Community Guide: Arlington

By Kaitlyn Jenkins

Dining and Nightlife

3 Bar & Grill
This restaurant prides itself on three things: “good food, good drinks and good times.” Food lovers fawn over the pork shank in a smoky stew of beans and chickpeas, fried oysters in cornmeal crust and the Hawaiian doughnuts with a dark-chocolate dipping sauce. At the bar, drinks are divided into regions (the Northeast, Midwest and Mid-Atlantic drinks, just to name a few). There are also several specialty cocktails such as the The Leslie (Cuervo Especial, Berentzen Apfelkorn, fresh lime, cranberry) and The Brian (Bacardi Dragonberry, Creme de Cassis, fresh lemon, Miller Lite). Be sure to check out the weekday lunch deals and happy hour specials. / 2950 Clarendon Blvd., Arlington; 703-524-4440; www.restaurantthree.com.

Arlington Cinema and Drafthouse
From Thursday night comedy shows (for $5!) to “Wine Night at the Movies” on Fridays, the Arlington Cinema and Drafthouse always has an event happening. Visitors can expect to have a good time no matter what night of the week it is. Come watch live stand-up comedy and enjoy an ice-cold beverage on Saturdays and Sundays. Careful, after 9 p.m. all guests must be above the age of 21. / 2903 Columbia Pike, Arlington; 703-486-2345; www.arlingtondrafthouse.com.

Bangkok 54
Searching for authentic Thai food in the city? Look no farther than Arlington’s Bangkok 54. Fan favorites include the drunken noodles, chili-basil fried rice and the spicy roasted duck. All dishes are served in a cozy, hip atmosphere. / 2919 Columbia Pike, Arlington; 703-521-4070; www.bangkok54restaurant.com.

Best Buns
Stop by the Best Buns Bread Company, a Great American Restaurant chain favorite, to load up on those delicious carbs. Dozens of mouth-watering bread options are available from herb muenster and ciabatta to poblano cheddar and monkey bread. The pit-stop also offers focaccia, bagels and rolls daily. /4010 Campbell Ave., Arlington; 703-578-1500; www.greatamericanrestaurants.com.

Bob & Edith’s Diner
A local favorite since 1969, this restaurant delivers everyone’s favorite—home-style cooking. The diner serves breakfast all day long, specializing in steak and eggs, and omelets. With a convenient location on Columbia Pike open 24/7 you will never go hungry. / 2310 Columbia Pike, Arlington; 703-920-6103; www.bobandediths.com.

Capital City Brewing Company
This Shirlington pub is the largest of the company’s three brewing locations (the other two are located in downtown D.C. and Capitol Hill). Signature brews include Capitol Kolsch, Pale Rider Ale, Amber Waves Ale, Prohibition Porter and multiple seasonal brews as well. This brewery has affordable entrees too; favorites include the Amber chicken and Porter chili. Also check out the great happy hour deals. / 4001 Campbell Ave., Arlington; 703-578-3888; www.capcitybrew.com.

Carlyle
This Great American Restaurant pairs comfortable café-style ambience with delicious food. While Carlyle’s calamari is mouth-watering, other favorites include the jumbo lump crabcakes and the Black Angus rib-eye steak. Be sure to check for happy hour specials upon arrival. / 4000 Campbell Ave., Arlington; 703-931-0777; www.greatamericanrestaurants.com.

Carpool
This Ballston restaurant and bar has 10 pool tables, seven dartboards and two patios (weather permitting). The interior design of Carpool is a tribute to the American automobile culture and displays many antique car parts and accessories. Carpool offers a variety of sandwiches and entrees for guests, including a turkey Reuben and grilled tilapia. Check to see the daily specials before heading out the door. / 4000 Fairfax Drive, Arlington; 703-532-7665; www.gocarpool.com.

