Spring Events Feature Cherry Blossoms, New Public Art, Concerts, Festivals and More in Alexandria
February 28, 2022
CONTACTS:
Rebecca Doser, [email protected] or 703-652-5363
Claire Mouledoux, [email protected] or 703-652-5367
Spring Events Feature Cherry Blossoms, New Public Art, Concerts, Festivals and More in Alexandria, VA
Alexandria, VA—As the weather warms and cherry blossoms take center stage, springtime events abound in Alexandria, Virginia, located minutes from Washington, D.C., on the Potomac River and named a Top 3 Best Small City in the U.S. 2021 by the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards. Visit the luminous I Love You sculpture, the newest temporary public art installation arriving at Waterfront Park in late March. Take part in blossom-themed events like boat and bike tours to view cherry blossoms in D.C. and the Torpedo Factory Art Center’s Cherry Blossom Jubilee, a free satellite event of the National Cherry Blossom Festival. Celebrate Architecture Month throughout April by wandering among Alexandria’s outdoor architectural gems, attending a special tour at Lee-Fendall House and embarking on the 89th Annual Old Town Alexandria Historic Homes & Gardens Tour. New this year, take part in the inaugural ALX Dog Walk, complete with local celebrity hosts. In May, the Old Town Festival of Speed & Style returns on King Street and the Alexandria Old Town Springtime Art Festival returns to John Carlyle Square.
For more spring events and activities in Alexandria, see the listings below and learn more at VisitAlexandriaVA.com/Spring.
Featured Spring Events
Water Taxi to the Wharf to See Cherry Blossoms
Wednesday through Monday, beginning March 18, 2022
Departures beginning at 12 p.m.; check website for details
Admission: Starting at $23 one-way; $39 round-trip for adults
Departs from the Alexandria Marina, 1 Cameron St., Alexandria, VA 22314
888-809-7109
cityexperiences.com/alexandria
Cruise from Old Town Alexandria to Washington, D.C., to enjoy the famous cherry blossoms. City Cruises anchored by Hornblower offers a 25-minute direct water taxi from Old Town to The Wharf development in D.C. From the dock at The Wharf, it is a 10-minute walk to the cherry blossoms at the Tidal Basin. The water taxi docks at the Transit Pier, 950 Wharf St. SW, near the Tidal Basin, the National Mall, Hains Point and a Capital Bikeshare station.
Washington Monuments Cruise with Cherry Blossom Views
Saturdays and Sundays, beginning March 19, 2022
Departures beginning at 11:30 a.m.; check website for details
Admission: Starting at $26 one-way; $42 round-trip for adults
Departs from the Alexandria Marina, 1 Cameron St., Alexandria, VA 22314
888-809-7109
cityexperiences.com/alexandria
Traverse the Potomac River from Old Town Alexandria and cruise past cherry blossoms in Washington, D.C. on the Washington Monuments Cruise from City Cruises anchored by Hornblower. View and listen to the history of the iconic monuments, memorials and bridges as the D.C. region awakens to spring. See beautiful cherry blossom trees as you glide past Hains Point and head onward to Georgetown. The cruise is 45 minutes one-way and approximately 90 minutes roundtrip. It is offered Saturdays and Sundays beginning March 19, 2022, and throughout peak cherry blossom season. Riders also have the option to explore Georgetown and return on a later boat.
Cherry Blossom Guided Tours with Pedego Electric Bikes Alexandria
March 19 to April 17, 2022 (or as long as the cherry blossoms are in bloom)
Departures at 10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. on weekends; by appointment on weekdays
Admission: $69 per bike ($10 for passenger riders on cargo or tandem bikes)
Pedego Alexandria, 210 North Lee St., Alexandria, VA 22314
571-312-5168
pedegoalexandria.com
Join a three-hour guided tour from Old Town Alexandria to the Cherry Blossoms, including a ride through the blossoms around East Potomac Park. The views of the blossoms from a Pedego are fantastic, and you don’t have to fight traffic or find a place to park downtown. Tours will run as long as there are blooms on the cherry blossom trees. Group tour sizes will be limited. Must be at least 14 years old to ride alone. Weekend tours fill up quickly, so contact Pedego early to make your reservations. Call 571-312-5168 or email [email protected].
