This weekend in Arlington County, VA

The newest installation of the rotating Changemakers exhibit is on view as part of Arlington 250. It highlights people whose efforts have shaped Arlington’s history and civic life, recognizing local leaders, advocates, educators, innovators, and community builders whose work made a lasting mark on the county. Through personal stories, the exhibit encourages visitors to consider how individual actions can influence a community and help define Arlington across its past, present, and future.

An LGBTQ+ Halloween gathering takes over Freddie’s Beach Bar, with the group meeting on the front enclosed patio. This free, open-to-all event encourages costumes, though casual beach attire is also welcome. Expect a friendly mix of LGBTQ+ folks and allies, with name tags to make introductions easy, and attendance of at least 50 people is anticipated. Hosted by Go Gay DC, an inclusive community focused on friendship, leadership, and service that reaches more than 10,000 people, with organizer TJ Flavell greeting attendees. There is no cover charge. A cash or credit bar will be available and the restaurant offers dining, with happy hour specials available from the bar. Scareoke is part of the festivities. Party with a purpose by bringing unopened, nonperishable food items for AFAC, which provides dignified access to nutritious food for neighbors in need. Donations such as cereal and canned goods are welcome and will be collected on site for delivery to AFAC, an organization that distributes more than 80,000 pounds of food each week to over 2,500 families, with about 40 percent supplied by food drives and grocery donations. Freddie’s is an LGBTQ+, straight friendly restaurant and bar that is smoke free, with an outdoor area for those who wish to smoke, and it has been recognized by Washington Blade readers as the Best Virginia Bar. The closest Metro stop is Crystal City, and parking is typically available on nearby residential streets. This event is intended to be a safe, welcoming space for everyone, and a valid ID is required for alcohol service.

Celebrate Halloween with live Halloween-themed music and spooky, themed drinks. A costume contest will award prizes to standout looks. Admission is free.

Clarendon Ballroom unleashes a building-wide Halloween takeover with DJs and interactive performers, turning every corner into a high-energy celebration of standout costumes and spooky style. The venue’s famed three-story bash is back, filling the grand ballroom, the underground level, and the rooftop deck with music, entertainment, and themed decor. Costumes take the spotlight with a contest awarding more than $2,000 in prizes, while party favors, giveaways, specials with a spooky twist, and a haunted photo booth keep the thrills coming. Known as one of Clarendon’s biggest nights, this event opens all three floors for a nonstop dance party inside a bar with a haunted reputation.

DC’s LUSH brings a Halloween haunt to O’Sullivan’s Irish Pub with a high-energy set packed with party-rock favorites from the 90s, the 2000s, and today, along with a few timeless picks. The focus is pure fun, inviting singalongs and plenty of dancing to the songs you grew up with. Faith, Derek, Jake, Karlin, and Mort power the show with a nostalgic soundtrack built for a great time.

The Renegade sets a Halloween vibe with live music as the band powers through a three hour set in head to toe polyester costumes. Expect high energy and plenty of spectacle as they work up a sweat under the stage lights.

Church of the Covenant presents a two part workshop focused on practical and thoughtful preparation for the end of life. Facilitated by Rev. Caitlin Culp and death doula Kristen Patterson, MS, MPH, the sessions take place over lunch and offer space for meaningful learning and compassionate conversation. Topics include completing an advance directive in Virginia, considering burial choices, planning a memorial service, and crafting legacy letters. Registration is optional, and advance signups help with lunch planning.

Explore the newest rotation of the Changemakers exhibit at the Arlington Historical Museum. Created for Arlington 250, this temporary installation honors local leaders, advocates, educators, innovators, and community builders whose work has made a lasting difference in the county. Through their stories, the exhibit illustrates how individual contributions can shape a community and connect Arlington’s past with its present and future.