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Fun Events for All Coming To Alexandria This Fall
Zebra Send an email August 23, 2022
Photo: Carol Jean Stalun Photgraphy for Visit Alexandria
ALEXANDRIA, VA – Autumn brings favorite art events, outdoor festivals, Halloween haunts and bright-hued foliage to Alexandria, Virginia, located minutes from Washington D.C., on the Potomac River. Voted a Travel + Leisure Best City in the U.S. 2022, Alexandria boasts beautifully preserved historic architecture to enjoy on the 80th Annual Historic Alexandria Homes Tour or during a goosebumps-inducing Ghost & Graveyard Tour. Explore events celebrating Ethiopian culture, browse al fresco art festivals including the 20th Annual Alexandria Old Town Art Festival in Carlyle and Del Ray's 27th Annual Art on the Avenue, attend ever-popular autumn events at George Washington's Mount Vernon like the Fall Harvest Festival, plus many more seasonal happenings.
New this year, enjoy inaugural events such as the Waterfront Wednesdays Music Series at Robinson Landing, "Paws on the Patio" at the Hilton Alexandria Mark Center and the Old Town North "Chalk Walk."
Special cultural events include Intertribal Creatives' Native American Cultural Beading Workshops, Enkutatash Fest in Alexandria 2022 and Made in Ethiopia DMV Trade Fair.
Dive deeper into fall events and activities in Alexandria with the listings below and at VisitAlexandria.com/Fall.
Featured Fall Events
Colonial Market & Fair at Mount Vernon
September 17 and 18, 2022, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Admission: Included with general admission ($28 per adult; $15 per youth; free for children 5 and under); free for members
George Washington's Mount Vernon, 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway, Mount Vernon, VA 22121
mountvernon.org
Take in the sights and sounds of the marketplace on Mount Vernon's 12-acre field. Chat with colonial artisans selling traditional handcrafted food and wares, hear live music from the colonial era and watch as expert artisans demonstrate period crafting techniques. Plus, see General Washington in the General's Tent.
20th Annual Alexandria Old Town Art Festival
September 17, 2022, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
300 John Carlyle St., Alexandria, VA 22314
artfestival.com/festivals
Rated one of the top 100 art shows in Sunshine Artist Magazine, the annual art festival features a variety of works exemplifying the gifted artists in regions from all over the country.
80th Annual Historic Alexandria Homes Tour
Admission: $40 in advance; $45 day of tour
Various locations throughout Old Town Alexandria, VA 22314
thetwig.org/homes-tour
The TWIG's 80th Annual Historic Alexandria Homes Tour will showcase seven addresses including a home recently featured in Southern Living magazine, a home shaded by a 75-year-old fig tree and a home with a guest room featuring an "Alexandria-centric," hand-painted mural. Docents will share interesting information and details about each property. Proceeds from the tour support Inova Alexandria Hospital which is celebrating 150 years of serving the health and wellness of the community.
27th Annual Art on the Avenue
October 1, 2022, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Mount Vernon Ave. between Hume Ave. and Bellefonte Ave., Alexandria, VA 22301
artontheavenue.org
The 27th annual arts festival held in the Del Ray features more than 350 juried artists, from quilters to card-makers to cartographers, displaying their one-of-a-kind wares. Arrive with an appetite and grab a bite from 20+ food vendors and set to the soundtrack of live music along the avenue.
Photo: Misha Enriquez for Visit Alexandria
Alexandria Colonial Tours' Ghost & Graveyard Tour
Nightly in October from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Fridays and Saturdays in October from 8:30 to 9:30 p.m. and 9 to 10 p.m.
Admission: $15 for adults; $10 for children; free for children under 6 years old
Tours meet at the Alexandria Visitor Center, 221 King Street, Alexandria, VA 22314
alexcolonialtours.com
Walk your way through the charming streets of historic Old Town Alexandria. Follow a colonial-costumed guide by lantern light for an engaging history tour on Alexandria's original Ghost & Graveyard Tour. During this entertaining tour, you'll hear ghost stories, legends, folklore, unsolved mysteries, tales of romance and angry ghosts looking for revenge.
