This year’s Columbia Pike Blues Festival was, without a doubt, the most beautiful and successful in our history, with over 10,000 souls joining us on our beloved Pike. A heartfelt thank you to our partners, vendors, sponsors, artists, volunteers, and the tireless team behind the scenes, without whom the spectacular harmony of blues and community celebration would remain a dream.

We were blessed with gorgeous weather and radiant sunshine. The full day was bustling with numerous fun and diverse activities, from the Kid’s Zone to the Art Alley. This beautiful day was made even more enchanting with the infusion of local arts, crafts, and a sense of togetherness that only such community gatherings can foster. The air was full of captivating blues, R&B, and funk rhythms, which punctuated our celebration and echoed through the Pike. To all those who contributed, your dedication and energy have infused life into the event that Arlington Magazine rightly names “Arlington’s best block party.”

As we savored the sights and sounds of the festival, we were graced with the presence of key community representatives and treated to a symphony of food and drink options. Each taste was a testament to the hard work and dedication of our local small businesses, underpinning the true essence of Columbia Pike’s inclusive and sustainable growth.

Our Pike is not just a road; it’s a pulsating artery of our community, echoing with the stories and songs of its past, present, and future. As we witness the transformation of this corridor, remember that it is each and every one of you who impregnates Columbia Pike with its unique spirit and soul. Each smiling face, each clapping hand, each echoing cheer is a testament to the power of community, a beacon illuminating the path to our sustainable and inclusive future.

With renowned artists like Judith Hill gracing our festival, along with the captivating performances by Annika Chambers & Paul DesLauriers, Bobby Thompson, Gayle Harrod Band, and the Spice Cake Blues duo, we’ve truly taken our celebration of music and community to new heights. The echoes of their music, resonating with the heartbeat of Columbia Pike, will stay with us until we meet again next year.

This remarkable festival is expanding, blossoming, and becoming more vibrant with each passing year, mirroring the growth of our beloved Columbia Pike. And as we look forward, the anticipation for our next rendezvous is already palpable. Our gratitude is boundless, and our spirits are high. Let’s keep the rhythm of the blues alive, pulsating in our hearts, until we come together again to celebrate life, music, and community.

Thank you for making the 2023 Columbia Pike Blues Festival a symphony of success.

Here’s to making next year’s festival even bigger, better, and bluesier. See you in 2024!