Explore the Cherry Blossoms with Unlimited Biking
March 20 to April 12, 2022
Admission: Rentals start at $15; tours start at $44
Unlimited Biking: Old Town Alexandria, 421 King Street, Alexandria, VA, 22314
202-842-2453
unlimitedbiking.com
Pedal from Unlimited Biking: Old Town Alexandria along the Potomac River to the famous cherry blossoms of Washington, DC with Unlimited Biking’s bike rental package that provides you with all that you need for your journey—maps, helmets, bike bags and locks. Hybrid bikes, road bikes, eBikes, kids bikes and kids attachments are available. Alternatively, join the famous “Washington DC.: Blossoms by Guided Bike Tour,” which integrates celebrating the natural beauty of our nation’s capital during the Cherry Blossom Festival, while visiting some of the best monuments and memorials around Washington D.C. Cherry Blossom tours are two hours long, run multiple times daily during season and begin from Unlimited Biking: Washington DC at 998 Maine Avenue SW.
I Love You Temporary Waterfront Public Art Installation
Late March to November 2022
Admission: Free
Waterfront Park, 1A Prince Street, Alexandria, VA 22314
visitalexandriava.com/public-art
I Love You, the latest temporary art installation on Old Town Alexandria’s waterfront from late March to November 2022, is a luminous declaration of affection from the city to the public, creating a photo-ready postcard of Alexandria which represents the city’s welcoming spirit and a message of hope through the COVID-19 pandemic. Created by award-winning and globally recognized R & R STUDIOS, I Love You is a plaza with the words “I Love You” scripted in rose-hued metal and lighted neon standing 15 feet high above a pink ground mural emulating a giant “magic carpet.” This “social sculpture” utilizes three words at once universal and utterly personal to establish a place of encounter, friendship and camaraderie on the river. Miami-based R & R Studios is helmed by husband-and-wife Argentinian-born, American architects Roberto Behar and Rosario Marquardt. I Love You is the fourth installation of the City of Alexandria’s annual temporary public art series, “Site See: New Views in Old Town.”
ALX Dog Walk
April 2, 2022; check-in from 7 to 7:45 a.m.; walk from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Admission: Regular registration: $35; Teens ages 13 to 18 and all military registration: $25
Oronoco Bay Park, 100 Madison St., Alexandria, VA 22314
alxdogwalk.com
Come join the inaugural two-mile ALX Dog Walk along the breathtaking waterfront walk in historic Old Town Alexandria. Walkers and their pooches (or without a pooch) follow the waterfront trail in Oronoco Bay Park in Old Town, head toward the Robinson Landing Pier, where they will parade by a judging panel for fun prizes, and then return to the park for an awards celebration hosted by Monte Durham of “Say Yes to the Dress Atlanta,” plus music, hundreds of dogs, treats and more. Receive a paw-some goodie bag and event t-shirt at check-in. At 8 a.m., Chuck Bell from NBC 4 Storm Team and Mayor Justin Wilson will kick-off the walk. 100% net funds raised will help to beautify and protect Alexandria’s environment and educate citizens about best sustainability practices.
Cherry Blossom Jubilee at the Torpedo Factory Art Center
April 10, 2022, from 12 to 3 p.m.
Admission: Free
Torpedo Factory Art Center, 105 N. Union St., Alexandria, VA 22314
703-746-4590
torpedofactory.org
Celebrate the cherry blossoms during the height of D.C.’s National Cherry Blossom Festival. After Saturday’s Cherry Blossom Parade in the District, stop by the heart of Alexandria the next day to enjoy cherry blossom-themed activities and other events. Kick off the celebrations at noon with a live performance by taiko drum group Nen Daiko on the waterfront side of the Art Center. Afterwards, view the Art Center-wide exhibition of cherry blossom-inspired works by resident artists and galleries while enjoying music and live art demonstrations from participating artists.
