Black History Month Celebrations!
1st thru 29th
Mount Vernon Celebrates Black History Month
Recurring daily
9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
George Washington's Mount Vernon, 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Hwy.
(703) 780-2000
Admission: Included in Estate admission: $15/adult, $7/child, 5 and under free
In observance of Black History Month, February 1 through 29, Mount Vernon highlights the lives and contributions of the slaves who built and operated the plantation home of George and Martha Washington. Throughout the month, a daily Slave Life at Mount Vernon tour explores the lives and contributions of the slaves who lived at Mount Vernon. A wreath laying and presentation occurs daily at the slave memorial site throughout the month of February. Please note that Black History Month activities will not take place on February 20.
4th and 11th
Genealogy Lecture & Workshop
11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Alexandria Black History Museum, 902 Wythe St.
(703) 746-4356
Admission: $5
During Black History Month, discover your family’s history! Genealogist Char McCargo Bah, who specializes in the challenges of African American family history, will conduct “Using Oral History, Censuses and Vital Statistics to Start Your Research,” an introductory genealogy program for beginners. This lecture will introduce key techniques in obtaining oral history from family members and participants will learn how to use these techniques to obtain census and vital statistic information. Reservations recommended.
11th
“Homecoming” Film Screening
4:30 - 6:30 p.m.
Alexandria Black History Museum, 902 Wythe St.
(703) 746-4356
Admission: Free
The epic story of African American farming in the South, “Homecoming” chronicles land loss and black farmers from the Civil War to the present. Featuring archival footage and audio tracks including the voices of Malcolm X, Fannie Lou Hamer and Julian Bond, the film also excerpts the testimony of freed slaves, Toni Morrison’s Song of Solomon and the writings of August Wilson. Narrated by Charles S. Dutton. Screening followed by a discussion. Free!
12th
"Paul Robeson" Play & Dinner at Carlyle Club
5-9 p.m.
The Carlyle Club, 411 John Carlyle St.
(703) 548-8899
Admission: $30-$65
The Alexandria Black History Museum & The Carlyle Club present a dinner theater production of "Paul Robeson," a play by Phillip Hayes Dean starring Hugh Staples accompanied by Michael Hill and directed by Cody Jones. Experience the life of the dynamic activist, the acclaimed actor and the brilliant scholar Paul Robeson (1898-1976). Local actor Hugh Staples brings to life the struggles and career of one of America's most brilliant but misunderstood heroes.
Alexandria Celebrates Everything George!
18th
Birthnight Banquet & Ball
5:30 - 10:30 p.m.
Gadsby’s Tavern Museum, 134 N. Royal St.
(703) 829-6640
Admission: $100 and up for banquet and ball, $50 for ball only; reservations required, 703-746-4242
Participate in a reenactment of the 1798 and 1799 balls George Washington attended to celebrate his birthday. Colonial attire encouraged but not required. Dancing lessons are available prior to the Ball. For the first time there will be Live Tweeting at the Birthnight Banquet and Ball through @JohnGadsby using the hashtag #GWBall.
George Washington Birthday Classic 10-K Race (and 2-K Fun Run)
Race Starts at 8 a.m. (rain or shine)
US Patent and Trademark Office, Elizabeth Lane and John Carlyle St.
(703) 829-6640
Admission: $35; after February 9: $40
Race Headquarters is the US Patent and Trademark Office, access from Eisenhower Avenue between Elizabeth Lane and John Carlyle Street. Start and finish will be in front of the Madison Building on Eisenhower Avenue. Certified racecourse through Eisenhower Valley. Cash prizes, T-shirts and refreshments will be provided for runners, with the proceeds benefiting George Washington Birthday Celebration. Registration, maps, free parking, and Metro access information may be found at www.washingtonbirthday.net.
George Washington's Birthday Weekend - Hoecake Cook-Off!
9 a.m. - 12 p.m.
