<cal1>SEPTEMBER
<cal2>Panel Discussion on Democracy. A free, open-to-the-public discussion on gerrymandering, negative campaigning and other problems with the electoral process, lead by Arlington's representatives to the Virginia General Assembly. Saturday, Sept. 11 at 2 p.m. at Arlington Central Library, 1015 N. Quincy St., Arlington. For more information, call 703-228-3348. This event is part of The September Project to commemorate September 11. For more information on that, visit www.theseptemberproject.org.
Blue Ribbon Barbecue Day. An all-day celebration to support the local 4-H Club on Tuesday, Sept. 14, hosted by Rocklands Barbecue and Grilling Company, 4000 Fairfax Dr., Arlington. The event will feature barbecued sandwiches made from a champion swine, local produce, pies, apple cider and lemonade.
Art Show at Fort CF Smith. Sept. 18-19. The Arlington Arts Alliance presents an all-hung, all media exhibition at Fort CF Smith, of works that are inspired by the fort; its flora, fauna, history, buildings or grounds. Fort CF Smith is a beautiful 19-acre park at 2411 N. 24th Street, Arlington, that includes Civil War buildings, gardens, forest, meadow and an earthen fort. For more information, call 703-532-4450 or visit http://www.arlingtonartsalliance.org.
Vietnamese Harvest Moon Festival. The annual children's festival celebrates the end of the rice harvest, and is characterized by feasts, parades, traditional performances and dragon and unicorn dances. Presented by the Metropolitan DC Vietnamese community. Noon - 5 p.m. Sept. 19. Free Admission, games tickets 10 for $1. Thomas Jefferson Community Center. Call 202-213-5461 or 703-333-5854.
Emergency Preparedness Update. Wednesday, Sept. 22 at 7:30 p.m. in the Arlington Central Library Auditorium, Robert Griffin Jr., new director, Arlington County Office of Emergency Preparedness, will give an update on the programs and status of local, state and national emergency programs. The event is sponsored by the Arlington League of Women Voters. For more information, call 703-536-8270.
APAH 15-year Fiesta. The Arlington Partnership for Affordable Housing will celebrate its 15th anniversary on Thursday, Sept. 23, with food, drink and music by the D.C. Latin Jazz All-Stars, from 6-9 p.m., at the Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center, 3001 N. Beauregard St., Alexandria. RSVP by Sept. 17. For more information, call Julie Yoder at 703-276-2657 ext. 104 or email apah@cavtel.net.
Blocktoberfest. The street festival includes live music from 20 bands on three stages, a carnival midway, prizes, beer and children’s activities. Blocktoberfest runs from noon to 9 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 25, taking up five blocks outside Ballston Common Mall, including Wilson Boulevard from Randolph to Glebe and Randolph Street between Wilson and Glebe. Tickets $10 in advance, $15 at the gate. for more information, visit http://www.blocktoberfest.com.
Youth Dance Festival 2004. The Indian Dance Educators Association presents a day of discussion, education and performance with the area's young and upcoming Indian classical dance artists on Saturday, Sept. 25. Experience the rich heritage of Indian classical dance through the youth perspective, with panel discussions, lecture demonstrations and evening performances of Shakti in the Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, Kathak and Odissi styles. Gunston Theatre One. For more information, call 703-532-5479
Speedy Tolliver Fiddler’s Fest. Traditional fiddlers will perform in many styles in honor of 86-year-old fiddling legend Roy “Speedy” Tolliver. Sunday, Sept. 26, 12-4 p.m. at Lubber Run Amphitheater, N. 2nd and N. Columbus streets, Arlington. Free. For more information, call Arlington County’s Office of Heritage Arts at 703-228-1899
All Arlington Salon: Juried all-media exhibition for artists who live, work or maintain studios in Arlington, Sept. 29 - Dec. 18 at Ellipse Arts Center. Opening Reception: Thursday, Sept. 30, 6 – 9 p.m. Cash 'n' Carry Art Sale: Dec. 4 – 18. For more information, call 703-228-7710 or visit http://www.arlingtonarts.org/arts_comm/exhibitions.htm
<cal1>OCTOBER
<cal2>60th Anniversary Party. The Animal Welfare League of Arlington will present a cocktail and hors d'oeuvres reception on Friday, Oct. 1, from 7-10 p.m. at Army-Navy Country Club in Arlington. The event will include the auction of original animal-related artwork. Admission $60 per person. RSVP by Sept. 24. Call 703-931-9241 ext. 280 or email awlaevents@awla.org.
