Your Definitive Guide to Alexandria Holiday Magic: Tree Lightings, Parades, and Seasonal Traditions Sparkle Across the City

ALEXANDRIA, VA – “Christmas in Alexandria has been likened to the set of a Hallmark movie,” one longtime resident says—and every December, the city proves it. From glowing trees and candlelit mansions to tartan parades and boats shimmering down the Potomac, Alexandria’s holiday events offer some of the most charming and festive holiday moments in the region.

Here’s your complete guide to what’s happening this year.

🎄 Old Town Alexandria Holiday Tree Lighting — Saturday, November 22

Market Square once again becomes the city’s front porch for the annual tree lighting, a beloved event filled with music, kids in holiday sweaters, and the magical moment Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive by trolley. The program begins at 6 p.m., with the tree lighting usually between 6:40 and 6:55 p.m.

A resident who attended last year summed up the spirit beautifully:
“The second the lights come on, you feel the whole city smile.”

This year marks the last tree lighting at Market Square before renovations begin in January.

🎄🕎 Del Ray Holiday Tree & Menorah Lighting — Sunday, December 7 at 6 p.m.

Pat Miller Square transforms into a warm and glowing corner of Mount Vernon Avenue for one of the most heartfelt events of the season.

This year’s Del Ray highlights include:

• Lighting of both the holiday tree and the community menorah

• Thousands of luminarias lining the avenue in memory of Nancy Dunning

• Holiday carols and live music

• Free photos with Santa

• Neighborhood shops are staying open late with warm drinks and treats

• A community collection (bring toys and toiletries for the collection boxes) of:

  • Toiletries for Carpenter’s Shelter

  • Unwrapped toys for families in need

Pat Miller describes it best:
“It’s the kind of night where everyone feels like family—even if you’ve just met.”

🎺 54th Annual Scottish Christmas Walk Parade — Saturday, December 6 at 11 a.m.

One of Alexandria’s most iconic traditions marches through Old Town on Saturday morning as dozens of Scottish clans, pipe and drum bands, terriers, hounds, dancers, reenactors, and community groups fill the streets with tartan and music.

Parade Details:

• Step-off: 11 a.m.

• Route: Begins near the foot of St. Asaph Street, winds through Old Town, and concludes near Market Square

• Participants include:

  • Scottish clans in full tartan

  • Bagpipe and drum corps

  • Dog groups including Westies, Scotties, and terriers

  • Classic cars and community organizations

  • Scottish dancers and reenactors

A City Hall staffer often calls it “the happiest parade of the year,” and spectators agree—it brings Old Town to life with its mix of heritage, color, and cheer.

🚤 Holiday Boat Parade of Lights — Saturday, December 6 at 5:30 p.m.

That evening, the city moves to the waterfront for one of the most breathtaking events of the season: dozens of boats gliding down the Potomac, wrapped in glowing holiday lights and themed decorations.

Festivities Include:

• Dockside entertainment from 2–8 p.m.

• Hot cider, cocoa, snacks, and a seasonal beer garden

• Holiday music and family-friendly activities

• Best viewing spots: Waterfront Park, Founders Park, Oronoco Bay Park, and Rivergate City Park

One Old Town parent shared:
“The reflections on the river make it feel like Alexandria’s own Christmas fireworks show.”

✨ Holiday at Mount Vernon — Candlelight Tours & Fireworks

Just a short drive south, George Washington’s Mount Vernon offers one of the most atmospheric holiday experiences in the region. The estate glows with lanterns, holiday décor inspired by the 18th century, warm fires, and spectacular evening programs.

Mount Vernon by Candlelight

Dates:

• Nov 28–29

• Dec 12–13

• Dec 19

• Dec 22–23
  Time: 5:30–8:30 p.m.

Guests take a guided candlelit tour of the mansion’s first and second floors while historic interpreters share stories of Washington family traditions and winter life on the estate. Costumed characters, fireside demonstrations, and lantern-lit paths bring the estate to life.

A repeat visitor describes it as:
“Walking through history with only candlelight to guide you, like it was in George Washington’s day.”

Christmas Illuminations Fireworks

Dates:

• Dec 20–21
  Time: 5:30–8:30 p.m.

This signature event features fireworks over the Potomac River, holiday music, an artisan market, historic trades demonstrations, and visits with Aladdin the camel—a nod to Washington’s love of unusual animals.

Daytime Holiday Touches

All season long, visitors can enjoy:

• Holiday decorations inspired by 18th-century traditions

• A beautifully decorated tree in the orientation center

• Hands-on family activities

• Seasonal treats and holiday shopping

⭐ December at a Glance

Nov 22 — Old Town Tree Lighting
Dec 4 — Del Ray Tree & Menorah Lighting
Dec 6, 11 a.m. — 54th Scottish Christmas Walk Parade
Dec 6, 5:30 p.m. — Holiday Boat Parade of Lights
Nov 28–29 — Mount Vernon by Candlelight
Dec 12–13 — Mount Vernon by Candlelight
Dec 19 — Mount Vernon by Candlelight
Dec 20–21 — Christmas Illuminations Fireworks
Dec 22–23 — Mount Vernon by Candlelight