2026 Alexandria VA Fall Events

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With the weather cooling down and the upcoming autumnal festivities, Alexandria comes alive with beautiful foliage, spooky decorations, and community spirit. Locals and tourists alike flock to the area for all the fall fun. Between fall flavors within seasonal restaurant menus, handmade decorations from small businesses, DIY craft nights, costume parades, ghost tours, and pub crawls, there’s something for all ages to enjoy.
The Old Town Farmers Market
Old Town Alexandria’s Farmers Market is open every Saturday from 7 a.m. to noon, regardless of the weather. During peak season, there are over 70 vendors that sell a variety of produce, pastries, hot food, plants and cut flowers, home goods, and art.
Del Ray Vintage & Flea Market
Held on Saturdays, the Del Ray Flea Market has about 70 vendors, along with food trucks, non-profit events, school performances, and live music. It’s a local and dog-friendly favorite.
September Alexandria Events
Carlyle House Family Fun Day, September 5
On the first Saturday of each month through November, the Carlyle House hosts a themed family fun day on the front lawn. September’s theme is “Fun With Science.” Sit in on story time and participate in crafts and other themed activities. The NOVA Parks website states this program is for all ages, though some crafts might be challenging for guests under 4.
Lumos Collective Maker’s Market, September 5
Kick off cozy and spooky fall feelings and stop by the grand opening and first maker’s market at Lumos Collective on King Street. Support small, local businesses and artists who will display their handmade wares from 11 a.m. until 7 p.m.
Old Town Alexandria Oktoberfest, September 19
Hosted at John Carlyle Square from 11 a.m. until 6 p.m., Alexandria’s Oktoberfest will have live music and performances, a beer garden, arts and crafts, and German food.
King & Rye: Cocktails & Crafts, nightly through September 30
At King & Rye, craft night is free with a reservation nightly through the end of September. In their outdoor courtyard, they offer a variety of crafts for purchase, from mini crochet kits to vibrant watercolor canvases, cocktail napkin embroidery, and scenic diamond art. Pair it with a cocktail or a bite to eat for the perfect evening.
Cinema Del Ray, September 21
At dusk, Kung Fu Panda will play outdoors on the lawn at 7 p.m. This is a free, family-friendly event.
Chunky Knit Pumpkins Workshop, September 5–25
Schedule a DIY craft session with AR Workshop Alexandria to create your own chunky knit pumpkin. This craft runs through the month of September, and attendees must register to participate. There are various other fall-themed crafts offered on their website.
George Washington Whiskey Tasting, September 26
Sample whiskey and other distilled spirits at Mount Vernon. Ticket holders receive general admission to Mount Vernon on the day of their tasting (a $30 value) and a tour of the gristmill and distillery. George Washington's Distillery & Gristmill is located 2.7 miles from the main estate entrance.

October Alexandria Events
Haunted Alexandria: Ghost Tours, throughout October
With over 275 years of history, the city of Alexandria has plenty of lore to discover. From tour guides dressed in colonial costumes to ghost tour pub crawls, there are multiple companies that offer a variety of ghost tours.
Carlyle House Family Fun Day, October 3
On the first Saturday of each month through November, the Carlyle House hosts a themed family fun day on the front lawn. October’s theme is “Spooky Season Kick-off.” Sit in on story time and participate in crafts and other themed activities. The NOVA Parks website states this program is for all ages, though some crafts might be challenging for guests under 4.
George Washington’s Mount Vernon Fall Wine Festival, October 9-11
From 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. each evening, guests can enjoy unlimited wine samples on the east lawn overlooking the Potomac River. Guest tickets and member tickets are available on the Mount Vernon website.
Ghosts, Goblins & Ghouls Monster Fun Run, October 24
Runners can wear their costumes to the family fun run held at George Washington Middle School. The event is from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., and there will be costumes, music, and treats. Tickets are $5, and registration is available on the City of Alexandria website.
Alexandria Fall-O-Ween, October 31
From 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., a family-friendly Halloween-themed festival with arts and crafts, games, and sweet treats will be held at John Carlyle Square. There will be kids' and pets' costume parades, face painting, and a beer garden for the adults. There will not be cancellations due to weather; this is a rain or shine event.
Alexandria Official Halloween Bar Crawl, October 30–31
An annual favorite, the city of Alexandria hosts a costumed pub crawl for the 21-and-older crowd. Join Friday on Halloween Eve, Saturday on Halloween night, or both. The event starts at 4 p.m. both days.