Fall Wine Festival & Sunset Tour
October 7 to 9, 2022, from 6 to 9 p.m.
Admission: Friday: $49 for members, $59 for general public; Saturday: $53 for members, $63 for general public; Sunday: $43 for members; $53 for general public
Taste unlimited samples from Virginia wineries after hours at George Washington's estate. Bring a blanket and relax on the east lawn overlooking the Potomac River and meet General Washington.
Mount Vernon Estate (Photo by Susan Fleishman/The Zebra Press).
Fall Harvest Festival at Mount Vernon
October 22 and 23, 2022, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Celebrate the crisp autumn season with 18th-century activities and demonstrations at the Farm at Mount Vernon. During this event, you can explore the farm, meet George Washington, see spinning demonstrations and more.
Del Ray Halloween Parade
October 30, 2022, at 2 p.m.
Begins at Mount Vernon Ave., south of E. Bellefonte Ave. Alexandria, VA 22301
visitdelray.com/halloween
One of Del Ray's favorite traditions, the annual Del Ray Halloween Parade, returns once again. Children, pets and strollers in costumes are invited to march and show off their finest and scariest Halloween garb; awards are given for Best Pet Costume, Best Decorated Business, Best Decorated Home and Best Decorated Stroller.
More Fall Events & Tours
Yoga on the Magnolia Terrace
August 9 to October 29, 2022
Tuesdays at 6 p.m., Thursdays at 6 p.m., Saturdays at 10 a.m.
Admission: $10 per class; 5 classes for $40
Carlyle House Historic Park, 121 N Fairfax St., Alexandria, VA 22314
novaparks.com/parks/carlyle-house-historic-park
Join a yoga instructor on Carlyle House's Magnolia Terrace for an hour-long Vinyasa Flow Yoga, a gentle flow yoga class that uses the breath to flow from one pose to the other. Class-goers will build heat with sun salutations then progress to balance, deep stretching and finally relaxing meditation. Visitors are encouraged to bring water, a towel and a yoga mat, and to wear comfortable yoga attire.
At Robinson Landing. (Photo: Torch Pictures for Visit Alexandria)
Waterfront Wednesdays Music Series
Wednesdays from August 31 to October 5, from 5 to 7 p.m.
Robinson Landing Promenade and Pier, 7 Pioneer Mill Way, Alexandria, VA 22314
oldtownbusiness.org
Head to Robinson Landing for the Waterfront Wednesday Music Series presented by Yellow Door Music Concert Series featuring a range of music genres by local musicians. Bring a chair or simply stop by to enjoy some beautiful waterside beats.
Del Ray's First Thursday: Show Your Spirit
September 1, 2022, from 6 p.m. to dusk
visitdelray.com/firstthursday
Wear your team colors and join the Del Ray community for live music and themed activities benefiting a local nonprofit.
Alexandria Black History Bus Tour
September 5, 2022, at 10 a.m. and 12 p.m.
Admission: $29 if purchased prior to August 20; $35 if purchased after August 20
The Alexandria Black History Museum, 902 Wythe St., Alexandria, VA 22314
manumissiontours.com
Travel the streets of the historic Old Town Alexandria in this 90-minute bus tour to hear the stories of African Americans, both enslaved and freemen, at a time when Alexandria, Virginia, was one of early American's main centers for the international and domestic slave trade. Sites include the historic African American churches, site of the 1939 Library Sit-In, the Departmental Progressive Club, the African American Heritage Park and more.
Paws on the Patio
September 8, 2022, from 5 to 8 p.m.
Hilton Alexandria Mark Center, 5000 Seminary Road, Alexandria, VA 22311
hilton.com/en/hotels/dcaahhf-hilton-alexandria-mark-center
Starting in September, hotel guests and locals alike are welcome to relax with their pups on the patio alongside Hilton Alexandria Mark Center's scenic lake, enchanting gardens and relaxing outdoor pool. Four-legged family members will be treated to" Pawfectly Delicious" dog treats, provided from a local non-profit that employs persons with developmental and physical disabilities to make dog treats and take pride in providing meaningful work while celebrating each person's unique gifts. Fur parents can enjoy delicious two-for-one appetizers and signature cocktails while raising money for another good cause. Dog menu proceeds are donated to the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria. Enjoy guest appearances on a monthly basis, like a dog trainer to help teach each pooch fun new tricks and a local artist to create portraits. Check Hilton Mark Center's website for upcoming Paws on the Patio series dates.
