Events in Alexandria today

Celebrate autumn, football, and pittie pride at The Board Room Game Bar & Brewery with a football-themed trivia night from P3’s Fall in Love with Pitties. Expect Washington Commanders spirit, specially crafted beer, and a game day cocktail featuring Tito's Handmade Vodka, along with cozy fall vibes, pub fare, friendly company, and raffles. Tickets are $50 and include entry to the trivia competition, with one full round devoted to blocky-headed MVPs, plus a ticket for one signature cocktail made with Tito's Handmade Vodka or a specially crafted beer, and an appetizer. Whether you are a Pittie parent, a football fan, a dog lover, or simply there for good drinks and good times, this gathering brings it all together.

At The Birchmere, the Italian guitar quartet 40 Fingers showcases four guitars in tight interplay for a crossover program built on fingerstyle finesse, original arrangements, and vivid visual storytelling. Formed in 2017, the ensemble of Matteo Brenci, Emanuele Grafitti, Enrico Maria Milanesi, and Andrea Vittori has attracted a global audience with hundreds of millions of online views, including more than 120 million on YouTube. Their interpretation of Bohemian Rhapsody earned official praise and a share from Queen, boosting their worldwide profile. Collaborations have included Andrea Bocelli, Matteo Bocelli, Tory Kelly, and Andy Summers of The Police, with a fresh take on Bring On The Night among their notable projects.

Walk-in crafting is available during Craft Bar hours, and no registration is needed. Pick a mini wood or canvas project from the Craft Bar and create it in the workshop studio with art supplies provided. You can also pour a custom scented candle by blending fragrances at the Scent Bar. Candles need time to solidify, so they are not available for immediate pickup. They can be collected during regular business hours, and should cure for about a week before lighting. Another option is to make a custom beaded bracelet at the Bracelet bAR.

At Central Place Plaza, the Rosslyn Farmers Market features in-season produce, locally crafted products, and artisan-style treats. Presented in partnership with FRESHFARM, a nonprofit that supports sustainable agriculture and expands food access in the Mid-Atlantic, it offers fresh finds and a welcoming place to connect with the community.

A run and walk is followed by food and music at Murphy’s Grand Irish Pub in Old Town. This weekly meetup combines an active outing with time at the pub.

Walk-in crafting is available with no registration needed. Pick a mini wood or canvas project from the Craft Bar and create it in the workshop studio with access to art supplies. You can also pour a scented candle and blend a custom fragrance at the Scent Bar. Candles need time to set and will be ready for pickup during regular business hours, and they should cure for about a week before lighting. Another option is to design a custom beaded bracelet at the Bracelet bAR.

Robin Trower performs at The Birchmere, drawing on a remarkable journey that spans more than six decades. After shaping the sound of Procol Harum in the 1960s, he became a solo force with 1974’s Bridge of Sighs and has explored wide-ranging collaborations, including time in supergroup projects. With No More Worlds To Conquer, he reflects on a lifetime of achievement while still reaching for new ideas in his playing and songwriting.

Country Dance Night at Ballston Quarter features a beginner-friendly lesson to start, followed by open social dancing. The lesson focuses on Country Swing or Two Step, and the social portion includes Country Swing, Two Step, El Paso, and line dances. No partner or prior dance experience is needed. A $15 cover includes both the lesson and the social dance. Parking options include an on-site paid garage and metered street parking. Proceeds support Inspira Dance and its work bringing high-quality dance programs to Title 1 public schools.

Stock up on fresh produce while supporting the local community. This gathering takes place in the GIANT parking lot.

4th Street Underground returns to Westover Market Beer Garden with a varied mix of rock, rhythm, and blues. The Arlington band describes itself as upstart and rebellious. The performance runs for three hours, and there is no cover charge.

This relaxed pre-game meetup with Her Zouk Society brings ladies together at Rus Uz - Arlington for dinner, drinks, and conversation before a short walk to the studio for Zouk Heat’s Fire Fridays dancing. There is time to explore the area and connect, then the group heads to the studio together. RSVPs are requested to help secure a large table at the restaurant.

A Friday run followed by a relaxed hangout at Daniel O'Connell's Irish Restaurant and Bar, where food and drinks are on the menu. Drink specials are available for all runners.

Give your young dog a chance to play, learn, and burn off energy in a guided playgroup designed for pups under two years old. Frolick hosts open drop-in sessions for $15, with no reservation needed, and you can stay for as long as works for you. Experienced staff supervise interactions to keep play positive and can show you how to help your pup navigate simple agility-style obstacles for a fun workout. The space is climate controlled and set up with distractions so you can also practice obedience skills in a safe setting. Friends are welcome and new dogs are encouraged to try it out. Participants must be fully vaccinated, including rabies, which typically means puppies are at least 4 to 5 months old.

Eric Darius brings his high-energy, genre-blending contemporary jazz to The Birchmere, showcasing the virtuosity and stage presence that have made his shows known around the world. The American saxophonist, songwriter, producer, educator and performer fuses jazz with R&B, hip hop, funk and pop, highlighted by his Billboard Smooth Jazz chart-topping single Too Good 2 Let Go from a forthcoming album. With eight acclaimed albums, seven No. 1 singles and 20 Top 10 entries on Billboard’s Contemporary Jazz chart, he continues to push the music forward. His credits include performances alongside Prince, Mary J. Blige, Jamie Foxx, David Foster, George Benson, Bob James, Wyclef Jean, Marcus Miller and Lalah Hathaway, television appearances on The X Factor and Mob City, leadership of his SagiDarius Music label, and hosting roles at major smooth jazz festivals. Honors from SESAC, the Citril Starz Awards, the Rehoboth Beach Jazz Festival and Smooth Jazz Network reflect his impact across the genre.

This monthly swing dance at the Cherrydale Volunteer Fire Department features a beginner lesson with Caitlin and Robert followed by a DJ-led social dance. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, no partner is needed, and it is a good opportunity to practice your steps. Admission is $10 at the door, payable by cash or check only. Credit cards are not accepted.

Zouk and Lambada take the spotlight in the DC Metro area with a new monthly social from the team behind the Zouk Heat Festival. This multi-energy gathering blends high-octane and relaxed vibes in one space, inspired by the festival’s Fire Room and Chill Room concept. Each edition starts with a class led by a featured instructor, followed by a social set to dynamic music and a strongly connected dance floor that carries the signature Zouk Heat atmosphere. The event takes place at Inspira Dance inside Ballston Quarter. The setting is Metro accessible through a covered tunnel and is roughly 20 minutes from DC, with plenty of nearby restaurants and bars for easy pre-social meetups. Parking is straightforward. Street parking is available at no cost in the surrounding area, and the Ballston garage offers convenient access on level G3 with payment due upon arrival. Posted rates include 1 dollar for the first three hours, 3 dollars for four hours, and 5 dollars for five hours. This series runs monthly, sometimes once and sometimes twice. Ticket information will be released soon.

FFab & The Skulls brings an all-original rock show powered by bold guitar work, propulsive rhythms, and an onstage intensity tailored for a live crowd. The performance highlights the band’s own songs alongside reworked covers, celebrating the raw spirit of heavy rock. Expect a charged atmosphere where skilled live playing takes center stage. Admission is free.

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.