What's On

Old Town Alexandria Events Calendar

There's always something happening in Old Town — from Saturday-morning markets to riverfront festivals and holiday parades. We publish a fresh "This Weekend in Old Town" guide every week, plus this rundown of the recurring and annual events worth planning around.

This Week & Weekend

Looking for what's on right now? We post a new “This Weekend in Old Town Alexandria” roundup every week with the latest events, festivals, markets, and happenings. Catch the newest edition on our blog.

Every Week & Month

Recurring events

Reliable favorites you can plan around all year.

Old Town Farmers' Market

Saturday mornings at Market Square — one of the oldest continuously running farmers' markets in the country (since 1753). Local produce, baked goods, flowers, and crafts.

Second Thursday Art Night

The Torpedo Factory Art Center stays open late with artist demos, music, and gallery receptions on the second Thursday of the month.

Alexandria Restaurant Week

Twice a year (winter and summer), dozens of Old Town restaurants offer special prix-fixe menus and tasting deals.

Mark Your Calendar

Annual & seasonal highlights

Old Town's calendar is anchored by beloved traditions. Time your visit around one of these — confirm exact dates with the organizer.

Winter & Spring

February

George Washington Birthday Parade

The nation's largest parade honoring Washington, winding through Old Town on Presidents' Day weekend.

March

St. Patrick's Day Parade

A festive King Street tradition with pipes, floats, and a classic dog show.

Spring

Historic Homes & Garden Tours

Spring tours open the doors and gardens of Old Town's storied private homes.

Spring

Spring Restaurant Week

Dozens of restaurants serve prix-fixe menus and tasting deals for about ten days.

Summer

July

Fourth of July Celebration

Birthday festivities, live music, and fireworks over the Potomac waterfront.

Summer

Waterfront Concerts & Festivals

Outdoor music, art shows, and family events along the river all season long.

Summer

Summer Restaurant Week

The warm-weather edition of the city's twice-yearly dining celebration.

Fall

September

Old Town Art Festival

A juried outdoor show fills King Street with 200+ fine artists and makers.

October

Art on the Avenue

A huge community arts and music festival on Mount Vernon Avenue in nearby Del Ray.

October

Ghost & Graveyard Season

Lantern-lit ghost tours and Halloween happenings throughout the historic district.

Holidays

December

Scottish Christmas Walk Parade

Bagpipes, tartans, and holiday cheer honor Alexandria's Scottish roots on the first Saturday of December.

December

Holiday Boat Parade of Lights

Illuminated boats glide along the waterfront in a beloved evening spectacle.

Nov–Dec

Holiday Markets & Tree Lighting

Seasonal markets, a tree lighting, and twinkling King Street strolls.

Dec 31

First Night Alexandria

A family-friendly, alcohol-free New Year's Eve celebration across multiple venues.

Find Even More

For the full, always-current schedule, check the City of Alexandria and Visit Alexandria event listings — and bookmark our weekly “This Weekend in Old Town” guide so you never miss what's on.

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