El Charrito Caminante
If you’re in the mood for home-cooked Mexican food, stop by this restaurant that the locals love. While the restaurant itself is small, so are its prices. Popular dishes include the pupusas (corn tortillas filled with cheese, pork and refried beans), goat tacos and plantains. The servings are larger than normal so come hungry! / 2710-A N. Washington Blvd., Arlington; 703-351-1177.

Clarendon Ballroom
The Clarendon Ballroom with rooftop bar, popular among the younger crowd, provides the perfect music to get the weekend started. The refreshing drinks are always flowing and the fun never ends. The ballroom and rooftop are both open Thursdays and Fridays from 5 p.m. until 2 a.m.; Saturday availability varies throughout the year. All visitors must be 21 years of age or older. / 3185 Wilson Blvd., Arlington; 703-469-2244; www.clarendonballroom.com.

Eventide
At Eventide, enjoy your evening in the dining room, at the bar downstairs or even the rooftop patio if the weather’s nice. Each location has a different menu. Favorite dishes include duck with foie gras and polenta, lobster pot pie and the New York strip. Mouth-watering cocktails include the Westover (Rittenhouse BIB Rye, vanilla syrup, Chartreuse Rinse, orange peel) and the Dutch Martinez (Genevieve Gin, Vya Sweet Vermouth, Angostura aromatic bitters and orange bitters). / 3165 Wilson Blvd., Arlington; 703-276-3165; www.eventiderestaurant.com.

Freddie’s Beach Bar and Restaurant
Even though summer has passed, Freddie’s Beach Bar and Restaurant is still the hottest place for karaoke in NoVa. Every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, the karaoke machine is out and so are the singers (both good and bad!). / 555 23rd St. S., Arlington; 703-685-0555; www.freddiesbeachbar.com.

Heidelberg Pastry Shoppe
This German gourmet shop and deli offers breads, pastries and deli items beginning at 6:30 a.m. on the weekdays (closed Mondays). Who doesn’t want a pastry for breakfast? Favorite munchies include the white chocolate mousse cake and the petit-fours (meaning small ovens). The shop also features tasty deli meats and cheeses for lunch that pair perfectly with the German breads they sell. /2150 N. Culpeper St., Arlington; 703-527-8394; www.heidelbergbakery.com.

Hunan Number One
Clarendon’s Hunan Number One has happy hour deals that will hit the spot and a sushi bar to boot. Hunan Number One has been serving Arlington residents for over 25 years proving locals trust their Asian cooking. / 3033 Wilson Blvd., Arlington; 703-528-1177; www.hunanone.com.

Ireland’s Four Courts
This Irish pub is well-known for their trivia quizzes and “Karaoke Idol” tournaments. Come by to watch sporting events on one of the many TV screens, enjoy a meal or just come to hang out with friends on the weekends. Ireland’s Four Courts has special happy hour deals and can host your upcoming birthday or business party, too. Stop by this Courthouse district favorite to get the royal treatment. / 2051 Wilson Blvd., Arlington; 703-525-3600; www.irelandsfourcourts.com.

Liberty Tavern
Another local favorite in Arlington is the Liberty Tavern. Guests come hungry craving the Primanti Brothers-style sandwich made with homemade pastrami, Swiss cheese and French fries or one of the many wood oven pizzas. Liberty Tavern also boasts delicious drink deals during happy hour. Customers love the Blue Collar (Virginia Gentlemen and Straub beer) and the tavern’s Pursuit of Happiness (Smirnoff vodka and juices). / 3195 Wilson Blvd., Arlington; 703-465-9360; www.thelibertytavern.com.

Me Jana
Middle Eastern and Lebanese food abound at Me Jana. Try the kafta kebob with ground lamp and beef, onion, parsley and spices. The shawarma sandwich, slow-roasted chicken with lettuce, tomato and garlic whip, is another classic. Anchovies and roasted red peppers are a hit with the customers that frequent Me Jana, too. / 2300 Wilson Blvd., Arlington; 703-465-4440; www.me-jana.com.

