This weekend in Alexandria, VA

The newest installation of a rotating Changemakers exhibit shines a light on people whose contributions have shaped Arlington’s history and community life. As part of Arlington 250, it recognizes local leaders, advocates, educators, innovators, and community builders whose work has left a lasting imprint on the county. Through these stories, the exhibit invites thoughtful reflection on how individuals can influence their communities and help define Arlington across its past, present, and future.

This monthly offering unites Marsha’s intuitive sound healing with Kristi’s Rooted Rest Yoga Nidra in a 60-minute immersive session. A calming blend of crystal singing bowls, chimes, ocean drum, and native flute accompanies a nature-informed, choice-honoring guided rest practice. The experience supports stress relief, nervous system regulation, emotional release, steady grounding, and a feeling of connection and ease. It is open to people of every body and identity, and no previous yoga or meditation experience is needed. Participation is available in person at PIES Fitness Yoga Studio in Old Town Alexandria or virtually from home. Kristi’s method weaves traditional Yoga Nidra with somatic cues and gentle language, offering supportive care for those navigating stress, chronic pain, fatigue, neurodivergence, or major life transitions. In-person capacity is limited.

A free community matinee features Cinema Paradiso and is guided by ACE Instructor John LeBlanc, a World Film educator with FCPS Adult and Community Education. LeBlanc brings over three decades of teaching and a long commitment to exploring global storytelling; he founded the World Films program at FCPS ACE and has led more than seventy courses covering topics from historical epics to European classics. The featured film follows a successful filmmaker who reflects on his childhood in Sicily and the profound impact of movies on his life, and it is widely regarded as an accessible introduction to international cinema. Expect expert context and guided discussion that deepen understanding, along with a welcoming setting to connect with others who value storytelling, art, and film. Admission is free. Hosted at the Plum Center for Lifelong Learning.

Gather for a welcoming LGBTQ+ community brunch on the enclosed front patio at Freddie’s Beach Bar & Restaurant. Expect easy conversation, name tags to help with introductions, and a small group of around ten people. There is no admission fee, and everyone orders their own food and drinks with individual checks, so there is no shared tab. Choose from the regular menu or opt for the all-you-can-eat buffet, which includes a mimosa or a nonalcoholic beverage and dessert for $14.99. Casual attire is absolutely fine. Bring friends if you like, and if you take photos, use the hashtag #gogaydc. Street parking is often available on nearby residential blocks, and Crystal City is the closest Metro stop. On weekends, Metro fares are capped at $2.50. Freddie’s is an LGBTQ+ and straight-friendly, smoke-free venue, with outdoor space available for those who smoke. It has been recognized by Washington Blade readers as the Best Virginia Bar. This brunch is organized by Go Gay DC, an inclusive community focused on friendship, leadership, and service, and its leader TJ Flavell plans to be on hand to welcome attendees. The event is for ages 18 and over. Please bring a valid ID if you plan to purchase alcoholic beverages. Free RSVP on Eventbrite helps with an accurate headcount.

This specialty tour traces the mansion’s evolution from James Green’s 19th century renovations of John Carlyle’s stone home to the 18th century appearance reinstated after NOVA Parks purchased Carlyle House in 1970. Experts guide an in depth exploration of the architectural changes, using photographs and artifacts to show what was altered and what was restored. Admission is $8 per person. For registration assistance, call 703-549-2997 or email carlyle@nvrpa.org.

Hobby Time: Building and Painting Night at Your Hobby Place - Alexandria brings gaming enthusiasts together to work on personal building and painting projects in a collaborative setting. Attendees can swap ideas, make progress on what they are working on, and connect with others who enjoy the hobby.

Eric Roberson, a GRAMMY-nominated singer, songwriter, producer and Howard University alum, brings his trailblazing independent R&B and soul artistry to the stage. Celebrated by peers like DJ Jazzy Jeff as one of the standout talents of his era, he has written and produced for artists including Jill Scott, Musiq Soulchild, Dwele and Vivian Green, while leading sold-out tours of his own. With more than two decades of self-directed releases since 2001, he has built a 13-album catalog and often invites listeners into his creative world through The Process. The 2020 project Hear from Here was crafted in four weeks and offered messages of hope with tracks like Road to Recovery and Shining with Brian Courtney Wilson, while songs such as Omaha showcased his range. In 2021 he released the single Lessons, drawing on his marriage and the belief that patience through setbacks can shape the journey. His path also includes teaching at Berklee College of Music and earning honors that span two GRAMMY nominations, BETJ’s Underground Artist of the Year with Rahsaan Patterson, and a milestone BET Award nomination as an independent artist.

