Alexandria, VA – Old Town Alexandria is about to trade its usual cobblestone charm for horsepower and high fashion as the Old Town Festival of Speed & Style returns for another unforgettable weekend, May 16-17. Equal parts luxury showcase, street festival, and philanthropic celebration, this fast-growing event has become one of the East Coast’s premier automotive experiences—drawing more than 40,000 spectators each year and putting Alexandria squarely on the national map for car enthusiasts and culture seekers alike.
“This isn’t just a car show—it’s an experience,” one returning attendee said last year. “You’re walking through history, art, and engineering all at once. And then you look up and realize you’re in the middle of Old Town. It’s magic.”
A Weekend of Style and Speed
The festivities kick off Saturday night with the glamorous High-Octane Ball, a black, white, and red–themed evening where sophistication meets celebration. Powered by Land Rover Alexandria, the event blends luxury and philanthropy with a curated dining experience from six of Old Town’s top restaurants, live music, dancing, and a silent auction featuring exclusive items and experiences.
“It was a real red carpet experience last year, and I can’t wait to go again,” said a local supporter.
Guests can expect flowing cocktails, gourmet cuisine, and a lively atmosphere designed for connection—and giving back. Proceeds benefit local nonprofits including Community Lodgings, ALIVE!, and the Breast Cancer Collective, tying the weekend’s elegance to a meaningful mission.
“People come for the cars, but they stay for the community,” an organizer noted. “This weekend is about showcasing excellence—whether it’s automotive design, local cuisine, or the incredible nonprofits making a difference right here in Alexandria.”
The Main Event Takes the Streets
On Sunday, the heart of Old Town—from Pitt to Washington Streets—transforms into a stunning open-air gallery of more than 100 rare and exotic vehicles from around the globe.
From vintage classics to cutting-edge supercars, the festival offers a rare chance to get up close to some of the most coveted machines ever built. Think sleek Ferraris, roaring Lamborghinis, and meticulously restored icons that blur the line between engineering and art.
“I’ve been to shows all over the country, and nothing compares to this setting,” said another past visitor. “The cars are incredible, but seeing them lined up along the waterfront—it’s just next level.”
This year’s Style Celebration will feature a special tribute to Ferrari, honoring the legendary brand’s enduring influence on performance and design.
Sunday Schedule at a Glance
- 7:00 AM – Streets close to the public
- 8:00 AM – Vehicle arrival and placement
- 8:45 AM – Car judging begins
- 10:00 AM – Opening ceremony & national anthem
- 10:10 AM – Live music
- 12:00 PM – Style Celebration (Ferrari tribute)
- 12:45 PM – Awards ceremony & trophy presentation
- 1:10 PM – Live music continues
- 3:15 PM – Vehicle departures
- 4:00 PM – Streets reopen
More Than a Car Show
What sets the Festival of Speed & Style apart isn’t just the cars—it’s the atmosphere. Boutique vendor booths, live entertainment, and a steady hum of excitement create a street festival that appeals far beyond auto aficionados.
Families, photographers, collectors, and curious visitors all find something to love. It’s a place where a child might see their first supercar, a collector might discover a rare gem, and everyone walks away with a story.
“There’s an energy here you can’t replicate,” said one longtime attendee. “It’s the sound, the shine, the people—it all comes together in a way that feels electric.”
Why You Should Go
Whether you’re drawn by the elegance of the High-Octane Ball, the roar of exotic engines, or simply the chance to see Old Town transformed into something extraordinary, the Festival of Speed & Style delivers.
“It’s a celebration of craftsmanship, community, and the thrill of the exceptional—set against one of the most beautiful backdrops in the nation,” adds Rick Myllenbeck, one of the event’s founding fathers.
And for one weekend, at least, Alexandria doesn’t just hum—it roars.
For more information, and tickets to the High-Octane Ball, visit festivalofspeed.com and/or highoctaneball.com
