2021 Holiday Events in Alexandria, Virginia
Locals and visitors alike flock to Alexandria, Virginia, over the holiday season as the city brims with merriment, twinkle lights, and festive street decorations. You just can’t help but let the charm of Old Town’s city streets take over.
Many of the halted public holiday traditions have returned this season, and everyone is excited to start celebrating again. There are more than enough events to choose from, so pick your favorites and make a plan to shop, dine, and explore Alexandria.
Saturdays and Sundays now through December 19, excluding December 4.
11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Thanks to the weekly rotation of artists showcasing art ranging from paintings and photographs to jewelry and wearables, you’ll want to make more than one trip to the Torpedo Factory. After you’re finished, stay to shop the permanent galleries on site.
November 19 through January 2, 2022
5 p.m. to 10 p.m.
January 8 through February 27, 2022
Skating Only Weekends 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
More than a dozen (including new installations) walkable holiday light displays are waiting to evoke holiday oohs and ahhs. For more holiday spirit, enjoy shopping, food, music, and ice skating. The skating rink limits capacity, so you must pre-pay online. The park encourages general prepayment online to avoid crowds.
November 20, 2021
Market Square 300 King Street, Alexandria
The ceremony features holiday music, a proclamation from the Town Crier, a message from Mayor Wilson, and come rain or shine, a visit from Santa Claus riding through King Street on a classic trolley.
November 26 - December 2
Head into Old Town and Del Ray for Alexandria’s biggest shopping week of the year. The Alexandria Shop Small Week begins on Plaid Friday, which is Alexandria’s Small Business Black Friday, followed by:
- Small Business Saturday
- Museum Store Sunday
- Cyber Monday
- Giving Tuesday
- Giveaway Wednesday
- Moonlight Merriment
Expect seven days of exciting giveaways, great deals, and one-of-a-kind promotions hosted by the area’s best boutiques and stores.
Aladdin the Camel: November 26 - January 6, 2022
Mount Vernon by Candlelight: November 26 -27, December 3-4, 10-11, and 19
Holiday Family Day: December 4, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Christmas Illuminations: December 17 and 18, 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
A wide variety of holiday celebrations are available to visitors headed to Mount Vernon. Meet Aladdin the camel, discuss the holiday planning with Martha Washington, or take part in a tour that describes the delicious detail of the Washingtons’ traditional holiday dinner.
December 3 through 18
Various showtimes
A classic holiday favorite returns to its traditional stage form. Of course, you’ll remember Ebenezer Scrooge and Tiny Tim, but you’ll also see new special effects and listen to Victorian carols. Bring proof of vaccination or negative COVID test within 72 hours. Masks required.
December 3-5, 10-12, 17-19
Fridays, 6 to 9 p.m.
Saturdays and Sundays, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
The Del Ray Artisans’ 26th Annual Holiday Market showcases local vendors with unique handcrafted fine arts and crafts. Enjoy multiple weekends and see a rotation of artists showcasing work in fiber/textiles, glass, jewelry, mixed media, mosaics, ornaments, painting, paper crafting, photography, polymer clay, pottery/ceramics, prints, sculpture, watercolor, wood, and wreaths.
December 3, 6:30 p.m. Taste of Scotland
December 4, 11 am. Scottish Christmas Walk
Scottish merchants founded Alexandria; one is the port’s namesake, John Alexander. Scottish traditions have held strong for hundreds of years in the city. Each year over Christmas, residents celebrate their heritage in town.
The much-beloved Scottish Walk Weekend returns in 2021 and kicks off festive events like the beloved Scottish parade filled with clans dressed in tartans with bagpipes and drums. Watch for the Scottie dogs by the pack!
December 4, 5:30 p.m.
Dockside Festivities 2 to 8 p.m.
After missing last year, the boat parade is back on schedule. Sponsored by Amazon, you’ll find a pop-up beer garden, a hot chocolate bar, a Letters to Santa Station, freebies, and music from WASH-FM.
December 11
11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Head to John Carlyle Square Park to visit more than 80 artisans and crafters in an open-air market. You’ll find handmade jewelry, organic bath and body products, home décor, holiday ornaments, and much more. After, take a break from shopping to listen to the Christmas Carols Show. Kids can go to the Elves’ Shop where they’ll make a Christmas ornament. And don't miss pictures with Santa!
December 24, 1 p.m.
