TRAFFIC ALERT: Clarendon Halloween Road Closures and Outreach Event

ARLINGTON, Va. – This Halloween, no monster is scarier than a drunk driver. To help spread the message that Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving, the Arlington County Police Department, in partnership with the Washington Regional Alcohol Program (WRAP), is hosting a Halloween anti-drunk driving event to highlight the impact alcohol has on motor skills and driving ability. All are welcome at this free event that will take place on Saturday, October 31 at the intersection of N. Hudson Street and Wilson Boulevard, beginning at 8:00 p.m.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), between 2020 and 2024, there were 201 people killed in alcohol-related crashes on Halloween night nationwide, which involve at least one driver who had a blood alcohol level of .01 or higher (6:00 p.m. October 31 – 5:59 a.m. November 1). In that timeframe, adults between the ages of 21 and 34 had the highest percentage (54%) of fatalities in drunk-driving crashes. That’s why the Arlington County Police Department is reminding everyone not to let their Halloween plans turn into a frightening decision. Drunk driving is 100% preventable. Plan your sober ride home before you head out and make sure you have a safe way to and from your spooky celebrations.

Celebrate with a Plan

If you plan to drink, follow these simple tips for a safe and happy evening:

• Remember that it is never okay to drink and drive. Even after just one alcoholic drink, make the smart choice — designate a sober driver, or plan ahead to use public transportation or a ride service to get home safely.
• The Washington Regional Alcohol Program's 2026 Halloween SoberRide® program is offering FREE rides home (up to $15), in partnership with Lyft, from 10:00 p.m. to 4:00 a.m. on Friday, October 30 and on Saturday, October 31.
• Arlington Transit Buses will be offering FREE bus rides on October 31. Check bus routes and schedules on their website.
• If you see a suspected impaired driver on the roadway, report to your local law enforcement. To report a suspected impaired driver in Arlington County, call the Emergency Communications Center at 703-558-2222 or 9-1-1 in an emergency.
• Do you have a friend who is about to drink and drive? Take the keys away and make arrangements to get your friend home safely.

Always remember: Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving. For more information, visit the NHTSA website.

Clarendon Road Closures

On Saturday, October 31, 2026 beginning at 7:00 p.m. to accommodate the SoberRide event:

• N. Hudson Street between Wilson Boulevard and the alley behind the CVS

On Saturday, October 31, 2026, from 10:00 p.m. until Sunday, November 1, 2026 at 3:00 a.m.to accommodate the expected increase in nightlife activity:

• Clarendon Boulevard from N. Highland Street to Washington Boulevard
• Wilson Boulevard from N. Highland Street to Washington Boulevard

The public should expect to see an increased police presence in the area, and motorists are urged to follow law enforcement direction, be mindful of closures and remain alert for increased pedestrian traffic. Other roads not mentioned may be closed at law enforcement discretion and in the interest of public safety.

Parking Restrictions

Street parking will be restricted on Wilson Boulevard and Clarendon Boulevard beginning at 8:00 p.m. on October 31.

Motorists should be on the lookout for temporary “No Parking” signs in the area. Illegally parked vehicles may be ticketed or towed. If your vehicle is towed, please use the online portal to find out the status of your vehicle and where it is located. The online portal is updated in real time. If you cannot locate your vehicle or need additional support using the online portal, call the County non-emergency number at 703-558-2222.

 

Media Contact

Communications Specialist II
Alli Shorb
703-228-4270

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