89th Annual Old Town Alexandria Historic Homes & Garden Tour
April 23, 2022, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Admission: $55 per ticket purchased in advance online; $65 day-of from the Alexandria Visitor Center
Various locations throughout Old Town Alexandria, VA 22314
vagardenweek.org
Part of Historic Garden Week in Virginia, this year’s tour includes admission to five exclusive private homes and gardens and six nearby historic public properties, including: Carlyle House, Lee-Fendall House, River Farm, Gunston Hall, Mount Vernon and Green Spring Gardens. Complimentary refreshments will be available at Old Presbyterian Meeting House. Advance tickets are $55 online at VAgardenweek.org and may be purchased for $65 day-of at Alexandria Visitor Center at 221 King Street. Proceeds fund restoration and preservation of more than 39 Virginia historic public gardens and landscapes, a research fellowship program and more.
2nd Annual Alexandria Old Town Springtime Art Festival
May 14 to 15, 2022, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Admission: Free
John Carlyle Square, 300 John Carlyle St., Alexandria, VA, 22314
thecarlylecommunity.com
The Annual Alexandria Old Town Art Festival is heading back to John Carlyle Square in 2022. All artwork is juried, which provides a higher level of quality, diversity and creativity of art on display, exemplifying the gifted artists in regions from all over the country. The show is rated as one of the top 100 art shows in Sunshine Artist Magazine. Please be mindful and follow all CDC guidelines.
The Old Town Festival of Speed & Style
May 22, 2022, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Admission: Free
200-400 blocks of King Street, 100 blocks of N. Royal and N. Fairfax St., Alexandria, VA, 22314
festivalspeedstylealex.com
The Old Town Festival of Speed & Style, presented by Burke & Herbert Bank, highlights the unique offerings of the Old Town community—history, architecture, great food, fabulous people, art, style and energy. All proceeds benefit USO Washington-Baltimore and ALIVE! View dozens of rare and exotic cars up close, made famous by their speed, performance and elegance. This will be enhanced by a presentation of style, fashion and live music provided by over 40 local merchants.
More Spring Events & Tours
Secret Garden Concert Series at The Rectory on Princess Street
Various dates from February 27 to June 23, 2022, at 5 and 6:30 p.m.
Admission: $25 to 45 per person
The Rectory at Princess Street, 711 Princess St., Alexandria, VA 22314
703-683-6040
classicalmovements.com
Classical Movements presents a series of live concerts and recitals at the Secret Garden of the Rectory on Princess Street, Classical Movements’ home in Old Town Alexandria. Classical Movements returns for a 40-concert season, extending from February 27 to June 23, 2022. The 2022 season features chamber music, recitals by stars of instrumental performance and opera, fascinating choral programs, jazz and more. The season features a starry line-up of acclaimed soloists, including members of the National Symphony, among many others.
Outlandish Tours at the Apothecary Museum
March 6, 13, 20 and 27, 2022, from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Admission: $15 per person
Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum, 105-107 S. Fairfax St., Alexandria, VA 22314
703-746-3852
alexandriava.gov/shop
Celebrate the March premiere of Season 6 of Diana Gabaldon’s beloved Outlander series with an Outlandish Tour of the Apothecary Museum. Tour this historic apothecary and learn about a few of the herbal medicines featured in Gabaldon’s novels, from cascara to dauco seeds. The tour also touches on the role of apothecaries and women in medicine in the 18th century. Recommended for ages 18 and up; capacity is limited.
March150 Art Party
March 12, 2022, from 7 to 9 p.m.