Minh’s Restaurant
For authentic Vietnamese dishes in NoVA, Minh’s hits the spot. Consumers rave about the grilled eggplant, grilled pork with vermicelli noodles and the caramelized catfish. The home-style atmosphere and outdoor seating (weather permitting) are welcoming to any visitor. /2500 Wilson Blvd., Arlington; 703-525-2828; www.minhrestaurant.com.

Mister Days
Recently dubbed NoVA’s “Best Sports Bar” by our readers, Mister Days is the place to be—day or night. Catch a sports game on one of Mister Days’ 100-plus flat-screen TVs during the daylight hours and come back at night for a delicious dinner and dance the night away. / 3100 N. Clarendon Blvd., Arlington; 703-527-1600; www.misterdays.com, no cover charge.

Ray’s the Steaks
The name tells it all: It’s all about the steaks. Whether you try Ray’s specialty—the 28-ounce cowboy cut rib-eye, New York strip, the strip diablo or any of the 22 other steak options, you will leave satisfied. Try one of the many toppings such as sautéed mushrooms, aged bleu cheese, grilled onions, Béarnaise or any of Ray’s signature sauces to accompany your steak. / 2300 Wilson Blvd., Arlington; 703-841-7297.

Rebel Heroes
This sandwich cart is like no other! While the location changes daily, the Vietnamese-inspired flavor stays the same. Specializing in subs (such as the che-che chicken and macho meatball), this eating stop is a hero for all those young and hungry professionals in Arlington. Most subs are made on banh mi, a Vietnamese baguette, and offer a variety of toppings including cilantro, scallions and jalapeños. / Location changes daily; 703-679-7251; www.rebelheroes.com.

RiRa Irish Pub
Ri Ra has live comedy on Wednesday nights and live music every Friday and Saturday. Open for lunch and dinner daily, Ri Ra’s Irish-inspired cuisine is also a hit. Clarendon locals love to stop by Ri Ra for fun times! / 2915 Wilson Blvd., Arlington; 703-248-9888; www.rira.com.

The Salsa Room
If you’re on the hunt for authentic South American cuisine, The Salsa Room is the place to eat. With their menu changing every week, you’re sure to fall in love with fresh, new dishes every time you visit. Formerly known as Cecilia’s, the new Salsa Room reflects on the county’s growing love of salsa dancing. With an open dance floor, guests are welcome to dance the night away to live international music year-round. / 2619 Columbia Pike, Arlington; 703-685-0790; www.thesalsaroom.net.

Tandoori Nights
This restaurant specializes in Indian cuisine with features such as chicken makhani (julienne tandoori chicken cooked in an exquisite creamy tomato sauce) and keema mutter (minced lamb cooked with ginger, onions and garlic and fresh snow peas). On Friday and Saturday nights classy lounge music fills the air. Stop by this Arlington eatery to satisfy your craving for the flavors of India. / 2800 Clarendon Blvd., Arlington; 703-248-8333; www.tandoorinights.com.

Tallula Restaurant and Eat Bar
With a comfortable, yet classy atmosphere, delicious wine and Sunday night movies year-round, what more could you want? Tallula customers rave about their brunch menu, especially the braised pork roulade and the eggs benedict. The EatBar next door has a smaller menu but still has loads of delicious options. Every Saturday and Sunday morning they host the “Big Screen Cartoon Brunch Series” at EatBar and a Sunday evening movie night with films from “Bend it like Beckham” to “Burn After Reading.” / 2761 Washington Blvd. Arlington; 703-778-5051; www.tallularestaurant.com and www.eat-bar.com.

Twisted Vines Bottleshop and Bistro
With delicious wines and delectable eats to match, Twisted Vines will surely tickle your taste buds. This establishment’s main focus is on wine, but they have perfectly sized cheese and charcuterie board appetizers for perfect pairings. They also have a few small dishes to satisfy your hunger. This bottle shop and bistro has weekly happy hours and frequent special events so be sure to check their website for the latest happenings. /2803 Columbia Pike, Arlington; 571-482-8581; www.twisted-vines.com.

