Events

Hot Dog Eating Contest to Be Held in Rosslyn Tomorrow

By Michael O'Connell

Rosslyn’s observation deck will be kicking off its Fourth of July festivities early with a hot dog eating contest and patriotic drinks.

The View of DC (1201 Wilson Blvd) is throwing an Independence Day party tomorrow (Wednesday) from 5-9 p.m. There will be red, white and blue cocktails and other specialty fare on hand for attendees.

In addition, Alexandria’s Village Brauhaus will be on hand to host a hot dog eating competition, inspired by the annual Fourth of July event in Coney Island, New York.

“We are excited to partner with Legend Hospitality to be able to put on the inaugural D.C. area Hot Dog Eating Contest,” said Village Bauhaus owner Bill Gross. “As a German restaurant with some of the finest wursts in the area we thought it would be great to use our fresh, handmade frankfurters for this event.”

Village Bauhaus will also be selling its onion- and beer-braised brats on pretzel rolls as well as giant pretzels imported from Bavaria.

If eating encased meat is not your thing, a number of other activities are planned, including music by Loose Ties, a U.S. knowledge quiz with District Trivia, life-sized games with prizes and other surprises.

“People should expect a fun filled day with great food and live music at an incredible venue,” Gross said.

Tickets for the Independence Day party are $10 and available online.

The View of DC visitors get to the 31st floor venue via Central Place Plaza (1800 N. Lynn Street), across from the Rosslyn Metro station. The observation deck is also hosting a fireworks viewing on July 4, but a ticket lottery for that event has already been held.

VDOT Plans Meeting Next Week About I-66 Widening Project

By Vernon Miles
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(Updated at 10:50 a.m.) A meeting is planned for Wednesday, July 10 in Arlington to provide an update on the I-66 widening project.

Work is underway to add a third travel lane to eastbound I-66 between the Dulles Connector Road and Fairfax Drive, according to the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) website.

The meeting, scheduled from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Yorktown High School (5200 Yorktown Blvd), will discuss a planned noise wall replacement, among other topics:

Work will begin in the coming months to add and replace noise walls in many locations along the project corridor as well as build a new ramp connection between two existing ramps at Route 7 to allow direct access from eastbound I-66 to the West Falls Church Metro Station. The open house will include a presentation and opportunity for attendees to view plans and talk with project team staff.

VDOT had previously announced plans to replace deteriorating sound walls along I-66 in Arlington as part of the widening project. A report in January noted that at least three segments of the wall were in a state of disrepair.

Photo (1) courtesy Del. Patrick Hope/Twitter, (2) via VDOT

‘Newsies’ Musical Comes to Arlington Next Month

By Ashley Hopko
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The Disney musical “Newsies” is set to debut at the Kenmore Middle School Theatre (202 S. Carlin Springs Road) in mid-July. 

In association with Encore Stage & Studio, the performance brings together children in order to foster a passion for the performing arts and culture. Students in the program participate in workshops taught by professional artists. 

The storyline of “Newsies” takes place in New York, where young journalist Jack Kelly leads other journalists in a rally against unfair working conditions. 

The musical originated as a film in 1992, but the first live performance took place at the Paper Mill Playhouse in 2011.

“There are many exciting dance numbers including ‘Seize the Day’ and ‘King of New York,'” Sara Duke, the executive director of Encore Stage & Studio, said. “The audience will be impressed.” 

Tickets can be purchased online or by calling 703-548-1154. Prices are $15 for adults and $12 for children, students, seniors or members of the military. Opening night takes place on Friday, July 19, at 7:30 p.m. Other show times run through Sunday, July 28.

Photos via Encore Stage & Studio

Where to Celebrate 4th of July Around Arlington

By Airey

(Updated at 1 p.m.) There are a number of ways to celebrate America’s independence in Arlington this year.

This year’s federal firework show on the National Mall was moved because of President Trump’s “Salute to America” rally at the Lincoln Memorial from 6:30-7:30 p.m., which will likely include a speech, military flyovers, and protestors.

The national fireworks display will blast off from West Potomac Park instead. It is scheduled to run from 9:07-9:27 p.m. and will be visible from most places across the Potomac that Arlington residents are used to.

