The Final List: Alexandria’s Holiday Events, From Del Ray Traditions to Citywide Celebrations

ALEXANDRIA, VA — The holidays are in full swing across Alexandria, and December is packed with festive events from Del Ray to Old Town. From art markets and tree-lightings to Scottish pipes, Kwanzaa celebrations, and boats decked in twinkling lights, here’s your updated, chronological guide to the season.

Wednesday, December 3 — Family Holiday Magic Show

Alexandria History Museum at The Lyceum | 7–9 p.m. | Free
Enjoy a family-friendly holiday magic show performed by members of the International Brotherhood of Magicians. Toy donations are encouraged; reservations recommended.

Friday–Sunday, December 5–7 — Del Ray Artisans Holiday Market (Weekend 1)

Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue
Fri 6–9 p.m. | Sat 9 a.m.–5 p.m. | Sun 11 a.m.–5 p.m.
The first weekend of the 30th Annual Fine Art & Fine Craft Holiday Market features rotating local artists offering pottery, jewelry, textiles, photography, ornaments, and other handmade gifts.

Friday, December 5 — Holiday Shopping Late Night at The Lyceum

4–9 p.m.
Shop books, ornaments, jewelry, and unique gifts at Historic Alexandria’s museum shop, with 10% off all merchandise during this special late-night event.Saturday,

Friday, December , 6 — 54th Annual Scottish Christmas Walk Parade

Old Town Alexandria | 11 a.m.–1 p.m. | Free
One of Alexandria’s most beloved traditions returns, with Scottish clans in colorful tartans, pipe-and-drum bands, local groups, and plenty of photogenic pups marching through Old Town.

Saturday, December 6 — Tour Friendship Firehouse Museum

11 a.m.–5 p.m. | $3
Explore the historic home of Alexandria’s first volunteer fire company and learn about early firefighting in the city.

Saturday, December 6 — Ship Biscuit Ornaments Workshop

Alexandria Archaeology Museum | 2–5 p.m. | Free
Make your own stamped “ship biscuit” ornament inspired by an 18th-century artifact uncovered in Alexandria.

Saturday, December 6 — Alexandria Holiday Boat Parade of Lights

Old Town Waterfront | Festivities 2–8 p.m.; Parade at 5:30 p.m. | Free
The waterfront glows as dozens of illuminated boats cruise along the Potomac. Enjoy pop-up vendors, music, food, and a festive atmosphere along the shore.

Sunday, December 7 — Gingerbread Decorating

Gadsby’s Tavern Museum | Noon–5 p.m. | $25
Decorate a gingerbread “façade” inspired by historic Alexandria buildings. Admission and supplies are included.

Sunday, December 7 — Del Ray Holiday Season Kick-Off

6 p.m. | Pat Miller Neighborhood Square
Celebrate with Del Ray’s annual tree and Menorah lighting, hand-painted holiday windows, and thousands of luminarias along Mount Vernon Avenue honoring Nancy Dunning.
Attendees are encouraged to bring:

• Travel-size toiletries and adult thermal wear (S–3XL) for Carpenter’s Shelter

• New, unwrapped toys for the Alexandria Sheriff’s Office Operation Elf

Volunteers are needed to decorate the Avenue and help with the event.

Thursday, December 11 — Shops of Del Ray Holiday Sip & Shop

6–9 p.m. | Along Mount Vernon Avenue
Shop local boutiques with extended hours, exclusive promotions, and complimentary beverages.
Swag bags go to the first 50 registrants. Local businesses may contribute coupons or branded items by Dec. 8.

Friday–Sunday, December 12–14 — Del Ray Artisans Holiday Market (Weekend 2)

Fri 6–9 p.m. | Sat 9 a.m.–5 p.m. | Sun 11 a.m.–5 p.m.
A new rotation of artists brings fresh jewelry, textiles, prints, photography, and handcrafted holiday décor.

Saturday, December 13 — Storytime for Little Historians

Alexandria Black History Museum | 10–10:45 a.m. | Free
Children ages 5–10 enjoy a Kwanzaa-themed story hour featuring call-and-response learning and a creative craft inspired by the Seven Principles.

Saturday, December 13 — Kwanzaa Celebration Workshop

Alexandria Black History Museum | Noon–2 p.m. | $15; $12 Members
Explore the Seven Principles (Nguzo Saba) through art and storytelling while creating a personal vision board.

Saturday, December 13 — 10th Annual Candy Cane Bar Crawl

12:30–6 p.m. | Along Mount Vernon Avenue
Enjoy festive drink specials at Del Ray restaurants during this neighborhood bar crawl benefiting ALIVE! Tickets, volunteer roles, and sponsorships are available.

Saturday, December 13 — Christmas in Camp

Fort Ward Museum & Historic Site | 12–4 p.m. | Free
Experience Civil War-era holiday traditions with reenactors, winter camp displays, children’s activities, and a patriotic Civil War Santa.

Sunday, December 14 — Specialty Tour: A Magical Apothecary

Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum | 11 a.m.–Noon | $15; $12 Members
Learn the history and botanical science behind historical “potions,” then craft your own magical creation. Best for ages 8+.

Sunday, December 14 — Colonial Handbell Ringers Concerts

Alexandria History Museum at The Lyceum | 2 p.m. & 4 p.m. | Free
Enjoy holiday favorites, nostalgic tunes, and the annual holiday sing-along. Seating is first-come, first-served.

Friday–Sunday, December 19–21 — Del Ray Artisans Holiday Market (Weekend 3)

Fri 6–9 p.m. | Sat 9 a.m.–5 p.m. | Sun 11 a.m.–5 p.m.
The final weekend of the market features a fresh group of artists offering ceramics, wall art, ornaments, wearable art, and last-minute gifts.

Tuesday, December 16 — Holiday Shopping Late Night at The Lyceum

6–9 p.m. | 10% off all gifts
A second chance to shop for meaningful, locally sourced gifts with a discount on every purchase.

All Season — 2025 Historic Alexandria Holiday Ornament

Available in Historic Alexandria museum shops and online. This year’s ornament celebrates the Alexandria Canal, inspired by the 2025 archaeological discovery of Lock No. 4 on North Pitt Street.

More Holiday Highlights Around Alexandria

These larger, citywide favorites can be included as a sidebar or bonus list:

• Ice & Lights: The Winter Village at Cameron Run — Light displays, fire pits, skating, and winter treats.

• Mount Vernon by Candlelight & Christmas Illuminations — 18th-century holiday tours and fireworks over the estate.

• Waterskiing Santa (Dec. 24) — Santa and “reindeer” waterski along the Potomac in a uniquely Alexandria tradition.

• First Night Alexandria (Dec. 31) — The city’s New Year’s Eve festival with live music, arts, and a midnight fireworks finale.

Looking Ahead — George Washington Birthday Parade

Saturday, February 14, 2026
Registration is now open for participants in Alexandria’s signature parade, which returns during America’s 250th Anniversary Year.