For some Alexandrians, it’s a Christmas Eve tradition—a skiing Santa and his friends scurrying down the Potomac River. So head to the Alexandria City Marina or Waterfront Park to watch the 36th year of winter river skiing unfold.
December 31
12:00 p.m to 12:00 a.m.
An Alexandria favorite offers residents a time to enjoy the family-friendly and culturally diverse art in many forms throughout the city. There’s an array of live performances to choose from, including the new this year, “Battle of the Buskers.” Of course, you won’t want to miss the new year’s countdown and fireworks show over the Potomac.
It’s nice to see classic Alexandria holiday events return, but it’s also exciting to check out new events to ring in 2022. If you still want more holiday action, check out the festive regional favorite, the Bull Run Festival of Lights in Centerville. The 2.5-mile light display will put you in the holiday spirit in no time.
Fall 2021 Events in Alexandria, Virginia
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Photo by Kelsey Knight on Unsplash
Welcome back to fall in Alexandria, Virginia. This year, festive events are making their way onto the 2021 September and October calendars. Of course, everyone is extra happy to don festive sweaters and comfy boots, all hoping to hear the crackle and swish of colorful leaves on the ground of upcoming events.
But before you pick your favorite events for the best Alexandria fall experience, you’re going to need pumpkins and a leaf-peeping guide, so check out these sources of fall fun.
Nightly Spirits Haunted Pub Tour
September through November 2021
Various Times
Fall nights in Alexandria are meant for pub crawls, especially if haunted. Starting at Chadwicks, one of the city’s most loved pubs, a dressed-to-the-haunted-nines tour guide escorts guests to historical sites to hear creepy tales and to four different pubs or bars in Old Town to try a drink at each.
Landmark Mall Carnival
September 23-October 3, 2021
Various Times
If you’ve been craving old-fashioned fun, head to Landmark Mall. The site transforms into a family-oriented carnival. You’ll find traditional fair food, rides, and games to keep everyone busy for hours. Purchase your tickets online for discounts and unlimited ride wristbands.
Oktoberfest at North Payne Beer Garden
September 25, 2021
12:00 p.m – 6:00 p.m
The season isn’t complete without an Oktoberfest celebration. Old Town has its version at The Loop. Craft brews by Rocket Frog Brewing are the main draw, but you’ll also see Bavarian food, artisan vendors, and folks donning traditional German lederhosen to win swag and prizes. Local Vibes is also on site to entertain the crowd.
The 2021 Workhouse Haunt
October 3 – November 6, 2021
Various Times
It’s probably been a while since you’ve toured a haunted house, so if you’re dying to get back into the scare scene, head to Alexandria’s immediate neighbor, Lorton, to walk through the grounds of the former District of Columbia’s Correctional Facility. For 30 minutes, small groups will walk through the site’s abandoned, historic buildings. You’ll also trek into the dark woods where terrifying characters and gruesome sights await. The experience is next level, so only kids over 13 are recommended for entry.
Mount Vernon’s Fall Wine Festival and Sunset Tour
October 8 - 10, 2021
6 p.m. - 9 p.m.
One of the area’s favorite fall destinations, Mount Vernon, has mastered the art of tasting Virginia’s wines in an unmatched setting. Unlimited samples are available with your ticket, and the Mount Vernon Inn is selling food for your picnic on the Potomac. Specialized views of the mansion’s first floor are open until 8:30 p.m.
Del Ray’s Annual Halloween Parade
October 24, 2021
2:00 p.m.
The whole family, including pets, are invited to dress up and march through the streets of Del Ray to show off their very best costumes. Categories for prizes include Best Pet Costume, Best Decorated Business, Best Decorated Home, and Best Decorated Stroller. The parade ends at Mount Vernon Recreation Center play fields—the perfect way to end an afternoon of fun.
8th Annual Doggie Trick or Treat
October 24, 2021
1:00 pm. - 5 p.m.
Bring the family to The Dog Park in Old Town Alexandria for treats, pictures, and a costume contest. Grab your map of Old Town stores to trick or treat and shop a little for more Halloween savings and snacks.
Trick or Treat at Mount Vernon
October 30, 2021
2:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Quickly becoming one of the estate’s most sought-after events, trick or treating at Mount Vernon is a special celebration, encompassing 18th century entertainment and activities including chocolate-making demonstrations, music, selfie straw bale station, and a take-home craft bag to go. Ticket holders get a one-of-a-kind Mount Vernon treat bag. The event goes on, rain or shine.
