Eat. Drink. Love. Along Columbia Pike
The Columbia Pike corridor in South Arlington is one of the most diverse areas in the region.
Columbia Pike Blues Festival
Groove to the music of the largest blues festival in the DC metro area with national headliners, great food, unique vendors and family fun.
Mark your calendar for “Arlington’s Best Block Party.” Every June since 1995, Columbia Pike has hosted the largest Blues Festival in the DC metropolitan area. This free outdoor music event sees thousands of residents and visitors come together each year for a weekend of fun. From live blues, jazz, bluegrass and funk, to family-friendly activities, to craft beer and wine to local vendors, you’ll find something for everyone.
Music
N.Y. Blues Hall of Fame Powerhouse Bette Smith Headlines All-Woman-fronted Lineup Celebrating Women In Blues 27th Columbia Pike Blues Festival.
Critically acclaimed soul artist and New York Blues Hall of Fame inductee, Brooklyn-native Bette Smith headlines The Columbia Pike Blues Festival on Saturday (1:00 – 8:30 pm) June 15th, 2024. Just weeks prior to Blues Fest, Bette unleashes her much anticipated third album, Goodthing (Kartel Music Group) with Grammy-winning UK producer Jimmy Hogarth. This year the Festival celebrates women in blues with a lineup of all-women-fronted bands offering a full array of blues, R&B, and funk performers of national and regional note that includes: three-time Blues Foundation Awardee Eden Brent; Mama Moon & the Rump Shakers; The Stacy Brooks Band; and The Honeylarks (Carly Harvey, Jenny Langer and Holly Montgomery). Bring your whole family to this free event covering three blocks at the intersection of South Walter Reed Drive and Columbia Pike in Arlington, VA.
Fun Activities
Beyond Saturday’s day-long music festival, enjoy a variety of other events over the weekend. You can join a Juneteenth history walk through the neighborhood led by the Black Heritage Museum of Arlington, groove to live music at the Columbia Pike Farmers Market and watch a free movie screening at the Arlington Cinema and Drafthouse.
Food Galore
Sample a variety of foods from local restaurants, food trucks and more. Past vendors have included Sloppy Mama’s BBQ, Mac’s Donuts, Rebellion on the Pike, Caspi Lounge & Restaurant and Cantina Mexicana.
Artisanal Vendors
Throughout the festival you can shop from a huge selection of artisans, commercial vendors and local nonprofits. From puppets to jewelry, home decor to home services, browse through the dozens of tents to find a truly unique collectible or gift.
Art Exhibits
Each year 9th Road South turns into Art Alley. The Arlington Art Truck offers interactive exhibits and activities and the Columbia Pike Documentary Project displays photos from their collection.
Kids Activities
Families flock to the KidZone, which in recent years has included a moon bounce, face painter, lawn games and more.
Learn More About the Festival
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