Why Alexandria Shoppers Are Heading to King Street This Sunday to Finish Their Holiday Lists Early
Skip the Big Box Stores: Old Town’s Massive Outdoor Market Is the Ultimate Early Holiday Shopping Secret This Weekend
ALEXANDRIA, VA — More than 30 authors and artists will transform Old Town Alexandria into a lively outdoor market on Sunday, October 11. The Alexandria Book & Craft Festival returns for its second year. This popular community event runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 415 King Street, rain or shine.
Visitors can meet bestselling novelists and discover emerging writers. In addition, guests can browse original artwork and find unique holiday gifts. Organizers hope to build on last year’s strong debut. In fact, that first event drew several thousand visitors to King Street.
“We have a really vibrant literary community in the D.C. area,” said Jeffrey James Higgins, bestselling thriller novelist and salon host. Higgins noted that the regional Authors Guild alone has over 1,200 active members.
A Growing Old Town Literary Tradition
The Alexandria Book & Craft Festival began as a joint project between Higgins and Beth Lawton, founder of Made in ALX. Local venue Elaine’s Restaurant joined forces as founding sponsors. Together, they wanted to build a supportive space for regional creators. As a result, local artists now have a central venue to connect with new readers.
This year’s expanded event features an even larger roster of local talent. For instance, planners added extra tents and covered breezeway space. Therefore, visitors can easily explore the booths in any weather.
Meet Featured Authors and Local Artisans-Rain or Shine
Several prominent creators highlight this year’s literary lineup. Higgins will attend alongside acclaimed noir novelist Chris Chambers. In addition, children’s book author Liza Udin will greet young readers.
Attendees can chat with authors and buy signed copies directly from them. Meanwhile, artisans will showcase handmade goods, prints, and ceramics. Consequently, shoppers can start their early holiday shopping while directly supporting neighborhood small businesses.
Celebrating Alexandria’s Creative Community
Organizers stress that the event offers more than simple retail therapy. Instead, it connects area residents with talented artists living right in their own neighborhoods.
Last year’s huge turnout proved the strong local appetite for arts programming. Furthermore, the festival provides a valuable networking hub for the creators themselves.
“It’s a really good opportunity for authors and artists to meet each other and celebrate their craft,” Higgins said.
Event Details and Visitor Logistics
The festival moved to Sunday to avoid overlapping with Old Town’s Saturday farmers market. Thus, attendees can enjoy both weekend events without schedule conflicts. The central King Street spot also attracts steady foot traffic from families and weekend tourists.
The Alexandria Book & Craft Festival runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, October 11, at 415 King Street. Admission is free, and the event remains open rain or shine.