August 2021 Events in Alexandria, Virginia
Believe it or not, the last full month of summer is sneaking up right behind you. Major vacation travel is probably a recent memory, and now it's time to slowly, but surely, get back into the swing of things before back to school activities and regular office hours begin again.
There’s no better way to stay active close to home than to head to one of Alexandria’s August events—minimal effort for maximum fun. Pick something new each week to squeeze every bit of summer joy out of August.
The Friendship Firehouse Festival
August 7, 2021
9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
The Friendship Firehouse Festival is back! After a year off, the beloved festival is open to the public to help celebrate its 247th year. Families will learn about fire safety for today and how firefighters worked in the past. The festival includes tours through the museum (complete with buckets, hoses, axes, and suction engine), music, crafts, food, and displays from a variety of community organizations in the area. And the best part: free fire hats!
The Dog Games, An Olympic Event Like No Other
August 7, 2021
5:00 p.m. - 8 p.m.
An Olympic-inspired event in Alexandria is just what the people and their dogs need. If your pup has a trick or talent, head to Brewski’s Barkhaus to show off and earn tickets all day long. Tickets earn dogs medals and medals earn bragging rights. Humans win swag, memberships, and a $100 gift card. No trick or talent? Dress up the dog for a costume contest. You can also enjoy food and beer specials; a portion of the proceeds are dedicated to the Special Olympics.
National Purple Heart Day Wreath Laying
August 7, 2021
10:00 a.m.
Mount Vernon invites visitors to join the Military Order of the Purple Heart and the National Museum of the United States Army for the estate’s National Purple Heart Day Wreath Laying at Washington’s Tomb and Commemoration Ceremony in the Tomb Grove. President Washington wanted to honor the common soldier's service and created the Badge of Military Merit, the precursor to the Purple Heart. Purple Heart recipients enter Mount Vernon free every day.
Alexandria’s 12th Annual Sidewalk Sale
August 14-15, 2021
‘Tis the season for markdowns. The end of summer means shop owners need to make space for new items. You’ll find discounts on fashion, jewelry, home décor, gifts, pet supplies, and much more in Old Town and Del Ray. Try a new shop or boutique; you might find a great deal and a new favorite store. Best of all, select City of Alexandria parking garages are free.
First Annual Summer Picnic at the Original Mount Vernon High School
August, 14, 2021
10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
The Southeast Fairfax Development Corporation invites the Richmond Highway community of Alexandria to a neighborhood-wide picnic. Introduce yourself to neighbors, try a new food truck, and listen to the tunes of the Original Moonlighters Band. You’ll also have time to shop local vendors on site.
Memory Depot Orientation
August 14, 2021
10:15 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Head to the Sherwood Regional branch of Fairfax County’s public library system to organize your photos, slides, and negatives. You’ll learn to scan precious memories for safe keeping and ensure future generations get a glimpse of the “old days.” And, if you have VHS cassettes (wedding videos anyone?) you can transfer those to digital formats, too.
Alexandria’s Summer Restaurant Week
August 20, 2021
During restaurant week (actually 10 days and two weekends), local chefs show off creative dishes, while locals can grab a steal of a deal for $49 in-person and/or to-go dinner for two. Some restaurants offer $25 in-person and/or to-go dinner for one. This is the perfect chance to try a restaurant you’ve been reserving for a special occasion.
July 2021 Events in Alexandria, Virginia
Sweet summer has finally arrived, and Alexandria, Virginia, is celebrating the season by getting back to the thriving event schedule it’s known for. Although some activities remain virtual, big events like July 4th celebrations are starting again. Watch all summer long to stay updated and plan for upcoming events.
Before we get to Alexandria’s best July events, let’s kick off the month with a list of Old Town’s popular outdoor and waterfront dining options to start the season right. Be sure to snag a reservation as these are some of the most in-demand restaurants in the area.
Del Ray Farmers Market
Every July Saturday 2021
8:00 a.m.- 12:00 p.m.
Meet friends at the corner of Oxford and Mount Vernon Avenue to treat yourself to local goodies like seasonal fruit and vegetables, local meat and eggs, fresh pasta and sauces, cheese, yogurt, baked goods, and jams and jellies.