Willow
Willow’s comfortable, yet modern atmosphere constantly draws food lovers back for more. The restaurant’s delectable dishes include everything from their signature flatbreads to the bacon-wrapped monk fish. To top it off, they have an almost never-ending wine list (12 pages) and delicious martinis. / 4301 N. Fairfax Drive, Arlington; 703-465-8800; www.willowva.com.

Shop

FASHION CENTRE AT PENTAGON CITY
Just minutes away from Washington D.C., this mall is the center of all things fashion. With over 170 stores for all ages including Caché, J.Jill, A Pea in the Pod, Bachrach, Kenneth Cole, L’Occitane, MAC Cosmetics, BCBG, Sephora and Papyrus, you can shop until you drop. While visiting the mall, be sure to chow down at one of the many eateries including Fyve, Harry’s Tap Room, Au Bon Pain, Salad Creations, Le Crepe Experience or Sala Thai. / 1100 South Hayes St., Arlington; 703-415-2401; www.fashioncentrepentagon.com.

CRYSTAL CITY SHOPS
All of your friends will be jealous when they see your latest purchases from these specialty shops. Stop by Crystal Boutique for popular fashionable apparel and Daniel’s Boutique for designer pieces at hard-to-beat prices. Bag-It carries purses, clutches and wallets in all shapes and sizes. Garden Fantasy stocks dozens of different patterns and sizes of Vera Bradley apparel, Pashmina scarves and jewelry any woman should love. / Crystal Drive between 15th and 23rd streets, Arlington; 703-922-4636; www.crystalcity.com.

BALLSTON COMMON MALL
When there’s a long shopping list to accomplish head to Ballston Common Mall: Macy’s, Champs Sports, Bombay Boutique, Radio Shack and Zara Jewelers are all there. In between stores, stop by Bailey’s Pub and Grill, Chevy’s Fresh Mex, Noodles and Company or Panera Bread for a refreshing snack or meal. / 4238 Wilson Blvd., Arlington; 703-243-8088; www.ballston-common.com.

OFF THE BEATEN PATH
Denim Bar
Everyone usually goes to bars for drinks, but have you ever tried going to a bar for your jeans? Offering everything from designer denim jeans to fun dresses, Denim Bar is a one-stop shop. This bar carries 45-plus upscale brands including Citizens of Humanity, J Brand, Paige Premium Denim, Three Dots and Hudson. Denim Bar also helps you jazz up your new purchases with belts, scarves and jewelry. / 1101 S. Joyce St., Arlington; 703-414-8202; www.denimbaronline.com.

Eclectic Threads
This consignment shop specializing in vintage clothing carries fashionable pieces from the 1920s to today. With a variety of shoes, women’s clothing, jewelry and even a few bridal gowns, you’re sure to find something for your closet. / 2647 N. Pershing Drive, Arlington; 703-276-0051; www.eclecticthreadsva.com.

Current Boutique
Want designer clothing at a fraction of the price? Current Boutique, in Clarendon, is a consignment shop that only accepts high-quality designer apparel (such as Vera Wang, Jimmy Choo, Calvin Klein, Hermes, Rachel Zoe and Diane von Furstenberg) in excellent condition. Stay in style with all the latest and greatest names on the racks without emptying your wallet. / 2529 Wilson Blvd., Arlington; 703-528-3079; www.currentboutique.com.

a.k.a. spot
This one-of-a-kind boutique for your pooch has pet clothing, toys and even a pet grocery store. You can purchase a variety of food for your dog including vegan dog treats and dog food from only local farmers. There are collars, toys and dog beds in every shape and color you can imagine. One of the highlights of a.k.a. spot is the doggie wash. The shop provides the bathtub, shampoo and the towel; you’re only responsibility is your pooch. / 2509 N. Franklin Road, Arlington; 703-248-0093; www.akaspot.com.

