From Taste of Arlington to the Columbia Pike Blues Festival, the Armed Forces Cycling Classic to the Rosslyn Jazz Festival, plan your visit to include a great local event!
February
Crystal Couture
Calling all fashionistas! This is a must-do event for those who love high-end fashion. Professional runway show, pop-up shops, five-minute makeovers plus a vibrant nightlife scene. Free admission. Crystal City. 703-412-9430. CrystalCity.org
May
Taste of Arlington
Arlington’s incredible food scene is brought to the forefront in this fun, annual event. Incredible brews and spirits, family entertainment, live music, and of course, over 50 restaurants featuring the best eats around. Ballston. 703-664-1194. BallstonBid.com
Rolling Thunder
Begun as a demonstration for those military who were abandoned after the Vietnam War, Rolling Thunder has grown into a beautiful symbol of patriotism. The event includes a candlelight vigil at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, a Memorial Day parade and the First Amendment Demonstration Run beginning at the North Pentagon parking lot. Free. RollingThunderRun.com
June
Armed Forces Cycling Classic
All cycling enthusiasts are welcome! See Washington D.C.’s premier Pro/Am race on Saturday. Then on Sunday, all amateurs are welcome to participate in their own challenge ride. 202-966-0346. CyclingClassic.org
Columbia Pike Blues Festival
Blues enthusiasts and those looking for a great time will love this annual blues festival. Explore creative arts and crafts, sample local food and participate in local community activities. Brings the kids along for fun happenings just for them. Free admission. Columbia Pike. 703-892-2776. Columbia-Pike.org
September
Rosslyn Jazz Festival
Drawing more than 8,000 fans annually, this music festival features exciting performers that can’t be missed. Free. Rosslyn. 703-522-6628. RosslynVA.org
Vintage Crystal Sip and Salsa
Get transported to Spain, Portugal and Argentina. Get delicious bites from area restaurants—including paella and tacos. Dance to the rhythms of Latin jazz and dance in the streets. Crystal City. 703-412-9430. CrystalCity.org
Clarendon Day
Four stages of music, a chili cookoff, arts and crafts vendors from jewelry to photography and so much more! Experience this artisan community. Clarendon. ClarendonDay.org
October
Capitol City Brewing Company's Oktoberfest
Hosted by Capitol City Brewing Company, welcome the fall with an event filled with an oompah-good time! Authentic German music and food, as well as local food vendors. Sample brews from over 65 breweries. Shirlington. CapCityBrew.com
Army Ten-Miler
Held every October, the race benefits Soldier MWR programs. This event is also an opportunity for the Army to connect with the local community as over 600 soldiers volunteer to help during the race weekend. 202-685-3361. ArmyTenMiler.com
Marine Corps Marathon
For over 40 years, the MCM has been promoting physical fitness and generating goodwill with the local community. One of the largest marathons in the world, it’s a great race for those who’ve never marathoned before. 800-RUN-USMC. MarineMarathon.com
November
National Veterans Day Ceremony
Every year, this national commemoration is held at Arlington National Cemetery. Honor those who have sacrificed everything to protect the country we love. See the parade of colors as well as remarks from dignitaries. Arlington National Cemetery. VA.gov/opa/VetsDay/