The Art Market in Welburn Square in Ballston. Saturday, Oct. 2, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. A juried fine craft market that is open rain or shine. Over 20 artists participate, with a wonderful selection of pottery, quilts, giftware, jewelry, clothing, toys, fine art and photography. The participants were chosen by a panel of artists and professionals, and they will rotate throughout the summer so that each market offers different items. For more information, call Lee Arts Center at 703-228-0560 or 703-228-4611 (TTY)
Pioneer Day Festival At Gulf Branch. Saturday, Oct. 2, 12-4 p.m. Each fall, for over twenty years now, people have gathered at the Walker Log House to celebrate our nation’s pioneer heritage. Old time games and crafts, live music, dancers, and local artisans. $3 per person. Gulf Branch Nature Center, 3608 N. Military Rd., Arlington. For more information, call 703-228-4747 or 703-228-4611 (TTY).
Fall Festival. This event will commemorate the 60th anniversary of the Animal Welfare League of Arlington. It will be held at the Animal Welfare League of Arlington, 2650 S. Arlington Mill Drive, starting at noon on Oct. 3 and will include games and contests for kids and pets, face painting, pumpkin painting and scarecrow making. Refreshments such as cotton candy, cider, and popcorn will be served. Items such as pumpkins, mums and homemade baked goods will be sold to benefit the League. Pet portraits will also be available. Free; donations welcome.
College Fair. Sponsored by Arlington Public Schools at Ballston Commons Mall on Wednesday, Oct. 13 at 7 p.m.
Clarendon Day. A street party held October 16, from 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Clarendon Day features the cuisine of local restaurants, the music of local bands, antiques and collectibles markets, and the art of area craft makers and artists. Call 703-276-0228 or visit www.clarendon.org.
Creepy Crawly Campfire. Saturday, Oct. 23, 5:30 p.m. - 6:45 p.m. at Long Branch Nature Center, 625 S. Carlin Springs Rd., Arlington. The whole family is invited to join us at the Long Branch amphitheater for lots of old-fashioned fun. This evening program will be filled with entertaining activities, which may include stories, special animal guests, games, songs and of course, treats like s’mores.
Teen Day. Performances, fashion shows, seminars, giveaways and discounts at Ballston Common Mall on Saturday, Oct. 23 for Families and teens aged 12 and up. Sponsored by Connect with Kids. For more information, call 703-228-1671.
Arlington Prepares Fair. 9 a.m. to noon at Arlington Career Center Saturday, Oct. 30. 816 S. Walter Reed Drive. Arlington's Office of Emergency Management, Arlington Citizen Corps Council and other partner organizations will offer free information to help you prepare for and recover after an emergency. Free.
Fall Fair At The Fort. Saturday, Oct. 30, from 1- 8 p.m.
at Fort C.F. Smith Park & Historic Site. A new autumn event for all ages. Hayrides, autumn games, painting pumpkins, and live animal presentations (featuring some Halloween favorites like bats and owls). Face painting, movies, demonstrations, snacks and scarecrow making (you provide the clothes) will all add up to a ton of fall fun for everyone! Meet at Fort C.F. Smith Park & Historic Site, 2411 N. 24th St., Arlington, VA 22207. $5 fee per participant (under 3 free); $20 maximum fee per family. For more information, call 703-228-4747 or 703-228-4611 (TTY)
Marine Corps Marathon. The annual marathon sponsored by the Washington Post, begins and ends in Arlington at the Iwo Jima Memorial after running its course past Washington's monuments, on Sunday, Oct. 31, beginning at 8:30 a.m. There will also be a 8k marathon the same day starting at 9 a.m. and a Health Kids Fun Run Oct. 30 at 10 a.m. Call 703-784-2225 or visit www.marinemarathon.com.