Serendipity
When you walk down Arlington’s streets, you’ll definitely have an unexpected fortunate encounter as you enter Serendipity. This shop offers attractive home furnishings, decorations and personal accessories, specializing in silk floral arrangements. You’ll find gifts for all friends of all ages. Serendipity also provides in-home decorating consultation for customers who would like advice on their space. / 2439 N. Harrison St., Arlington; 703-533-2994; www.serendipitystores.com.

Arlington’s Urban Village Market at Court House
Every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., this Clarendon market opens for locals to scout out unique jewelry, collectibles and crafts. Some of the vendors that will be showcasing their products, apparel and antiques this year include Candace Marsalla’s Smashing Jewels, Steven L. Miller Words and Images, Usborne Books, D.C. Vintage Cycles and Raga Rags. / 2100 N. 15th St. (next to the Courthouse parking lot), Arlington; www.urbanvillagemarket.blogspot.com.

Spas & Salons

Solarus Salon & Spa – 1920 Clarendon Blvd., Arlington | 703-243-7283
Elizabeth Arden Red Door Spa – 1101 S. Joyce St., Arlington | 703-373-5888
Salon Joseph – 5121 Lee Highway, Arlington | 703-532-4247
Mancini De Paris Salon & Day Spa – 3045 Columbia Pike, Arlington | 703-920-4699
Eli Salon 5036 Lee Highway, Arlington | 703-237-4247

Museums
Northern Virginia is home to many historical sites, and Arlington is no exception. Visit all of the following locations to become an authority on our nation’s capital and surroundings.

Arlington Arts Center
The Arts Center not only offers classes for community members interested in gaining experience with artwork, but also features many exhibits throughout the year. The Fall Solos Exhibition takes place the last week of September and first week of October and will showcase Arlington-area artists’ works. The center has a variety of exhibits year-round so check the website before heading over. /3550 Wilson Blvd., Arlington; 703-248-6800; www.arlingtonartscenter.org.

Arlington House – The Robert E. Lee Memorial
Arlington House has been significant for many reasons over the years: it was Robert E. Lee’s family home, a plantation estate, military headquarters, a community for emancipated slaves and is now part of Arlington National Cemetery. While at the memorial, visit many exhibits explaining the history of the home and see some of the absolute best views of D.C. Entry into Arlington House is free. / Southern end of Memorial Bridge, Arlington; 703-235-1530; www.nps.gov/arho/index.htm.

Arlington National Cemetery
Pay respect to over 3,000 military veterans from the nation’s wars beginning with the American Revolution to the present-day Iraq and Afghanistan wars. Visit the original Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which is a resting place for an unidentified World War I soldier. Since then, unidentified military persons from WWII, Korea and Vietnam have been laid to rest there too, gaining the nickname Tomb of the Unknowns. Tour the Memorial Amphitheater to observe one of the three major annual memorial services for the veterans on Easter, Memorial Day and/or Veterans Day. / Southern end of Memorial Bridge, Arlington; 703-607-8000; www.arlingtoncemetery.org.

Black Heritage Museum of Arlington
The Black Heritage Museum “was founded to celebrate the African-American journey to freedom in Arlington County.” This is currently known as the “museum without walls” because it contributes to many events that are off-site. The museum aids a permanent exhibit at Arlington House where the visitors can view the slave quarters of the plantation. The museum also helps with various county events like the Arlington County Fair in August and the Arlington Parade. The employees at the Black Heritage Museum are dedicated to teaching locals about the background of blacks in Arlington. / 951 S. George Mason Drive, Ste. 204, Arlington; 703-271-8700; www.arlingtonblackheritage.org.

Drug Enforcement Administration Museum
Do you ever wonder how the DEA handles top-secret drug scandals? Come tour the DEA Museum to see over 2,000 artifacts from the 1800s to present day. Everything from old medicine bottles to modern-day drug concealment containers are on display for public viewing. Exhibits, such as “Illegal Drugs in America: A Modern History,” are also open for visitors. / Open Tuesday-Friday, 700 Army Navy Drive, Arlington; 202-307-3463; www.deamuseum.org.

