Although the country’s 250th has passed, there are still plenty of fun activities to enjoy in Arlington this season. Enjoy music, movies, and all sorts of family-friendly activities with a little help from ATP to ensure you’re commuting efficiently. Have fun this summer!
The Netherlands Carillon is a 127-foot tall memorial bell tower containing 53 bells located on a ridge overlooking the Potomac River, Washington DC, the National Cemetery, and more. The memorial was erected in the 1960s and symbolizes both freedom and friendship between the Netherlands and the United States since World War II. Resuming in August and extending into the fall, free concerts will be performed by various musicians on the tower’s bells. You can expect to hear many genres of music from jazz to pop and even patriotic classics. Bring a blanket and enjoy the music on the surrounding lawn!
When: August 8, 22; September 5, 19; October 3, 17 from 6-7pm
Where: Arlington Ridge Park, located just south of the Marine Corps War Memorial (Iwo Jima Memorial)
Getting there: Located about a half mile from the nearest Metro station, Arlington Ridge Park is most easily accessible by bus with a few stops located at the edge of the park. There is also a Capital Bikeshare station located at the Iwo Jima Memorial, just a short walk from the carillon.
Metrorail: Located south of the Rosslyn Metro station which serves the orange, silver, and blue lines. You can also reach the carillon by travelling from Arlington Cemetery station, which is accessible by the blue line.
Metrobus: A76: Arlington Blvd & N Nash St
ART: 56: 14th St & N Meade St
In case you’ve missed it, The Columbia Pike Partnership has been hosting movie nights throughout the summer on Saturday nights. While most of the movie nights have since passed, the final showing at Penrose Square will feature an iconic summer horror classic: I Know What You Did Last Summer. Bring a chair or blanket, and you’ll be able to buy popcorn, food, and drinks on site.
When: August 1, 8:00 – 10:30pm. Movie starts at 8:30.
Where: Penrose Square, 2597 Columbia Pike
Getting there: Located off Columbia Pike, there are a number of bus stops that will get you to Penrose Square. Capital Bikeshare Stations can also be found at the park as well.
Metrobus: A40, A49, F44: Columbia Pike & S Barton St
ART: 45, 74: Columbia Pike & S Barton St, 77: S Walter Reed Dr & Columbia Pike
Daisy’s Legacy is an organization dedicated to improving animal welfare through advocacy, education, rescue and rehabilitation, and community initiatives. Their work supports animals throughout the DMV and beyond. This dog-friendly event will be their 2nd annual celebration in Arlington and will feature raffle prizes, a buffet, a photo booth, and more. This is a ticketed event, and the proceeds will support the organization’s ongoing animal rescue efforts. Buy your tickets ahead of time!
When: August 8, 5:00 – 8:00pm
Where: Fire Works Pizza, 2350 Clarendon Blvd
Getting there: Located in Court House just a few blocks from the Metro station and bus stops serving several different routes. For Capital Bikeshare users, the closest station is located at the Court House Metro station.
Metrorail: Court House Metro Station serves the orange and silver lines.
Metrobus: A58, F62: Clarendon Blvd & N Wayne St
ART: 41, 45, 56, 77: Clarendon Blvd & N Wayne St
The Arlington County Fair is one of the largest free events in the region and has been running for 50 years. With various rides, performances, shopping opportunities, food, and more, there is sure to be something for everyone. Running for 5 whole days, make sure to check the fair website for updates on the performers, events, and vendors.
When: August 12 – August 16, hours vary. View the full schedule.
Where: Thomas Jefferson Community Center, 3501 2nd St S
Getting There: Thomas Jefferson Community Center is located within the Arlington Heights district. You can walk or bike right up to the County Fair grounds by taking the Arlington Blvd Trail. There are also several bus stops that are located within a few blocks of the fair. The fair will also be providing a free shuttle loop located near the Ballston Mall Parking Garage.
Metrorail: The Ballston-MU Metro Station, serving the orange and silver lines, is located two blocks from the Ballston Mall Parking Garage which will offer a shuttle service to get to the fair.
Metrobus: A12: 2nd St S & S Jackson St, A70: S Glebe Rd & 2nd St S
ART: 41: S Glebe Rd & 2nd St S
Wrapping up our summer, the Rosslyn BID and Arlington Arts are hosting the 34th annual Rosslyn Jazz Fest featuring music, food trucks, local vendors, and plenty of family-friendly activities. This is a free family-friendly event appropriate for all ages and leashed pets. Make sure to check out the website for the full list of performers.
When: September 12, 1:00 – 7:00pm
Where: Gateway Park, 1300 Langston Blvd
Getting there: Located in Rosslyn, the park is easily accessible by the Metro and several bus stops and routes. Rosslyn is also home to plenty of Capital Bikeshare stations – take your pick!
Metrorail: Gateway Park is a 5-minute walk from the Rosslyn Metro Station which serves the orange, silver, and blue lines.
Metrobus: A58, A76, F62: Rosslyn Metro Station,
ART: 55: Langston Blvd & Fort Myer Dr, 45, 56: Rosslyn Metro Station
These are just a few of the many events and activities that you can enjoy in Arlington this summer. In case you missed it, you can view our blog dedicated to some of the many Farmers' Markets in Arlington. For those looking to get outside and explore their community, you can also refer to WalkArlington’s various walking maps which highlight points-of-interest in the many neighborhoods of the County. As we continue to have warmer days, make sure to plan accordingly by bringing appropriate clothing and hydration to ensure your sustainable commute is cool and efficient.
While we are happy and excited to share these fun events with you and your employees, don’t forget that ATP is here to serve your organizations directly as well. We have a variety of ways to directly benefit the commuting experience of your employees and tenants, which can be pivotal in improving retention and satisfaction. Check out ATP’s Key Services Guide to view some of the many ways that ATP can support your business throughout this summer and beyond.
Photo Credit: Sam Kittner/Kittner.com for Arlington Transportation Partners