Old Town Cocktail Week
September 9 to 18, 2022
Admission: Free; cost of cocktails not included.
Various restaurants in Old Town Alexandria, VA 22314
'Tis the season to celebrate and honor the talent of bartenders and businesses that support cocktail and wine innovation. Throughout the week, restaurants and retailers will highlight cocktails and/or wine in their establishments. The Art League will kick off the week with the annual Art on the Rocks event at Waterfront Park on September 9.
Art on the Rocks
September 9, 2022, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Admission: $65 per person includes one beverage and an appetizer from each of the 6 participating restaurants. Ages 21+
Torpedo Factory Art Center, 105 N. Union St., Alexandria, VA 22314
theartleague.org
As the official kickoff to Old Town Cocktail Week, Art on the Rocks 2022 presented by The Art League challenges local mixologists and chefs to each create the most artistic cocktail and appetizer pairing, inspired by a piece of art by a local Art League artist. Art on the Rocks supports the local arts community while spotlighting Alexandria's fabulous local bar restaurants. Sample all of the delicious pairings and vote for your favorite during the event. A panel of experts will crown the winners of the most creative cocktail, appetizer and artwork pairings and announce the crowd favorite.
Cider For Ukraine
Admission: $60 per person
Lost Boy Cider, 317 Hooffs Run Dr. Alexandria, VA 22314
lostboycider.com
North Virginia's first urban cidery, Lost Boy Cider, is partnering up with Mountain Seed Foundation to raise funds for Ukrainian children. Ticket holders receive a private section for the evening, cobweb tour of the cellar, swag bag, first pint of Ukranian-themed cider and 50% off cider on tap. More details are available via Eventbrite.
The Torpedo Factory Art Center (Photo: Kelly MacConomy/ The Zebra Press)
The Late Shift: Heritage at Torpedo Factory Art Center
September 9, 2022, from 7 to 10 p.m.
torpedofactory.org
Ethiopian and Hispanic diasporic communities cover a large population in Alexandria and play a vital part in the city's culture. Celebrate the contributions of both communities to the growing arts and culture tapestry of Alexandria with a night of music, hands-on activities an art. In addition, enjoy a ticketed poetry slam with KaNikki Jakarta and other poets.
George Washington Patriot Run
September 10, 2022; 7:15 a.m. race kick-off
Admission: From August 22 to September 10, 2022, $60 for in-person 5K; $80 for in person 10-miler
$38 for either virtual run
George Washington's Mount Vernon, 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway Mount Vernon, Virginia 22121
Join Mount Vernon and patriotic participants around the country for a 10-miler and 5K. The 7th annual race is live and in-person, with a virtual option for participants who are outside the area.
Del Ray Vintage & Flea Market
September 10, October 8, and November 12, 2022, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Mount Vernon & E. Bellefonte Ave., Alexandria, VA 22301
delrayvintageflea.com
Named the best flea market in Virginia by Domino Magazine, the outdoor market features more than 50 vendors at the lot at 1900 Mount Vernon Avenue plus the Salvation Army Corps lot across the street.
Photo: Intertribal Creatives
Native American Cultural Beading Workshops
September 10 and 11, 2022 and November 5 and 6, 2022 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Durant Art Center, 1605 Cameron St., Alexandria, VA 22314
indianyouth.org/intertribal-creatives-2
Presented by Running Strong American Indian Youth, the Native American Cultural Beading Workshops give the community an opportunity to practice crafting skills and learn about Native American beadwork and culture.
Enkutatash Fest in Alexandria 2022
September 10, 2022, from 2 to 10 p.m.