November Alexandria Events
Nalls Produce Pumpkin Carving on Beulah Street, November 1
Nalls Produce hosts a free pumpkin carving competition from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., with a lighting display of the pumpkins after dark. Guests are welcome to carve at Nalls during this time frame, but there is an additional option where pumpkins can be carved at home in advance. On Friday, Oct. 31, stop by Nalls to pick up a free pumpkin. Carve it at home (no tools provided) and drop it back off at Nalls on Saturday before 4 p.m.
Carlyle House Family Fun Day, November 7
On the first Saturday of each month through November, the Carlyle House hosts a themed family fun day on the front lawn. November’s theme is “It’s Fall Ya’ll.” Join story time and participate in crafts and other themed activities. The NOVA Parks website states this program is for all ages, though some crafts might be challenging for guests under 4.
Veterans Day Tours, November 9
The Fort Ward Museum will have an hour-long tour starting at 10 a.m. the weekend before Veterans Day. The tour includes walking around Fort Ward and its new exhibit, "Lewis Cass White: Preserving the Legacy of Fort Stevens." Tickets can be purchased online.
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There's always something to do in Alexandria, whether you're looking for the best restaurants in Alexandria, ghost tours, or a stroll through Old Town Alexandria. Fall is one of the best times to get out and about! Make Alexandria one of your stops if house hunting and scouting for a future PCS to the National Capital Region.
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2026 Alexandria VA Summer Events

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With the warm weather in full swing, both locals and visitors take advantage of the late spring and summer community events in Alexandria, VA. Markets continue on through the season, bars and restaurants host summer events, and there are plenty of ways to admire local artists, find community, and even include your pups in dog-friendly events.
2026 brings America’s 250th Independence Day Celebration, and Alexandria has a special place in the USA’s history. There will be a variety of additional events this year to commemorate the anniversary.
Whether you're living in Alexandria or simply visiting, there are always plenty of things to do!
June Alexandria Events
The Old Town Farmers Market
Old Town Alexandria’s Farmers Market is open every Saturday from 7 a.m. to noon, regardless of the weather. During peak season, there are over 70 vendors that sell a variety of produce, pastries, hot food, plants, and cut flowers, home goods, and art.
Del Ray Vintage & Flea Market
A local and dog-friendly favorite, the Del Ray Flea Market has around 70 vendors, along with food trucks, non-profit events, school performances, and live music.
Upcoming summer dates are June 13 and July 11 from 9 a.m.–2 p.m. If you miss these, the flea market runs year-round on the second Saturday of each month.
Frolick Dogs AKC Fit Dog Club Walk, June 6
There will be a 1.5- to 2-mile walk at your own pace, starting at 2 p.m. at Huntley Meadows Park Area 3. It will conclude with social time and refreshments for owners who want to accomplish fitness goals with their pups. Sign up for free at Frolick Dogs Canine Sports Club.
Old Town Arts & Crafts Fair, June 7
Volunteer Alexandria hosts an annual fair at Waterfront Park that features local artisans and their wares.
Paws & Pours Fundraiser, June 7
From 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Fort Hunt Park, Pawfectly Delicious is hosting a silent auction with food, fun, and dog activities. Their mission is to provide employment opportunities to adults with disabilities. Get tickets at 2026 Paws & Pours fundraiser.
ALX Jazz Fest, June 14
This is the 47th Annual ALX Jazz Fest at Waterfront Park, featuring the region’s top performers, poets, hands-on art projects, and food and drink vendors.
Pitches & Pints: USA vs. Paraguay, June 12
Join the Alexandria watch party at Piece Out for the USA vs. Paraguay Soccer World Cup. They’re offering free beer, community, and raffle prizes.
Sails on the Potomac, June 12–14
This year, the United States celebrates the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution. Sails on the Potomac shares that their organization “highlights Alexandria’s role in helping construct the foundation of the revolution. From the creation of the Fairfax Resolves to being the hometown of George Washington, Alexandria played a unique role in the birth of our nation.”
This festival will include family activities, exhibits, music, educational programs, public art, and more.
Juneteenth Events, June 19–June 20
- Juneteenth Summer Kickoff Cookout, 2 p.m.: A free event at Fort Hunt Park with food, music, and activities for the community.
- Juneteenth Concert & Celebration, 1 p.m.: Washington Revels Jubilee Voices will have songs and storytelling at Market Square.
- Juneteenth Festival at Charles Houston Rec Center, June 20, from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.: A large, annual family-friendly festival with live music, local vendors, and food.
- Mount Vernon Juneteenth Events, June 19–20: Mount Vernon will host a “Freedom Before Emancipation” Family Day with historical performances, demonstrations, and a commemoration ceremony. A fee is required for admission tickets, but children aged five and under and Mount Vernon members are free.
