Clarendon Day Expected to Draw Thousands

The 15th annual Clarendon Day street festival promises music, craft exhibitors, food and more again this Saturday.

“It’s a great day for the kids and families come out,” said Matt Hussmann, executive director of the Clarendon Alliance, the organization that promotes area businesses and is putting on the festival. “The emphasis is health and taking advantage of Clarendon, where you can live and work and walk and don’t need a car necessarily.” 

The festival typically draws thousands and runs from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on the streets surrounding the Clarendon Metro at 3100 Wilson Blvd. The event takes place rain or shine.

This year, a few additions are in the works, with students from Arlington schools performing.

“We are working on the order and we are calling it the battle of the bands,” Hussmann said.

This year also includes craft beer offerings. In previous years, vendors have sold Miller beer, but now Yuengling, Flat Tire, Flying Dog and the Brooklyn Pennant Ale will be sold.

“It’s something that’s been requested and we want to see if people would like it a bit better,” Hussmann said. “It’s also a way for our local community to help other local vendors. These are all smaller companies and that’s keeping with the Clarendon spirit.”

Here’s your guide to Clarendon Day:

Pacer’s 10K/5K and the 100-Meter Kids Dash

The day kicks off with the Pacer’s 10K/5K and the 100-Meter Kids Dash, which supports Doorways for Women and Families, an Arlington-based shelter for women and families.

The start for both the 10K and 5K is directly in front of Whitlow’s on Wilson Bar & Grill, 2854 Wilson Blvd.

After the run, adult participants typically meet up at Whitlow's for an award presentation for best male and female overall, along with first, second and third place athletes. (For details on the race, visit Pacer’s website).

Music

Performers begin taking the stage at 11 a.m., with acts including an Irish step team, ballet, a yo-yo demonstration, and musical acts Hoots & Hellmouth and Bronze Radio Return.

Food

There are 16 food vendors including Clarendon restaurants Circa, route: {:controller=>"listings", :action=>"show", :id=>"circa-2"} -->, ,  and the