Chick-fil-A will open its newest metro-DC stand-alone restaurant in Fairfax on Sept. 19, giving away free Chick-fil-A for a year to the first 100 adults in line at the new restaurant at 4516 Fair Knoll Drive. It is the first in the region built by the chain to meet the standards of the U.S Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification program.
The new restaurant brings with it 70 new jobs.
Chick-fil-A debuted its First 100 promotion in 2003 as a way to introduce Arizona customers to its stand-alone restaurant concept and menu. When the first person arrived more than 18 hours in advance and asked where to get in line, it was implemented at all Chick-fil-A grand openings and has become a hallmark event ever since. Chick-fil-A’s most passionate customers arrive more than 24 hours in advance, packing tents, lawn chairs, computers, TVs, couches and all kinds of gear to make their wait more comfortable and entertaining.
Chick-fil-A provides security, entertainment, games and, of course, plenty of fresh Chick-fil-A. Recently across the country, hundreds of people hoping to win have arrived more than 24 hours in advance resulting in a drawing to select the 100 people (plus 10 alternates) who will stay 24 hours to win the prize. The scene is expected to be repeated at the new Fairfax restaurant Sept. 18-19. The line for the First 100 will open at 6 a.m., Sept. 18, with prizes to be awarded around 6 a.m. on Sept. 19.