William Ramsay Recreation Center, 5640 Sanger Ave. Alexandria, VA 22311
raeyechildrenaid.org
Presented by Raeye Children Aid, Inc., Enkutatash Fest in Alexandria 2022 is an Ethiopian New Years' celebration showcasing traditional music, dance, fashion and arts.
The Taste of Old Town North
September 15, 2022, from 4 to 8 p.m.
Montgomery Park, 901 N. Royal St., Alexandria, VA 22314
oldtownnorth.org
A celebration of the diverse neighborhoods of greater Old Town North featuring wellness demonstrations, shopping at the Old Town Farmers' Market, Art in the Park and wine and food tastings with local businesses.
Art Night in Old Town
September 15 and October 20, 2022, from 5 to 8 p.m.
Various locations in Old Town Alexandria, VA 22314
More than 18 galleries, boutiques, wine shops and merchants each host an open house showcasing art via wine tastings, art classes, clothing, jewelry, flowers, paintings and other styles of art. Take a walk down the historic streets of Old Town and enjoy a light supper before or after the Art Night.
Carlyle House (Photo: Carol Jean Stalun Photography for Visit Alexandria)
Discovering Alexandria Architecture Walking Tour with Carlyle House
September 17, October 15, and November 19, 2022, at 10 a.m.
Alexandria has grown from a small town in the 18th century to a bustling small city in the 21st century. Discover Alexandria by looking at Architecture styles that adorn the city streets and make it one of the best places to live and work. Reservations are required as space is limited. Visitors are encouraged to wear comfortable shoes for this 1.5 hour guided tour. The tour is held rain or shine unless there is severe weather.
Workshops on the Waterfront at Torpedo Factory Art Center
Waterfront entrance of Torpedo Factory Art Center, 105 N. Union St., Alexandria, VA 22314
Enjoy a free demonstration or hands-on project with a Torpedo Factory Art Center artist at the Waterfront entrance of the Art Center.
Cinema Del Ray
September 17, 2022, at Dusk
Mount Vernon Recreation Center, 2701 Commonwealth Ave., Alexandria, VA 22301
facebook.com/cinemadelray
Join Cinema del Ray for a family-friendly outdoor screening of Disney and Pixar's "Luca" at the Mount Vernon Recreation Center fields.
Legacy of the Green Cabinetmakers Walking Tour
September 24 and October 22, 2022, at 10 a.m.
In the early 19th century, William Green started the Green Furniture factory in Alexandria, and by 1823 his son, James, would take over. James expanded his father's factory and established himself as a prominent Alexandrian through building and operating Green's Mansion House Hotel. Learn more about Alexandria's cabinetmaking history and about James Green and his family's life in Alexandria on this 1.5-hour guided walking tour. Reservations are required as space is limited.
Mount Vernon Historic Plant and Garden Sale
October 1, 2022, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Admission: Free (estate admission is not required to access the plant sale)
Shop at Mount Vernon for plants, perennials, shrubs and trees grown in our greenhouses. The cooler fall weather makes it an ideal time for planting. The same plants grown at George Washington's estate can adorn your garden. The General's Choice plants are grown from seeds or cuttings collected from plants on the estate.
Death Comes to Carlyle House
October 7, 14, 21 and 28, 2022, from 6 to 8 p.m.
novaparks.com/parks/carlyle-house-historic-park/events/death-comes-to-carlyle-house
Carlyle House presents an exhibit on mourning practices in the 18th-century through the experiences of the Carlyle household, mourning the death of town founder, John Carlyle, in September 1780. Reservations are required as space is limited.
Late Shift: Masquerade at Torpedo Factory Art Center
October 14, 2022, 7 to 10 p.m.
October is a time for reflection and renewal. Put on your favorite fall colors, sip your pumpkin-spice latte and enjoy the cooler weather during this fall masquerade. Costumes are optional but highly encouraged. Best dressed attendees will win a special prize. Featuring DJ sets with all your favorite October and Halloween-themed music.
Old Town North "Chalk Walk"
October 15, 2022, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The Old Town North Alliance will be sponsoring the first annual "Chalk Walk" through multiple sites in Old Town North. Artists will be positioned throughout the neighborhood and will create works of art either on flat plaza surfaces or on building walls. Walk attendees are invited to see the artists in action or visit finished works. Beverages including beer and food trucks will be available at Canal Center Plaza. The event also features a dedicated Kid Creation area.