Senior Halloween. Culpepper Garden Senior Action Center, 4435 Pershing Drive, will hold its annual Halloween Party on Oct. 31. Includes a costume parade by Barrett Elementary School, music and refreshments. Call 703-228-4423.
Trick or Treating. Ballston Common Mall, 4238 Wilson Blvd., will host an annual Halloween Trick or Treating Event in late October. Children of all ages are invited to trick or treat throughout the mall free of charge in a safe environment. For more information, visit www.ballston-common.com or call 703-243-8088.
<cal1>NOVEMBER
<cal2>Giftwrapping & Santa Photos. By the Arlington Jaycees at Ballston Common Mall, including pet photos to benefit the Animal Welfare league of Arlington, Nov. 26-Dec. 24. For more information, visit www.ballston-common.com or call 703-243-8088.
Walk It Off With A Naturalist. Sunday, Nov. 28, 1- 2:30 p.m. at Gulf Branch Nature Center. Families with children ages 6 and up. After all that turkey, it’s time to hit the trails for some exercise and fresh air! Stroll with a naturalist and discover the charms of nature in late fall. Meet at Gulf Branch Nature Center, 3608. N. Military Rd., Arlington. For more information, call 703-228-4747 or 703-228-4611 (TTY).
<cal1>DECEMBER
<cal2>Chamber Meeting. The Arlington Chamber of Commerce will host its annual meeting on Friday, Dec. 3 at the Crystal Gateway Marriott, 1700 Jefferson Davis Highway, Arlington. The Chamber will present its incoming officers for 2005. Visit www.arlingtonchamber.org or call 703-525-2400.
Holiday crafts. Saturday, Dec. 4, 2:30 - 5 p.m. at Long Branch Nature Center, 625 S. Carling Springs Rd., Arlington, for adults and young adults ages 12 and up. participants will use all-natural items to create decorative items. Music, refreshments, basic instruction and enough materials for each participant to make at least two seasonal decorations provided; participants should bring hand pruners or wire cutters and any extra material or other special decorations they wish to add. $15 per person. For more information, call 703-228-4747 or 703-228-4611(TTY).
‘Tis The Season. The Arlington Planetarium, 1426 N. Quincy St., is presenting a holiday program that explains the reasons for the seasons, what is solstice and what people have done throughout history to mark it. Shows are at 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, and 1:30 p.m. and 3 p.m. Sundays Nov. 26 through Dec. 19. Admission is $2.50 for adults and $1.50 for seniors and children under 12. Reservations suggested. Call 703-228-6070.
Light Up Rosslyn. This annual ceremony will take place at the WJLA Jumbotron, 1100 Wilson Blvd., including refreshments and music by the Metropolitan Chorus, starting at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 2. Call 703-522-6628 or visit www.rosslynva.org.
<cal1>JANUARY
<cal2>Photo 2005. A regional juried photo exhibition of the works of photographers from Maryland, Virginia, D.C. and West Virginia, from Jan. 19 - March 5, 2005 Opening Reception, Thursday, Jan. 20, 2005, at the Ellipse Arts Center, 4350 N. Fairfax Drive. Call 703-228-7710.
<cal1>FEBRUARY
<cal2>Classroom on the Mall. An Arlington County Schools program to benefit a local charity or community activity. Feb. 12-14 at Ballston Commons Mall. For more information, visit www.ballston-common.com or call 703-243-7116.
Hispanic Theater Festival. Teatro de la Luna presents the Eighth Annual Festival of Hispanic Theater for adults and children Feb. 9-March 19 at the Gunston Theater Two, 2700 Lang St. Call 703-548-3092 for schedule and ticket information or visit www.teatrodelaluna.com.
Mardi Gras Celebration. The Clarendon Courthouse Mardi Gras begins with a parade at 8 p.m. on Feb. 8, marching up Wilson Boulevard from Danville St. to the Metro Station at North Highland Street. Call 703-276-0228.
