Arts & Entertainment

Here's What's Happening At McLean Community Center This September

McLean Community Center's September lineup includes a Broadway film, block party, teen auditions and Harvest Happenings.

McLean Community Center's September lineup includes a Broadway film, block party, teen auditions and Harvest Happenings.
McLean Community Center's September lineup includes a Broadway film, block party, teen auditions and Harvest Happenings. (Lisa Helfert)

MCLEAN, VA From a Broadway musical commemorating Sept. 11 to a community block party and an autumn celebration featuring pumpkins and a petting zoo, the McLean Community Center has a full schedule of events planned for September.

The center released its September calendar with events at MCC, 1234 Ingleside Ave., and the Old Firehouse Center, unless otherwise noted. The calendar also includes the opening of season ticket sales for The Alden's upcoming season of dance, theater, music, comedy, film and family performances.

Here are the upcoming events, listed chronologically:

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Alden Season Ticket Sales Open — Sept. 8

Season tickets for The Alden's 2026 season go on sale Tuesday, Sept. 8. The upcoming season will feature dance, theater, music, comedy, film and family performances in the Alden's 383-seat theater at MCC. Free parking is available at the center.

OFC Snack & Paint Night — Sept. 11

Families can create their own artwork during the Old Firehouse Center's Snack & Paint Night from 7-9 p.m. Friday, Sept. 11, at the DuVal Studio at MCC.

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A professional art teacher will lead the program, which is open to beginners and experienced artists. Art materials and snacks are included in the fee.

'Come From Away' Screening — Sept. 11

The Alden Theatre will screen "Come From Away" from 7-9 p.m. Friday, Sept. 11.

Filmed live on Broadway, the Tony Award-winning musical tells the true story of a small Canadian town that welcomed thousands of airline passengers stranded following the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.

Fall Parking Lot Sale — Sept. 12

More than 60 local vendors will sell household items, clothing, toys, collectibles and other merchandise during MCC's Fall Parking Lot Sale from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 12. Admission to the sale is free.

Unruly Theatre Project Open Auditions — Sept. 15-16

The Alden's Unruly Theatre Project will hold open auditions for students in grades 9-12 from 7-9 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday, Sept. 15-16.

Members of the professional teen improv company are paid for performances and community programs and have opportunities to perform around the region. No prepared monologue is required.

The group has won first place at Northern Virginia's Improvicon in 2022, 2023 and 2025. Registration is required.

OFC Block Party — Sept. 19

The Old Firehouse Center will host an outdoor community block party from 1-4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19.

The event in downtown McLean will feature live music, games, activities, food and giveaways, with activities planned for all ages.

OFC School Break Fun — Sept. 21

Students in grades 5-8 can spend the school break at the Old Firehouse Center during a day of activities, games and planned programming from 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday, Sept. 21. Registration is required.

MCC Budget Public Hearing — Sept. 23

The McLean Community Center Governing Board will hold a meeting and public hearing on its proposed fiscal 2028 budget at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 23.

The hearing will give community members an opportunity to learn about MCC's plans for the upcoming fiscal year.

Harvest Happenings — Sept. 26

MCC will welcome fall with its annual Harvest Happenings celebration from 10 a.m.-12 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 26.

The indoor-outdoor family event will feature live entertainment, crafts, interactive games and a petting zoo. Children and families will also be able to select a pumpkin to decorate and take home. Volunteer registration is available online.

Drop-In Mah-Jongg — Throughout September

Free drop-in Mah-Jongg games are offered throughout September for players of all skill levels. Sessions are scheduled from 7-10 p.m. Mondays and 4-7 p.m. Thursdays at MCC and from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Wednesdays at the Old Firehouse Center. No registration is required.

Residents should check the McLean Community Center's website for the latest event information.

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