If the president’s planned Fourth of July rally in the District isn’t for you, here are some places in Arlington to watch the show:

  • Long Bridge Park, which is open for viewers but no longer hosting a large, county-sponsored extravaganza due to cost-cutting measures. The county is cautioning people to make time to go through security checkpoints on Thursday, July 4, and to be prepared for crowding due to ongoing construction closing the north end of the park’s esplanade. Attendees to the Long Bridge Park festivities are not allowed to bring food, spiked chairs, or fireworks of their own on the field, per the county’s website.
  • The View of DC observation deck at CEB Tower (1201 Wilson Blvd) in Rosslyn is hosting a fireworks viewing event 31 floors up. Those who want to attend can enter their name in a lottery for tickets.
  • Gateway Park in Rosslyn is hosting its usual, popular viewing.
  • Gravelly Point is another popular viewing spot, though parking may be limited.
  • U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial near Rosslyn has a sweeping vantage of the monuments, the river and the fireworks..
  • Key Bridge also offers picturesque views for those who don’t mind standing during the show.
  • The Air Force Memorial which will host a free concert by the The United States Air Force Concert Band and Singing Sergeants at 8 p.m. before the fireworks.
  • The Washington Golf & Country Club also confirmed to ARLnow that it is again hosting its own fireworks this year, but won’t have any seating on the golf course due to the ongoing renovations.

Several neighborhoods are also hosting parades for those who prefer to eschew the crowds at fireworks, including:

The Arlington County Fire Department is asking residents who plan to light their own fireworks or have their cookouts to follow these safety tips for fire and injury prevention.

SoberRide will continue its holiday tradition of offering free Lyft rides to prevent drunk driving. The organization said 746 people in the Greater Washington area used the service during Fourth of July last year.

Users can check the SoberRide website on Thursday, July 4 at 6 p.m. for the promotion code that will give free rides between 7 p.m Thursday and 2 a.m. Friday.

Photo via John Sonderman/Flickr pool

Brunch and Boxing Charity Event in Rosslyn This Weekend

By Ashley Hopko

BASH Boxing and the Hyatt hotel in Rosslyn are teaming this weekend to sponsor a brunch and boxing charity event to benefit the Aga Khan Foundation and Save the Children.

Boxing fans can enjoy a 35-minute BASH training session followed by a tapas-style brunch this Sunday (June 29), from 10 a.m.-12 p.m., at the Hyatt Centric Arlington (1325 Wilson Blvd).

Bloody marys and mimosas are available for participants over the age of 21. Event guests will be automatically entered into a raffle for a two-night stay at the Hyatt Centric Arlington. An additional raffle will offer up a two-night stay at Central Park Hotel in New York City. 

The Aga Khan Foundation and Save the Children both work to improve the lives of impoverished people by increasing access to education and healthcare. All of the proceeds will go toward the foundations. 

Tickets are $40 and are available for purchase online or at 703-908-4692.

Photo via BASH Boxing 

Arlington Agenda: June 24-30

By Michael O'Connell
Pets welcome at Arlington Philharmonic’s ‘Pops in the Park’ at Lubber Run Amphitheater June 28 Photo via twodogtales.com

Arlington Agenda is a listing of interesting events for the week ahead in Arlington County. If you’d like to see your event featured, fill out the event submission form.

Also, be sure to check out our event calendar.

Monday, June 24

Yoga & Breathwork Session at The View of DC
The View of DC (1201 Wilson Blvd, Suite 115)
Time: 5:30-7 p.m.

The View of DC will host a special yoga and breathwork session with Emily Rasowsky, a 500-hour EYT certified yoga instructor and breathwork facilitator.

Wednesday, June 26

Arlington GOP June Meeting With Grover Norquist*
Summers Restaurant & Sports Bar (1520 N. Courthouse Road)
Time: 7-9 p.m.

Join the Arlington GOP for our June meeting with special guest Grover Norquist, president and founder of Americans for Tax Reform.

Summer Concert Series at the Village at Shirlington
Village At Shirlington (2700 S. Quincy Street)
Time: 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Village of Shirlington’s Decades of Summer features music from the ’70s, ’80s and ’90s. This week Juliet Lloyd Band performs. Cheesetique will offer $5 wine tastings.

Thursday, June 27

Crystal City Crafts Market
220 20th Street
Time: 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Enjoy a diverse mix of arts, crafts, handmade jewelry, accessories, bath and beauty products and other local, handcrafted products as well as live-music and select food products.

