Arlington Weekend Guide: Cinco de Mayo, Miss Gay Arlington and More

1. Clarendon Cinco de Mayo Block Party

When/Where: Noon to 8 p.m. Sunday near the 3100 block of Clarendon Blvd.

Why Go: Enjoy drink specials, mariachi bands, pinata fighting and more at five Clarendon restaurants: Clarendon Grill, Mad Rose Tavern (Registration Bar), Mister Days, and Sobe. The party starts with registration at Mad Rose Tavern between noon and 3 p.m.

Price: $10

2. Third Annual Miss Gay Arlington at Freddie's

When/Where: 8 p.m. Friday at Freddie's Beach Bar & Restaurant

Why Go: Watch local contestants compete in the third annual Miss Gay Arlington competition Friday. A winner will be crowned around 11 p.m. after judges compile scores based on presentation, talent, evening gown and on-stage question. This year's theme is "The Glittery Rainbow Connection."

Price: $10 at the door.

3. Flower Mart at Washington National Cathedral

When/Where:10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday at the Washington National Cathedral, 3101 Wisconsin Ave. NW.

Why Go: The family-friendly event features arts and crafts, jewelry, plants, music, dance, and more. Check out the 8th Annual Floral Exhibit, “Flowers Around the World,” displaying floral designs from DC's embassies. For the kids there are rides, games, puppet shows, and an antique carousel. The funds raised at Flower Mart go toward the maintenance and development of the grounds and gardens of the Cathedral.

Price: Free to attend.

4. Dumbarton Oaks Park Open House in the Park

When/Where: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at Dumbarton Oaks Park, on R St. NW between Avon and 31st Streets (walk down the paved path to the park gate).

Why Go: The open house highlights "the park's rich cultural heritage with poetry, music, and historic tours, as well as opportunities to experience and learn about the park's environment," according to a press release. For the kids there will be a free music class in the meadow with Levine School of Music at 10:30 a.m. For the literary-minded stop by for poetry at noon with Grace Cavalieri, the DC poet laureate, who has written a poem for the Park, "In the Beauty of the City,” which she will debut Saturday.

Price: Free to attend.

5. Cinco de Mayo on the National Mall

When/Where: The festival is noon to 6 p.m. Sunday on the National Mall between 8th and 12thstreets.

Why Go: The festival will include music and dance, activities for children, games, food and more.

Price: Free to attend.