George Washington's Mount Vernon, 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Hwy.
(703) 780-2000
Admission: Included in Estate admission: $15/adult, $7/child, 5 and under free.
Award-Winning Chefs Cook George Washington’s Favorite Breakfast For the first time ever, watch as some of the area's best chefs create their own interpretations of George Washington’s favorite breakfast in front of the first president’s home! Four chefs will cook hoecakes over an open fire and present their dishes to “General Washington” at 12 p.m. The participating chefs are: Chef Cathal Armstrong – Restaurant Eve Chef David Guas – Bayou Bakery Chef Christophe Poteaux – Bastille Restaurant Chef Robert Wiedemaier – BRABO Mount Vernon’s staff will cook samples of George Washington favorite breakfast, “hoecakes swimming in butter and honey” (while supplies last) from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Taste one of Mount Vernon’s sample hoecakes and learn more about the 21st-century interpretations created by the award-winning chefs while mingling with “George Washington”! Later in the day, please join us as we host a surprise party for "George Washington" at 1:30 p.m.
Madeira Wine Tasting with George Washington
3-5 p.m.
Gadsby's Tavern Museum, 134 N. Royal St.
(703) 746-4242
Admission: $45
Enjoy George Washington’s favorite drink as you toast birthday wishes to him! Taste four Madeira wines produced by Blandy’s, a family owned business since 1811. Learn how Madeira is produced as you taste these fortified wines with food pairings. Tickets are $45 per person inclusive. Make a reservation in advance to stay for dinner at Gadsby’s Tavern Restaurant and receive 10% off your bill.
20th
George Washington Birthday Parade
1 - 3 p.m.
Old Town Alexandria, Starts at Gibbon & S. Fairfax St.
(703) 829-6640
Admission: Free
The nation’s largest George Washington birthday parade marches a one-mile route through the streets of Old Town Alexandria. With nearly 3,500 participants including historical groups, equestrian units, bands, performance groups, youth from scouting groups and animals; this is still a local, community parade in honor of one of the City’s favorite sons. The parade starts at 1 p.m. at the intersection of Gibbon and S. Fairfax streets. The reviewing stand is located near City Hall’s Market Square, at the intersection of King and Royal streets, and ends at Wilkes and S. Royal streets. See www.washingtonbirthday.net for maps and additional information.
George Washington's 280th Birthday Celebration
8 a.m. - 4 p.m.
George Washington's Mount Vernon, 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Hwy.
(703) 780-2000
Celebrate the national observance of George Washington’s birthday by visiting his home and burial site FREE of charge on this day. The traditional wreath laying ceremony takes place at Washington's Tomb followed by patriotic music and military performances on the Bowling Green. Join characters from the 18th century as they help visitors surprise General Washington with rousing birthday cheers! At “George Washington’s Surprise Birthday Party”, the first president will be presented with gifts which he will describe and react to during a speech to his birthday visitors. The birthday festivities begin one hour earlier this year – the Estate will open to visitors at 8 a.m.! “General Washington” will be on the grounds to greet visitors and receive birthday wishes all day.
Free Admission to Historic Sites
See each site for times.
(703) 829-6640
Admission: Free
Admission is free to these sites on Parade Day In honor of the birthday of George Washington: Gadsby’s Tavern Museum 134 N. Royal St.; Time: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Contact: Gadsby’s Tavern Museum phone (703) 838-4242 Friendship Firehouse Museum 107 S. Alfred St., Alexandria. Time: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Contact: Friendship Firehouse Museum phone (703) 838-3891 The Lyceum 201 S. Washington St.; Time: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Contact: The Lyceum, Alexandria’s History Museum phone (703) 838-4994 Carlyle House 121 N. Fairfax St., Alexandria. Time: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Contact: Carlyle House Museum phone (703) 549-2997 Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum 105-107 S. Fairfax St.; Time: 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Contact: Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum, telephone (703) 746-3852 Christ Church 118 N. Washington St.: Time: 9 a.m. to 4 Contact: Christ Church, telephone (703) 549-1450
George Washington Birthday PARADE MILE
12:30 p.m. rain or shine
The parade reviewing stands at King and Royal Sts.
