Meet Darla, D.C.’s New Roving Bar Car

D.C.’s new on-the-go Airsteam trailer, which has been appearing everywhere this summer from remote farms to boozy promotional events, is hitting the town this week..

Find the sleek SilverStream machine, nicknamed Darla, at CityCenter DC on Wednesday, October 18. Homegrown bakery Rare Sweets plans to serve complimentary hot cider from the shiny vehicle between 4 p.m. and 7 p.m.

The newly renovated and customized 1963 airstream trailer is owned by events company Silver Lining Design Group, which just created the colorful leaves installation hovering over Palmer Alley.

Since launching this year, the retro rental has worn a variety of hats (think: pop-up craft cocktail bar; customized photo booth experience; food truck; and moving billboard). Local distiller Jos. A. Magnus & Co. launched its boozy snow cones out of it, and here was Darla as a Rose Garden, parked at last month’s Ride to Thrive Polo Classic in The Plains, Virginia:

Photo: Silver Lining Design Group

While prevalent in California (Eater SF followed around a replica concept dubbed Bar Car SF back in 2014), there’s currently a shortage of airstreams on the East Coast, says Silver Lining founder Marielle Shortell.

Her 24-foot long bar car, which can be booked in Virginia, Maryland, and D.C., sports a custom-stained wood bar, interchangeable interior counters, an ice sink, and sleek light fixtures. Renters can choose a caterer or liquor brand for parties, or a restaurant can take it over entirely.

Meet Darla on H Street between Ninth and 10th streets NW on Wednesday, October 18, with more TBA appearances coming in the future.