Del Ray Vintage Flea Market
2nd Saturday of Each Month 2021
9:00 a.m.- 1:00 p.m.
Vintage stores are on fire post-pandemic! Lots of closet cleaning means secondhand goods are plentiful. Stop by the parking lot of 1900 Mt. Vernon Avenue to shop vintage and like-new clothing, housewares, sports memorabilia, child and baby items, artwork, and more. If vintage stores feel like home to you, head to Del Ray’s Vintage Flea Market.
An American Celebration
July 4, 2021
9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
An American Celebration at Mount Vernon is a pretty cool way to spend July 4th. Talk about patriotic! The event hosts daytime fireworks and meet and greets with George and Martha Washington. Some lucky U.S. citizen candidates will have their swearing-in ceremony on the grounds. Plan to stay and hear a musical performance by the National Concert Band.
Fireworks Cruise From Alexandria
July 4, 2021
7:30 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.
A fireworks boat cruise holds space on many people’s July 4th bucket list. It’s a unique way to enjoy the Washington, D.C. festivities without the hassle of parking and overcrowded patches of lawn at the Mall. The boats leave Alexandria City Marina behind the Torpedo Factory, and cruise for two hours. Onboard, you can buy beer, wine, and snacks.
Summer Wine Festival & Sunset Tour
July 16-18, 2021
6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Mount Vernon stays busy over the summer, and one of their most popular events is the Summer Wine Festival and Sunset Tour. Pack a blanket and taste the best of Virginia wines. You’ll definitely find a new favorite with unlimited samples! Views of the Potomac River and the glorious back porch of Mount Vernon make up the picturesque backdrops. If you need a break from the heat, head inside The Shops at Mount Vernon and find a one-of-a-kind souvenir.
July Concerts at The Birchmere
If there was ever a signal we’re all moving past the pandemic, it’s the fully loaded concert schedule at the Birchmere. Take a look at some of what’s ahead in July.
- July 8: Asleep at the Wheel 50th Anniversary Tour
- July 17: Wynonna Judd
- July 20: Steve Earle & The Dukes with The Mastersons
- July 23: The Breakers- A Tribute to Tom Petty
- July 31: The Fabulous Thunderbirds
Images from Pixabay
June 2021 Events in Alexandria, Virginia
Although summer doesn’t arrive until the end of June, the warm, humid air will be attending each outdoor event Alexandria offers! Tourists and local residents look forward to embracing the seasonal ambiance as public gatherings increase and pandemic restrictions lift. Stroll the banks of the Potomac, or wander downtown streets—summer is in the air!
Clean the Bay Day 2021
May 31-June 5, 2021
This year’s event is slightly different, but the results are the same: a cleaner Alexandria. Choose to work with groups in locations nearby or use the list of sites provided; as long as you have permission to clean litter, any location is fine. Lunch breaks, after school, weekends— they’re all great times to participate in this community event.
I Hear America Singing Choral Arts Chamber Singers
June 3, 2021- 5:30 pm and 7 pm
As part of the ongoing Spring and Summer Live Concerts series, Scott Tucker, conductor, leads the Choral Arts Society of Washington in the first in-person performance in over a year. Rare American choral music highlights the concert, including music influenced by the Civil Rights movement and women’s suffrage.
Photo by Dennis Schmidt on Unsplash
The Alexandria Drive-In - Permanetly closed
June Fridays and Saturdays, 2021- 9 pm
Born out of pandemic restrictions, the Alexandria Drive-In became an Alexandria favorite and continues over the summer months. The movie location is the parking lot of the Victory Center on Eisenhower Avenue, and tickets are $40 per car. Food trucks are onsite for pre-movie dinner or snacks.
12th Annual Taste of Del Ray
June 4-6, 2021
The 12th Annual Taste of Del Ray is the perfect time to try a variety of Del Ray’s best restaurants. Buy take-out style “tastes” (up to three) for $5 each. The menu and paired cocktails are available online during registration. Vote for your favorite restaurant to win the People’s Choice Award.
Photo by BENCE BOROS on Unsplash
Mount Vernon’s Craft Beer Festival
June 19-20, 2021- 6 pm to 9 pm
Guests greet summer with craft brew tastings, a sunset, and an after-hours experience at Mount Vernon. Your ticket includes a commemorative tasting cup and eight tasting tickets. More tastings are available to purchase on site.
