Alexandria’s Biggest Holiday Weekend

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Experience holiday magic on historic streets in Old Town Alexandria, located just minutes from Washington, D.C. Alexandria’s biggest holiday weekend takes place December 6 to 8, 2024, making it the perfect time to enjoy a winter weekend getaway and experience the destination Good Housekeeping dubbed one of the Best Places to Travel in December 2024. Bask in the warmth of time-honored festivities like the 53^rd Annual Alexandria Scottish Christmas Walk Parade, featuring a parade of Scottish clans and Scottie dogs, as well as the 24^th Annual Alexandria Holiday Boat Parade of Lights sponsored by Amazon on the Potomac River. Enjoy more festive happenings throughout the weekend.

53^rd Annual Alexandria Scottish Christmas Walk Parade sponsored by Wegmans

A group of Scottish bagpipe players march past the colorful historic rowhomes on Queen Street during the Alexandria Scottish Christmas Walk Parade.

Alexandria was founded in 1749 by Scottish merchants and was named after Scotsman John Alexander who owned the land that became Alexandria. Today, the city continues celebrating its heritage with the iconic Alexandria Scottish Christmas Walk Parade on Saturday, December 7, 2024. Dozens of Scottish clans dressed in colorful tartans parade through the streets of Old Town, joined by pipe and drum bands, as well as terriers and hounds, community groups and more. Learn more.

24^th Annual Alexandria Holiday Boat Parade of Lights sponsored by Amazon

Several boats lined up for the Alexandria Holiday Boat Parade of Lights. The boat in front is decked out with lights resembling Rudolph's red nose and antlers.

Old Town Alexandria’s historic waterfront will shine on December 7, 2024, for the 24th Annual Alexandria Holiday Boat Parade of Lights sponsored by Amazon as brightly lit boats cruise along one mile of the Potomac River shoreline. Enjoy dockside festivities, local food, music and family-friendly activities. Learn more.