Roll, Toss, and Win at Bocce

Bocce is one of those games that manages to be simultaneously low-pressure and intensely competitive, and Arlington has solid options for both ends of the spectrum. Arlington County maintains free, reservable bocce courts at the Clarendon Barton Interim Open Space and Glebe and Randolph Park — both available for drop-in play or court reservations through the county parks system. Courts can be reserved through the county website and are available to walk-up players on a first-come, first-served basis when not reserved. All you need is your own set of bocce balls and a willingness to argue good-naturedly about who’s closest to the pallino.

For those who want organized competition and a social scene, DC Bocce League runs outdoor games on Tuesday evenings at Maury Park in Ballston during spring and summer seasons — open to individuals, pairs, and full teams, with no prior bocce experience required. The format emphasizes fun over fierce competition, and games are followed by post-game gatherings at the BoardRoom nearby. Indoor fall and winter options are also available. Sign up as a solo player, with a partner, or as a full team at dcbocce.com.