslyn Metro station next month.
A Taste of Upside, happening from 2-5 p.m. on June 27, will offer samplings from Upside on Moore’s vendors alongside live entertainment and activities.
Food trucks, family friendly activities and feel-good jams are coming to Lubber Run Community Center later this month with the return of Arlington Palooza.
The event will take place from 1-6 p.m. Saturday, May 16, promising entertainment for all ages, a wide array of artisan and community vendors and a food truck alley with sweet treats and hot bites.
The Village at Shirlington is planning to host another yacht-themed party this June to kick off the summer season.
The neighborhood is bringing back last year’s nautical bash “by popular demand.” Guests are invited to dress up and partake in the neighborhood shopping center’s sip and stroll policy, while enjoying live yacht rock and dining specials around 2700 S. Quincy Street.
The Arlington Festival of the Arts is returning later this month in Clarendon, bringing over 125 exhibitors in a variety of mediums.
The outdoor art festival will be back for its 12th year on Saturday, April 25 and Sunday, April 26 at 1051 N. Highland Street, near the Clarendon Metro station. From 10 a.m.-5 p.m., local and national artists will showcase original pieces in an all-ages, pet-friendly art walk.
