Seasonal Events and Festivals in Alexandria

Annual Celebrations and Parades

Alexandria boasts a rich tapestry of annual celebrations and parades that reflect its vibrant community spirit and rich history. One of the hallmark events is the Scottish Christmas Walk Parade, a time-honored tradition that occurs every December. This event paints Old Town in festive hues, celebrating Alexandria’s Scottish heritage with vibrant tartans, bagpipers, and kilted marchers, drawing visitors from all over.

Another significant parade is the George Washington Birthday Parade, the largest of its kind in the United States. Held every February, this celebration honors the city’s most famous resident, George Washington. The parade features marching bands, historical reenactments, and community groups, all converging to celebrate the legacy of the nation's first president. It’s a festive occasion that brings the city's history bustling into modern-day life.

The city's St. Patrick’s Day Parade is yet another favorite, bringing a splash of green to the streets of Alexandria in March. This family-friendly event includes various festivities like classic car shows, dog competitions, and, of course, the lively parade itself, making it a must-see event for both locals and visitors.

Food and Drink Festivals

Alexandria offers a tantalizing calendar of food and drink festivals that highlight the city's culinary diversity and innovation. The Alexandria Restaurant Week occurs twice a year, in winter and summer, offering a chance to savor exceptional dining experiences. During these weeks, local restaurants showcase prix-fixe menus at special pricing, allowing diners to explore gourmet options across the city without breaking the bank.

The Alexandria Food & Wine Festival is a celebrated event each summer, inviting attendees to indulge in an exceptional array of local flavors. Here, local chefs, restaurants, and wineries set up to provide samples of their best offerings. With live entertainment and culinary demonstrations, it is a feast for both the palate and the senses.

In the fall, the Virginia Cider Week unites Alexandria’s cider producers and enthusiasts. This celebration of Virginia’s apple heritage includes cider tastings, special pairing dinners, and educational events across the city’s bars and restaurants, providing an in-depth look at the craft of cider making.

Art and Music Festivals

Art and music form an integral part of Alexandria’s cultural identity, with several festivals dedicated to these expressions. The King Street Art Festival is a standout, drawing artists and art lovers each September. The event transforms Old Town’s King Street into an outdoor art gallery, showcasing diverse artistic styles, from paintings and jewelry to photography and sculptures.

Emphasizing music, the Alexandria Jazz Festival is a Memorial Day tradition that fills the city with the smooth sounds of local and national jazz artists. This festival is not only about live performances; it provides an experience that intertwines community warmth with melodious rhythms, all set against the backdrop of the Potomac River’s scenic beauty.

Each spring, the Del Ray Street Festival showcases Alexandria's community spirit and artistic talent. This vibrant event includes live music, art displays, and food from various local vendors, replete with activities for families and children.

Alexandria’s seasonal events and festivals offer more than just entertainment; they are a gateway to exploring the city’s cultural richness and community involvement, inviting both visitors and residents to participate in its diverse tapestry of celebrations.