Juneteenth Celebrations
June 17, 2021
Throughout Alexandria, you’ll find events that showcase performing arts, visual arts, and tours that highlight Black history experiences in the city, as well as opportunities to support Alexandria’s Black-owned businesses.
Photo by Stephanie McCabe on Unsplash
Independence Fireworks at Mount Vernon
June 25-26, 2021 - 6 pm-9:45 pm
Take in the fireworks from the banks of the Potomac River at Mount Vernon to celebrate July 4th. Musical performances and a rare option to visit Washington’s tomb entertain guests before the fireworks show begins. Picnic food is available through the Mount Vernon Inn Restaurant.
May 2021 Events in Alexandria, Virginia
Spring in Alexandria is in full bloom during May. The streets are lined with colorful trees and curated window boxes. Tourists and locals alike are beginning to venture throughout the city to find a great place on the water to dine and do a little people-watching.
Socially distanced events indoors and out are entertaining those ready to embrace the warm months ahead. Take advantage of unique Alexandria events that honor your mother this month by finding the perfect gift or participate in an activity where each of you learns something new along the way.
May Day Urban Market at the Loop Alexandria
May 1, 2021
10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Local food and artisans make up the entertainment for May Day at the Loop, a pop-up street fair event that showcases Alexandria products. Vendor’s wares include boutique floral arrangements, housewares, hand-made cards, artisan clothing, and food from Rocket Frog Brewing, Goodies Frozen Custard & Treats, and T & T Provisions.
Revolutionary War Weekend at Mount Vernon
May 1-2, 2021
9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Known for its battle re-enactments, Mount Vernon will put on one of the largest Revolutionary War simulations in the U.S. Visitors will learn about the roles of the Continentals, Redcoats, and Hessians through military drills and cavalry demonstrations. Reserve your tickets in advance; there are limited tickets for visitors and members.
Be sure to check out Mount Vernon Inn’s Mother’s Day brunch, lunch, and to-go meals.
The 58th Annual Needlework Show & Sale: “Hindsight 2020”
May 2-31, 2021
10:00 am – 4:00 pm timed entry
Located at the historic Woodlawn & Pope-Leighey House, the show will highlight the effects of the pandemic and personal experiences reflected through artists’ interpretations in needlepoint. Crafting boomed during the pandemic, and the show is intended to exemplify 2020 themes, including Covid-19, isolation, social justice movements, economic stresses, and political unrest.
Parent & Child Create Night-Mother's Day Craft
May 7, 2021
6:30 pm – 8:00 pm
Worried about picking the perfect Mother’s Day gift? Kids Create Studio provides a chance for children to work in person to create a one-of-a-kind art piece for their mothers. Each child and adult will bring home a 3D heart painted on a canvas board.
Discover Alexandria Architecture Walking Tour
May 15, June 12, 17
10:00 am – 11:30 am
The Carlyle Historic Park is hosting a walking tour that highlights the City of Alexandria’s growth showcased in architectural themes starting in the 18th century until today. Guides will highlight predominant and unique architectural styles within Alexandria’s varied streets. The tour is 1.5 hours long and is held rain or shine.
Animal Welfare League of Alexandria’s Paint Your Pet Party
May 16, supply pick-up May 15-14
2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Virtual
AWLA presents a chance for you to virtually learn art the easy way by studying a photo of your
best pet friend. Materials and teaching are provided, and at the end of the session, you’ll own a masterpiece worthy of your pet. All ages and skill levels are invited. Your fee includes a personalized and pre-outlined stretched canvas based on the photo you submit, paint, paintbrushes, and a palette.
Spring 2021 Events in Alexandria, Virginia
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Alexandria is springing into the warm months ahead with a newly loosened round of Covid-19 restrictions issued by Governor Northam and the City of Alexandria starting April 1st. While shopping and dining in Alexandria, watch for these changes to enjoy more of what the city offers in April.
- Outdoor and Indoor Entertainment: Both venues are required to operate at 30% capacity, but there is a 500 person capacity indoors.
- Sporting Events: On an indoor playing field, the number has increased to 100 people or 30% capacity. Outside, up to 500 people or 30% capacity, whichever is less.
- Social Gatherings: Inside gatherings are restricted to 50 people, while the number is 100 for outdoor events.
