Info for the Taste

What is the Taste of Arlington®?

The 25th Annual Taste of Arlington® is brought to you by the Ballston Business Improvement District. Taste of Arlington® is an annual event that transforms Ballston into a lively street festival, complete with local entertainment, dynamic sponsors, children's activities, and lots of noteworthy restaurants. Over 35 restaurants participate in this spectacular community event, which draws an average of 15,000 people each year who live in the greater Washington, D.C. area.

This year, three community non-profit organizations will receive a donation from the proceeds of the event - Arlington Community Foundation, the Virginia Hospital Center, and Phoenix Houses of the Mid-Atlantic.

When is Taste of Arlington®?

Sunday, May 20, 2012 from Noon to 5:00PM, rain or shine.

Where is Taste of Arlington®?

Wilson Boulevard in front of Ballston Common Mall. Parking is available all day at the Ballston Public Parking Garage adjacent to the Ballston Common Mall, and the event is located on the Metro Ballston-MU station (Orange line). There will also be a bike valet for those who would like to travel by bicycle.

How do I get there and where do I park?

Take the orange line to Ballston-MU Station and walk one block. If you drive you may park on area streets, The Ballston Common Mall, or one listed on the County list below. Or if coming by bike use our bike valet located near the stage on Wilson near N Taylor! See parking map. Additional parking near the Randolph Ticket Center may be found at 4075 Wilson Blvd., Arlington, VA 22203.

Event Logistics for all Taste Restaurants, Sponsors, & Vendor Booths:

Click here for event logisitics.

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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®?

Advance tickets are $20 per ticket book and will be available for purchase here on the web site beginning February 15. Ticket price $20 February 15 through March 15. After March 15 online ticket price will be $25.

Tickets can also be purchased on-site on the day of the event until 3:00PM for $30 per ticket.

Can I purchase tickets the day of the event?

Yes, until 3:00PM.

How are the tickets sold?

The Taste of Arlington® tickets are sold in booklets. Each booklet is comprised of a total of 8 Taste tickets.

What do I get for one ticket book? (i.e. How many Tastes)

There are 8 Tastes per ticket book. Each food item costs 1 Taste. Beer and wine costs 1 Tastes.

Do I have to be 21 to attend?

No, the Taste of Arlington® is fun for all ages. However, you must be 21 to purchase or consume alcohol.

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 the 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®?

A portion of the event proceeds will be donated. This year, three community non-profit organizations will receive a donation from the proceeds of the event - Arlington Community Foundation, the Virginia Hospital Center, and Phoenix Houses of the Mid-Atlantic.

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.

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.

Media Inquiries?

5-14-2012 Release
5-2-2012 Release
4-18-2012 Release
4-09-2012 Release