Settle into a peaceful evening beneath the stars on a cozy rooftop terrace, where an in-person sound bath blends calming crystal bowl tones with soft rhythms under the full moon. The setting invites a mental reset, a connection to the natural night sky, and easygoing, uplifting energy among fellow participants. Bring a mat and an open heart for a serene, moonlit experience. Efforts will be made to reduce mosquitos, so do not let that be a deterrent. If inclement weather arises, the gathering will move indoors to the main level community area, and refunds are not offered due to weather.

Capital Chill is back at The Renegade for a late-night performance packed with rock, alternative, and fan favorites that will keep the dance floor moving. A $5 cover applies.

Friday and Saturday feature weekly karaoke at Cuates Grill Alexandria in Old Town Alexandria. Admission is free and the event is family friendly. Choose from thousands of songs in English, Spanish, and other languages, with late night food and drinks available.

Hosted by FASD United, this free annual gathering welcomes individuals with FASD, their families, professionals, researchers, and community partners from across the country. Held each September in Washington, DC during FASD Awareness Month, it offers an inviting space to learn, connect, and share experiences. The schedule features educational sessions, the FASD Symposium, poster presentations, and community discussions that highlight both research and lived experience. Whether someone is new to FASD or deeply engaged in the field, the week provides practical insights, resources, and relationships to bring back to local communities.

A 5K fun run and walk with Old Town Run Club welcomes The Commodore to the neighborhood. The venue features a pool table and darts, plus thin crust pizza. Brunch is available.

Experience the newest rotation of the Changemakers exhibit at the Arlington Historical Museum, presented as part of Arlington 250. This showcase highlights leaders, advocates, educators, innovators, and community builders whose contributions helped shape Arlington, recognizing those whose efforts made a lasting impact on the county. Through these stories, visitors are invited to reflect on how individual actions can influence a community and help define Arlington’s past, present, and future.

A friendly LGBTQ+ ice cream social hosted by EQUALITY NoVa brings neighbors together at a charming private residence in a classic neighborhood setting. Everyone is welcome to attend, regardless of where you live, for a relaxed Gayborhood gathering. An ice cream truck will serve a variety of flavors and toppings, including rainbow sprinkles, with options available that are no sugar added, gluten free, and dairy free. Ice cream is complimentary for current EQUALITY NoVa members. Nonmembers are welcome, and a small optional donation or new membership is appreciated, with a donation jar available. Meet fellow EQUALITY NoVa members whether you are brand new or long-time involved, and note that current elected officials and candidates have been invited. Please RSVP in advance so organizers can plan an accurate guest count. As part of ongoing community service, attendees who are able are invited to bring unused, nonperishable food items for collection in support of AFAC. The gathering is intended to be a safe, inclusive space for everyone under the rainbow. Bring a valid ID if you plan to drink alcohol, as all who choose to drink will be carded. Eco-friendly travel is encouraged, with convenient public transit, rideshare, and free street parking options. You are welcome to arrive at any time during the event window. Go Gay DC is helping promote the event, and its community leader TJ Flavell will be on hand to greet guests. EQUALITY NoVa is an inclusive, nonpartisan 501(c)(3) serving Northern Virginia’s LGBTQ+ community and straight allies through social activities, civic engagement, and community service.

Eric Roberson performs at The Birchmere. The GRAMMY-nominated singer, songwriter and producer, and a Howard University alum, has been a leading voice for independent R&B and soul for more than two decades, writing and producing for artists including Jill Scott, Musiq Soulchild, Dwele and Vivian Green, and guiding nationwide tours that regularly sell out. His body of work continues to evolve, from a hopeful ten song project created in four weeks during 2020 to a reflective single released in 2021. He welcomes listeners into the creative process through a forum that lets fans hear and comment on songs as they take shape. Career highlights include multiple GRAMMY nominations, recognition from BET and a teaching role at Berklee College of Music. DJ Jazzy Jeff has praised him as one of the standout contemporary singer songwriters.