Marine Corps War Memorial
Just outside Arlington National Cemetery is the Marine Corps War Memorial, also known as the Iwo Jima Memorial. This statue is dedicated to the military men who fought for the United States from November 1775 to modern day. The memorial symbolizes six men raising the American flag over Iwo Jima. / Route 50, near Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington; 703-285-2601; www.marines.com.

Pentagon
With over 100,000 visitors annually, the Pentagon is a capital must-see. If you’re one of the lucky few to tour the grounds (must be Active-Duty military, congressional or senatorial office staff, with a school group or a government employee to do so), you’ll see “the mission of the Department of Defense and each of its branches of service, and visit numerous displays that highlight and depict significant moments in military history.” Average U.S. citizens can request a tour through their Congressman or Senator. A visit to the Pentagon will show you a behind-the-scenes look at how the Department of Defense controls our entire country. Also pay tribute to those lost on September 11, 2001, at the memorial right outside of the Pentagon. / Army Navy Drive and Fern St.; pentagon.afis.osd.mil/index.html.

Parks in Arlington
Fall is the perfect time for a leisurely weekend walk with your family. Explore the following Arlington parks to catch an up-close look at Virginia’s beautiful change of the seasons.

Lady Bird Johnson Park
Take a stroll through the park’s 15 acres of gardens and visit the Lyndon Baines Johnson Memorial and the Navy and Marine Memorial. The park is a tribute to Lady Bird Johnson’s efforts to beautify America. / Between 14th St. and Memorial Bridges, Arlington; 703-289-2500; www.nps.gov/lyba/index.htm.

Roaches Run Waterfowl Sanctuary
Located along the George Washington Memorial Parkway, this sanctuary is open to the public and has trails, wetlands and many bird and fish species that live on the property. /George Washington Memorial Parkway (exit for Roaches Run); www.arlingtonva.us.

Four Mile Run
This locally known stream stretches from Fairfax County through Falls Church and into Arlington County. Residents frequently bike, walk and/or jog on the trail that stretches along the Four Mile Run in Arlington. You’ll travel through both forests and plains. / www.novaregion.org/index.aspx?NID=213.

Other Parks in Arlington include: Benjamin Banneker Park, Madison Manor Park, Bon Air Park, Bluemont Park, Glencarlyn Park, Barcroft Park, Shirlington Park, Lyon Park and Jeannie Dean Park (www.arlingtonva.us/Departments/ParksRecreation/ParksRecreationMain.aspx).

Play

Crystal City Water Park
At the Crystal City Water Park, relax or take a walk by one of the many water fountains. In the summer months, swing by the park for live music entertainment and refreshments that will make you forget about the hot weather. / Crystal Drive between 15th and 18th Streets, Arlington; www.walkarlington.com.

Fingers in Ink
While ink may remind many of tattoos, let us not forget stationery. Fingers in Ink is a top-of-the-line establishment that prints invitations and stationery. For both professional and personalized products for your next big event, Fingers in Ink will help you every step of the way. / 2642 N. Pershing Drive, Ste. P-4, Arlington; 703-465-9100; www.fingersinink.com.

Signature Theatre
This theatre won our “2010 Best Live Theater” award from our readers for many reasons—beginning with reasonably priced tickets and a variety of shows that all audiences will love. From Oct. 12 – Nov. 14, Signature Theatre will show Ken Ludwig’s “A Fox on the Fairway,” a comedy about country club shenanigans. Beginning Oct. 26, look for “Walter Cronkite is Dead” about two women who are stranded in an airport and forced to find common ground. / 4200 Campbell Ave., Arlington; 703-820-9771; www.sig-online.org.

