Arlington Sister Cities

Arlington Shows Support for Sister City Ivano-Frankivsk

Established in 1993, the Arlington Sister City Association (ASCA) supports and coordinates the activities of Arlington County’s five Sister Cities, promoting the County’s international profile and creating long lasting relationships.

A sister city, or twin town, relationship is a form of agreement between two geographically distinct localities with the purpose of promoting cultural and commercial ties. The modern form of this concept was first established and adopted worldwide during the Second World War.

What are Arlington’s Sister Cities?

Aachen, Germany: The westernmost city in Germany, and borders Belgium and the Netherlands. It is a spiritual and cultural center.

Reims, France: A city in northern France, located 89 miles east-northeast of Paris. The largest city in the region, Reims is often considered the capital of Champagne, an old province of France, world-famous for its sparkling wine.

Ivano-Frankivsk, West Ukraine: The capital of Ivano-Frankivsk region, West Ukraine, on the Bystrytsia River. It is a rail junction and industrial center situated in a fertile agricultural zone of the Carpathian foothills.

San Miguel, El Salvador: Currently in Emeritus Status.

Coyoacán, Mexico: Currently in Emeritus Status.

About Arlington Sister City Association

ASCA works to enhance and promote the region’s international profile and foster productive relationships through:

• Arts and Culture: Works to create and expand performing and visual artist exchanges, shared exhibitions, cultural linkages, and partnerships.
• Economic Development Opportunities: Promotes and facilitates open dialogue between Arlington business professionals and their counterparts in our Sister Cities.
• Educational Programs: Implements internationally-themed cultural events, K-12 and post-secondary student exchange programs, and High School Homestay Program.
• Professional Programs: Develops professional exchange opportunities, lectures and presentations.
• Global Tourism: Collaborates with our Sister Cities and community organizations to increase joint tourism opportunities, exploring the idea that we live in a global environment.

Get Involved

ASCA is a nonprofit organization supported in part by a grant from Arlington County Government, as well as donations from businesses and individuals, and funds raised at special events. It relies on the generosity of volunteers from all sister cities to keep thriving.

Visit the official Arlington Sister Cities website