(703) 829-6640
Admission: $20 per runner
Be a part of the second running of the Parade Mile. Run occurs just before the parade on the parade route. Special winter fleece beanies will be given to pre-registered race participants. Start Time: 12:30 p.m.; Start & Finish Location: The parade reviewing stands at King and Royal streets. Please note that you must be able to finish the mile in 15 minutes or less. Absolutely no strollers or pets.
Happening This Month
Through Feb. 4th
The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee
Recurring weekly on Sunday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday
Wed - Sat at 8pm and Sun at 3pm
The Little Theatre of Alexandria, 600 Wolfe St.
(703) 683-0496
Admission: $19 and $22 (plus service fees)
Ready, Set, Spell!! Come see this multi-Tony Award-winning musical comedy that puts audience members in the middle of the action when a tiny fictional town comes together for one of its most anticipated events of the year. Experience the pressure, angst, and joys of childhood as you follow the quirky adolescent outcasts (and some even quirkier adults) as they engage in this classic and contentious form of schoolhouse competition. (Show contains mild adult language and themes)
Through Feb. 6th
SOHO Photography Exhibit
Gallery hours: Monday – Saturday, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.; Thursday until 9 p.m.; Sunday Noon - 6 p.m.
The Art League, 105 N. Union St.
(703) 683-1780
Admission: Free
The Art League will feature a special exhibit of photographs taken by this year’s SOHO (Space of Her Own) class from January 28-February 6, 2012. After a basic photography workshop with Art League instructor Allison Duvall, each girl was given a point and shoot camera, a roll of black and white film, and tasked with taking photos of the people, places, and things most significant to them. The images taken were used as a catalyst to write stories about their lives. They went into the darkroom to develop the image that held the most significance to them, and then wrote an accompanying statement or story to go along with their photograph.
3rd – 26th
Love, Politics, and Scrabble: The Games People Play (art exhibit opening reception)
7-10 p.m.
Del Ray Artisans, 2704 Mount Vernon Ave.
703-838-482
Admission: FREE and Open to the Public
Join us at the opening reception for “Love, Politics & Scrabble”. This juried show explores the numerous games people play in life, whether power, Monopoly, manipulation, poker, Angry Birds, baseball, or gossip. The exhibit and Marketplace, with artful Valentine Cards, closes Feb 26. For more information: www.TheDelRayArtisans.org or 703-838-4827.
4th
“The Mouse of Amherst” presented by Jane Franklin Dance
3:30 p.m.
The Athenaeum, 201 Prince St.
(703) 548-0035
Admission: Tickets - Children: $10 performance Adults: $15 performance
Jane Franklin Dance presents “The Mouse of Amherst”. This original work for children, adapted from the book by Elizabeth Spires, is about a mouse who forms a friendship with reclusive poet Emily Dickinson. As the unlikely duo grow closer, children learn that everyone can write about their feelings and that even a mouse can create beautiful poetry. PERFORMANCES ARE A GREAT IDEA FOR BIRTHDAYS – GROUP RATES! Tickets/Info janefranklin.com - Sat., Feb. 4 at 3:30 p.m. in the Athenaeum.
Forty + or Minus
5 p.m.
The Athenaeum, 201 Prince St.
(703) 548-0035
Admission: $20
Forty + or Minus. Forty + is a group of community based dancers and performers past the age of 40. Join us for a concert of recent works by choreographers Daniel Zook, Wayles Haynes, and Jane Franklin featuring age-less performers and younger company members. Performance: Saturday, Feb. 4, at 5 p.m., tickets $20. Info/Tickets 703-933-1111 visit janefranklin.com - performed at the Athenaeum, 201 Prince Street, Alexandria - just 1 blk so. King/Lee Sts Trolley Stop.