Craft. Brew.: Coffeehouse Edition! at Torpedo Factory Art Center
October 15, 2022, from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Admission: $15 includes one beverage and all crafting materials
Enjoy a morning of caffeinated crafting! Sip a delicious coffee from local spot Misha's Coffeehouse and Roaster while making a decoupage apothecary jar to take home. "Craft. Brew." takes place at The Art League Gallery, located inside the Torpedo Factory Art Center.
Photo: Debby Critchley/ The Zebra Press
Old Town OysterFest
October 15 to 23, 2022, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Admission: Free. Cost of food and beverage not included
Throughout the week, restaurants, bars and boutiques will feature oyster and Guinness pairings. There will be a shucking contest among restaurants. The event is sponsored by Daniel O'Connell's Irish Pub and Restaurant and Guinness.
Made in Ethiopia DMV Trade Fair
October 15, 2022, from 12 to 9 p.m.
Durant Art Center, 1605 Cameron St. Alexandria, VA 22314
africanrun.com/activities
Nova Connections presents "Made in Ethiopia DMV 2022 Trade Fair," a multi-sector trade fair that features Ethiopia's most recent products and services as well as rich Ethiopian traditional music.
27th Annual Art Safari at Torpedo Factory Art Center
October 22, 2022, 12 to 4 p.m.
An Alexandria tradition for more than a quarter-century, Art Safari is a beloved in-person day of activities for kids and families. Join fellow lovers of art and learning for outdoor waterfront art activities and hands-on projects throughout the building. A great event for kids ages 5 and over.
Tell Me Your Name
October 27, 2022, at 5:30 p.m.
Join Carlyle House Historic Park staff for a tour focusing on the experiences of the enslaved community at Carlyle House and his plantations. The guided tour will explore the historical context of slavery in 18th-century Alexandria and the importance of ongoing research efforts to connect with descendants. Reservations are required as space is limited.
Old Town Family Trick or Treat
Bring the family and enjoy trick-or-treating in the various shops and restaurants in Old Town. Bring your own "boo bag." Maps will be provided.
Trick-or-Treating at Mount Vernon
October 29, 2022, from 2 to 6 p.m.
Admission: General public: $25 per adult; $15 per youth; Members: $17 per adult; $9 per youth
mountvernon.org/plan-your-visit
Celebrate Halloween with 18th-century entertainment and activities. Visit Mount Vernon in costume, watch Halloween-themed Punch & Judy shows, see 18th-century chocolate-making demonstrations and more. Trick-or-treating at Mount Vernon takes place rain or shine.
Hoto: C. Mouledoux for Visit Alexandria
Old Town Doggie Trick or Treat
The Dog Park, 705 King Street, Alexandria, VA 22314
Bring your spooky pooch over to The Dog Park for a Halloween goodie bag full of treats for your pup. After registering at The Dog Park retail store, you and your dog will enjoy a leisurely stroll around Old Town and receive boo bags while supplies last.
Art Fest at Torpedo Factory Art Center
November 12 to 13, 2022, 12 to 4 p.m.
Shop for affordable art deals on all three floors of the Art Center while enjoying drinks from local craft brewers and wineries, as well as live music. Choose from a variety of tiered tickets for drinks plus discounts on select affordable art.
About Alexandria, Virginia
Voted a Travel + Leisure Best City in the U.S. 2022 and a Southern Living Best City on the Rise 2022, Alexandria hums with a cosmopolitan feel and a walkable lifestyle—a welcoming weekend escape next to our nation's capital. Founded in 1749, Old Town Alexandria is the nation's third oldest locally designated historic district, boasting more than 200 independent restaurants and boutiques alongside intimate historic museums and new happenings at the waterfront. At the heart of it all is bustling King Street, a walkable mile recognized as one of the "Great Streets" of America. Walk in the footsteps of George Washington and American's Founding Fathers while learning about Black history and African American changemakers that have shaped the history of Alexandria and the U.S.
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