<cal1>MARCH
<cal2>Trout Fishing Opens. Rainbow trout will be stocked in Four Mile Run Stream from Bon Air Park, 850 N. Lexington St. to Barcroft Park, 4100 S. Four Mile Run Drive, at 9 a.m. Fishing will be allowed daily from sunrise to half an hour after sunset. Bring bait and pole. A state fishing line is required for those 16 and older. ‘Kids Only’ fishing between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. at a designated site at Bon Air above Wilson Blvd. A green and white tent will be located near the rose garden to get help stringing a line or baiting a hook. Call 703-228-3403.
Shamrock Festival. The annual event takes up five blocks outside Ballston Common Mall, including Wilson Boulevard from Randolph to Glebe and Randolph Street between Wilson and Glebe. Saturday, March 12, 12 -9 p.m. Music, food, entertainment, activities, Authentic Irish dancers and music. Admission $10 in advance, $15 at the gate; Family discount available. Go to www.hiballevents.com for more information.
<cal1>APRIL
<cal2> Tax Blues Night. Clarendon's annual farewell to tax season April 15 runs from 6 p.m.-midnight at the Clarendon Post Office, Washington Blvd., and Hudson St. Entertainment includes rock, blues, youth singers, and belly dancers. Free. Call 703-276-0228.
Spanish-Language Book Fair. Arlington Public Schools will hold its annual Spanish-Language Book Fair Friday-Saturday, April 15-16 at Francis Scott Key Elementary, 2300 Key Blvd. The fair will be held from 3:30-8 p.m. on Friday, and from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday. Call Arlington Public Schools Community Outreach Specialist Ricardo E. Campos at 703-228-7208.
<cal1>MAY
<cal2>Arlington Tourism Month. Festivals and tourist attractions will spring up all over the community this month. Call 703-228-5720 or 800-677-6267 for more details.
Neighborhood Day in Arlington includes countywide events on Saturday, May 14, including neighborhood fairs, street festivals, and concluding with a parade at 2 p.m. from the Clarendon Metro to N. Wayne St. Multicultural festival in Courthouse Plaza, 2100 Clarendon Blvd. Call 703-228-3952.
Walk for the Animals. A pledge walk for people and dogs to benefit the Animal Welfare League of Arlington on May 14 as part of the Neighborhood Day activities, starting at 9 a.m. at Bluemont Park. Call 703-931-9241 x 280 or email awlaevents@awla.org.
Taste of Arlington returns to Ballston Common Mall, 4238 Wilson Blvd., on Sunday, May 15. Street festival with restaurants, entertainment, crafts, auction, and more. Free admission. Visit www.TasteofArlington.com.
<cal1>SUMMER
<cal2> Dinner and Movie. Free movie tickets with the purchase of dinner at Ballston Common mall, from June through August. For more information, visit www.ballston-common.com or call 703-243-8088.
Summer Concert Series. Beginning in June at Lubber Run Amphitheater and running throughout the summer. Call 703-228-7781 for more information.
<cal1>JUNE
<cal2>Volunteer Night. On June 23 the Barcroft Park will host the Summer Solstice Volunteer Night, with plenty of food and activities from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Please call ahead and register.
<cal>JULY
<cal2>County Fireworks. The Arlington County Department of Parks and Recreations sponsors an annual fireworks display on July 4 at Barcroft Park, 4100 S. Four Mile Run Drive, beginning at dusk, approx. 9:15 p.m. The display runs about 45 minutes.
'4th Fest.' Clarendon celebrates July 4 with live bands, beer, food booths and other activities at N. Highland and 11th Streets, from 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Cost is $10; children under 10 are free. Visit www.hiballevents.com.
50-Gun Salute. Fort Myer's Whipple Field will be the scene of a 50-gun salute on July 4, at noon. At 5 p.m., the field opens again to accommodate spectators and picnickers for the DC fireworks display which can be seen from the field.
<cal1>AUGUST
<cal2>National Night Out. An annual event observed in all 50 states on Tuesday, Aug. 2. Arlington County Police sponsors the event, and encourage residents to turn on their porch lights, hold cookouts, ice-cream socials, flashlight walks and other activities that present opportunities to get to know your neighbors. For more information, call 703-228-4123.
