
Franconia, Va. –– Metro set an all-time new Saturday ridership record during The Rally to Restore Sanity and/or Fear.
While the public transit agency faced many issues the day of the rally, it still did not eclipse the record set during the most recent Presidential Inauguration.
Saturday’s event put on my John Stewart and the Comedy Central cable TV network drew more than 200,000 to the nation’s capital over the weekend, according to initial reports.
Metro registered 825,437 passenger trips on Saturday, making it the largest number of people ever to ride the subway on a Saturday since a Gulf War rally in 1991, according to a Metro spokeswoman.
The line to get Metro fare cards at the Franconia-Springfield station had more than 300 people in it about 11 a.m. Saturday, and Metro police had to turn drivers away from parking in the station’s parking garage.
Each subway line in the Metro system reported delays throughout the day, and there were reports of a major escalator malfunction at the L’Enfant Plaza station.
The new Metro ridership record is not that far off from their all-time record of 866,681 passenger trips, recorded the day before Barack Obama’s Presidential Inaugural.
Recent Stories

Prince William County will introduce a 3-1-1 system this spring, streamlining residents’ and businesses’ access to non-emergency government services. The Board of County Supervisors (BOCS) officially recognized March 11, 2025, as National 3-1-1 Day, marking the county’s commitment to improving transparency and responsiveness in local government.

McClung-Logan Equipment Company is hosting its 40th Annual Oyster Roast, a signature customer appreciation event celebrating tradition, community, and generosity.
This year’s milestone celebration will take place on Thursday, March 6th, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Fredericksburg Agricultural Fairgrounds.
The first Oyster Roast began as a fundraiser in 1985, led by White Oak Equipment founder Frank McCarty, to raise donations for an employee battling cancer. This turned into a time-honored tradition for individuals facing hardship.

A Night on the Riviera
Experience a magical evening at the Embassy of France with A Night on the Riviera, an event that will transport you to the glamour of the French Riviera while celebrating the vibrant spirit of Mardi Gras!
Indulge in an exquisite selection of French wines and champagne, paired with the finest French cuisine prepared by the talented Chef of the Embassy of France. Additionally, Chef Hugh Cossard will be carving ham live, ensuring freshness and exceptional flavor. Don’t miss out on the authentic French crêpes, made to order and sure to transport you straight to the streets of Nice.
For those seeking an extra touch of exclusivity, the VIP experience includes unlimited champagne, adding an extra layer of sophistication to this festive celebration.
Environmental Film Festival: Turtle Walker
DC Premiere.
In the late 1970s, Satish Bhaskar embarked on an epic journey along India’s coastline and the spectacular Andaman and Nicobar Islands, where he uncovered the vital nesting beaches of sea turtles. During his death-defying quest, he unravels mysteries