Friday, June 28

Pops in the Park – Arlington Philharmonic
Lubber Run Amphitheater (200 N. Columbus Street)
Time: 8-9:30 p.m.

The annual “Pops in the Park” concert is a benefit for the Arlington Philharmonic. Pets, kids, and picnic meals are welcome at this free event.

Saturday, June 29

Pride Party at Punch Bowl Social*
Punch Bowl Social (4238 Wilson Blvd)
Time: 12-4 p.m.

Grab your crown and party with Deja-Miss Gay Arlington, BallstonGives and the Arlington Gay and Lesbian Alliance. Free to attend with RSVP in advance.

NYT Bestselling author Brigid Kemmerer & OMP’s own Anna Bright
One More Page Books (2200 N. Westmoreland Street #101)
Time: 3-4 p.m.

Brigid Kemmerer, author of A Curse So Dark and Lonely, and Anna Bright, author of The Beholder, share their writing tips, world building techniques, and probably some inside jokes.

Sunday, June 30

Firefly Festival to Lights Up Fort C.F. Smith Park
Fort C.F. Smith Park (2411 24th Street N.)
Time: 7:30-9:30 p.m.

Families with children ages 3 and up are encouraged to bring a blanket and dinner, as they wait for the fireflies to make their appearance at sunset. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Registration required. $7 fee collected at registration.

*Denotes featured (sponsored) event

Continued Construction Will Keep Country Club Fireworks Viewers Off the Green

By Vernon Miles

Updated 11:15 a.m. — Last year’s construction at Washington Golf & Country Club meant viewers of the 4th of July fireworks — traditionally seated on the course — had to find new accommodations.

This year, Arlington’s other tradition of eternal construction work means viewers will still need to find another place to watch the fireworks.

Member Services Coordinator Jordan Marks said in an email that the club will still hold its fireworks celebration, but can’t promise seating:

The golf course at Washington Golf & Country Club is currently undergoing a renovation. During the renovation there is no access to the golf course because it is an active work area. As a result of this ongoing work, there will unfortunately be no seating available on the course to view the fireworks display. We apologize for any inconvenience and hope you have a wonderful 4th of July

Flickr pool photo by Kevin Wolf

Arlington to Hold Public Meeting on Amazon’s First New Buildings

By Airey

Next month, the county will hold a public meeting about Amazon’s first phase of new development for HQ2.

The meeting will “kick off the review process” for Amazon’s first construction project on S. Eads Street, according to a public event notice. The following week, the county’s planning commission will hold a formal review of the development plans.

Amazon’s S. Eads Street development aims to build two, 22-story towers along with retail space, public park space, and parking facilities for bikes and cars. Plans for the 6.2 acre site indicate the buildings will provide 2.1 million square feet of space for the tech and retail giant.

The meeting will be held Wednesday, July 10 from 7-8:30 p.m. As of 4:30 p.m. So far, the meeting location has not been announced.

The county is asking people interested in attending to RSVP but notes seating will not be limited.

Amazon would need the Arlington County Board to approve amendments to plans the Board approved in 2016 for what’s now the tech giant’s lot. The original plans called for 22-story residential towers.

“Learn about the proposed development, planning background and how the review process will work,” the notice for next week’s event reads. “County staff and the applicant will be available to answer questions.”

Amazon tapped Portland-based architecture firm ZGF to design the buildings, reported Curbed.

“These buildings are the first step to creating an urban campus where our future 25,000 employees and the local community can live, work and play,” Amazon wrote in a blog post announcing the development.

Free Summer Concert Season in Shirlington Kicks Off Wednesday

By Vernon Miles

The Village at Shirlington will be kicking off its summer concert series tomorrow (Wednesday), starting with the Dan Haas Band.

The concerts run every Wednesday from 6:30-8:30 p.m. in front of Shirlington Library (4200 Campbell Avenue).

The theme of the concert series is “decades of summer,” with local bands performing music from the ’70s, ’80s and ’90s, as well as original songs.

Attendees 21-and-over are invited to try $5 wine samplings from Cheesetique. Proceeds will go to Arlington Thrive — a nonprofit providing emergency funds to locals in need — and Homeward Trails Animal Rescue — a nonprofit that brings dogs and cats from low-income, rural shelters to the D.C. region.

