Updates and Closures

Mon., Feb. 16 - Center will be closed in observance of President's Day.

What's Happening at Charles Drew

Join Us for Feel the Heritage on Feb. 21!

Mark your calendar for the 2026 Feel the Heritage Festival, happening on Sat., Feb. 21, from 12-5 p.m.! This year we're celebrating the National Black History Month theme, "A Century of Black History Commemorations"! This festival will bring music, dance, food, family-friendly activities and plenty of opportunities to connect and reflect on the stories that unite us. Learn more!

Open Door Monday – Feb. 23

Open Door Monday will take place Mon, Feb. 23, from 6–8 p.m. in the Multipurpose Room. An informal opportunity for Arlingtonians to chat one-on-one or in small groups with a County Board member Learn more.

Teen Drop-in Hours at Drew

Teens can enjoy more time on the court at Drew Community Center! Join us for teen basketball drop-In every Wednesday from 6–9 p.m. and pickleball on Mondays from 6-9 p.m. Check out a full list of teen drop-in sport hours here.

Charles Drew Options

Outdoor Amenities
Check out the regularly occurring activities list here.

Register Today!

Winter ENJOY Arlington Classes
Winter Nature & History Programs
Winter 55+ Programs, Events and Classes (Need a 55+ Pass)

Parks & Recreation News

Summer Camp Registration Starts This Month!

Summer camp registration is right around the corner! Get ready by exploring the 2026 Summer Camp Catalog and taking note of the following registration dates (all registrations begin at noon):

Mon., Feb. 2 at noon - Tue., Feb. 10 at 5 p.m.: Early registration for those enrolled in DPR's fee reduction program (by phone at 703-228-4747 or in-person at Lubber Run Community Center only).
Wed., Feb. 11: Partner Camps
Wed., Feb. 18: Parks & Recreation Camps
Wed., Feb. 25: Out-of-County registration

Visit the 2026 summer camp webpage to learn more!

Summer camp job opportunities are also now open! Perfect for teachers, college students, and anyone who enjoys working with kids. Learn more and sign up for updates here.

Family Art Lab: Valentine Boxes and Cards

Share the love with these homemade Valentine cards and boxes at Family Art Lab at Arlington Mill Community Center on Sat., Feb. 7, from 10 a.m.–12 p.m. Using decorative paper, stickers, and a variety of other supplies, you can create something straight from the heart!

Each person (including adults) attending the program must register, and all children must be supervised by a participating adult. Be sure to register by February 4!

Teen Takeover: Amazon After Hours on Feb. 27

Get ready for the return of Battle of the DJs on Fri., Feb. 27, 7-10 p.m., but this time, with VIP entrance to Amazon HQ2! Teen DJs will have a chance to showcase their skills at the Teen Takeover event at Amazon HQ2. Teens can also:

Walk the red carpet
Chill in the Rainforest Lounge
Collaborate on a graffiti art wall
Enjoy a silent disco
Grab free food

55+: Lectures & Learning Sessions Honoring Black History Month

Explore key moments, movements, and communities in Black history through a variety of virtual and in-person sessions, including:

Black Women Fight for Civil Rights
Arlington's Halls Hill
Queen City: a Community Displaced

and much more through our 55+ Lecture & Learning series. 55+ membership required. Explore and register here.

Nominate a Park Hero by March 2!

Know someone dedicated to improving our parks and public spaces? Nominate them for the 2025 Bill Thomas Park Volunteer Award! Nominees should have hands-on, multi-year experience in improving or maintaining parklands, natural resources, habitats, or outdoor public spaces. Nominations are open through March 2. Learn more.

Nature Programs for Little Explorers

Gulf Branch and Long Branch Nature Centers offer engaging programs for young children throughout the year, including preschool age (3–5) and Tiny Tot (ages 18–35 months with an adult) programs. Each month features a new theme with multiple session dates, so families only need to register for one session per center per month. Programs include hands-on learning, songs, games, crafts, and mini-hikes that help children discover the wonders of nature.

All programs require registration, and caretakers must stay with their child.