Live on Top of the Hill Concerts, June 27 and July 25
This concert features folk, cover, and mariachi bands at the William Ramsay Recreation Center. Both concert days will be held from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Arts & Crafts Fair, June 28
At Tavern Square, on June 28 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Volunteer Alexandria and Made in ALX host an Arts & Crafts Fair. This community gathering of local artists displays art, home goods, jewelry, pottery, soaps, and other giftable handmade items.
July Alexandria Events
Independence Day Events, July 4
- Alex250 July 4th History Walk, 10 a.m.: This walk will celebrate Alexandria’s historical heroines. The walk will begin at the Alexandria Visitor Center, visit historic sites in Old Town, and end at the Waterfront.
- 4th of July Bar Crawl, 5 p.m.: Put on your patriotic attire for this annual bar crawl that visits the best local bars with drink specials to celebrate. Tickets can be reserved at Eventbrite.
- Gadsby’s Tavern 4th of July Dinner, 5:30 p.m.: Come in country club chic or colonial costumes for a seated dinner with musical performances, presentations, and a theatrical visit from historical figures.
- An American Celebration, daytime fireworks at Mount Vernon: There will be fireworks, historic demonstrations, and family activities where George Washington lived and led. Tickets need to be purchased, but Mount Vernon members and children aged five and under are free.
- Other public places to view fireworks: Oronoco Bay Park, Founders Park, and Waterfront Park.
Alexandria & USA Birthday Celebration, July 11
The City of Alexandria will highlight the USA’s 250th birthday during its annual celebration at Oronoco Bay Park. This free event features live music, food and drink vendors, and a fireworks finale over the Potomac River.
Summer Art Market, July 11-12
Del Ray Artisans Gallery features local handmade art. The event will be indoors, and each day hosts a different group of local artists showcasing a variety of media, including paper, photography, glass, jewelry, fiber, and ceramics.
August Alexandria Events
Beats, Bites, and Brews, August 1
From 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at John Carlyle Square, there will be live music, food, and drinks. There will also be local artisans and vendors selling their wares, so you can eat, drink, and shop.
The Annual Friendship Firehouse Festival, August 1
On the first Saturday in August, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., on the 100th block of South Alfred Street, the whole family can learn about fire safety and see fire equipment up close. The Friendship Veterans Fire Engine Association and Historic Alexandria will host music, craft vendors, food, and beverages at this event. Children will receive free fire helmets!
Alexandria Summer Restaurant Week, August 14-23
This 10-day event offers special menus from local small business restaurants.
Around the World Cultural Food Festival, August 29
Continuing with the food-themed fun, the festival at Oronoco Bay Park is hosting its 10th anniversary cultural food festival. From 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., experience cuisine from around the world, folk performances, arts and crafts, and a kids’ corner with a moon bounce.
Annual Dog Swim, August 29
Friendly dogs (under 25 pounds) can enjoy an end-of-summer swim at Charles Houston Memorial Pool. Registration is open, and all pups must have proof of an up-to-date rabies vaccine.

Alexandria always has a full agenda of things to do, whether you're looking for the best restaurants in Alexandria, ghost tours, or a stroll through Old Town Alexandria. Fall is one of the best times to get out and about! Make Alexandria one of your stops if house hunting and scouting for a future PCS to the National Capital Region.
2026 Alexandria VA Spring Events

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Living in Alexandria, Virginia, has so many perks, and the spring season’s long list of activities is high on the list. It’s challenged only by the quaint winter holiday festivities, but the spring often draws more crowds to Alexandria thanks to pleasant weather and an abundance of unique things to do throughout the city.
Choose your favorite events and make plans and reservations early. The city will be full of visitors and home-towners ready to usher in the splendid pink and white cherry blossoms and experience endless farmers markets, festivals, and local eateries.
March Alexandria Events
Alexandria, Virginia, Farmers Markets
March kicks off one of the most anticipated things to do in Alexandria, VA, of the spring season: the reopening of farmers markets across the City of Alexandria and Fairfax County.
Each location has a unique personality and dedicated fans who scour the markets for the perfect produce, meats, dairy, bread, and cut flowers. Most markets also host specialty vendors who bring handcrafted goods and one-of-a-kind gifts.
Saturday mornings are bursting with shoppers, so get there early with empty bags and plenty of trunk space.
Del Ray Farmers Market
Charm and family vibes run through one of Alexandria’s most popular markets. Vendors from all over the state set up shop in Del Ray.