Current City of Alexandria Restrictions
Image via Ron Cogswell
- Restaurants and Other Private Events: Maximum party sizes increase from 10 to 50 people inside and from 25 to 100 outside.
- Executive Order 72: Requires masks at all times indoors and outdoors where six feet of physical distancing cannot be maintained except when eating or drinking, exercising, or for medical and disability-related reasons.
Groundswell at Waterfront Park
March-November 2021
As part of an ongoing temporary public art installation series, Groundswell is Mark Reigelman’s interpretation of how Alexandria’s Potomac River shoreline is changing. Inspired by the city’s 18th and 19th century attempts to increase the city’s shoreline through sunken wooden ships and timber pilings, the installation includes “102 raw wood pilings are topped with etched blue mirrors that shimmer like water.”
Image via alexandria.gov
Old Town Boutique's District Annual Easter Egg Hunt
April 3, 2021, ends 5pm
The Boutique District is organizing a socially distant Easter Egg Hunt through the streets of Old Town. After finding six Easter eggs, participants will turn their treasures in at Monday's Child or 529 Kids Consign for a sweet Easter treat.
Old Town Boutique District’s Annual Cherry Blossom Shop & Sip
April 10, 2021
For a $10 ticket, shoppers are granted 10% off all OTBD participating stores. After the season's shopping is over, head to Fontaine. They’re providing a complimentary Cherry Blossom cocktail or mocktail.
Old Town Alexandria Historic Homes & Garden Tour
April 17, 2021, 10am-4pm
New this year, a self-guided tour, “A Springtime Stroll: Doorways of Our Past and Future,” is showing off more than 12 of Alexandria’s best-dressed gardens and exteriors. The tour is part of Historic Garden Week in Virginia. Four historical properties are highlighted: the Lee-Fendall House garden, the Ramsay House garden, the Athenaeum garden, and St. Paul’s Episcopal Church.
Taste of Old Town North
April 21- June 21
For two months, diners will be introduced to the growing food scene in Old Town North. Participating restaurants are offering a passport for collecting discounts at each location. A percentage of the ticket sales benefits the group, ALIVE!
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Old Town Alexandria, image via John Brighenti
Various days and times
What better way to get ready for spring than to start scoping out the best farmers’ markets in Alexandria? Bring your recyclable grocery bags and a wide-brimmed hat to survey the region’s best spring and summer bounty. Try each location once and return all season long to your favorites.
- Old Town Farmers' Market
- Old Town North Farmers' Market
- Del Ray Farmers' Market
- Four Mile Run Farmers' & Artisans Market
- West End Farmers' Market
March 5, 2021, through May 2021, Friday and Saturday, various showtimes
Back by popular demand! In response to Covid-19 restrictions and the desire to strengthen the community through fundraising, drive-in movies are back thanks to a not-for-profit venture led by ALX Community with significant support from The Garden (by Building Momentum) and corporate sponsors.
The March movie lineup includes classics such as Jurassic Park, Back to the Future, The Princess Bride, The Greatest Showman, and Remember the Titans. If you’d like to make it a full night on the town, try one of the food trucks on-site, including DC Slices, Chix N Stix,
Lattimore’s Funnel Cakes, Popped Republic, and one weekly rotating food truck.
March 2021 Events in Alexandria, Virginia
March 17, 2021, online, 6:30 pm- 7:30 pm
John Berlau will discuss George Washington’s entrepreneurial leadership and how he grew his business while creating a national commerce strategy. This evening is part of a lecture series designed to guide professionals who hope to develop their leadership skills. Attendees will explore some of George Washington's leadership style’s unique aspects and learn how these timeless principles can be used today.
March 3rd, online, 1 pm
In time to recognize Women’s History Month, the Women's Entrepreneurship Symposium will be held at the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office in Old Town; however, the event is virtual. The symposium is designed to share the resources and services available to assist and support women inventors and entrepreneurs. Topics include how to navigate today’s rapidly changing marketplace, efforts to bring women into the innovation ecosystem, and discussions led by U.S. Patent and Trademark officials.
Alexandria Cherry Blossom Festival Events March 20 - April 11, 2021
A sure sign of spring, Alexandria and the Washington, D.C., area come alive with the slow but sure opening of hundreds of thousands of pink and white blossoms throughout the region. Stay updated with the timing for peak blooms and Covid-19 restrictions at cherryblossomwatch.com.