Wonders of Science
Tours between 1 p.m. & 4 p.m.
Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum, 105-107 S. Fairfax St.
(703) 746-3852
Admission: $6
Investigate the wonders of 18th-century science through demonstrations presented by Project Enlightenment. Members of McLean High School’s historical reenactment society will conduct these scientific demonstrations, which are certain to expand visitors’ knowledge about science in the 1700s. While you’re there, explore the Apothecary and its large variety of curious objects, from poison bottles to dragon’s blood. Cost for this hour-long program is $6 person and includes a tour of the museum and demonstrations. Reservations required.
5th – 11th
Cherry Challenge
Recurring daily
Regular restaurant hours
Throughout Alexandria
(703) 829-6640
Admission: Free
Alexandria restaurants are creating unique menu items featuring cherries in celebration of one of the most cherished legends surrounding George Washington. Each restaurant will develop its own cherry cocktail, appetizer, entrée, or dessert. Try them all and vote for your favorite. Winners are given special recognition at the George Washington Birthday Parade. Participating restaurants include Bittersweet, Dishes of India (last year’s “dessert” winner), Fontaine Caffé & Creperie, Gadsby’s Tavern Restaurant, Hank's Oyster Bar, Indigo Landing, King St Blues Old Town, Murphy’s Grand Irish Pub (last year’s “mains” winner), Pizzeria Paradiso, Ramparts, RedRocks , Shooter McGee’s, St. Elmo’s Coffee Pub, Tempo (last year’s “starters” winner), The Jamieson Grille, The Light Horse Restaurant, The Majestic, TJ Stones, Virtue Feed and Grain, Whole Foods Market
7th
Poetry and Creative Play: Writing as an Expressive Coping Strategy
6-8 p.m.
The Morrison House, 116 South Alfred St.
(703) 838-8000
Admission: FREE
Mary Azoy, Certified Poetry Therapist, will explore the value of poetry therapy as a powerful tool for coping with life’s challenges and enhancing your creative potential. The evening’s presentation will incorporate experiential exercises (both fun and low risk!) as well as plenty of time for discussion and sharing among all those who attend. Bring your favorite pen and writing pad!
9th
2nd Thursday Art Night: Made With Love
6-9 p.m.
Torpedo Factory, 105 N. Union St.
(703) 838-4565
Admission: FREE
Fall in love with a unique work of art as you browse open studios and galleries! Take away a sweet-smelling, flower then channel the love creatively with our Community Heart Sculpture. Visit the reception for “Love Notes” in Site 2 & 3 Galleries to find inspiration to craft your own Valentine at our Do-It-Yourself Station. Preview The Art League’s "Patron's Show" before the drawing on February 19th. Memorialize the night in our Kissing Photobooth.
Second Thursday Music: Kevin Dudley with Special Guest Rickie Simpkins on Fiddle
7-9 p.m.
The Athenaeum, 201 Prince St.
(703) 548-0035
Admission: $10
Born in Dallas, lives in Virginia, plays guitar, sings about love, death, diners, and everything in between. myspace.com/kevindudley59 Second Thursday Music presented by Northern Virginia Fine Arts Association and the Songwriters’ Association of Washington February - December. Concerts 7 p.m. Tickets $10 at the door or nvfaa.org - Athenaeum 1 blk south of King & Lee streets Trolley Stop Old Town Alexandria.
10th
"Art Games" at Del Ray Artisans
7:30-9:30 p.m.
Del Ray Artisans, 2704 Mount Vernon Ave.
703-838-482
Admission: FREE and Open to the Public
All are invited to ‘get their game on’ at Del Ray Artisans. Newly created Art Bingo will be played after a couple of artful mixer games. A prize will be awarded to the winner and light refreshments provided. This event is part of the “Love, Politics & Scrabble” exhibit (February 3-26). Lucky $7 donation requested. Adults 18+. For more information: www.TheDelRayArtisans.org or 703-838-4827.
