Arts & Culture

The Arts are in Arlington

Concerts with leading artists, gallery exhibitions, Broadway performers and premier dance showcases — they can all be found amidst the vibrant cultural scene in Arlington, Virginia. Our diverse arts and culture offerings are one of our most notable assets — offering an acclaimed public art collection, concerts, galleries, festivals, performances and attractions in the intimate setting of our community.

Cultural experiences abound right here in Arlington, but just across the river in Washington, D.C., residents and guests can find even more to discover. After all, the capital city is home to the nation’s best and largest free museum systems and notable performing arts destinations ranging from the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts to Arena Stage and more.

When you are here in Arlington, there's definitely no end to the artistic attractions and events to experience.

Arts in Arlington

A Fixture of the Arlington Community

Rosslyn Jazz Fest The Arlington community’s appreciation for and dedication to its vibrant arts scene is part of what makes it one of the most culturally rich and livable communities in the region. From Broadway headliners in musicals by the Tony Award-winning Signature Theatre, to regionally acclaimed art galleries such as the Museum of Contemporary Arts Arlington, Gallery Underground and the Fred Schnider Gallery of Art, Arlington offers an array of opportunities to showcase the arts. The community is devoted to engaging residents and visitors of all ages. Led by Arlington Cultural Affairs, community members can access a variety of art classes, programs for artists, performances and exhibitions.

Public Art Collection

Public Art Lives Throughout Arlington

Arlington’s Public Art collection, with over 80 permanent projects, enhances our community’s unique sense of place. Found in commercial corridors, neighborhood squares, parks and bridges, Arlington’s Public Art offers eye-catching reminders of the importance of the arts. Arlington’s Public Art scene is nationally recognized, with accolades from the Americans for the Arts Public Art Network, the International Downtown Association and the American Society of Landscape Architects.

Since 1979, Arlington Public Art has been an innovator in the field, starting with Nancy Holt’s acclaimed “Dark Star Park.” Guided by a comprehensive Public Art Policy and Master Plan, our Public Art program ensures art is integrated into County projects, enriching community and civic life. Funded both publicly and privately, Arlington Public Art collaborates with local organizations, artists and businesses to present diverse and inclusive projects that foster a vibrant, connected community.

Art Events

Art Every Day

Arlington Art Truck Exhibit Throughout the year, Arlington plays host to numerous events, concerts and festivals. From outdoor concerts on summer evenings at the intimate Lubber Run Amphitheatre to internationally renowned performers at the Columbia Pike Blues Festival and the Rosslyn Jazz Festival, to family-friendly festivals like Clarendon Day, there are events for all audiences in Arlington.

Bookmark or subscribe to our calendar of events to find out what's happening around Arlington this month. There is always something going on!

Arlington’s Dynamic Arts Scene

Sample the rich diversity of arts experiences happening all over Arlington, all the time.

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Contact Us

Michelle Isabelle-Stark

Director, Arlington Cultural Affairs

Michelle is responsible for promoting and growing the cultural sector of Arlington’s economy. She develops and oversees the work of Public Art, Cultural Development, Arts Enterprise and Facilities and Technical Services staff, providing artistic excellence in curated programs and exhibitions and services to artists and arts organizations.

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