Old Town Farmers Market
In celebration of the nation’s 250th birthday, browse the farmers market that once sold President Washington’s Mount Vernon-grown produce.
McCutcheon/Mount Vernon Farmers Market (Alexandria, Fairfax County)
Note that this site operates on Wednesdays from 8 a.m. to noon, starting April 22. Co-op sellers are a local favorite here.
St. Patrick’s Day Celebrations
Although the city was founded by a Scotsman, Alexandria embraces traditional Irish heritage, complete with a city-wide parade (stake your curbside spot early!) and local pubs that put on not-to-be-missed St. Paddy’s Day celebrations.
Check out Alexandria’s restaurant scene the weekend before the 17th, so you don’t miss any dedicated pre-parties or specialized menus.
The Ballyshaners 43rd Annual Parade
March 7, 12:00 p.m.
Alexandria is said to be the first host of an organized St. Patrick’s Day parade in the Washington, DC, area, thanks to the Ballyshaners, or “Old Towners” in Gaelic.
This all-volunteer group organizes the parade and events to preserve and feature Irish history and culture. The parade showcases traditional Irish pipe bands, dancers, and all types of entertainment from the motherland.
Irish Pubs
- Murphy’s Grand Irish Pub
- Daniel O'Connell's
If visiting Old Town near St. Patrick's Day, make a stop at one of the two iconic Irish restaurants in Alexandria, VA. You’ll be met with live entertainment, a traditional pub atmosphere, plenty of Guinness, and a welcoming crew.
Just keep in mind, you’ll be merry making with plenty of locals as well as out of towners, so try to make a reservation to guarantee a spot to lounge and take in the festivities.
Mid-March to Mid-April Alexandria Events
Cherry Blossom Festival Events
Cherry blossom fever takes over Washington, DC, and spills into Alexandria during March and April. If you start in the hub of activities in DC, you can easily take a Metro ride to Braddock or King Street stations to enjoy Alexandria’s cherry blossom celebrations.
These are a few ways to take in the blossoms’ beauty and enjoy the pleasant weather:
- Monitor the National Park Service's dedicated cherry blossom predictions and events.
- Plan guided blossom walking and ebook tours in Alexandria to grab the perfect photos.
- Dine in Alexandria restaurants and taste cherry blossom-flavored or inspired meals and desserts.
- Reserve a space on a water taxi and cruise through the cherry trees, with scenic Washington, DC, sites in the background.
- Take advantage of Old Town hotel packages featuring Cherry Blossom Festival specials and events.
- Schedule a family photo session at Fort Belvoir’s cherry blossom-lined amphitheater.
April Alexandria Events
Historic Garden Week in Virginia
April 18 through 25
Alexandria homeowners’ gorgeous gardens are included in the Garden Club of Virginia’s annual peak spring season extravaganza. You’ll tour historic homes while supporting the club’s mission as a non-profit to restore and preserve Virginia’s public gardens and fund graduate-level research fellowships.
May Alexandria Events
Spring Festivals in Alexandria
Not too hot and not too cold, May starts festival season in Alexandria, and there’s one to suit a wide variety of interests. These are a few popular events to schedule during your visit.
Mount Vernon Spring Wine Festival
May 15 through May 17
This wine festival almost always sells out, rain or shine. So pack and dress accordingly! The event is outdoors, and attendees bring blankets and chairs to take in sights of the banks of the Potomac River, right outside of Mount Vernon’s back door. You’ll sample wine from Virginia’s finest wineries from across the state, and enjoy live music while dining on picnics and reveling with friends.
Annual Old Town Festival of Speed & Style
May 16 and 17
Motors and fashion make an unlikely but somehow perfect pair during one of Alexandria’s most attended festivals. If you attend, you’ll kick off the weekend on Friday with one of the city’s hottest tickets, the High Octane Ball, where fashion is first and foremost.
But most visitors stop in to check out more than 100 rare supercars and motorcycles. Later, the same crowd (about 40,000) has the chance to take in unique fashion/motor events along the city’s waterfront.
May Alexandria Events
Pedals and Pints, May 23
Group bike rides are available for all ages, with both short and long bike routes. Rides depart from Handy Bikes retail showroom and end at Port City Brewing. Begin with no-drop group bike rides and end with beer and tacos twice monthly. If you can’t make the May event, try attending on July 4 or July 25!
Bird Walking Tour of Del Ray, May 23
Experienced birders will lead a walking tour around Del Ray from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. This family-friendly event is for people of all ages and experience levels. The meeting point is at the James M. Duncan Jr. Branch Library, Butterfly Garden. Register at Alexandria library events.