12th
ASO, Richard Stoltzman, and Mozart’s Requiem
3 p.m.
Schlesinger Center Concert Hall
(703) 548-0885
Admission: $5-$65
Kim Allen Kluge, conductor Richard Stoltzman, clarinet Alexandria Choral Society Metropolitan Chorus MOZART: Clarinet Concerto Richard Stoltzman, clarinet MOZART: Requiem Richard Stoltzman is undoubtedly one of the most famous solo clarinetists today, having released over 40 recordings in addition to collaborations with similarly famed artists such as Yo-Yo Ma, Emanuel Ax, and Michael Tilson Thomas. For the ASO’s February concerts he performs Mozart’s Clarinet Concerto. The orchestra will continue its evening of Mozart with the composer’s haunting, unfinished Requiem, completed after his death by Franz Xaver Süssmayr. Tickets $5-65
17th
Artist Trading Card (ATC) night at Del Ray Artisans
7-9 p.m.
Del Ray Artisans, 2704 Mount Vernon Ave.
703-838-482
Admission: FREE and Open to the Public
Pick up a blank playing card at the “Love, Politics & Scrabble” show opening (Feb. 3, 7-10 p.m., Del Ray Artisans, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue), use it to create a 2.5" x 3.5" piece of art, and bring your finished ATC with you. You will create additional ATCs under the leadership of ATC Queen Theresa Kulstad. Free. Adults 18+. For more information: www.TheDelRayArtisans.org or 703-838-4827.
19th
Revolutionary War Reenactment at Fort Ward Park
10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (Skirmish at 2 p.m.)
Fort Ward Park, 4301 W. Braddock Rd.
(703) 829-6640
Admission: Free
Historic camp and tactical demonstrations throughout the day including a Revolutionary War skirmish between the Redcoats and the Colonial Army at 2 p.m.
20th
Armed Forces Community Covenant Ceremony
11:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m.
Market Square (King & Royal Sts.)
(703) 829-6640
Admission: Free
Join us as we honor our Nation's Veterans, Active Military, and their families with entertainment, games and activities for children, military vehicles, demonstrations, informational booths and displays. Dignitaries attending include Colonel John J. Strycula, Garrison Commander, Fort Belvoir; Colonel Daniel J. Choike, Base Commander, Marine Corps Base Quantico; Alexandria’s Town Crier; George and Martha Washington; the Mayor of Alexandria; and the Parade Grand Marshal, Patsy Ticer. There will be an opportunity to sign a covenant document to show your support for our Troops.
25th
"Game Talks" at Del Ray Artisans
3-5 p.m.
Del Ray Artisans, 2704 Mount Vernon Ave.
703-838-482
Admission: FREE and Open to the Public
Learn pool checkers from members of the illustrious Capital Pool Checkers Club. After discussing strategy, club members will challenge the audience to games. Extreme “couponer” Gladys Wise will also share her insights into the game of couponing. Refreshments. Free. Adults 18+. A part of Del Ray Artisans’ art exhibit: “Love, Politics & Scrabble: The Games People Play” (February 3-26). For more information: www.TheDelRayArtisans.org or 703-838-4827.
Civil War Recruiting Day
1-4 p.m.
Fort Ward Museum & Historic Site, 4301 W. Braddock Rd.
Phone: (703) 746-4848
Admission: Free
Ever thought about donning a wool uniform or putting on a hoop skirt? Interested in portraying persons who experienced the Civil War? Find out about this fun hobby at “Recruiting Day” and get a chance to explore Civil War reenacting. Soldiers and civilians of the 3rd U.S. Regular Infantry, Company K will talk about a soldier’s uniform and equipment, demonstrate drills, and explain the roles of military and civilian re-enactors. Snow date March 3.
| Next > |
|---|