Arlington Events

Mondays in October @ 8 p.m.
Open Mic Poetry at Busboys and Poets
Start your weeks off right—settle down with a warm beverage and friends while you listen to locals (both rookies and professionals) perform poetry every Monday at Busboys and Poets. Prepare for an emotional evening that will leave an impact. / 4251 S. Campbell Ave., Arlington; 703-379-9757; www.busboysandpoets.com; $3.

October 16 (no location or time yet)
Arlington Crop Walk
Arlington’s 29th annual Crop Walk is one of over 2,000 nationally. The national sponsor is the Church World Service, an organization that supports social injustice; the local sponsor is the Arlington Interfaith Council. Similar to other fundraising walks, each participant will raise support from family and friends. Three-fourths of the funds raised will go the Church World Service for national and international hunger relief, agriculture improvement and food for emergency situations (like Hurricane Katrina). One-fourth will stay local and go to the Arlington Food Assistance Center to provide groceries for needy families. The 2009 Crop Walk raised over $50,000, and this year organizers hope to exceed that.

October 21-December 12
Shakespeare’s “Richard III”
The Washington Shakespeare Company presents Richard III, in which power-hungry Richard tries to overthrow his brother’s reign on the throne. This play will have you laughing one minute and on the edge of your seat the next. / Washington Shakespeare Company, WSC’s Clark Street Playhouse, 601 S. Clark St., Arlington; 703-418-4808; www.washingtonshakespeare.org; $25-$50.

October 22-24
U.S. Freedom Walk Festival
The 9th annual three-day walk for fun, fitness and international friendship is back again. You can choose your trail, length (3-27 miles) and the day(s) you want to participate. Bring the whole family out to exercise and socialize! / Residence Inn, 1401 N. Adams St., Arlington; 703-209-0174; www.ava.org/clubs/usfreedomwalk; $15-$24 for adults (depending on number of days walked), $5 children.

October 24 @ 8 a.m.
Army Ten-Miler
Begin the run in Arlington and race the flat course throughout historic Washington, D.C. You will pass by some of the most famous monuments and memorials in the United States. This race is the “nation’s largest 10-mile road race and rated as one of the top 100 races in the nation by Runner’s World Magazine.” Fun for runners and spectators alike! There’s more to this event than the 10 miles—there’s also a race expo, pasta dinner and Youth Runs for the children. / 202-685-3361; www.armytenmiler.com; $55 adults, $10 youth.

October 26-December 19
“Walter Cronkite is Dead”
Arlington’s Signature Theatre presents the world premiere of “Walter Cronkite is Dead.” This comedy is about two polar-opposite women who are forced to find common ground when they are stuck in an airport together during a storm. / Signature Theatre, 4200 Campbell Ave., Arlington; 703-820-9771; www.sig-online.org; $49-$71.

October 30 @ 7:30 p.m.
1st Annual Community Haunted Halloween Party
Come out to Potomac Overlook Park for a festive Halloween party! Highlights will include a haunted hike through the woods, contests, live music and games. This event is fun for the whole family. / Potomac Overlook Park, 2845 Marcey Road, Arlington; 703-528-5406; www.nvrpa.org; $10 for the party, $15 for party + hike.

May 21 – November 20, 2010
“Murder Las Vegas Style!”
Las Vegas is all about competition, and this show is no exception. Everyone in town is fighting to become the next Entertainer of the Year and some people will go too far. This murder mystery won’t just give you the spooks; it will make you laugh too! /Sheraton Hotel, Crystal City, 1800 Jefferson Davis Highway, Arlington; 703-486-1111; www.mysterydinner.com, $44.95 for adults.

Sundays 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. May – November
Year-round Farmers Market
S. Walter Reed Drive at Columbia Pike
Enjoy fresh, homegrown fruits and vegetables every Sunday from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. May through November and 10 a.m.-1 p.m. December through April. Local farmers and vendors have been providing their produce to the community for the past 15 years. Pick up some healthy, delicious food for your family this weekend. / S. Walter Reed Drive at Columbia Pike, Arlington; www.columbiapike.org/MARKET/index_E.html.