MOMS INVITED: Alexandria Mayor Expands Annual Moms Day Out into First-Ever Evening Celebration
Mayor Alyia Gaskins’ annual event returns June 29 with a new evening format, empowerment panel, glow-up bar, and self-care vendors
ALEXANDRIA, VA — In a recent social media video, Alexandria Mayor Alyia Gaskins invited moms across the city to step away from the endless demands of work, family life, carpools, and calendars for an evening designed entirely for them.
“It’s a time for us to come together and share our stories, to have some fun, to celebrate the life that we’re living and the life we are trying to create,” Gaskins said.
On June 29, from 6 to 8 p.m., moms are encouraged to clear their schedules for the fourth annual Moms Day Out, which this year becomes the city’s first-ever Moms Night Out.
The idea for the event began years ago when Gaskins, then serving as a city council member, joined a neighborhood walk and asked one resident a simple question: What do you need most? The answer stayed with her.
“Honestly, I need a break,” the mother replied, describing the challenge of raising multiple children while juggling work and everyday responsibilities. That moment eventually inspired what has become an annual Alexandria tradition aimed at creating space for mothers to reconnect, recharge, and support one another.
“If you’ve never been to a Moms Day Out, the purpose is to create a joy-filled event where we have the opportunity to inspire and empower one another,” Gaskins said.
Unlike previous years, this year’s event shifts into the evening, creating a true night out for moms. The theme, “Life in Motion,” recognizes both the beauty and the chaos that often define modern motherhood. The evening will include the event’s annual empowerment panel featuring local women entrepreneurs who will share personal experiences, lessons learned, and practical advice about balancing motherhood, business ownership, and personal growth.
This year’s panelists include Danielle Romanetti, owner of Fibre Space in Old Town; Madison Reid Beider, owner of Alexandria Mom’s Passport; and Ashley Wood, owner of Soulo Studios in Del Ray.
“Some of what I’ll be speaking about centers around the unseen parts of motherhood,” Wood said. “I want to talk honestly about what it means to pursue purpose, vision, and personal growth while also raising and caring for a family.”
Attendees can also explore local vendors focused on wellness and self-care, offering everything from candles, artwork, and beauty products to massage services and fitness programs.
“The point is, whatever you might need on this crazy journey, we want to make sure that you have it and that you know where you can find it in Alexandria,” Gaskins said.
Ky Washington and the Modern Green Goddess team will also host a glow-up bar, giving attendees the opportunity for mini makeovers and a little extra pampering.
Last year’s event brought together mothers from across Alexandria for an evening of encouragement, laughter, and inspiration — something organizers hope to build on as the gathering enters its fourth year.
The event is free, but advance registration is required at A4ALX.com/momsdayout2026. The event location will be shared with attendees after registration.