Admission: $30 to $50
Torpedo Factory Art Center, 105 N. Union St., Alexandria, VA 22314
703-746-4590
torpedofactory.org
This yearly all-media exhibition features 100+ works created and donated by artists local to Alexandria and the greater D.C. region. Emerging and established artists are shown together displayed a wide variety of styles and media. The only requirement to be on view in the exhibition is that artists use the gallery-supplied 10” x 10” wood panels to create the work. All artwork in the show is priced at $150. The prize and size makes the art ideal for collecting! For this special 12th year anniversary, the Art Party will be an opening reception—allowing Art Party patrons to get the first chance at art sales. VIP patrons will get early access and first choice at sales. Art Party patrons will not only enjoy first access to the exhibition but also will enjoy hors d’oeuvres and a full cocktail bar provided by SimplyFresh Events; limited-time art installations such as the Goodnight Moon Room, and DIY art projects with several Torpedo Factory artists. The Best in Show among other prizes will also be announced that evening for participating artists in the exhibition at 8:30pm.
NSO Concert Series at Mount Vernon
Admission: $65 per concert
March 15 and April 5, 2022, from 7 to 9 p.m.
George Washington’s Mount Vernon, 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Hwy., Mount Vernon, VA 22121
703-780-2000
mountvernon.org
Listen to members of the National Symphony Orchestra play during a concert series at Mount Vernon. Learn about the history of Mount Vernon before enjoying intimate chamber music performed by members of the National Symphony Orchestra. All concerts will begin at 7 p.m. and are followed at 8 p.m. by a reception of champagne and chocolates with the musicians.
Civil War Women’s Day at Fort Ward
March 26, 2022, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Admission: Free
703-746-4848
alexandriava.gov/fortward
Learn about women’s dress, skills and contributions during the Civil War from historical interpreters who will present talks, displays and demonstrations throughout the day. The interpreters will explore women’s roles on the home front, in factories, in camp, on the battlefield and in soldiers’ aid societies, and relief efforts for both armies during the war. Learn about women who disguised themselves as Union soldiers and the challenges experienced by the hundreds of women who served in the Army.
Cherry Blossom Exhibition at the Torpedo Factory Art Center
April 2 to May 1, 2022; Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Admission: Free
Torpedo Factory Art Center, 105 N. Union St., Alexandria, VA 22314
703-746-4590
torpedofactory.org
Art lovers are encouraged to stop by the Torpedo Factory Art Center throughout April to view floral art displayed on all three floors. Participating artists will display their most colorful spring and cherry-blossom-inspired works in their studios from Saturday, April 2 until Sunday, May 1. Torpedo Factory Art Center is open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Masks are required for all visitors regardless of vaccination status.
First Thursdays in Del Ray
First Thursday of each month, beginning April 7, 2022, at 6 p.m.
Admission: Free
Various locations in Del Ray in Alexandria, VA 22301
visitdelray.com
First Thursday is a series of free outdoor street festivals that bring the community together around a fun theme, benefiting a local non-profit. The series starts in April with “Hats Along the Avenue,” with the band Mars Roedo playing at Pat Miller Neighborhood Square, followed by “Dog Days in Del Ray” and more.
Easter Egg Hunt with Old Town Business Association
April 9, 2022, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Admission: Free
Various locations throughout Old Town Alexandria, VA 22314
oldtownbusiness.org
Bring your own basket and bunny hop up and down King Street and select side streets. Explore the map to find participating retailers, where you’ll get an Easter treat and discover interactive activities at select locations. More details to come at oldtownbusiness.org.
Alexandria Wedding Showcase
April 10, 2022, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Admission: $25 per ticket; $40 for two tickets; $75 for VIP brunch with Monte Durham
The Alexandrian Old Town Alexandria, Autograph Collection, 480 King Street, Alexandria, VA 22314
571-328-8262
alexandriaweddingshowcase.com
Brides and grooms, parents and friends—anyone planning a wedding—are welcome to attend the Alexandria Wedding Showcase, presented by Alexandria Living Magazine, which will offer the opportunity to gather ideas and meet with local wedding professionals for everything to make your wedding day sheer perfection. Ticketholders will get the chance to talk one-on-one with more than 25 vendors including caterers, florists, photographers and more. Guests will sample wedding cake and appetizers, visit a pop-up Wedding Showcase Lounge in The Alexandrian’s brick courtyard, meet wedding planners, explore reception tablescapes and much more. In addition, a limited number of guests will be able to attend a special VIP champagne brunch before the Alexandria Wedding Showcase with “Say Yes to the Dress – Atlanta” star Monte Durham. Durham is a longtime Alexandria resident and opened his own salon in Old Town Alexandria in 2020. Tickets are available through AlexandriaWeddingShowcase.com. One lucky couple will win a free venue reservation at The Alexandrian for their wedding, valued at $7,000. Other prizes include a free SnapShare photo package and much more.
