Schools

A vandalism incident at Wakefield High School caused damage to school property ahead of tonight’s homecoming football game, authorities say.

A sidewalk, rock and sign at the school were all spray-painted sometime last night or early this morning, according to a preliminary incident report from the Arlington County Police Department.


News

County Board members last week honored major milestones for a South Arlington church and North Arlington civic association.

Board members on Sept. 22 saluted Green Valley’s Mount Zion Baptist Church, which this year is marking its 160th anniversary.


Sponsored

Looking for inspiration this weekend? Arlington County has numerous opportunities to connect with creativity, culture, and community through experiences that celebrate artistic expression, cultural heritage, and Arlington’s unique sense of place.

On Saturday morning, join former Arlington Poet Laureate Courtney LeBlanc for The Nature of Poetry, a guided walk of Lubber Run Park that explores the connection between poetry and the natural world. Participants will stop along the trail to read nature-themed works, reflect on the landscape, and create poetry inspired by their surroundings. The program offers a chance to experience one of Arlington’s treasured green spaces through a creative lens while discovering how art can deepen our understanding of place and environment.

Later that day, celebrate the rich traditions of Latin America with Arlington Parks and Recreation’s Festival Latinoamericano, one of the region’s premier cultural festivals. The annual event brings together music, dance, art, food, and family-friendly activities that showcase the diversity and vibrancy of Latin American cultures. Featuring live performances, artisan vendors, and opportunities to experience traditions from across Latin America, the festival offers a day of cultural discovery and community celebration.

On Sunday, head to 2700 Art Space for a special Halloween-themed YIKES! at SPARK! This festive edition of Arlington Arts’ monthly community art market invites visitors to celebrate the season through creativity, community, and a touch of spooky fun. Featuring local artists, makers, food vendors, and engaging activities, YIKES! at SPARK! transforms 2700 Art Space into a vibrant gathering place where neighbors can connect, discover unique artwork, and enjoy arts experiences for all ages. Drawing on the spirit of SPARK!, the event offers a welcoming opportunity to meet local artists, support small creative businesses, and experience the energy of Arlington’s growing arts community.

And while you’re out exploring Arlington this weekend, take a detour to Columbia Pike to watch a new public artwork come to life. Artist Rowan Bathurst is currently creating a large-scale mural on the Goodwill building at 4714 Columbia Pike, offering a rare opportunity to experience the creative process in real time. Inspired by the diversity, culture, and spirit of the Columbia Pike community, the mural is transforming an everyday space into a vibrant visual landmark. Whether you live, work, or spend time along the Pike, it’s worth stopping by to see the artwork taking shape and witness firsthand how public art can bring new energy and identity to a neighborhood.

From poetry and cultural celebration to public art and community gathering, this weekend’s events showcase the many ways creativity enriches Arlington’s neighborhoods and public spaces. Whether you’re looking to make art, experience a new culture, meet local artists, or simply enjoy time with friends and family, Arlington County offers something for everyone.

Learn more about these and other upcoming events through Arlington County.


Announcement

A Home for Everyone: Why Is Housing So Expensive?

Rents keep climbing, buying a home is out of reach for most, and homes are harder to find. Join the League of Women Voters of Arlington and Alexandria City (LWVAAC) and Arlington Public Library for a conversation with two of the region’s leading housing voices about what’s driving costs in Arlington and Alexandria, and what it would take to change course.


News

Police are searching for a man who pulled a knife on a store employee in Courthouse before escaping into the Metro.

The robbery happened yesterday morning (Thursday) around 7:30 a.m. at a business — the CVS, according to initial reports — on the 2100 block of 15th Street N., near the Courthouse Metro entrance.


Event

One of Northern Virginia's favorite Halloween traditions is back for the 13th year. Think you’re ready for one of the area’s scariest haunted experiences?

Haunt: Dark Encounters at the Workhouse Arts Center is happening in Lorton, Virginia from October 3 – 30, 2026—and this year, you never know what’s waiting around the next corner. Step inside and there’s no telling what you’ll find. Strange sounds. Unexpected scares. And just when you think you’re in the clear…think again. Bring your bravest friends, because this is one fall night you won’t soon forget.— Haunt: Dark Encounters at the Workhouse Arts Center in Lorton, Va.


Opinion

The D.C. area is home to numerous breweries that offer unique craft brews found in bars and stores throughout Arlington.

Here are the nominees for “Best Brewery Near Arlington” as part of our ARLnow Readers’ Choice awards.

Did we miss your favorite brewery? Write it in!

Voting will close on Wednesday, Oct. 14.

Voting for Best Place to Hike Near Arlington is still taking place. Be sure to cast your vote before voting closes next Wednesday at 11:59 p.m.

Two weeks ago, we voted on the Best Ramen Spot in Arlington. The results are now official:

  1. Jinya Ramen Bar
  2. Hanabi Ramen
  3. Boru Ramen
  4. Ichiban Sushi & Ramen
  5. Toryumon Japanese House

Events

Arlington’s annual celebration of Latin American culture is set to take over Arlington Mill Community Center tomorrow (Saturday) evening.

The free Festival Latinoamericano runs from 5-9 p.m. outdoors and 5-8 p.m. inside the community center at 909 S. Dinwiddie Street, along Columbia Pike. The event, organized by the county’s parks department, coincides with Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs through Oct. 15.


News

Arlington’s civilian workforce continued to shrink in August, with the county posting its lowest employment figures in over four years.

The 145,818 Arlington residents counted as employed in August was the lowest number since 144,681 in February 2022, when the region and nation were still contending with the economic impacts of the pandemic.


News

Median Arlington rental costs moved slightly higher year-over-year in September, but stayed below all-time highs set in 2025, according to new data.

The overall median apartment rent countywide stood at $2,610 in September, up 0.2% from a year before, based on data reported Sept. 29 by Apartment List.


News

The Arlington County Republican Committee has endorsed independent School Board candidate James “Vell” Rives IV.

Rives is facing incumbent Democrat Bethany Zecher Sutton in the Nov. 3 election. This is the second time Rives will carry the GOP endorsement after he secured it in 2025, as well.