This June, the Columbia Pike Blues Festival returns for its 28th year, transforming Arlington’s vibrant Columbia Pike corridor into a weekend-long celebration of America’s greatest musical art form. Presented by the Columbia Pike Partnership in collaboration with Arlington Arts, the festival remains the largest blues gathering in the D.C. metropolitan area, drawing thousands of residents and visitors for an unforgettable day of live music, local vendors, and family-friendly fun.
This year’s lineup spotlights some of the region’s finest talent alongside rising stars who are redefining the blues. Everyday Everybody, the D.C.-based ensemble celebrated for its electrifying fusion of funk, soul, jazz, and afrobeat, will set the stage ablaze with their dynamic grooves. Sol Roots—renowned guitarist and soulful vocalist—brings the weight of worldwide tours and mentorship under blues and funk legends, offering a powerhouse performance infused with New Orleans–style funk and heartfelt rock. Piedmont blues virtuoso Rick Franklin, a founding member of the DC Blues Society, will charm the crowd with his light-footed fingerpicking and warm tenor vocals, honoring the legacy of acoustic greats from Blind Blake to John Cephas. Blues-funk harmonica master Anthony “Swamp Dog” Clark and his band will deliver a blistering mix of contemporary blues and funk edge, while Little Red and the Renegades will showcase their high-energy zydeco and New Orleans R&B, complete with accordion, steel pan, and driving rhythms that have made them local favorites for decades.
More than a music festival, the Columbia Pike Blues Festival is a tribute to the rich diversity and spirited creativity of Arlington and the wider D.C. community. Attendees can explore an array of artisan booths, sample food and drink from neighborhood eateries and craft vendors, and enjoy children’s activities that make the event truly inclusive. From seasoned blues aficionados to families seeking a fun summer outing, there is something for everyone to discover—whether it’s a toe-tapping bluegrass set, a smooth jazz interlude, or a mouthwatering barbecue plate paired with locally brewed beer and wine.
In past years, the festival has welcomed national headliners such as Sonny Landreth, Nikki Hill, and Bettye LaVette, underscoring its reputation as a must-attend event. This year, however, the focus turns homeward, shining a spotlight on the Washington, D.C., area’s own musical backbone. Festival organizers invite the entire community to come together for what promises to be the best block party of the summer.
About the Columbia Pike Blues Festival
Since 1995, Columbia Pike has hosted the region’s premier free outdoor blues festival each June, celebrating the enduring spirit of the blues and the people who keep its traditions alive. Presented by the Columbia Pike Partnership and Arlington Arts, the festival showcases diverse genres—from blues and jazz to funk and zydeco—and features local artisans, food trucks, and activities for all ages. Mark your calendars and join thousands of your neighbors for a day of unforgettable music, culture, and community on Columbia Pike.
For more information, including performance schedules and vendor details, please visit https://www.columbia-pike.org/bluesfest
