#271 – Attend the Arlington Arts Festival

The Arlington Festival of the Arts is one of the Washington region’s finest outdoor juried art shows, returning to the streets of Clarendon each spring for a free, two-day weekend event. Now in its 12th year in 2026, the festival is produced by Howard Alan Events — a nationally recognized producer of outdoor fine art shows with more than four decades of experience — and draws an attendance of roughly 23,000 visitors. Around 170 artists from across the country are accepted through a competitive jury process, exhibiting original handcrafted works in mediums including painting, sculpture, photography, jewelry, glass, ceramics, fiber, mixed media, and wood.

The festival takes place outdoors along Washington Boulevard from Clarendon Boulevard to N. Garfield Street, and on N. Highland Street from Washington Boulevard to 11th Street North — right in the heart of Arlington’s most vibrant dining and nightlife district, making it easy to pair the art walk with a meal at one of the neighborhood’s many restaurants. Admission is always free, pets on leashes are welcome, and parking is available in nearby garages. The 2026 festival is scheduled for spring; check artfestival.com for exact dates. The show hours are Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m.–5 p.m.