Stories in the Architecture
April 10 and May 15, 2022, at 2 p.m.
Admission: $10 per person
Lee-Fendall House Museum & Garden, 614 Oronoco St., Alexandria, VA 22314
703-548-1789
leefendallhouse.org
Explore the history of the Lee-Fendall House through its architecture and visit parts of the house that are not regularly open to the public. See how changes in style and home technology have left their mark on the home, from when it was built in 1785 through the twentieth century. Tickets must be purchased in advance and are $10 per person. Members of Lee-Fendall House are free but must call or email to make a reservation at (703) 548-1789 or [email protected]. Face masks are required inside the museum.
Workshops on the Waterfront
April 16 and May 21, 2022, from 1 to 3 p.m.
Admission: Free
Torpedo Factory Art Center (waterfront entrance), 105 N. Union St., Alexandria, VA 22314
703-746-4590
torpedofactory.org
Enjoy a free demonstration or hands-on project with a Torpedo Factory Art Center artist at the waterfront entrance of the Art Center. There will be a different project every month. Join in for sunshine, art-making and fun.
Easter Egg Hunt at Lee-Fendall House
April 16 to 17, 2022; sessions offered on the hour through 3 p.m., beginning at 10 a.m. on Saturday and 12 p.m. on Sunday
Admission: $15 for participating children ages 2 to 12; $5 for accompanying adults; free for infants under 2
Lee-Fendall House Museum & Garden, 614 Oronoco St., Alexandria, VA 22314
703-548-1789
leefendallhouse.org
Find Easter eggs hidden in the Lee-Fendall garden during the popular annual egg hunt. Sessions also include crafts, games and a visit from the Easter Bunny. Attendance is limited, and reservations must be made in advance; face masks are recommended. Bring your own basket.
“Barber & Brahms: Resilience” by Alexandria Symphony Orchestra
April 23, 2022, at 7:30 p.m., and April 24, 2022, at 3 pm.
Admission: From $5 to $85
Saturday: Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall & Arts Center, 4915 East Campus Dr., Alexandria, VA 22311
Sunday: George Washington Masonic Memorial, 101 Callahan Dr., Alexandria, VA 22301
alexsym.org
ASO presents Brahms’ “Symphony No. 1” and Brian Prechtl’s “Tribute” featuring students from Sympatico commissioned by Classical Movements’ Eric Helms New Music Program. Violinist Dylana Jenson sparks joy with her rendition of Barber’s “Violin Concerto.” ASO will require all attendees to be fully vaccinated until further notice.
PNC Parkway Classic
April 24, 2022; 5K begins at 7:30 a.m.; 10-miler begins at 8 a.m.; Kid’s Dash begins at 10:30 a.m.
Admission: $85 for 10-miler and $45 for 5K (prices increase after March 18, 2022) and $50 for both virtual races; $20 for Kid’s Dash
Old Town Alexandria, VA 22314; starting places vary; virtual options available for 5k and 10-miler
parkwayclassic.com
Lace up your running shoes for the 2022 PNC Parkway Classic. The Parkway Classic 5K course now starts and finishes at Oronoco Bay Park with a scenic and one-of-a-kind course through historic Old Town, Alexandria. Meanwhile, the 10-miler starts at George Washington’s Mount Vernon and finishes at Oronoco Bay Park with a scenic point-to-point course down the George Washington Memorial Parkway and through Old Town. Virtual options are available for 5k and 10-miler. The exciting 600-meter Kid’s Dash is designed for kids 12 and under (one parent is welcome to run alongside their little ones; no registration required). Each Dash participant will receive a special race bib and a finisher medal. There will be a limited number of Kid’s Dash spots, so register early.