The full schedule

Any rain cancellations will be announced by 4 p.m. the day of the concert, organizers say.

Arlington Agenda: June 17-23

By Michael O'Connell

Arlington Agenda is a listing of interesting events for the week ahead in Arlington County. If you’d like to see your event featured, fill out the event submission form.

Also, be sure to check out our event calendar.

Wednesday, June 19

Broadcasting “Aging Matters” with Producer and Host Cheryl Beversdorf
Arlington Central Library (1015 N. Quincy Street)
Time: 2-3 p.m.

Cheryl Beversdorf is producer and host of Aging Matters radio and TV programs featuring timely topics of interest to older adults and their families

Anytime Fitness Rosslyn Grand Opening*
Anytime Fitness Rosslyn (1919 N. Lynn Street)
Time: 4-7 p.m.

Enjoy delicious meals from Nando’s, refreshments from Bourbon Coffee, Fitness Games and a drawing for a chance to win an Electric Scooter and 1-year of membership.

Buying A Home In A Tight Market*
Arlington Community Federal Credit Union (5666 Columbia Pike)
Time: 6-7:30 p.m.

Buying a home in this region is becoming increasingly competitive. Join us to learn about how to start the process and how to be poised for success.

Storytelling: A Tool for Community Engagement and Social Justice
Shirlington Library (4200 Campbell Avenue)
Time: 7-8:30 p.m.

Through a hands-on, interactive approach, participants will learn the importance of storytelling, and how it can be used to engage community members.

Thursday, June 20

Summer Concert Series at Pentagon Row
Pentagon Row (1201 S. Joyce Street)
Time: 7-9 p.m.

Kristen and the Noise performs as part of the weekly Summer Concert Series at Pentagon Row. Concert-goers can hear from both local and military performers playing a mix of popular hits and original music.

Friday, June 21

Fridays at the Fountain
Crystal City Water Park (1601 Crystal Drive)
Time: 5-9 p.m.

Enjoy a seasonal pop-up beer garden set within the Crystal City Water Park, featuring food from a rotating lineup of vendors, adult and kid friendly beverage selections, and live music.

Saturday, June 22

Summer Solstice Celebration
Bluemont Park (601 N. Manchester Street)
Time: 6:30-9 p.m.

Help EcoAction Arlington volunteers participate in trash cleanup and work in the pollinator garden. There will be an optional picnic immediately following.

Summer Exhibitions Opening Reception and Community Day
Arlington Arts Center (3550 Wilson Blvd)
Time: 3-9 p.m.

Celebrate the opening of Amanda Browder’s monumental fabric installation, City of Threads, and three new summer exhibitions.

Sunday, June 23

Wesley Housing’s Generosity Washington, DC 5K Run/Walk
Bluemont Park (601 N. Manchester Street)
7:30-10 a.m.

By running for Wesley, you’re helping to support our four Northern Virginia summer camps, which are hosted in our affordable housing communities.

Learn The Art and Science Of Storytelling With The Storymasters Toastmasters Club*
Cafe Sazon (4704 Columbia Pike)
Time: 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

Storymasters will help you craft a compelling narrative, inspire others to follow your lead and connect with diverse audiences.

*Denotes featured (sponsored) event

Columbia Pike Blues Festival Returns, Prompting Weekend Road Closures

By Airey
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The annual Columbia Pike Blues Festival returns tomorrow (Saturday) with live music and several road closures.

The festival will run from 1-8:30 p.m. at the intersection of Columbia Pike and S. Walter Reed Drive. This year’s music lineup includes soul and blues artists Sugary Rayford, Thornetta Davis, Hardway Connection, Lauren Calve Band, and Funky Miracle.

Arlington County Police announced that some streets adjacent to the Pike will close between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m. Saturday.

Road closures include:

  • Walter Reed Drive between Columbia Pike and 9th Street S.
  • 9th. Road S. between S. Garfield Street and Walter Reed Drive
  • 9th Street between S. Highland Street to Walter Reed Drive

This year, organizers are partnering with Shirlington-area New District Brewing Company to serve craft beer. Several food vendors, including Carol’s Concessions, Caspi, Mac’s Donuts, Sloppy Mama’s Barbecue, and Rebellion on the Pike, will also be serving meals during the festival, per the event’s website.

Photo (1) via Columbia Pike Revitalization Organization, (2) via Arlington County

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