Information/FAQ

What is Taste of Arlington®?

The Ballston Business Inprovement District's 26th Annual Taste of Arlington is the largest food+beer+wine+art festival showcasing the diversity of Arlington's food scene and attracting over 15,000 food lovers from all over the region. More than 40 of Arlington's favorite restaurants and most exciting chefs will serve up their specialties at this year's festival and this is your chance to sample them all!

This year's charity beneficiary is AFAC. The Arlington Food Assistance Center (AFAC) is a community-based non-profit that provides supplemental groceries to Arlingtonians in need. With the help of our community, AFAC serves approximately 1,600 families each week, including elders, children, the unemployed and the under-employed. Over 80% of AFAC's funds and 65% of the food AFAC distributes is donated. Visit www.afac.org for more information or to learn how to donate much-needed food.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

When is Taste of Arlington®?

Sunday, May 19, 2013 from Noon to 5:00PM, rain or shine.

Where is Taste of Arlington®?

Wilson Boulevard from Glebe Road to N Randolph Street and along N. Stuart Street to 9th Street. Parking is available all day at the Ballston Public Parking Garage adjacent to the Ballston Common Mall, and the event is located off the Ballston-MU Metro station (Orange line).

New This Year!

• Washington Capitals and Wizards KidZone
• Concert stage performances by The Reflex, Junkfood, Down Wilson and Silent Critics
• World of Beer and Port City Brewing Beer Garden
• Ballston Bark Park dog area
• Original artwork from local artists
• VIP Sponsor Champagne Pavilion

How do I get there and where do I park?

**Please note that the Ballston Metro will be closed this Sunday during Taste of Arlington, The Ballston BID wanted to inform everyone of the other transportation modes to get to Taste:
1. We have teamed up with Uber to offer our Taste attendees a special rate for new customers, who will receive $20 off their first ride! Use promo code 'TasteofArlington' when you register.
2. There will be extra shuttle buses running continuously from the East Falls Church & Clarendon Metro Stops to Ballston all day.
3. Don't forget about parking in the Ballston Common Mall- parking for the first 3 hours is only $1.
4. Why not make a weekend out of the event! Stay at one of our great hotels in Ballston- Residence Inn by Marriott, Hilton Arlington, The Westin Arlington Gateway, & Holiday Inn Hotel Arlington At Ballston.

Take the orange line to Ballston-MU Station and walk one block. If you drive you may park on area streets, inside Ballston Common Mall garage, or at a garage listed here. Additional parking near the Randolph Ticket Center may be found at 4075 Wilson Blvd., Arlington, VA 22203.For more real time car free options visit our partner, Car-Free Diet's webpage.

Do I need tickets for the Taste of Arlington®?

There is no admission fee for the event. Tickets are needed to sample food and beverages.

Where can I purchase tickets for the Taste of Arlington®?

General admission is free and ticket books include:
10 Tastes coupons per book
Purchased before May 1: $30
After May 1: $35

New this year! Discounted Taste of Arlington® tickets are available through participating restaurants. Discounted books of 10 normally sold for $30 will be sold for $25 by visiting a participating restaurant before May 1. View participating restaurants. Tickets can also be purchased on-site on the day of the event until 3:00PM for $35 per coupon book.

Can I purchase the tickets online?

The Taste of Arlington® tickets are sold online. Eack booklet is comprised of a total of 10 Taste tickets. Once you purchase your tickets online, you will need to bring the confirmation email with you on the day of the event and go to one of two will call locations (located at the corner of N. Stuart St and 9th Street or Wilson Blvd and N. Randolph Street) to pick up your tickets.

 

Can I bring my dog?

Yes, the event is pet-friendly. Please remember to keep your pet leashed.

What if it rains?

The event will take place rain or shine.

How late is alcohol served?

Beer and wine sales will commence at Noon and will end at 4:00PM with last call at 3:30PM. However, the Taste of Arlington® personnel, Virginia Alcohol Beverage Control, and Arlington County Police Department reserve the right to discontinue service at any time to any person or persons.

Will there be entertainment at the event?

Yes. Please visit the entertainment page for programs and schedules.

Who benefits from the Taste of Arlington®?

This year, a portion of the event proceeds will be donated to the Arlington Food Assistance Center (AFAC), a community-based non-profit that provides supplemental groceries to Arlingtonians in need.

Can I bring outside food or beverage into the event?

No. The Health Code stipulated by Arlington County Environmental Health Bureau forbids outside food and beverages at the location of the event.

Do you have a Lost & Found/First-Aid area?

Yes. Need help with a scraped knee, or missing your cell phone? Visit the Lost & Found/First-Aid tent located in the KidZone at Welburn Square.

Is Taste of Arlington® a "green" event?

Yes. In keeping with Arlington county's initiative to be a sustainable community, Taste of Arlington® will offer recycling bins.