Revolutionary War Weekend at George Washington’s Mount Vernon
April 30 and May 1, 2022, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Admission: Included with general admission ($28 for adults; $15 for youth ages 6 to 11; free for children); free for members
George Washington’s Mount Vernon, 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Hwy., Mount Vernon, VA 22121
703-780-2000
mountvernon.org
Step back in time at Revolutionary War Weekend. Mount Vernon’s serene 12-acre field transforms into a battleground as Continentals, Redcoats and Hessians conduct military drills, perform cavalry demonstrations, and engage in 18th-century tacticals. Meet the soldiers who are encamped at Mount Vernon, discuss military techniques, and greet General Washington. Revolutionary War Weekend takes place rain or shine.
Spring Pop-Up Market for Mother’s Day
May 7, 2022, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Admission: Free
Pat Miller Neighborhood Square at Mount Vernon Ave. and E Oxford Ave., Alexandria, VA 22301
visitdelray.com
Just in time for Mother’s Day, the Spring Pop-Up Market provides the chance to discover unique gifts made by local entrepreneurs and artisans. The market will occupy Pat Miller Neighborhood Square, the site of the weekly farmers’ market. For more information, visit visitdelray.com.
Spring Wine Festival & Sunset Tour
May 13 to 15, 2022, from 6 to 9 p.m.
Admission: Friday: $49 for members; $59 for non-members; Saturday: $53 for members; $63 for non-members; Sunday: $43 for members; $53 for non-members
George Washington’s Mount Vernon, 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Hwy., Mount Vernon, VA 22121
703-780-2000
mountvernon.org
George Washington’s Mount Vernon invites you attend its most popular event of the year. Taste unlimited samples of wines from Virginia’s finest wineries. Bring a blanket and relax on the east lawn overlooking the Potomac River and meet George and Lady Washington on the Piazza. VIP tables are available for purchase and include private waiter service. Public ticket sales begin March 7, 2022.
The Late Shift: Art & Technology
May 13, 2022, from 7 to 10 p.m.
Admission: Free
Torpedo Factory Art Center, 105 N. Union St., Alexandria, VA 22314
703-746-4590
torpedofactory.org
Celebrate the growing tech, DIY and makerspace movement happening in Alexandria and beyond, with music, drinks, and demonstrations. The event will feature makerspace and tech partners from across the DC, Virginia, and Maryland regions. Plus, welcome the Solo Exhibition artist in Target Gallery with a reception at 8 p.m.
Sips & Secrets: A Speakeasy Night
May 21, 2022, from 7 to 10 p.m.
Admission: $65 to $115
Lee-Fendall House Museum & Garden, 614 Oronoco St., Alexandria, VA 22314
703-548-1789
leefendallhouse.org
Sips & Secrets honors Lee-Fendall House’s Prohibition-era history, when the home housed one of Alexandria’s liquor wholesalers (and possible bootleggers!). The event features fun speakeasy surprises, including dancing to live jazz and ragtime, and costume contest for the best flapper or mobster style, 1920s-style cocktails and more. This year, the event will raise funds for the repair of Lee-Fendall House’s 220-year-old brick garden wall, of which a 70-foot section collapsed last summer, while also supporting the museum’s ongoing work in historic preservation, education, and community engagement. Purchase tickets via Eventbrite here. A private VIP pre-reception will precede the main event. Current Lee-Fendall House Museum & Garden members may attend as VIPs for the price of general admission; please email [email protected] or call (703) 548-1789 for a registration code.
ABOUT ALEXANDRIA, VA
Named a Top 3 Best Small City in the U.S. 2021 by the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards, 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 America’s Founding Fathers while learning about Black history and African American changemakers that have shaped the history of Alexandria and the U.S. Learn more at VisitAlexandriaVA.com.
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