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Fostering A Creative Economy

What is the Creative Economy?

Over the last decade, cities and countries worldwide have studied how creative industries like design, media, film, theater, architecture and more influence technology, workforce and economies.

In Arlington, VA the creative economy has a significant impact – Americans for the Arts calculates the direct economic impact of our nonprofit arts industry at more than $97 million.

Return on Creativity

Creativity: An Arlington Asset

Arlington Economic Development’s Return on Creativity series features professionals and educators who are spearheading business and workforce growth through the application of creativity. Driving this program is the belief that art is good for business — encouraging creativity leads to a more productive and engaged workforce.

Return on Creativity programs offer networking opportunities, first-hand insights and compelling evidence that Arlington is an accelerator to personal and organizational growth and prosperity. Watch the events calendar or subscribe to our newsletter to find out about up-coming events.

Made in Arlington

Locally Created by Arlington Artisans and Makers

Made in Arlington pop-up markets are a signature program of Arlington Economic Development’s Creative Economy program. These pop-up retail markets showcase the beautiful, wearable and edible items created by innovators and artisans right here in Arlington, VA.

In partnership with Arlington Public Library, locally made Arlington items are frequently sold at the Plaza Library location in the Courthouse neighborhood. You can find Made in Arlington vendors in the Small Business Directory and view many of their products on the Made in Arlington Instagram page.

Want to join? It's easy, just subscribe to our Creative Economy e-newsletter and you'll receive notification of upcoming events and networking opportunities. There's no fee or obligation. Just attend the events that work for you. Membership is open to all Arlington-based businesses. 

Arlington Art Walk

Arlington Art Walk 

Artwalk Map.png The "Arlington Art Walk" is a short, self-guided tour that gives you a small taste of some of Arlington's award-winning public art, local galleries and artist studios. Use this curated tour as an introduction to Arlington's vibrant art community. 

Learn More About Tour Stops    Download the Map

Upcoming Events

Pop-Up Markets 2024

Hand made

  • Women's Maker Fair at Arlington Central Library celebrates Women's History Month. Local women will be on site to educate and sell their products.
    March 23, 2024 | 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. | 1015 N. Quincy St., Arlington, VA 22201
  • Spring Market & Cherry Blossom Celebratiois a fun-filled event with live music, art making, an outdoor pop-up market and fun for the whole family at the Museum of Contemporary Art Arlington (MOCA). 
    April 14, 2024  | 12:00 – 3:00 p.m. | 3550 Wilson Blvd., Arlington, VA 22201
  • Earth Day Every Day is back for the third year at 4500 Cherry Hill Road in front of the Lee Heights Shops. Celebrate the environment and community with dozens of local makers.
    April 21, 2024 | 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. | 4500 Cherry Hill Road, Arlington, VA 22201

And, don't forget, Arlington's Open Rewards app gives you 5% cash back for shopping local! Download the app, upload your receipts and collect your rewards. Find your favorite shopping stops on Arlington's newest Directory.

Spotlight on today’s creative economy

In partnership with the Agile World, Arlington Economic Development’s Return on Creativity taps speakers, leaders in government and technology, creatives and educators in lively conversation.

Contact Us

Susan Soroko

Director, Creative Economy

Susan oversees Arlington’s creative economy program, facilitating collaborations between creative industries and the local community. Reach out for more information on Arlington’s resources for the creative economy.

Get In Touch