March 19, 2021, Wednesday-Sunday, various times
Viewing the cherry blossoms from a riverboat is a next-level treat during the Cherry Blossom Festival. Hornblower offers a 25-minute water taxi ride from Old Town, Alexandria, to the Transit Pier at The Wharf during the festival. There is the option to take a one-way trip, deboard at the Wharf and walk to the Tidal Basin. Or, continue to stay on board for a round trip to view the lines of blossoming trees.
Cherry Blossom Inspired Food and Drink
March 20-April 11
Restaurants and hotels are letting their spring creativity shine through during the festival and showcasing cherry blossom-infused recipes.
- Bugsy’s is serving the Blossom II with cherry vodka and a cherry Margarita.
- Lost Boy Cider distilled Cherry Blossom Cider for the season.
- Sheraton Suites Old Town created a festive cocktail with silver Tequila, lime and grapefruit juice, grenadine, and maraschino cherries.
- Dolci Gelati’s crowd favorite is the shop’s Cherry Blossom gelato.
Check your favorite restaurants throughout Alexandria for their version of Cherry Blossom Sangria.
March 31- May 2, Wednesdays-Sundays
It’s all blossoms, all the time during the exhibit at the Torpedo Factory. All participating artists will display spring and cherry blossom-themed artwork throughout the collection of studios and shops.
April 2-5, 2021
Known for their ghost tours, Discover Alexandria embraces peak bloom weekend and offers their guests two 75-minute walking tours that focus on Old Town history with the promise of as many blossom sightings as possible.
Winter 2021 Events in Alexandria, Virginia
The winter months are a perfect time to visit and explore Alexandria. The tourist season has slowed and the humidity is long gone, perfect for taking advantage of the public events and activities throughout the season. This year, the city’s traditional events have been augmented to accommodate as many people as possible under coronavirus restrictions, and many have reinvented themselves as virtual attractions.
Here’s a bit of forewarning, though. Alexandria’s weather is a bit of a mystery during January, February, and March. Typically, these three months of the year provide the city’s best chance for snow, and it will be chilly, but it’s not unheard of to have sunny, warmish days in the 50s in February. So take into account the weather forecast before choosing your adventure.
Image via Canva
The City of Alexandria wants you to take advantage of the time spent at home to curl up and read about the Alexandria winter experiences of years past. Seasonal activities and recommendations for community building are found throughout the portal, especially in the four themes represented: Celebrating Family and Community, Marking Milestones, Making and Preserving Food, and Keeping Warm.
January 16 through February 28, 2021
Saturdays and Sundays, 11am-5pm
The ice rink at Cameron Run Regional Park is open for skating on the weekends through the winter. The sessions are one hour at a time to limit capacity due to COVID-19 restrictions. The park encourages prepayment online because they do not allow at the door ticket purchases.
Image courtesy Heather Whitfield
January 22-February 7, 2021
Over sixty restaurants are offering $49 take-out meals for two during the two-week long event. New this year, some restaurants are providing $25 meals for a single diner. The menu book includes many Old Town favorites such as Il Porto, as well as relative newcomers like King & Rye.
February 6-7, 2021
This year marks the 17th time the Alexandria Warehouse sale will operate, although in a different way. Instead of the warehouse ambiance, the sale will take place inside Old Town stores and under sidewalk tents. Each store posts its own hours and mini-events within. You’ll find about 40 boutique stores along Alexandria’s sidewalks. Brands representing clothing, shoes, jewelry, home furnishings, and more are available with up to 80 percent off retail prices.
Alexandria waterfront image via Canva
February 22, 2021
9am-4pm
Social distancing requirements include free limited tickets available for members starting February 1. Non-members are eligible on February 12. The celebration will include performances and stories from actors, musicians, and historians on the property.
Through February 28
Hosted by the George Washington Birthday Celebration Committee, the Hunt for Washington is just one event listed in a collection of celebratory adventures in Alexandria that honors our first president. Other events include Christ Churchyard Tours, a virtual Birthnight Banquet, and Ball and a wreath-laying ceremony. Check the website for the various times and locations.
February 28, 2021
5:30pm
Animal enthusiasts will love a guided walk along the pathways throughout Huntley Meadows just as the day turns into evening. A park naturalist guides the way in hopes of spying owls, beavers, and other of the night animals.
Image via Fairfax County.gov