Registration Now Open for Alexandria’s 2026 George Washington Birthday Parade
Old Town set to celebrate the nation’s 250th anniversary with historic pageantry and patriotic flair
ALEXANDRIA, VA – Oyez, Oyez, Oyez! Registration is now open for marching units to participate in Alexandria’s 2026 George Washington Birthday Parade, set for Saturday, February 14, 2026, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m.
This year’s theme, “Virginia’s Son ~ America’s Founding Father,” honors George Washington’s central role in the founding of the United States during the nation’s 250th anniversary year. The 2026 Grand Marshals will be Ginnie Sebastian Storage, National President General of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), and Michael J. Elston, Esq., National President General of the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR).
A Historic Tradition in the Heart of Old Town
The parade will follow its traditional route through Old Town Alexandria, a city deeply tied to Washington’s life and legacy. While the City officially recognizes Washington’s Birthday on the following Monday, the parade will again take place on Saturday to help offset city staffing costs for public safety on the holiday.
The majority of parade expenses—including police and emergency services—are covered through private sponsorships and donations. Those wishing to support the event can learn more at washingtonbirthday.com.
Call for Participants and Performers
Organizers are seeking creative units that reflect the parade’s patriotic themes—George Washington, the Declaration of Independence, and the founding of the country. Marching bands, floats, musical groups, and performance ensembles are especially encouraged to apply.
To mark the nation’s semiquincentennial, the committee is offering special incentives:
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$1,000 grants to the first five qualifying college, military school, or high school marching bands (25+ participants) approved by the organizers. Their registration fees will also be waived.
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Recognition for sponsors who contribute $500 or more to support a band, performance group, or float. Sponsors will be acknowledged on the official parade website, in the George Washington Celebration newsletter (distributed to 1,500+ participants and supporters), and in the downloadable Parade Order of March.
Interested groups should contact [email protected] to learn more or secure eligibility for these incentives.
Registration Details
Parade registration is now open online. The early bird rate is $75 per unit through Wednesday, January 14, increasing to $125 beginning Thursday, January 15. Registration closes at midnight on Friday, January 30.
The process includes two steps:
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Payment of the registration fee.
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Completion of a parade application, which will be emailed to applicants.
Upon approval, participants will receive confirmation from parade organizers. Please note that the registration fee is non-refundable once an application is accepted, unless the parade is cancelled.
Organizers reserve the right to restrict participation or content at any time. All entrants must comply with the official Parade Rules & Procedures.
Celebrate Washington’s Legacy
Additional events honoring George Washington’s birthday will take place throughout February in his adopted hometown of Alexandria. Updates on all celebrations—including parade details—are available at www.washingtonbirthday.com.
For questions, contact [email protected] or write to:
George Washington Birthday Celebration
220 N. Washington Street, Alexandria, VA 22314