Arlington County Fair. The 29th Annual Arlington County Fair takes place from Aug. 18-21 at the Thomas Jefferson Community Center, 3501 S. 2nd St. The fair features exhibits, family entertainment, rides for children, food and entertainment. Shuttle buses leave from the designated Park and Ride areas regularly. For transportation and accessibility information, visit the Arlington County Fair web site at www.arlingtoncountyfair.org or call 703-920-4556. Dates and times are Thursday, Aug. 18, Indoors: 7-10 p.m., outdoors: 5-10 p.m.; Friday, Aug. 19, Indoors: 10 a.m.-9 p.m., Outdoors: 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sat., Aug. 20, Indoors: 10 a.m.-9 p.m., Outdoors: 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun., Aug. 21, Indoors: 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Outdoors: 11 a.m.-10 p.m.
<cal1>SUMMER AND FALL
<cal2>Lunchtime Concert Series. Free concerts every Tuesday (at Spice of Life Plaza) and Thursday (at Metro Park) in Rosslyn, from mid-May through early September. Call 703-522-6628 or visit www.rosslynva.org.
Public Swimming Pools. The county operates four swimming pools open to the public, call for hours of operation: Upton Hill Regional Park, 6060 Wilson Blvd. (703-534-3437); Yorktown, 5201 N. 28th St. (703-536-9639); Washington-Lee, 1300 N. Quincy St. (703-228-6262); and Wakefield, 4901 S. Chesterfield Road (703-578-3063).
Arlington Arts Al Fresco. Held throughout the summer, free performances at locations around Arlington feature music and dance for all ages. Call 703-228-1850 or visit www.arlingtonarts.org.
Military Band Concerts. Held from Memorial Day to Labor Day, 3700 Four Mile Run Dr. These free concerts feature at various times the Army band at 703-696-3399, the Navy Band, 202-433-2525, the Marine Band 202-433-4011 and the Air Force Band 202-767-5658.
Marine Corps Sunset Parades. Every Tuesday and Friday evening at the U.S. Marine Corps Memorial, the U.S. Marine Drum and Bugle Corps and the Silent Drill Team are featured. Tuesday Sunset parades begin at 7 p.m. and run from June 9 to Aug. 19. Friday Sunset parades begin at 8:45 p.m., and run from May 9 to Aug. 22. Parking is available at Arlington Cemetery. Call 202-433-6060.
<cal1>On-Going Events
<cal2> Volunteer Work Day at Potomac Overlook Regional Park, 2845 N. Marcey Road, from 10 a.m.-noon, on the first Saturday of each month. Help with the gardens or trails. Call 703-528-5406.
Clarendon Farmer's Market. Fresh produce and miscellaneous items are available for sale every Wednesday through October from 3-7 p.m. Market is located adjacent to the entrance to the Clarendon Metro Station. Call 703-276-0228.
Rosslyn Farmers' Market. This ongoing market is located at the corner of Oak Street and Wilson Boulevard and is open on Thursdays from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. from May 24 through Nov. 15. Call Lynn Schulsinger at Spice of Life at 703-524-2066.
Columbia Pike Homegrown Farmers Market. Another convenient farmers' market located at Pike Park on Columbia Pike at South Walter Reed Drive. Market is open every Sunday from 10 a.m.-2 p.m., May 6 through Nov. 23. Call 703-892-2776.
Flea Market and Community Garage Sale. Run by the Arlington Civitan Club, the market is held the first Saturday of the month from 7 a.m. - 1 p.m., April - November. The event is held at the I-66 Parking Garage at the corner of N. 15th and N. Quincy Streets. Call 703-228-3314 for more information.
Arlington Farmer's Market. Fruits and vegetables, cut flowers, plants, meats, cheeses, milk, eggs, wine, honey, Christmas trees and more from as many as 30 producers, at the corner of N. 14th Street and N. Courthouse Road. near Courthouse metro station. 8 a.m.-noon every Saturday year-round. For more information, call 703-228-6400 or 703-228-4611(TTY).