Arlington is gearing up for a busy transition from summer to fall, with a range of community events, safety initiatives, and opportunities for public engagement. As Arlington Public School classes resume on Monday, August 31, residents are urged to prioritize transportation safety, especially for children walking, bicycling, and using buses. The Arlington County Police Department will also participate in the "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" campaign for Labor Day weekend.
Food enthusiasts can look forward to the Metropolitan Washington Summer Restaurant Week, starting August 24, featuring at least 30 local restaurants with diverse dining options. Additionally, the community is invited to an evening of remembrance and reflection on September 11, 2001, marking 25 years since the events, hosted by Arlington County Government and the Military Women's Memorial.
Cultural events include the return of the Rosslyn Jazz Fest on September 12 and the final "Fridays at the Fountain" summer concerts through August 28. Residents can also engage with local initiatives by providing feedback on the Draft Multimodal Transportation Plan by August 23 and the Drew Park concept by September 8. Virtual information sessions are scheduled for Resident Permit Parking system upgrades and an Interfaith Resource Fair on Social Safety Net Services, both on September 9.
Other opportunities include ordering from the annual Native Plant Sale, applying for the 2026–2027 EcoAmbassadors cohort by August 31, and attending an Overdose Awareness Vigil on August 31. Arlington Public Library is offering self-defense workshops and Central Library has volunteer roles for students. The county also seeks input on proposed impervious area limits for residential neighborhoods.