Any thoughts on making these meetups a bit later? 6pm is a bit tight for me as I normally work until 6 and then have to commute into Arlington/DC, which isn't the easiest thing.

I actually leave my house at 6pm. Arrive by 7 or so. So its not like you need to be there right at 6pm. Its very flexible and very easy to get in and conversate.

While it's usually not as busy as it is right at 6, there are still quite a few people around after 8PM for most meetups.

Especially true for Maryland people who plan to attend.

Oh man! I am a musician by trade (I like to treat it like a small business, which is why I read HN) and have performed at Four Courts in Arlington several times - great atmosphere, beer selection, and staff. Who doesn't love a thick Irish accent? In fact I'll be one city over later that night performing in Alexandria around 10pm. How long do these meetups last?

Previous meetups have gone to 9:30 and later, though you can cut out at any time.

If you do make it out to the meetup, I'd love to chat. I used to play the Sunday night open mics at Four Courts back when Brad Pugh hosted them.